标签: Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Port of Spain taxi-driver hits vehicles after suffering seizure

    Port of Spain taxi-driver hits vehicles after suffering seizure

    A midday medical emergency culminated in a multi-vehicle collision in Port of Spain on December 1st, prompting a significant police response and raising questions about emergency service timelines. The incident unfolded around 9:30 AM on Ariapita Avenue when a 63-year-old taxi driver experienced a sudden seizure while operating his vehicle.

    Losing control due to the medical episode, the driver’s car veered onto Scott Bushe Street, where it subsequently collided with five stationary, parked vehicles. The impact resulted in injuries to two individuals inside the taxi. The 63-year-old driver was found unresponsive at the scene, while a 51-year-old female passenger in the front seat sustained a back injury.

    Bystanders and passers-by played a crucial role in the immediate aftermath, swiftly assisting both occupants from the damaged vehicle and moving them to a safer location in a nearby carpark. Law enforcement officials arrived promptly to secure the area and cordon off the street for investigation.

    The emergency response was notably aided by a certified first-aid provider, a good Samaritan who worked in the vicinity and offered critical initial medical assistance before professional help arrived. A point of concern emerged as the official ambulance service took over an hour to reach the location following the incident’s occurrence.

    Local authorities have confirmed that an active investigation into the precise circumstances of the accident is ongoing, examining all factors surrounding the collision.

  • Roget takes Rowley to court over defamation claims

    Roget takes Rowley to court over defamation claims

    In a significant legal and political development, Oilfields Workers’ Trade Union (OWTU) president Ancel Roget has initiated defamation proceedings against former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley. The lawsuit, filed at the High Court on November 22, stems from comments allegedly made by Rowley regarding a 2022 highway blockade incident involving scrap-iron dealers.

    The controversy dates back to August 2022 when truckloads of dirt were dumped on the Solomon Hochoy Highway near Claxton Bay, creating massive traffic gridlock. This protest occurred shortly after the government implemented a six-month ban on scrap iron exports, which dealers argued would devastate their livelihoods. Roget asserts that while his union defended the protesters’ concerns, Rowley made defamatory statements about his character in connection with the incident.

    Speaking at a gathering of former Petrotrin employees commemorating the seventh anniversary of the state-owned company’s closure, Roget declared: ‘Rowley frequently pursues legal action against those who criticize him. Now he must answer this statement of claim in court.’ The comment received enthusiastic applause from union members.

    The Petrotrin closure remains a deeply contentious issue, with Roget characterizing it as ‘one of the most devastating economic decisions inflicted on the people’ by Rowley’s previous administration. He accused the former government of systematically ‘attacking and demonizing’ the OWTU for seven years while using misinformation to justify the refinery’s shutdown. Although the Rowley administration cited economic challenges and declining profitability as reasons for closure, Roget maintains the action specifically targeted the union while harming the entire nation.

    Roget used the platform to rally his ‘blue-shirt army’ of supporters, urging them to prevent the return of the People’s National Movement (PNM) to power. He specifically highlighted the union’s success in making traditionally secure PNM seats marginal, referencing San Fernando East, Point Fortin, and La Brea constituencies. The event was attended by current government officials including Point Fortin MP Ernesto Kesar, now Minister in the Ministry of Energy, and La Brea MP Clyde Elder, Minister in the Ministry of Public Utilities—both former union leaders themselves.

    Roget announced plans to hold a press conference to provide further details on the defamation case, signaling continued escalation of tensions between the labor movement and former administration.

  • Ex-Petrotrin workers to get land from government

    Ex-Petrotrin workers to get land from government

    The Trinidadian government has announced plans to honor longstanding land allocation agreements for former Petrotrin workers, mirroring previous commitments made to ex-employees of the defunct Caroni (1975) Ltd. The declaration came from Minister Ernesto Kesar of the Ministry of Energy and Energy Affairs during a November 30 gathering at Pointe-a-Pierre roundabout, where scores of former refinery workers and Oilfields Workers’ Trade Union (OWTU) members commemorated the seventh anniversary of the facility’s closure.

    Minister Kesar revealed that while 2,814 former workers had applied for land parcels through the Land Settlement Agency under the previous administration, only 238 had received commitment letters without actual land transfers. The current government initiative aims to address this disparity by preparing a comprehensive report for Cabinet consideration that includes all permanent, temporary, and casual workers from Petrotrin’s 76,000-acre holdings.

    In parallel developments, the government plans to reopen two vandalized medical facilities in Santa Flora and Guaracara within six months to serve former workers and their families. Kesar, who personally inspected the clinics, reported that while the Pointe-a-Pierre facility remains structurally sound with preserved medical records, the Santa Flora clinic requires significant rehabilitation due to severe vandalism.

    OWTU President General Ancel Roget delivered impassioned remarks criticizing the previous administration, alleging that over 1,000 retirees died due to inability to access medical plans. Roget detailed occupational health crises among workers, including exposure to chemicals and extreme working conditions that led to renal failure and heart conditions.

    The Rowley-led administration had previously cited economic challenges and declining profitability as reasons for the refinery’s 2018 closure. Following restructuring, Petrotrin became Trinidad Petroleum Holdings Ltd (TPHL) with four subsidiaries, though Roget emphasized that none currently recognize OWTU representation due to successorship issues—a matter now being addressed through parliamentary procedures by Labour Minister Leroy Baptiste.

    The event also featured La Brea MP Clyde Elder, a former trade union leader, signaling broad governmental involvement in resolving these longstanding labor and social welfare issues.

  • Tobago man gets community service for threatening CPO

    Tobago man gets community service for threatening CPO

    A Tobago handyman has been ordered to complete 240 hours of community service after pleading guilty to issuing death threats against a senior government official through social media platforms. The Scarborough Magistrates’ Court delivered the verdict following the defendant’s admission of posting threatening comments targeting Chief Personnel Officer Dr. Daryl Dindial.

    Jason Wright, 49, of Moriah, Tobago, appeared before Magistrate Gill in the Scarborough Magistrates’ 2nd Court facing charges of making statements prejudicial to public safety. The case originated on November 24 when Dr. Dindial received a WhatsApp message containing a link to a TikTok video featuring a public service announcement. Beneath the video, a user identified as ‘Buju B’ – subsequently revealed to be Wright – had posted explicit threats stating: ‘HE IS A PNM AND HE WILL NOT PAY THAT MONEY AT TIME… PPL NEED TO FIXED HIM GOOD TAKE HIS LIFE.’

    The threatening message prompted immediate concern from Dr. Dindial, who expressed genuine fear for both his personal safety and that of his family members. He promptly filed an official report with the Scarborough Police Department on the same day.

    Law enforcement authorities, under the leadership of ASP Piggott and Insp Mohammed, conducted a thorough investigation that led them to Wright’s residence. During questioning, the defendant confessed to publishing the threatening comment and demonstrated apparent remorse for his actions. Police confiscated three mobile devices as evidence during the arrest operation. Wright was formally charged under Section 241 of the Emergency Powers Regulations by acting Cpl Moses of the Scarborough Police Station.

    The court has established stringent consequences for non-compliance with the sentencing terms. Should Wright fail to complete the mandated community service hours, he will face alternative penalties of a $3,000 fine or six months’ simple imprisonment. This case highlights the legal system’s increasing attention to digital threats and establishes precedent for social media accountability.

  • Touchstone begins drilling in central block after 19 years

    Touchstone begins drilling in central block after 19 years

    Touchstone Exploration Inc. has officially recommenced development drilling operations in Trinidad’s Central Block, marking the first such activity in the region since 2006. The energy company, led by President and CEO Paul Baay, initiated drilling at the Carapal Ridge-3 development well near Princes Town in southern Trinidad.

    The Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries confirmed the operational restart on December 1, highlighting that Touchstone assumed control of the 6,600-acre Central Block following a successful transfer from Shell Trinidad Central Block Ltd on May 16. Since acquiring the asset, the company has conducted comprehensive resource evaluations and formulated plans for four developmental wells across the block.

    Notably, the ministry facilitated an accelerated timeline that enabled drilling operations to begin three weeks ahead of the original schedule. Touchstone’s internal projections indicate that production from the Central Block could potentially exceed 50 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscf/d) of natural gas.

    In an official statement, the Ministry expressed enthusiasm for the renewed drilling activity: “These investments in drilling by Touchstone are welcomed as they aid in bringing much needed natural gas to market. The MEEI welcomes this renewed activity in our onshore natural gas fields and looks forward to further collaboration with all operators in revitalising our energy sector to benefit the citizens of the Republic of TT.”

    The development represents a significant step in revitalizing Trinidad’s domestic energy sector and addressing the nation’s natural gas supply requirements through increased exploration activity.

  • Stories come alive at Family Reading Circle

    Stories come alive at Family Reading Circle

    The Bocas Lit Fest, in collaboration with Let’s Read, successfully orchestrated an engaging Family Reading Circle event at the St Joseph Old Road Community Centre in Port of Spain’s East Dry River district on November 22. This specialized literacy initiative brought together 22 young children and their parents for an immersive read-aloud experience designed to foster early childhood development through literature.

    Children’s author Mary Cuffy captivated the audience with dynamic readings from her acclaimed Ladybug book series, particularly enchanting attendees with the adventures of ‘Lola and the Dancing Ladybugs.’ The session transformed into an interactive experience as children enthusiastically participated in sing-along segments, bringing the narrative to life through musical engagement.

    Suzette Cadiz, representing Let’s Read, complemented the program with spirited readings of beloved children’s classics, further enriching the literary experience for the young attendees. The carefully curated selection of stories aimed to simultaneously entertain and educate, addressing multiple developmental domains through narrative engagement.

    The Family Reading Circle program represents a strategic approach to early literacy development, specifically targeting children aged seven years and under. The initiative’s methodology focuses on transforming reading from a passive activity into an interactive experience that strengthens language acquisition, comprehension capabilities, and emotional intelligence. By creating positive associations with literature, the program aims to establish foundational reading habits that can evolve into lifelong literary engagement.

    Bocas Lit Fest formally acknowledged Pompey Joseph’s Tutoring Academy for providing the community venue, highlighting the importance of cross-organizational collaboration in advancing educational initiatives within local communities. This partnership model demonstrates how shared resources and expertise can effectively support childhood literacy development in accessible community settings.

  • Trinidad and Tobago women drub Barbados 5-0 in Concacaf W Qualifiers

    Trinidad and Tobago women drub Barbados 5-0 in Concacaf W Qualifiers

    The Trinidad and Tobago women’s national football team delivered a commanding performance in their Concacaf W Qualifier debut, securing an impressive 5-0 victory against Barbados at Kensington Oval on December 1. The match marked a spectacular beginning to their campaign in Group F, which also includes El Salvador and Honduras.

    Despite initial challenges adapting to the cricket pitch’s unusual bounce, the visiting team established early dominance. Captain Kennya “YaYa” Cordner broke the deadlock in the 12th minute with a clinical finish from close range after goalkeeper Lisa Harding parried a powerful header from defender Kedie Johnson.

    The first half saw several near-misses for Trinidad and Tobago, including Alexcia Ali’s disallowed goal for offside and Nikita Gosine’s free kick striking the crossbar. Barbados’ best opportunity came from Rianna Cyrus, whose weak shot failed to trouble TT goalkeeper Simone Eligon.

    Strategic positional adjustments at halftime proved instrumental in TT’s second-half explosion. Johnson, shifted to left back, unleashed a spectacular 30-yard left-footed strike in the 77th minute that dipped dramatically beyond Harding’s reach. This breakthrough ignited a scoring frenzy in the final stages.

    Substitute Ariana Borneo made an immediate impact after her 67th-minute introduction, adding a third goal with a exquisite left-footed curler from outside the box in the 82nd minute. The offensive barrage continued as Aaliyah Prince showcased exceptional dribbling skills before slotting home a precise finish just moments later.

    The comprehensive victory was capped in stoppage time when Lorall Romain drilled a fifth goal through a crowded penalty area following an indirect free kick awarded for a goalkeeper infringement.

    The win provides ideal momentum for Trinidad and Tobago, who now await their next qualifier against Honduras on March 3, followed by a home fixture against El Salvador on April 16. The tournament structure sees only group winners advancing to the 2025 Concacaf W Championship, which serves as the qualifying pathway to both the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

  • Bands heat up the Savannah at 2026 Panorama Single Pan finals

    Bands heat up the Savannah at 2026 Panorama Single Pan finals

    The Queen’s Park Savannah in Port of Spain transformed into a pulsating epicenter of musical excellence on November 29th as steelpan orchestras converged for the highly anticipated 2026 Panorama Single Pan Finals. In a spectacular display of rhythmic mastery and cultural celebration, defending champions San Juan East Side Symphony successfully retained their crown, delivering a captivating arrangement of Machel Montano’s “Jumbie” that mesmerized judges and audience alike.

    The competition showcased extraordinary talent from across Trinidad and Tobago, with Diego Martin-based La Creole Pan Groove securing second position and San Juan Chord Masters Steel Orchestra claiming third place. The event featured breathtaking performances from numerous ensembles, each bringing unique interpretations of classic and contemporary Caribbean compositions.

    Hope Pan Groovers from Tobago energized the crowd with their rendition of “Like Ah Boss” by Machel Montano, arranged by Ojay Richards. Arima All Stars Steel Orchestra delivered a memorable performance of “Caribbean Connection” by Merchant, arranged by Gillian Tobias. LA 47 Steel Orchestra from La Brea captivated audiences with their arrangement of “Showdown” by Machel Montano with Xtatik ft Burning Flames, orchestrated by Shaquille Forbes.

    The evening witnessed several standout moments, including D’Original Woodbrook Modernaires Steel Orchestra’s performance of “Ah Cyah Wait” by Shurwayne Winchester, which featured the artist himself joining the ensemble onstage. Another highlight came when East Phonics Steel Orchestra from Valencia performed “Swing” accompanied by soca legend Austin “SuperBlue” Lyons.

    Photographer Lincoln Holder documented the electrifying atmosphere, capturing the vibrant energy and technical precision that defined this celebration of Trinidad and Tobago’s rich musical heritage. The Panorama competition continues to serve as a premier platform for showcasing the evolution and enduring appeal of steelpan music, drawing participants and spectators from across the Caribbean region and beyond.

  • Five Rivers sink Holy Faith Convent 9-0, into nat’l Intercol semis

    Five Rivers sink Holy Faith Convent 9-0, into nat’l Intercol semis

    Five Rivers Secondary School delivered a breathtaking display of offensive dominance on December 1, securing their place in the National Coca-Cola Intercol girls’ semifinal with a devastating 9-0 victory over Holy Faith Convent Couva at Ato Boldon Stadium in Balmain, Couva.

    The match transformed into a personal showcase for striker Hackeemar Goodridge, who netted an impressive four goals in what became a one-sided championship division encounter. Goodridge’s remarkable performance was complemented by Ahmeeda Bowman and Jayda Herbert, each contributing two goals, while Shaquilla Daniel sealed the commanding win with a solitary strike.

    Five Rivers established control from the opening whistle, creating numerous scoring opportunities throughout the first half. Goodridge initiated the scoring spree in the seventh minute after capitalizing on a defensive miscue from Holy Faith Convent. Bowman extended the lead to 2-0 in the 27th minute with a skillful individual effort, evading defender Azariah Huggins before calmly finishing past goalkeeper Jael Moore.

    The eastern zone champions demonstrated relentless pressure, with Goodridge securing her second goal just three minutes later after finding herself unmarked in the penalty area. Herbert joined the scoring parade moments afterward, taking advantage of another defensive error to push the advantage to 4-0 before halftime.

    Five Rivers maintained their aggressive approach after the interval, with Goodridge completing her hat-trick in the 47th minute assisted by Herbert. The prolific striker added her fourth goal just five minutes later with a powerful strike from the edge of the box.

    Despite the overwhelming lead, Five Rivers continued their offensive onslaught. Daniel converted her opportunity in the second half, followed by Herbert’s second goal in the 68th minute from a rebound situation. Bowman concluded the spectacular performance with a magnificent individual effort in the 81st minute, weaving through Holy Faith’s defense before firing past Moore to complete the historic victory.

    Holy Faith Convent struggled throughout the match, managing few meaningful attacks and demonstrating defensive vulnerabilities that Five Rivers exploited mercilessly. The victory sends Five Rivers into the national semifinals with tremendous momentum and a statement-making performance.

  • THA minority leader demands removal of Tobago radar

    THA minority leader demands removal of Tobago radar

    A significant political confrontation has emerged in Tobago regarding the undisclosed installation of a US military radar system at ANR Robinson International Airport. The controversy ignited when a US military transport plane was spotted at the facility, prompting questions about its purpose. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar initially stated the presence was related to US Marines assisting with roadworks, but later acknowledged the radar’s existence as a “national security matter” she had attempted to keep confidential.

    Tobago House of Assembly Chief Secretary Farley Augustine expressed surprise at the installation, leading to emergency meetings with Attorney General John Jeremie, Defence Minister Wayne Sturge, and Chief of Defence Staff Commodore Don Polo. Augustine subsequently announced receiving assurances that the radar would not be used for offensive operations against Venezuela or other nations.

    Defence Minister Sturge maintains the system serves exclusively for domestic security, specifically combating increased illegal flights and drones trafficking weapons and narcotics into Trinidad and Tobago. However, PNM Tobago Council Political Leader Ancil Dennis has launched vehement opposition, demanding immediate removal of the equipment and accusing the government of deception.

    Adding complexity to the situation, an unnamed military source described the system to Newsday as a “battlefield operational radar” typically deployed near conflict zones. This characterization has fueled speculation about potential US preparations for regional military engagement, particularly regarding Venezuela. Sturge dismissed these claims as unfounded, noting the nearby USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier possesses superior tracking capabilities.

    Tourism industry representatives have expressed alarm, with Tobago Hotel and Tourism Association president Reginald MacLean reporting cancellations and warning the military presence makes the island a potential target. The situation continues developing with the PNM expected to address the matter formally in upcoming media briefings.