标签： Trinidad and Tobago

The Trinidad and Tobago Promoters Association (TTPA) has strongly criticized the government’s abrupt decision to ban all fetes and Carnival-related events at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy (BLCA) and other Udecott-controlled facilities. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s announcement, made on November 12, has been labeled as “destructive, short-sighted, and a death knell for the entertainment industry” by the TTPA. The association has called for an urgent meeting with the Prime Minister to reconsider the decision, but Persad-Bissessar has firmly stated that the ban will not be reversed. The decision, which took immediate effect, has left over 20 major Carnival events without a venue, with promoters already informed that their permissions have been revoked. The TTPA argues that this move, coupled with recent increases in alcohol prices, has had a catastrophic impact on the entertainment sector, forcing many businesses to consider closures, cancellations, and job cuts. Minister of Culture and Community Development Michelle Benjamin defended the decision, citing long-standing complaints from residents about noise pollution and emphasizing the government’s responsibility to ensure the well-being of all citizens. Meanwhile, San Fernando Mayor Robert Parris sees the ban as an opportunity to revitalize the city’s cultural and entertainment sector, with Skinner Park poised to become a new hub for major events.

Two pedestrian walkovers along the Churchill Roosevelt Highway have deteriorated significantly, with gaping holes now exposing the speeding traffic below. This alarming situation has raised concerns among daily commuters and pedestrians who rely on these structures. A Newsday team inspected the walkovers on November 12 after receiving reports from concerned citizens. The first damaged structure, located near Xtra Foods in San Juan, revealed a large hole in its concrete floor, allowing a clear view of the highway beneath. Just meters away, another walkover in the same direction toward Port of Spain showed similar deterioration, with exposed steel reinforcement rods visible through the broken concrete. Further along the highway, near Courts Megastore, another pedestrian overpass appeared to be in better condition, with no visible cracks or damage. Works and Infrastructure Minister Jearlean John confirmed via WhatsApp that the matter has been forwarded to the ministry’s Chief Technical Officer for review. A subsequent email from the ministry’s communications division stated that the structures had been previously inspected and were scheduled for repair under the current fiscal year. The ministry emphasized that the repair works would be handled mainly with internal resources and assured the public that the structures remain safe for use, despite the visible damage. However, pedestrians and commuters were urged to exercise caution until the repairs are completed. The ministry did not provide an estimated cost for the repair works or details on a broader maintenance initiative to address walkover safety nationwide by the time of reporting.

Former Minister of Tourism, Culture, and the Arts, Randall Mitchell, has voiced strong opposition to the Urban Development Corporation’s (Udecott) decision to prohibit fetes and cultural events at facilities under its management, including the Brian Lara Cricket Academy and Hasely Crawford Stadium. Mitchell emphasized that Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural expression should not be dismissed as mere ‘noise,’ a term he believes undermines the nation’s rich cultural heritage. He argued that the cultural economy, driven by creatives and event organizers, plays a vital role in the country’s economic and social fabric. While acknowledging the issue of noise pollution, Mitchell asserted that outright bans are not the solution. Instead, he called for a balanced approach, leveraging existing frameworks like the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) and noise pollution regulations to address concerns without stifling cultural activities. Mitchell highlighted the economic impact of events, which employ hundreds of individuals, from sound engineers to artists, and contribute significantly to tourism and creativity. He urged for stricter enforcement of decibel limits and event hours rather than blanket prohibitions. Mitchell also expressed hope that Prime Minister’s policies would support the cultural economy equitably, without favoring one demographic over another.

San Fernando Mayor Robert Parris has issued a strong appeal to citizens and charitable organizations to cease feeding the homeless on Harris Promenade, citing the situation as ‘out of control.’ The promenade, once a proud landmark, has become a gathering spot for an estimated 200 socially-displaced individuals, many of whom are reportedly fed up to eight times daily. Parris emphasized that while charity is commendable, the public feeding practice has led to significant sanitation and management issues, including litter, human waste, and other health hazards. He highlighted the impact on nearby schools, churches, courts, and the police station, urging well-meaning individuals to redirect their efforts to established centers for the homeless, such as King’s Wharf or Court Shamrock, where meals can be distributed more effectively. Parris also suggested supporting children’s homes, hospitals, and elderly care facilities as alternative charitable acts. The mayor’s plea follows a recent incident where a man was seen feeding the homeless but fled upon spotting municipal authorities, underscoring the violation of local bylaws prohibiting public feeding in the area. Parris lamented that these laws have been ignored, exacerbating the problem.