Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Nurses association: Wage negotiations must resume amid Couva hospital reopening

    Nurses association: Wage negotiations must resume amid Couva hospital reopening

    The Trinidad and Tobago Registered Nurses Association (TTRNA) has intensified pressure on the government to resolve long-standing wage negotiations, simultaneously criticizing the controversial commencement of adult surgeries at Couva Children’s Hospital on November 28. This development occurs despite previous objections from nursing professionals regarding staff and resource limitations at the facility.

    TTRNA President Idi Stuart contends that the government’s financial capacity to refurbish and operationalize the hospital for the third time demonstrates available funds that should rightfully address nursing compensation. Wage discussions have remained stagnant since 2013, creating significant dissatisfaction among healthcare professionals.

    According to Stuart, the initial operational phase has encountered substantial challenges. Specialized surgical nursing staff are being transferred from Point Fortin Hospital and San Fernando General Hospital to support the new facility, potentially compromising patient care at existing institutions. Additionally, reassigned nurses report excessive working hours without adequate breaks or meal periods.

    Stuart further alleges that medical consumables are being diverted from other healthcare facilities to equip Couva Hospital, raising concerns about resource allocation across the public health system. The TTRNA has actively advised its members through social media to formally document overtime hours and seek written reassignment instructions, highlighting administrative uncertainties regarding regional health authority jurisdiction.

    The hospital’s history reflects political complexities. Originally commissioned in 2015 under Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s administration, it was subsequently transferred to North Central Regional Health Authority management. Persad-Bissessar, now returned to power, had previously criticized the government for failing to fully operationalize the facility during her opposition period.

    Health Minister Dr. Lackram Bodoe maintains that the hospital’s operationalization aligns with the Prime Minister’s mandate, emphasizing the ministry’s commitment to a coordinated transition as additional services become available. Newsday reports that ministerial response to the TTRNA’s allegations remained unavailable at publication time.

  • PNM’s Keigon Denoon jumps ship, named TPP canddiate

    PNM’s Keigon Denoon jumps ship, named TPP canddiate

    In a significant political realignment, former People’s National Movement (PNM) Tobago West constituency chairman Keigon Denoon has officially crossed party lines to become the Tobago People’s Party (TPP) candidate for Buccoo/Mt Pleasant. The dramatic transition was formally announced during TPP’s candidate presentation event on December 1 at Scarborough’s Calypso Rose Boulevard.

    TPP Political Leader Farley Augustine introduced Denoon—a native Buccoo resident and coordinator of the Youth Energised for Success (YES) program—as the final addition to their electoral slate. Augustine characterized the move as evidence of TPP’s inclusive approach, describing the party as “a coalition of the competent and willing” that welcomes members from across Tobago’s political spectrum, including former TOP, NAR/DAC, Tobago Forwards, UNC, and PNM supporters.

    The transition unfolded rapidly, with PNM’s Tobago Council leader Ancil Dennis announcing Denoon’s departure via Facebook approximately one hour before the TPP’s official unveiling. Dennis responded with diplomatic grace, acknowledging Denoon’s service while urging PNM members to maintain focus on “restoring stability, opportunity, and decency to Tobago.”

    The TPP also confirmed that incumbent representative Ian Pollard will defend his Mason Hall/Moriah seat, joining thirteen other candidates previously announced on November 24. The complete TPP candidate roster represents constituencies across Tobago, signaling a comprehensive challenge in the upcoming elections.

    This development marks another chapter in Tobago’s dynamic political landscape, where party allegiances frequently shift in pursuit of regional advancement and improved governance structures.

  • Emotions run high in SYG senate debate

    Emotions run high in SYG senate debate

    The Trinidad and Tobago Senate witnessed profoundly emotional deliberations on December 2nd during the debate over the controversial Home Invasion (Self-Defence and Defence of Property) Bill, 2025. Government Senator Brian Baig delivered a heart-wrenching testimony detailing his personal experience as a home invasion survivor, visibly trembling as he addressed the chamber.

    Senator Baig recounted how the traumatic event permanently altered his psychological state, revealing he still wakes daily at 3 AM—the hour preceding the incident—haunted by the fear that intruders remain in his home. The senator described implementing extensive security measures including alarms, round-the-clock security personnel, and guard dogs to restore his family’s sense of safety. Baig further shared the devastating story of his aunt who was murdered during another home invasion, with her throat slit ‘from ear to ear’ while his uncle, a heart patient, was bound to a chair.

    Despite the emotional appeal, opposition Senator Faris Al-Rawi expressed reservations about the legislation’s practical effectiveness. While acknowledging the bill was ‘heading in the right direction,’ Al-Rawi questioned whether the proposed law would actually assist victims in real-time crisis situations. He raised significant concerns regarding the exclusion of approximately 230,000 squatters lacking lawful property possession, the treatment of common areas in housing developments, and the application to institutional dwellings like children’s and geriatric homes.

    Independent Senator Dr. Desiree Murray highlighted additional ambiguities, noting the legislation potentially conflates domestic disputes with armed invasions by labeling known acquaintances as ‘home invaders.’ She warned this blurring of distinctions could lead to disproportionate use of lethal force in situations already covered by existing laws. The debate revealed deep divisions between the emotional imperative for enhanced self-defense protections and practical concerns about legal precision and unintended consequences.

  • Padarath: Ag CEO’s departure not affecting WASA

    Padarath: Ag CEO’s departure not affecting WASA

    Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath has affirmed that the resignation of former Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) acting CEO Jeevan Joseph has not disrupted the state utility’s operational continuity or strategic initiatives. In an official statement, Padarath emphasized that WASA maintains robust leadership under chairman Roshan Babwah and continues to advance numerous short-term and medium-term projects without interruption.

    Contrary to initial media speculation suggesting Joseph was ‘sent on leave’ without explanation, the minister clarified that Joseph voluntarily resigned between November 28-29 citing personal reasons. The ministry respects his decision while maintaining confidence in WASA’s operational framework.

    Padarath highlighted organizational enhancements including the revamping of the ministry’s monitoring and evaluation division to strengthen project oversight. ‘The ministry is taking greater interest in actual operations compared to our predecessors,’ he noted, signaling increased governmental involvement in WASA’s management.

    Dain Maharaj, acting director of corporate services since June, has assumed interim CEO responsibilities until a permanent appointment is finalized. Maharaj’s previous appointment followed the termination of Keithroy Halliday and nine other senior executives shortly after the United National Congress assumed office on May 28.

    Joseph’s tenure included significant contributions as manager of technical services for wastewater systems, where he pioneered development of standard operating procedures, asset management strategies, and technological innovations to improve both operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.

  • Farley announces January 12 THA elections

    Farley announces January 12 THA elections

    The Tobago House of Assembly (THA) will hold its pivotal elections on January 12, 2026, as formally announced by Chief Secretary and Tobago People’s Party (TPP) leader Farley Augustine. The declaration came during the party’s candidate unveiling ceremony at Scarborough’s Calypso Rose Boulevard on December 1, where Augustine addressed an assembly of enthusiastic supporters.

    Augustine revealed he has formally notified Prime Minister Keith Rowley of the election date, with both leaders subsequently advising the President of Trinidad and Tobago. The presidential election writ is anticipated to be officially issued around December 5, 2025, initiating the formal electoral process.

    Despite the energized crowd at the campaign event, Augustine delivered a pragmatic message about electoral realities. He emphatically stated that large gatherings do not automatically translate to electoral success, emphasizing that ‘votes win elections, not crowds.’ The TPP leader outlined an intensive grassroots strategy, committing to door-to-door outreach and direct voter engagement across Tobago’s constituencies.

    Augustine expressed confidence in securing all 15 contested seats in the legislative body, underscoring his party’s dedication to mobilizing substantial voter turnout through personalized engagement with every Tobagonian household. The upcoming election represents a critical political event for Tobago’s autonomous governance structure, with potential implications for the island’s developmental trajectory and relationship with the central Trinidadian government.

  • K2K twins Kathy and Karen Norman inducted into SJC POS Hall of Excellence

    K2K twins Kathy and Karen Norman inducted into SJC POS Hall of Excellence

    In a distinguished ceremony held on November 18, twin sisters Kathy and Karen Norman—renowned for their influential medium band K2K Alliance and Partners—were formally inducted into the Hall of Excellence at St Joseph Convent, Port of Spain. The event, hosted biennially at the school’s chapel on Pembroke Street, celebrates exceptional alumni who have made significant contributions to society.

    Established in 2001 by the school’s Past Pupils’ Association, this year’s induction was graced by Archbishop Jason Gordon, who delivered the opening prayer. Maritza Ramphal, the school’s current principal and first vice-president of the association, provided welcoming remarks, while Effuah Alleyne, president of the Past Pupils’ Association, concluded with a vote of thanks.

    The Norman twins stood among twelve honorees, including Meta’s Vice President of Accessibility and Engagement Maxine Williams, Arrive Alive President Sharon Inglefield, and former SJC principal Anna Pounder. Their pen portraits highlighted extraordinary academic achievements, with each twin securing ten CSEC subjects—including art, where both received awards for their submissions titled ‘The Cycle of Life’ and ‘Life in its Complexity.’

    Their early artistic development was further shaped by interviews with mas designers Peter Minshall and Wayne Berkeley, conducted as part of their School-Based Assessments. These experiences ignited their passion for costume design and creative expression. Throughout their school years, the twins consistently contributed their artistic talents to class and school projects. At the Advanced Level, Karen was recognized as the Caribbean’s most outstanding art student, and both portfolios were retained by Cambridge as exemplary references for future generations.

  • Health ministry to expand efforts to combat HIV

    Health ministry to expand efforts to combat HIV

    The Trinidad and Tobago Ministry of Health has unveiled an ambitious expansion of its national HIV/AIDS response strategy, committing to significantly enhance prevention, testing, and treatment services throughout 2026. This renewed effort aligns with global World AIDS Day 2025 observances and the international theme of overcoming disruption through transformative approaches to epidemic control.

    Health Minister Dr. Lackram Bodoe confirmed the ministry will conduct a comprehensive review of current policies regarding pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and doxycycline prophylaxis (DoxyPEP) accessibility. These pharmaceutical interventions represent cutting-edge biomedical prevention methods, with CDC research indicating PrEP reduces sexual HIV transmission risk by approximately 99% when properly administered.

    The strategic enhancement will prioritize several key initiatives: broadening community-based testing capabilities, increasing availability of self-testing kits, ensuring immediate treatment initiation protocols, strengthening patient retention systems, and launching a substantial national campaign against stigma and discrimination. These measures will be complemented by targeted interventions for vulnerable demographics and expanded psychosocial support services for HIV-positive individuals.

    Trinidad and Tobago has demonstrated considerable progress in epidemic control, with most diagnosed individuals currently receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) through the Medical Research Foundation TT and other clinical facilities. A significant majority have achieved viral suppression, effectively preventing disease progression and interrupting transmission chains.

    Recent innovations include the official introduction of HIV self-testing kits enabling private home testing and the establishment of specialized linkage teams featuring peer navigators, social workers, and psychological support staff to ensure continuous care engagement. The nation maintains free ART access and viral load monitoring services across all treatment centers.

    Prevention initiatives have intensified through expanded outreach targeting youth populations, high-risk groups, and ongoing efforts to eliminate mother-to-child transmission. The ministry has additionally amplified public education campaigns and workplace programs responding to reports of persistent stigma and discrimination.

    Health authorities have issued a rallying cry for collaborative action, urging citizens, community leaders, and stakeholders to unite in creating a stigma-free society where all individuals can access healthcare services with dignity and respect. The ministry reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to eliminating AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 through evidence-based interventions and strengthened civil society partnerships.

  • Nipdec, PSA settle on 5% salary increase

    Nipdec, PSA settle on 5% salary increase

    In a significant development for labor relations in Trinidad and Tobago, the National Insurance Property Development Company Ltd (Nipdec) has successfully concluded negotiations with the Public Services Association (PSA), resolving a longstanding collective agreement for permanent monthly paid workers. The settlement, finalized between PSA president Felisha Thomas and Nipdec chairman Vijay Gosyne, addresses compensation dating back to the period spanning January 1, 2014, through December 31, 2016.

    The breakthrough agreement implements a five per cent wage increase and provides accumulated back pay totaling $5,613,535.69. This financial package will benefit 57 individuals comprising both current and former personnel—specifically 28 existing employees and 29 who have since departed the organization.

    Nipdec’s leadership emphasized the agreement’s broader significance beyond financial compensation, characterizing it as a testament to the workforce’s dedication and a reinforcement of collaborative industrial relations. The company acknowledged the PSA’s constructive engagement throughout negotiation proceedings, highlighting the settlement as a milestone in strengthening institutional relationships with both employees and their union representation.

    The resolution aligns with government commitments to workforce welfare while supporting Nipdec’s strategic vision to position itself as the region’s premier project and procurement management agency. Company officials reiterated their commitment to maintaining principles of fairness, transparency, and respect in all employee-related matters, suggesting this agreement establishes a positive framework for future labor relations.

  • DPP: Indictments against cops not filed as audio evidence inaudible

    DPP: Indictments against cops not filed as audio evidence inaudible

    A Trinidad and Tobago High Court judge has expressed profound concern over the Director of Public Prosecutions’ explanation for failing to file indictments against three police officers nearly five years after they were committed to stand trial.

    Justice Frank Seepersad, presiding over a December 2 status hearing for the officers’ judicial review claim, characterized DPP Roger Gaspard’s explanation as raising “serious constitutional concerns” regarding the justice system’s handling of delayed cases.

    The case involves Sgt Lester Garcia, Cpl Sheldon Peterson, and PC Dexter Edwards, who faced three counts of misbehavior in public office since their initial charges in October 2014. The officers were committed to stand trial in January 2020. Tragically, Peterson, who had been suspended pending trial, was killed during a botched robbery in 2024.

    Gaspard asserted in an October 21 affidavit that the inability to proceed with indictments stems from incomplete documentation from the Arima Magistrates’ Courts. Specifically, audio recordings of the main witness’s testimony were deemed “indecipherable,” preventing prosecutors from preparing necessary transcripts and conducting a lawful evidence review.

    The DPP explained that without usable recordings, his office cannot determine whether a prima facie case exists or assess whether prosecution serves the public interest—a constitutional requirement under section 90 of the Constitution. Although Gaspard instructed his staff to accept the compromised bundle in November 2023, he intended to return the matter to the magistrate for additional evidence. This plan was complicated by the subsequent appointment of presiding magistrate Indrani Cedeno as a temporary judge.

    Gaspard revealed his office is currently reviewing approximately 400 capital matters for indictment, with 569 indictments pending at the Port of Spain office at the time of the officers’ committal. He cited systemic challenges, including statutory requirements and limited staffing, noting that delays of several years are not unusual in Trinidad’s justice system.

    However, Justice Seepersad challenged the normalization of extended delays, stating the court “should not genuflect to that practice” given the justice system’s obligation to ensure timely trials. The judge indicated that staffing constraints described in the affidavit “may suggest systemic issues” requiring significant resourcing.

    The case now raises fundamental constitutional questions about what guarantees exist for accused persons awaiting High Court trials and what constitutes a reasonable timeframe for filing indictments. Justice Seepersad is expected to deliver a ruling on February 24, 2026, which could have significant implications for Trinidad’s criminal justice procedures.

  • Tobago students told: Make maximum use of laptops

    Tobago students told: Make maximum use of laptops

    Tobago has embarked on a significant digital education transformation with the commencement of laptop distributions to first-year secondary students across three institutions: Mason Hall Secondary, Roxborough Secondary, and Harmon’s School of Seventh Day Adventists. The initiative, dubbed ‘Learning Without Limits – A Laptop for Every Child,’ represents a major step in modernizing the island’s educational landscape.

    Education Minister Dr. Michael Dowlath confirmed during the December 1st distribution ceremony at Mason Hall Secondary that all Tobago first-form students would receive their specialized learning devices by the end of the week. These laptops feature integrated artificial intelligence capabilities specifically designed for educational purposes.

    The program, which originated from Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s vision in 2010, marks one of the Caribbean’s pioneering efforts to digitize education systems. Minister Dowlath highlighted the collaborative effort involving multiple government ministries and AI specialists that enabled the procurement and distribution of 18,000 laptops nationwide.

    THA Education Secretary Zorisha Hackett emphasized the transformative potential of the devices, stating they represent ‘possibility for discovery, curiosity, and ambition’ that extends learning beyond traditional classroom boundaries. The laptops are intended to provide equal learning opportunities and prepare students for navigating an increasingly digital world.

    The AI functionality, demonstrated during the ceremony, operates under strict protocols limited exclusively to teaching Mathematics and English Language, ensuring focused educational application without external distractions. Tobago MPs Joel Sampson (West) and David Thomas (East) attended the event, underscoring the initiative’s significance for the island’s educational development.