Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Catherine’s creative writing wins Commonwealth essay competiton silver award

    Catherine’s creative writing wins Commonwealth essay competiton silver award

    In a remarkable display of literary talent, 12-year-old Catherine Teemul from Trinidad and Tobago has achieved international recognition by securing second place in the prestigious Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2025. The St Joseph Convent student’s exceptional creative writing skills earned her a silver award among 53,434 entries from across the Commonwealth nations.

    Catherine’s journey to this achievement began unexpectedly when she discovered the competition through social media while attending Curepe Presbyterian Primary School. Driven by curiosity and her longstanding passion for storytelling, the then 11-year-old decided to enter on a whim. ‘I have loved reading since I was in standard three,’ Catherine recalled, highlighting her early connection to literature that paved the way for this accomplishment.

    Her award-winning essay, titled ‘Through the Pages,’ presents a captivating mythical narrative written in first person perspective. The story follows a young girl who discovers a mysterious leather-bound book with gold specks, leading her through a glowing doorway into another dimension. The protagonist finds herself trapped in her favorite book, pursued by a knife-wielding villain through a forest, before executing a thrilling escape back through the colorful portal.

    Catherine described being ‘overwhelmed with joy’ upon learning of her achievement. ‘It came as a surprise. I was overjoyed when I found out,’ she shared, expressing gratitude for her previous studies that contributed to this success.

    The competition, organized by the Royal Commonwealth Society in the United Kingdom, annually challenges young writers to engage with pressing global issues and Commonwealth values, fostering empathy and open-minded worldviews among youth participants.

    This literary achievement follows Catherine’s previous success in Trinidad’s Secondary Entrance Assessment (SEA) exams, where she also received recognition for creative writing at her graduation. Now attending her first-choice school, St Joseph Convent, Catherine follows in the footsteps of her eldest sister Chelsea-Marie while pursuing her artistic passions.

    The young writer credits her former teacher, Valine Sewlal-Hamid, for playing an instrumental role in nurturing her writing talent. Her parents, Arvind and Nadia Teemul, along with siblings Chelsea-Marie and Celine, expressed profound gratitude for the teacher’s encouragement and believe this prestigious award has given Catherine ‘the proverbial push’ to further believe in herself as she embarks on her secondary education journey.

    Despite her literary talents, Catherine reveals that Art is currently her favorite subject, with aspirations to become a fashion designer, combining her creative imagination with her eye for design that her mother describes as exceptional.

  • Mr CJ, build trust in judiciary

    Mr CJ, build trust in judiciary

    In a significant address to legal professionals, Chief Justice Ronnie Boodoosingh has outlined an ambitious reform agenda for Trinidad and Tobago’s judiciary, emphasizing three critical priorities: reactivating underutilized court facilities, enhancing judicial efficiency to ensure public value, and fostering collaborative leadership through consultation.

    The Chief Justice’s declaration comes against a backdrop of pervasive systemic challenges that have long plagued the justice system. Chronic trial delays have created what commentators describe as a ‘human-rights nightmare,’ with citizens enduring repeated postponements, jurors facing unnecessary inconveniences, and remanded inmates awaiting resolution of their cases indefinitely. These delays are compounded by institutional failures—including state agencies disregarding court orders and frequent absenteeism among police witnesses.

    Further complicating matters is the controversial process for appointing Senior Counsel, which has drawn criticism for being overly politicized and lacking transparency. This has, according to observers, tarnished the reputation of deserving recipients and undermined public trust in legal institutions.

    Historical context reveals that these issues are not new. Over the past three decades, multiple committees—including those chaired by Sir Ellis Clarke and Dennis Gurley—have proposed solutions to reduce case backlogs and improve court efficiency, yet implementation has consistently fallen short.

    Despite these challenges, Chief Justice Boodoosingh’s commitment to timelines for case hearings and determination has been met with public optimism. His reputation for integrity, humility, and judicial excellence positions him as a potential catalyst for meaningful change. However, achieving these reforms may require confronting deeply entrenched interests within the legal establishment.

  • Boyd shines but TT lose to Canada in Fiba 3×3 AmeriCup

    Boyd shines but TT lose to Canada in Fiba 3×3 AmeriCup

    In a thrilling display of 3×3 basketball prowess, Trinidad and Tobago’s national team delivered a spirited performance against Canada during their opening Group C match at the 2025 FIBA 3×3 AmeriCup in León, Mexico on November 28. Despite a spectacular individual effort from star guard Ahkeel “Smally” Boyd, the Caribbean squad ultimately succumbed to a 21-16 defeat against their North American opponents.

    The game commenced with Boyd establishing immediate dominance, single-handedly scoring Trinidad and Tobago’s first five points. The dynamic guard initiated the scoring with a crafty layup before stepping beyond the arc to sink a dramatic two-point shot, granting his team an early 3-0 advantage. However, Canada’s Jerome Derosiers shifted the momentum with a crucial jumper that propelled his team to a 5-4 lead—an advantage they would maintain throughout the remainder of the contest.

    Boyd’s exceptional performance culminated in a game-high ten points, including three impressive shots from deep range. His final long-distance conversion brought Trinidad and Tobago within striking distance at 18-16 with just over one minute remaining in the fast-paced ten-minute encounter. Despite this late surge, Canada’s experienced players demonstrated composure under pressure. Steve Sir connected on a critical jumper to extend the lead to 20-16, before Grant Audu sealed the victory with an uncontested layup following precise ball movement from Derosiers.

    Supplementary scoring for Trinidad and Tobago came from center Tyrik Singh with three points, while Boyd’s brother Ahkeem “Fato” Boyd contributed two points to the team’s total.

    The tournament journey began promisingly for the Trinidadian squad during the qualification phase, where they secured three consecutive victories. Their campaign commenced with a dominant 21-7 triumph over St Kitts and Nevis, followed by a hard-fought 21-18 win against Uruguay, and concluded with a default victory against Bahamas. The Boyd brothers were instrumental in these successes, combining for 17 points in the opener against St Kitts and 15 points in the crucial matchup against Uruguay.

    Following the Canada match, Trinidad and Tobago prepared to face Argentina later that evening. The tournament structure mandates that the top two teams from each of the four groups will advance to the quarterfinals scheduled for November 30, with the championship finale set for 8:55 PM that same evening.

  • Ameen: Boundaries should not split communities

    Ameen: Boundaries should not split communities

    In a significant address at Kent House in Maraval on November 28, Minister of Rural Development and Local Government Khadijah Ameen issued clear directives to eleven newly appointed boundary committee members. Emphasizing the critical importance of preserving community integrity, Minister Ameen stressed that municipal boundaries must adhere to natural divisions rather than artificially splitting villages and communities.

    The Minister highlighted substantial disparities in current electoral representation across different regions. Data reveals concerning imbalances where individual councillors represent populations ranging dramatically from 3,800 to over 15,700 citizens depending on their corporation. This variation, according to Ameen, creates fundamental inequities in governance and resource allocation that must be addressed through boundary reform.

    Demographic distribution emerged as another crucial factor in the boundary determination process. Minister Ameen noted that while some municipal areas contain merely 2-4% of the national population, others such as Tunapuna/Piarco account for significantly higher percentages at 17% and 14% respectively. Geographic size variations further complicate the landscape, with municipalities spanning from compact 12 square kilometer areas to expansive 927 square kilometer regions like Sangre Grande.

    The Minister articulated the direct connection between equitable boundary division and fair funding distribution, stating that proportional resource allocation remains impossible without geographic and demographic balance. While expressing confidence in the committee’s ability to fulfill its mandate, Ameen clarified the procedural framework: the committee’s recommendations will proceed to Cabinet, though ultimate authority rests with Parliament regarding municipal boundaries, while the Elections and Boundaries Commission maintains jurisdiction over electoral districts.

    Ameen encouraged committee members to utilize available demographic data and community consultations to inform their decisions, particularly emphasizing the need to create sub-regions based on development priorities where necessary. This approach aligns with the Prime Minister’s longstanding concerns regarding funding disparities resulting from inequitable boundary divisions.

  • Progressive policy on older vehicles

    Progressive policy on older vehicles

    In a significant policy shift, Trinidad and Tobago’s UNC government has implemented sweeping reforms to the nation’s vehicle import regulations, fundamentally altering access to classic, antique, vintage, and foreign-used automobiles. The transformative changes, announced during a November 20 post-Cabinet briefing by Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Eli Zakour, establish a formal classification system for historic vehicles while substantially relaxing age restrictions on imported cars.

    The newly approved regulatory framework introduces three distinct categories for heritage vehicles: ‘classic’ for cars 25 years or older, ‘antique’ for those exceeding 45 years, and ‘vintage’ for exceptional vehicles reaching 95 years of age. This classification system provides legal recognition and road-use authorization for historically significant automobiles that previously operated in a regulatory gray area.

    Concurrently, the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism has dramatically revised import rules for foreign-used vehicles. The permissible age for right-hand-drive private car imports has been extended from three years to under eight years, while light commercial vehicles may now be up to ten years old. These changes directly fulfill campaign promises made in the UNC’s 2025 manifesto to increase vehicle affordability and reverse what the administration characterized as overly restrictive policies under the previous PNM government.

    The economic implications of these reforms are substantial. Global market analyses indicate the classic car industry represents a $32-40 billion market worldwide, with the automotive restoration sector projected to reach nearly $8 billion by the early 2030s, growing at approximately 10% annually. The policy changes position Trinidad and Tobago to participate in this valuable economic ecosystem, potentially generating skilled employment in restoration crafts and heritage mechanics—fields that command significant wage premiums in developed markets.

    Beyond economic considerations, the reforms address practical mobility concerns for citizens by making reliable transportation more accessible. The previous three-year import restriction had priced many Trinidadians out of the vehicle market, particularly affecting middle-income families seeking quality transportation options. The expanded age allowances are expected to improve mobility without compromising vehicle safety or reliability.

    The government’s initiative also creates formal pathways for cultural preservation, enabling the establishment of restoration businesses, enthusiast clubs, and heritage events that celebrate automotive history. This structured approach aligns with international standards for historic vehicle conservation while generating tangible economic opportunities within the heritage sector.

    Transport Minister Zakour emphasized that the previous regulatory vacuum had constrained lawful use of historic vehicles and limited their economic potential. The new framework aims to unlock value both for automotive enthusiasts and ordinary citizens seeking affordable transportation solutions, representing what the administration describes as a balanced approach to regulatory modernization, economic stimulation, and cultural preservation.

  • Dominant Barbados win Super50 Cup final with Pride

    Dominant Barbados win Super50 Cup final with Pride

    In a commanding display of cricketing prowess, Barbados Pride secured the CG United Super50 Cup championship on November 29th, defeating Trinidad and Tobago Red Force by a convincing nine-wicket margin at Tarouba’s Brian Lara Cricket Academy. The final match unfolded as a low-scoring affair that highlighted Barbados’ strategic superiority both with ball and bat.

    TT Red Force, batting first after being put in, suffered a dramatic collapse that saw them dismissed for a modest 168 runs in 42.3 overs. Their innings never gained momentum despite opener Tion Webster’s promising start of 43 runs. The team’s veteran all-rounder Jason Mohammed, playing his final List A match, could only contribute 12 runs in what proved an anticlimactic farewell to his distinguished career spanning 140 one-day matches since 2007.

    Barbados’ bowling attack demonstrated exceptional discipline, with Joshua Bishop emerging as the standout performer claiming 4 wickets for 27 runs. Dominic Drakes provided crucial support with identical figures of 4 wickets for 34 runs, systematically dismantling TT’s batting lineup through consistent line and length bowling.

    The chase became a formality as Barbados openers Kyle Mayers and Leniko Boucher launched an aggressive assault on TT’s bowling. Boucher set the tempo with a brisk 50 runs off 51 deliveries before departing, while Mayers remained unbeaten on 89 runs from just 85 balls, showcasing powerful hitting that included multiple boundaries and sixes. Zachary McCaskie provided steady support with 19 not out as Barbados reached their target of 169 runs in merely 29.3 overs.

    This victory marks Barbados Pride’s first Super50 Cup triumph since 2017, denying TT Red Force captain Joshua Da Silva his first senior title and coach Rayad Emrit his maiden coaching crown. The comprehensive nature of Barbados’ win underscored their tournament dominance and served as a fitting tribute to their strategic preparation and execution throughout the competition.

  • NPATT proud of you young parranderos

    NPATT proud of you young parranderos

    The National Parang Association of Trinidad and Tobago (NPATT) has issued a powerful statement of support for young parang performers following what appears to be public criticism targeting student participants. In a letter published by Newsday, NPATT’s youth officer Joseph Bertrand articulated the organization’s unwavering commitment to youth engagement in this traditional art form.

    NPATT emphasized the vital importance of their Junior Parang Festival initiatives, which include both the National Primary and Secondary Schools Parang Competitions and the recently introduced Tribute to the Icons presentations. These programs are specifically designed to preserve and transmit the complete cultural package of parang—encompassing its musical traditions, linguistic heritage, and underlying values—to younger generations through deliberate and respectful methodology.

    The association expressed concern about commentary that minimizes student efforts or undermines the substantial work undertaken by educational institutions, instructors, mentors, families, and established parang figures. NPATT contends such negative observations conflict with the fundamental principles of community, perseverance, and cultural dignity that parang embodies.

    Addressing young paranderos directly, the organization encouraged continued dedication to their craft, invoking the traditional Spanish phrase ‘con alma y corazón’ (with soul and heart). NPATT positioned these young performers as crucial connectors between the foundational icons who established the tradition and future generations who will inherit it.

    The association pledged ongoing support for youth development within the parang community, vowing to safeguard the art form’s authenticity while fostering an environment where parang can flourish through unity, mutual respect, and joyful expression.

  • If you can’t govern them, silence them

    If you can’t govern them, silence them

    A controversial attempt by Trinidad and Tobago’s Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander to petition the US Embassy for revoking visas of American-based critics has ignited profound concerns about democratic erosion in the Caribbean nation. The move, revealed through official ministry correspondence, suggests an alarming trend toward authoritarian tactics reminiscent of Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro regime.

    The minister’s justification centers on claims that YouTube commentators and dual nationals are destabilizing the country—a narrative that critics argue externalizes governmental failures rather than addressing legitimate governance shortcomings. This approach mirrors the playbook of authoritarian leaders who silence dissent rather than engage with substantive criticism.

    Political analysts note the extraordinary nature of a sitting minister seeking foreign intervention to police Trinidadian speech abroad, effectively acknowledging the weakness of domestic democratic institutions. The situation represents a dangerous precedent where sovereignty is weaponized against citizens rather than protecting their fundamental rights.

    All eyes now turn to Prime Minister Keith Rowley, whose response—or lack thereof—will signal whether this represents isolated ministerial overreach or official state policy. The silence from the administration’s highest office risks validating what many fear constitutes a systematic dismantling of democratic norms through increasingly authoritarian measures.

    The developing situation reflects broader regional patterns where democratic facades crumble under the weight of leadership that prioritizes narrative control over transparent governance and accountability.

  • Eve proud of Naps’ title: I came to make a statement

    Eve proud of Naps’ title: I came to make a statement

    In a thrilling conclusion to the Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) premiership division season, Naparima College captured their sixth league title under the current format with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Signal Hill Secondary on November 27th. The championship marks a triumphant return for head coach Angus Eve, who previously guided the southern school to back-to-back titles in 2014 and 2015 before his stint with Trinidad and Tobago’s national teams.

    The title race came down to the final matchday with three teams separated by just three points. Naparima’s victory at Lewis Street in San Fernando propelled them to 37 points, narrowly edging out southern rivals St Benedict’s College (36 points) and Signal Hill Secondary (34 points). The Tobago-based Signal Hill squad saw their championship hopes dashed despite a late consolation goal from Raevion Marshall via an 83rd-minute penalty.

    Eve, who concurrently coaches TT Premier Football League side Club Sando, acknowledged the challenges of returning to school football after his time with national teams. ‘There were a lot of adjustments for me,’ Eve told reporters amid the celebrations. ‘I thought there were a lot of good teams in the league. There are a lot of well-organized teams and you saw that with four teams fighting for the title up to the last day.’

    The veteran coach implemented a strategic shift in his approach this season, emphasizing both defensive solidity and attacking freedom. Naparima conceded just eight goals in 15 matches while scoring 42—the fourth-highest total in the division. ‘We want to play efficient football,’ Eve explained. ‘We allowed the players in the front part of the pitch to express themselves and have the freedom to play within the structure of the team.’

    Eve paid tribute to previous Naparima coaches Reynold Carrington, Travis Mulraine, and Anthony Sherwood while emphasizing the importance of understanding the school’s football culture. ‘Sometimes, if you don’t know the culture of the place, you may not perform to the optimum in the environment,’ he noted.

    The championship victory demonstrates Eve’s continued coaching prowess as he balances multiple roles while maintaining his reputation for developing organized, difficult-to-beat squads capable of delivering results when it matters most.

  • Comrade Ralph falls

    Comrade Ralph falls

    The Caribbean political landscape has undergone a seismic shift with the decisive electoral outcome in St Vincent and the Grenadines. On November 27, voters delivered a stunning rebuke to incumbent Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves and his United Labour Party (ULP), ending their 23-year governance with a resounding 14-1 parliamentary victory for opposition leader Godwin Friday’s New Democratic Party (NDP).

    This electoral result marks the most conclusive victory in the nation’s history since 1989, when the NDP previously secured all parliamentary seats under James Mitchell’s leadership. For Dr. Friday, aged 66, this triumph represents the culmination of a methodical political ascent. Conversely, for the 79-year-old Dr. Gonsalves, the defeat signals the conclusion of an extraordinary political era that began in 2001.

    While regional leaders including Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar celebrated the outcome as a “resounding democratic mandate,” constituency-level results reveal a nation characterized by deep political divisions. Despite his party’s overwhelming defeat, Dr. Gonsalves retained his own seat with 2,577 votes against 996 for his opponent. The ULP secured 27,148 total votes compared to the NDP’s 37,002, with overall voter participation declining to 62% from 67% in the previous election.

    The incoming administration campaigned on ambitious promises including economic revitalization, job creation with improved wages, addressing escalating crime rates, and enhancing national infrastructure. Potentially most significant internationally is the NDP’s historical commitment to sever diplomatic relations with Taiwan in favor of establishing ties with China—a geopolitical maneuver that would reduce Taiwan’s diplomatic partners to merely 12 nations worldwide.

    Dr. Gonsalves leaves behind substantial shoes to fill within CARICOM frameworks, where he served as a prominent advocate for climate justice, slavery reparations, and regional mediation efforts—most notably contributing to the Argyle Decree. His departure, combined with potential foreign policy recalibrations in Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, and now St Vincent, may signal broader geopolitical realignments within the Caribbean bloc, all while the United States under the Trump administration maintains its assertive stance toward Cuba and Venezuela.

    The veteran leader’s legacy includes steering the nation through multiple crises including the global financial downturn, COVID-19 pandemic, La Soufrière volcanic eruption, and Hurricane Beryl. He also presided over the development of the country’s inaugural international airport. However, his implementation of vaccine mandates eroded support among certain constituencies, and many voters ultimately believed his time in leadership had naturally concluded. Dr. Gonsalves’ anticipated role as opposition leader now presents an intriguing dynamic for the nation’s political future.