Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Inmate awarded $150k for broken leg, faeces ‘bath’

    Inmate awarded $150k for broken leg, faeces ‘bath’

    In a landmark ruling addressing prison conditions, High Court Justice Carol Gobin has delivered a stern condemnation of excessive force used by correctional officers at Trinidad’s Golden Grove Prison. The court found that officers employed unjustifiable brutality against inmate Kurt Christopher Bridgelal during a 2015 incident, resulting in severe physical injuries.

    The judicial determination followed a detailed examination of events occurring on July 4, 2015, during a facility-wide lockdown and search operation. While acknowledging that Bridgelal initiated hostilities by discharging the contents of a slop pail from his cell—some of which struck an officer—Justice Gobin emphasized that the retaliatory measures far exceeded reasonable boundaries. The responding officer engaged in a degrading escalation by throwing three additional pails containing human waste into Bridgelal’s cell.

    Furthermore, the court established that when officers subsequently extracted Bridgelal from his confinement, they employed physical force that dramatically surpassed what was necessary for maintaining institutional security. This confrontation resulted in Bridgelal sustaining multiple serious injuries, including complex fractures to both tibia and fibula bones in his right leg. The injuries necessitated extensive hospital treatment and prolonged immobilization in a cast.

    During July proceedings, the State mounted a defense claiming that any force applied was proportionate and that Bridgelal’s injuries resulted from an accidental fall while resisting officers. Justice Gobin systematically rejected these assertions, finding the State fully liable for its employees’ actions under the principles of institutional responsibility.

    The final judgment orders the State to pay $115,000 in general damages compensating for physical and psychological trauma, plus an additional $35,000 in exemplary damages intended to deter similar conduct in the future. The court also mandated accrued interest payments covering the period from the incident date through December 18.

    Legal representation for Bridgelal was provided by attorneys Amit Mahabir, Bernadette Arneaud, and Joseph Sookoo, who successfully established claims of assault, battery, and negligence against prison authorities. The decision establishes significant precedent regarding acceptable force standards within Trinidad’s correctional system.

  • Kamla: No fears of economic impact from Caricom fallout

    Kamla: No fears of economic impact from Caricom fallout

    A significant diplomatic strain has emerged within the Caribbean Community (Caricom) as Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar publicly dismissed concerns about potential economic repercussions from the regional bloc. This development follows escalating tensions with Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who previously highlighted Trinidad’s substantial economic benefits from Caricom membership.

    Despite Browne’s December 21 Facebook post revealing Trinidad earned approximately US$1.1 billion from Caricom trade—including US$142 million in customs revenue under the Common External Tariff protection—Persad-Bissessar maintained an uncompromising stance. When questioned by Newsday about potential withdrawal from the regional organization, the Prime Minister responded via WhatsApp that “Withdrawal from Caricom has not been discussed by Cabinet” and asserted, “I am not worried about any economic impact.”

    The controversy stems from Persad-Bissessar’s apparent alignment with United States anti-narcotics operations targeting Venezuelan leadership, which critics characterize as sidelining Caricom’s zone of peace policy. This position has drawn sharp criticism from political opponents, including Port of Spain North/St Ann’s West MP Stuart Young, who labeled the Prime Minister’s approach as “reckless, unwarranted, dangerous and destructive.”

    Former foreign affairs minister and Opposition Senator Dr. Amery Browne emphasized the gravity of questioning Caricom’s integrity, noting the organization comprises 21 member states established in 1973. He warned that unsubstantiated accusations of narco-alignment represent serious allegations against multiple sovereign nations.

    In a conciliatory December 22 Facebook post, Prime Minister Browne struck a diplomatic tone, expressing affection for Trinidadian citizens while extending “season’s greetings” to his counterpart, suggesting ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions within the regional community.

  • INDY sweep Jewels of the Caribbean titles

    INDY sweep Jewels of the Caribbean titles

    INDY Premier Sports Club from Indianapolis achieved a remarkable double victory at the Jewels of the Caribbean tournament, securing both the Under-17 and Under-20 girls’ championships in decisive fashion against Jamaican teams at Trinidad’s Hasely Crawford Stadium on December 21.

    The American club’s triumphant campaign culminated in two tightly contested finals that showcased their tactical discipline and clinical finishing. In the Under-17 final, INDY demonstrated superior offensive execution with a 2-0 victory over their Jamaican counterparts. The match saw Skylar Mueller break the deadlock in the 16th minute after expertly finishing a low cross from teammate Olivia Jones, who had created the opportunity with an impressive dribble past defenders on the left flank.

    Jones later cemented the victory with a 62nd-minute strike that sealed Jamaica’s fate. The Jamaican goalkeeper London Cathey fought valiantly but ultimately couldn’t withstand INDY’s persistent attacking pressure throughout the contest.

    The Under-20 final presented an equally compelling narrative of American soccer prowess as INDY secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory through set-piece excellence. Team captain Cadence Conrad delivered a precise corner kick in the 38th minute that found Samantha Slade, whose powerful header beat Jamaican goalkeeper London Phoenix for what proved to be the tournament-deciding goal.

    The dual championships mark a significant achievement for the Indianapolis-based club, highlighting the growing competitiveness of American youth soccer programs in international tournaments. The victories also underscore the increasing globalization of women’s soccer development, with clubs from non-traditional soccer nations making their mark on the Caribbean tournament circuit.

  • New Zealand crush Windies to seal series 2-0

    New Zealand crush Windies to seal series 2-0

    In a spectacular display of bowling prowess, Jacob Duffy led New Zealand to a decisive 323-run victory against the West Indies in the third Test at Mount Maunganui on December 22. The triumph secured a 2-0 series win for the hosts, culminating in a dominant performance that saw the visitors dismissed for a mere 138 runs on a challenging fifth-day pitch.

    Duffy’s remarkable figures of 5-42 not only anchored New Zealand’s victory but also propelled him past cricket legend Richard Hadlee’s longstanding record of 80 wickets in a calendar year. The pace bowler finished the series with 23 wickets at an impressive average of 15.4, including three five-wicket hauls. His exceptional contribution earned him the well-deserved Player of the Series honor.

    The match witnessed extraordinary batting performances from New Zealand’s openers Devon Conway and Tom Latham, who established multiple records throughout the contest. Conway’s monumental 227 and Latham’s 137 in the first innings created a massive 323-run opening partnership. Both batsmen continued their dominance in the second innings with centuries, marking the first instance in Test history where both openers achieved centuries in both innings of a match.

    The series unfolded against the backdrop of significant challenges for both teams, particularly regarding depleted pace attacks. The West Indies competed without key bowlers Shamar Joseph and Alzarri Joseph, while New Zealand navigated the absence of six frontline pace bowlers due to injuries, elevating Duffy to the role of attack spearhead.

    Despite the one-sided conclusion, the West Indies demonstrated considerable resilience throughout the series. The first Test particularly highlighted their fighting spirit, with Justin Greaves’ marathon 202 and the team’s record fourth-innings effort of 457-6 resulting in a dramatic draw—the highest fourth-innings score since the implementation of five-day Test matches.

    The final day’s play began with West Indies openers Brandon King (67) and John Campbell (16) showing determined resistance before Duffy’s breakthrough triggered a collapse that saw five wickets fall before lunch. The deteriorating pitch conditions, with widening cracks and irregular bounce, ultimately proved too challenging for the Caribbean batsmen to overcome.

  • US military activity plagues C’bean flights: Region on edge on land, sky and sea

    US military activity plagues C’bean flights: Region on edge on land, sky and sea

    The escalating geopolitical confrontation between the United States and Venezuela has introduced significant navigation challenges for Caribbean aviation, with GPS signal interference becoming a notable operational concern. Since December 16, US naval forces have established a maritime blockade around Venezuela, implementing electronic countermeasures that disrupt satellite navigation systems across the region.

    Despite Trinidad and Tobago’s proximity to Venezuela—merely seven miles distant—Caribbean Airlines (CAL) Chairman Reyna Kowlessar maintains that the airline’s operations remain unaffected by GPS jamming. In a December 22 statement, Kowlessar emphasized that comprehensive pre-flight checks ensure operational integrity, with no reported disruptions to CAL’s navigation systems.

    However, an experienced CAL pilot, speaking anonymously, revealed that while safety remains uncompromised, the intermittent GPS disruptions necessitate alternative navigation methods. Pilots increasingly rely on Very High Frequency Omni-Directional Range (VOR) systems and conventional navigation techniques, resulting in extended flight durations and increased fuel consumption. The pilot noted that typical five-hour flights to New York may now require six hours, creating economic inefficiencies without compromising safety protocols.

    A more pressing concern emerged regarding US military aircraft operating without activated transponders in Trinidadian airspace. The absence of these critical identification systems—which enable Traffic Collision Avoidance Systems (TCAS) to function—creates potential collision risks. This issue gained attention after a JetBlue pilot nearly collided with an unidentified military aircraft near Curaçao, prompting outrage within aviation circles.

    Air traffic control sources confirmed that while GPS disruptions remain manageable, the non-communication of military aircraft poses greater operational hazards. Retired Civil Aviation Director General Ramesh Lutchmedial provided historical context, referencing the 1983 Soviet shootdown of Korean Air Lines Flight 007 as precedent for why major powers typically avoid jeopardizing civilian aviation safety. Lutchmedial suggested that any active GPS jamming likely originates from Russian-supplied Venezuelan equipment rather than US systems.

    CAL leadership reaffirmed their commitment to safety-first operations, with continuous monitoring and adaptive route management ensuring passenger security amid regional tensions.

  • Appeal Court blocks Vincent Nelson’s bid to take case to Privy Council

    Appeal Court blocks Vincent Nelson’s bid to take case to Privy Council

    In a significant judicial development, the Trinidad and Tobago Court of Appeal has rejected convicted King’s Counsel Vincent Nelson’s application for conditional leave to appeal his 2019 corruption conviction. The three-judge panel comprising Justices Nolan Bereaux, James Aboud, and Ricky Rahim unanimously dismissed Nelson’s petition on December 19, determining the matter raised no substantive constitutional issues warranting further domestic consideration.

    Justice Bereaux, delivering the oral ruling, emphasized that the Director of Public Prosecutions’ decision to prosecute did not violate Nelson’s constitutional rights, noting that all due process safeguards were meticulously observed throughout the plea agreement proceedings. The court characterized Nelson’s application as merely procedural rather than constituting a final appeal against his conviction and sentence.

    The ruling follows a July decision where the appellate court found Nelson failed to demonstrate prosecutorial misconduct by the DPP and had substantially delayed filing his appeal. Justice Geoffrey Henderson, in the previous ruling, noted that Nelson—a UK-based tax attorney—voluntarily entered his plea agreement in 2019 and had ample opportunity to disclose any alleged promises or threats during original proceedings.

    Nelson pleaded guilty in June 2019 to conspiracy to commit corruption and money laundering charges stemming from a legal-fee kickback scheme. He received a $2.25 million fine in March 2020 after agreeing to testify against former attorney general Anand Ramlogan, SC, and former UNC senator Gerald Ramdeen. Those prosecutions were subsequently discontinued in 2022 when Nelson refused to testify pending resolution of a $95 million civil claim related to an alleged indemnity agreement.

    In his appeal arguments, Nelson contended that former attorney general Faris Al-Rawi had promised him immunity, a pardon, and payment of legal fees, leading him to provide self-incriminating statements under false pretenses. The court found these claims unsupported by sworn evidence from the attorney who allegedly conveyed the promises.

    The court also highlighted the extraordinary delay in Nelson’s appeal filing—submitted in October 2023, more than four years after conviction and three years after sentencing. Justice Henderson rejected Nelson’s explanations including illness and expectation of pardon as insufficient justification.

    Nelson’s legal team, led by Edward Fitzgerald, KC, argued their client acted as a confidential informant and only provided incriminating evidence after receiving assurances of protection. Fitzgerald asserted Nelson received £1 million days after giving his statement, suggesting he was ‘tricked’ by false promises.

    DPP representative Ian Benjamin, SC, countered that Nelson was a seasoned barrister who strategically entered the plea agreement and delayed challenging it for leverage. Benjamin emphasized that prosecutorial authority resides solely with the DPP and pardon powers rest with the Mercy Committee, not the attorney general.

    Nelson has not yet paid the imposed $2.25 million fine and intends to seek special leave from the London-based Privy Council—TT’s final appellate court—following this domestic judicial setback.

  • Jearlean: Cabo Star replacement will arrive on time

    Jearlean: Cabo Star replacement will arrive on time

    The Trinidad and Tobago government has moved to reassure citizens that maritime transport services between the islands will continue uninterrupted despite the impending expiration of the MV Cabo Star’s contract on January 12th. Works and Infrastructure Minister Jearlean John confirmed in a December 22nd telephone interview that arrangements are already underway to secure a replacement vessel for the critical inter-island connection.

    Minister John maintained that ‘the replacement vessel will be here’ when needed, though she acknowledged that no formal contract has been finalized with any specific provider. When pressed for details regarding the identified replacement or its source, the minister declined to provide further information, stating simply ‘We have not contracted’ before terminating the interview.

    The situation has drawn attention from Tobago House of Assembly (THA) officials, who have been engaged in discussions with the central government since June. THA Deputy Chief Secretary Dr. Faith Brebnor revealed that while the assembly was aware of the lease expiration, they were surprised to learn the vessel had been sold. She emphasized that maintaining the steady flow of essential goods and products to Tobago remains a paramount concern for the THA.

    Dr. Brebnor indicated that the THA expects to receive a comprehensive action plan from the Ministry of Works by December’s end, noting that since the contract expiration was known for months, the ministry should be fully prepared for the January 12th transition. The MV Cabo Star, a roll-on/roll-off cargo and passenger ferry, has served as the backbone of TT’s inter-island seabridge since 2017, making its replacement crucial for maintaining economic and social connectivity between the islands.

  • Avoiding aches, injuries during the holidays

    Avoiding aches, injuries during the holidays

    As Christmas approaches, a concerning trend emerges: countless individuals inadvertently pushing their bodies beyond limits through festive preparations. Dr. Nicole de Freitas, a seasoned physical therapist with 23 years of experience and clinical doctorate from the University of St Augustine for Health Sciences, warns that December’s intensified activities—from decorating to entertaining—create perfect conditions for physical strain and injury.

    Dr. de Freitas, owner of Total Rehabilitation Centre Limited in Trinidad and certified ergonomic specialist, emphasizes that ergonomics extends far beyond office environments. “Ergonomics represents the study between job characteristics and the worker,” she explains, noting that ‘job’ encompasses parenting, household management, cooking, and seasonal decorating. The Christmas period particularly amplifies both mental and physical demands, requiring heightened body awareness and movement intelligence.

    According to her research, most injuries occur when exhaustion sets in—typically late in the day when people override their body’s signals. The holiday combination of limited rest, alcohol consumption, and nutritional compromises creates a vulnerability cascade where bodies eventually “break down” without proper support.

    The specialist provides specific preventive strategies:

    For heavy lifting: Secure assistance for items exceeding 50 pounds, and break loads into manageable 20-25 pound segments. When retrieving overhead items, use sturdy ladders with staggered stance positioning.

    For decorating: Utilize stools for low-level work to avoid bending, maintain proximity to tasks, and alternate between sitting and standing positions during extended activities like gift wrapping.

    For cooking marathons: Segment tasks—sitting for vegetable chopping or leaf folding—and wear cushioned footwear with arch support rather than flat slippers. Avoid asymmetrical “stork standing” and practice knee bending instead of waist flexion when handling heavy turkeys or hams.

    For travelers: Acknowledge that seated positions increase spinal disc pressure significantly. Combat stiffness through frequent movement breaks, supplemental back support with towel rolls or pillows, and compression stockings for circulation. Maintain legroom for stretching and utilize neck pillows for additional support.

    For shoppers: Distribute weight through multiple trips, consider trolleys instead of carrying loads, and recognize when to pause.

    When injuries occur, Dr. de Freitas recommends immediate position changes followed by gradual movement within tolerable ranges—avoiding complete immobilization. Persistent pain beyond 48 hours, especially when accompanied by sharp sensations, weakness, or bladder/bowel control issues, warrants urgent medical attention.

    Her overarching philosophy: “Your best posture is your next posture.” Regular movement, maintained strength, nutritional density, and proper hydration collectively sustain the body machine. Most importantly, she reminds perfection-seekers that meaningful celebrations don’t require flawless execution—preserving one’s wellbeing ultimately defines successful holiday experiences.

  • Recruitment drive continues as UK-based footballers arrive

    Recruitment drive continues as UK-based footballers arrive

    The Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) has significantly expanded its international recruitment strategy by welcoming a cohort of UK-based footballers to participate in national youth team training camps. Five players with ancestral connections to Trinidad arrived on December 19 to undergo intensive residential training and cultural integration programs.

    The recruited athletes, currently affiliated with professional and semi-professional clubs in England, include: Archie Lovatt (Southampton FC), Tate Ormonde (Brighton & Hove Albion FC), Jashaun Christmas (Crystal Palace FC), Kayden Bancey (Reading FC), and Eden Ormonde (Welling United via Brighton FC pathway). These midfield specialists have joined domestic and North American players already in camp under the guidance of Under-17 head coach Randolph Boyce and Under-20 head coach Marvin Gordon.

    This strategic initiative follows recent legislative changes known as the “grandparent law,” which has broadened eligibility criteria for athletes with Trinidadian heritage. While some players previously qualified for TT passports due to their age, the updated regulations have substantially enhanced the association’s capacity to tap into global talent reservoirs.

    Brent Sancho, Head of Overseas Recruitment, emphasized the comprehensive nature of the program: “This approach enables players to genuinely connect with Trinidad and Tobago beyond football—through immersive living and training experiences. We aim to foster cultural understanding and convey the significance of representing the national colors.”

    TTFA President Kieron Edwards highlighted the broader strategic implications: “This recruitment drive represents an investment in our entire football ecosystem. Early identification and integration of eligible players strengthens the pathway to our senior national team and generates long-term benefits across all national teams.”

    The association is currently engaged in advanced discussions with additional players from prominent clubs including Chelsea, Fulham, Swansea, Lincoln City, Luton Town, Nottingham Forest, and Ipswich Town. Among them is Jamie Mauge of Ipswich Town, whose father Ronnie Mauge previously served as a midfielder for the senior national team.

    The residential camps will continue through December, serving as critical evaluation periods ahead of the 2025 Concacaf Under-17 and Under-20 Men’s Qualifiers scheduled for February and March. This initiative forms part of TTFA’s comprehensive strategy to enhance youth team competitiveness through systematic identification and development of eligible talent worldwide.

  • Justice Seepersad warns against speculation amid regional security concerns

    Justice Seepersad warns against speculation amid regional security concerns

    In a significant address blending legal insight with moral guidance, High Court Justice Frank Seepersad has called for measured assessment of recent geopolitical developments in the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean. Speaking to media representatives after delivering his Christmas sermon at Marabella Presbyterian Church on December 21, Justice Seepersad emphasized that state sovereignty entails both the authority and responsibility to act in citizens’ best interests, even when requiring difficult decisions and strategic alliances.

    The jurist articulated that national sovereignty empowers nations to legislate and govern for their people’s welfare, yet this mandate frequently involves balancing domestic priorities with regional stability requirements, economic partnerships, and occasionally military or strategic cooperation to sustain growth and viable international trade.

    Addressing specific concerns about recent military actions, Justice Seepersad referenced approximately 28 US missile strikes since September 2 that resulted in over 100 fatalities in Caribbean and Pacific waters. While American authorities maintain these targeted vessels were transporting narcotics, no concrete evidence has been publicly presented to substantiate these claims. The judge noted that much commentary surrounding the legality of these actions remains speculative, emphasizing that natural justice principles require comprehensive evidence assessment before reaching conclusions.

    Seepersad highlighted pressing regional challenges including what he described as the largest hemispheric migration from Venezuela within the past decade and statements threatening Guyana’s territorial integrity. He characterized these developments as indicators of deeper systemic problems requiring policy reassessment and governance realignment rather than dismissal.

    The judge simultaneously delivered a powerful message of communal responsibility during his Christmas sermon, themed ‘Christmas: A Call to Christ and Community.’ He framed Christ’s humility, sacrificial love, and service model as a blueprint for both personal conduct and public life, urging citizens to transcend individualism and actively rebuild communities grounded in spiritual principles.

    Drawing from his judicial experience, Seepersad identified widespread familial dysfunction, domestic violence, workplace conflicts, and social erosion caused by envy, greed, and unresolved grudges. He connected these patterns to societal departure from Christ-like behavior and diminishing moral foundations.

    Regarding national development, the justice cautioned against excessive polarization and the tendency to blame political leaders exclusively. He emphasized every citizen’s role in building a productive state, calling for enhanced accountability particularly within public service sectors. While acknowledging recent salary improvements for workers, he advocated for viewing employment as more than financial compensation, stressing the need for renewed work ethic, integrity, and productivity.

    Justice Seepersad concluded by encouraging citizens to become ‘ambassadors of reconciliation’ by forgiving past wrongs, dismantling stereotypes, and collectively working toward peace and prosperity, carrying Christmas’s transformative message beyond the season into daily life.