Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • San Fernando chamber seizes new opportunities for wealth creation

    San Fernando chamber seizes new opportunities for wealth creation

    The Greater San Fernando Area Chamber of Commerce has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative poised to reshape the economic landscape of southern Trinidad. The Southern Investment and Marketing Co-operative Credit Union Society (SIMCO-OP), set to launch early next year, aims to provide tailored financial solutions for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). This initiative is expected to unlock new opportunities for financing, wealth creation, and business growth in the region.

    Kiran Singh, president of the chamber, announced the initiative during the annual Christmas charity event, ‘Mix and Mistletoe,’ held on November 15 at Achievors Banquet Hall in La Romaine. Singh emphasized that SIMCO-OP will not only facilitate business development but also foster job creation and wealth generation. The cooperative plans to host pop-up markets and workshops to support entrepreneurs and the broader community.

    In addition to SIMCO-OP, the chamber is rolling out a comprehensive health plan for its 153 members and introducing a multi-faceted discount card to reduce operational costs. These efforts underscore the chamber’s commitment to enhancing its role in the national financial system and bolstering the economic resilience of its members.

    The chamber is also expanding its international presence, with members participating in global trade events such as the Consumer Electronics Show in the US, a pharmaceutical expo in India, and trade forums in China. A recent seminar on ‘doing business with India,’ hosted in collaboration with the Indian High Commissioner, further broadened international trade opportunities.

    Regionally, the chamber has forged ties with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce in Guyana, with a trade mission planned for the new year. Exploratory engagements with the Jamaican market are also on the horizon for 2026. These partnerships aim to provide southern businesses with access to shared information networks and new markets.

    The chamber is collaborating with the San Fernando City Corporation to upgrade public spaces like Harris Promenade and enhance security measures. Two televisions were donated to the TT Police Service for improved monitoring in downtown San Fernando, with local businesses contributing CCTV cameras.

    Singh highlighted the chamber’s efforts to restore San Fernando’s status as Trinidad and Tobago’s industrial capital. He encouraged members to explore opportunities in the global services sector, a trillion-dollar industry with significant potential for export diversification and foreign-exchange earnings.

    Neil Gosine, parliamentary secretary at the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism, commended the chamber for its dual focus on economic leadership and social responsibility. He outlined several government projects under the TT Revitalisation Blueprint, including a waterfront redevelopment in San Fernando, a new highway, and the transformation of a legacy hospital into a modern health city. These initiatives aim to create over 50,000 jobs and position Trinidad and Tobago as a global investment and tourism hub.

    Gosine also announced the upcoming launch of the Private Sector Organisation of TT (PSOTT) and a ‘Buy Local, Build Trinbago’ campaign to reduce import dependency and boost domestic production. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting private-sector growth as a cornerstone of national development.

  • High Court dismisses UNC activist’s claim against ex-Speaker

    High Court dismisses UNC activist’s claim against ex-Speaker

    In a definitive judgment reinforcing the separation of powers, the Trinidad and Tobago High Court has emphatically dismissed a judicial review claim brought by United National Congress (UNC) activist Ravi Balgobin Maharaj. The case centered on former House Speaker Bridgid Annisette-George’s refusal to incorporate Maharaj’s written rebuttal into the official parliamentary record following statements made about him during legislative proceedings.

    Justice Joan Charles, delivering her November 26 ruling, determined that the Speaker’s decision—made pursuant to Standing Order 18 of the House of Representatives’ Standing Orders—falls squarely within Parliament’s exclusive domain over its internal affairs. This jurisdiction, the court affirmed, enjoys constitutional protection from judicial interference.

    The court recognized that Trinidad and Tobago’s Constitution expressly incorporates all privileges and immunities of the United Kingdom parliament into its own House of Representatives. Justice Charles concurred with arguments presented by state attorneys that the Speaker’s determination did not constitute an infringement of Maharaj’s fundamental rights and remained shielded by parliamentary privilege.

    “The Speaker of the House of Representatives serves as the sole adjudicator regarding the interpretation and application of Standing Orders,” Justice Charles stated in her written decision. “Matters concerning the veracity or basis of members’ statements lie beyond the Speaker’s purview—and consequently outside judicial review.”

    The legal challenge emerged from Maharaj’s contention that remarks delivered in Parliament had damaged his reputation and that the Speaker’s refusal to allow his response violated his constitutional right to legal protection and natural justice. He sought declarations that the May 2024 decisions were unfair, irrational, and unconstitutional.

    However, the court emphasized that Standing Order 18—which permits non-members referenced in debate to submit written responses—explicitly prohibits the Speaker from evaluating the truthfulness of either the original statements or the rebuttal. This procedural mechanism, Justice Charles noted, exists primarily as an internal parliamentary accommodation rather than a legally enforceable right.

    Representing the state, Senior Counsel Douglas Mendes and Deborah Peake successfully argued that judicial examination of the Speaker’s motives would violate constitutional separation of powers. The court agreed, dismissing both the claim and leave application while directing parties to submit cost arguments within 30 days.

    The ruling reinforces the autonomy of parliamentary proceedings throughout Commonwealth jurisdictions and establishes significant precedent regarding the limits of judicial intervention in legislative affairs.

  • Winner takes all: ‘Naps,’ Signal Hill clash with SSFL title on the line

    Winner takes all: ‘Naps,’ Signal Hill clash with SSFL title on the line

    The 2025 Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) premier division season is set for a dramatic conclusion on November 27, with three teams in contention for the championship. Naparima College, Signal Hill Secondary, and St Benedict’s College are all in the race, with Naparima and Signal Hill tied at 34 points each. The decisive match will take place at Lewis Street in San Fernando, where Naparima and Signal Hill will face off in a winner-takes-all encounter. A draw could open the door for St Benedict’s, who need a victory in their simultaneous fixture against Trinity College East to claim the title. Signal Hill’s journey to the final has been marked by resilience, overcoming scheduling challenges and a late surge in form. Coach Downie Marcelle emphasized the significance of winning the title for Tobago, stating it would be a historic achievement for the school and the island. Naparima, seeking their fifth premier division title, are focused on maintaining their consistent performance. Both teams have shown remarkable form, with Naparima boasting a +33 goal difference and Signal Hill close behind at +32. The match promises to be a tightly contested affair, with both sides aiming to capitalize on their opponent’s mistakes. Meanwhile, at the bottom of the table, Scarborough Secondary and San Juan North will battle to avoid relegation. The SSFL season has been a testament to the competitive spirit of school football, with the final day set to deliver high-stakes drama.

  • Wintering in the Caribbean

    Wintering in the Caribbean

    As winter approaches, the boreal forests and tundra of the far north signal the start of a remarkable natural phenomenon: bird migration. In the southern Caribbean, this annual event brings a flurry of avian activity, with species like the spotted sandpiper and blackpoll warbler making their way to warmer climes. These birds, driven by ancient instincts, traverse vast distances, some covering the equivalent of a lunar journey over their lifetimes. The spotted sandpiper, for instance, arrives in Trinidad and Tobago in August, shedding its spotted plumage for a more subdued winter look, only to regain its vibrant appearance by April in preparation for its return north. The migration is not just a visual spectacle but also an auditory one, with warblers adding their melodic chirps to the Caribbean soundscape. However, this natural rhythm faces challenges from human activities and extreme weather events, which can disrupt migratory paths. Despite these obstacles, the resilience and adaptability of these birds underscore their role as true global citizens, offering lessons in sustainability and ecological balance.

  • 8 suspects held for sexual violence, related offences

    8 suspects held for sexual violence, related offences

    In a significant law enforcement operation targeting gender-based crimes, Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) has apprehended eight individuals suspected of sexual violence and related offenses. The specialized five-day initiative, conducted by the Special Victims Department (SVD), spanned all police divisions nationwide between November 20-25.

    The comprehensive anti-crime exercise resulted in arrests connected to 14 outstanding cases involving severe criminal charges. These included attempted murder, rape, sexual penetration, grievous sexual assault, kidnapping, and domestic violence-related crimes according to the official TTPS statement released on November 27.

    Deputy Commissioner of Police Natasha George led the strategic operation alongside Assistant Commissioner Richard Smith and Senior Superintendent Winston Maharaj. The coordinated effort featured Superintendent Darryl Ramdass as operational coordinator, with legal support provided by Woman Sergeant Sookram-Loutan. Divisional inspectors and sergeants ensured direct field supervision throughout the mission.

    This police action aligns with the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, observed annually from November 25 to December 10. The TTPS emphasized that the operation reflects their “sustained, department-wide commitment to addressing crimes that disproportionately affect women, girls, and vulnerable individuals.”

    Law enforcement authorities have urged public cooperation, encouraging citizens to report incidents of domestic violence, sexual assault, and exploitation through multiple channels. The Gender-Based Violence Unit hotline (999 or 555) and all police stations remain available for confidential reporting, with assurances of “swift intervention” for all cases.

    The TTPS confirmed that SVD operations will intensify throughout the 16-day activism period and beyond, reinforcing their mission to create safer communities and ensure justice for survivors. The police service called for national unity in “rejecting violence, supporting survivors, and fostering a culture of respect and accountability.”

  • Jangoo returns as Red Force face must-win Super50 clash

    Jangoo returns as Red Force face must-win Super50 clash

    The Trinidad and Tobago Red Force are set to face the Leeward Islands Hurricanes in a pivotal CG United Super50 Cup match on November 27 at Queen’s Park Oval, Port of Spain. With the Red Force currently second in the standings with 22 points, this encounter is crucial for their chances of advancing to the final on November 29. A victory would secure their place in the title match, where they would compete for the coveted championship. The Red Force’s position is precarious, as leaders Barbados Pride (27 points) and third-placed Windward Islands Volcanoes (17 points) remain within striking distance. Meanwhile, the Hurricanes, sitting fourth with eight points, are desperate for their first win after two losses and two rain-affected matches. The tournament has been marred by persistent rain, with seven of the past 12 matches ending in no results and one decided by the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method. TT head coach Rayad Emrit expressed frustration over the weather disruptions, emphasizing the team’s readiness and the importance of securing a win. The Red Force have bolstered their squad with the inclusion of wicketkeeper-batsman Amir Jangoo, who replaces the injured Kjorn Ottley. Jangoo, fresh from international duty with the West Indies, brings valuable experience to the team. Despite limited playtime in recent weeks, the Red Force remain optimistic, with Emrit praising the squad’s professionalism and mental preparedness. The Hurricanes, though resilient, face an uphill battle against a determined Red Force side. Elsewhere, Barbados Royals aim to maintain their top spot against Guyana Harpy Eagles, while Windward Islands Volcanoes seek a crucial win over Jamaica Scorpions.

  • Bryden pi supports animal welfare organisations

    Bryden pi supports animal welfare organisations

    In a heartwarming display of corporate compassion, Bryden pi, through its newly launched Pawfect Pets brand, has extended its support to local animal welfare organizations with a generous donation of $10,000 and a dedicated volunteer day. The initiative, which took place on November 21 at the Trinidad and Tobago Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (TTSPCA), underscores the company’s commitment to community and care.

    The donation, part of Bryden pi’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme, was distributed among several local animal welfare organizations. The TTSPCA received $5,000 to support ongoing shelter operations and animal rescue initiatives, while the Mustapha Project and Animals Alive TT each received $2,500 to aid in rescuing, fostering, rehoming, and providing veterinary care for animals in need.

    Sheena Alexander, TTSPCA supervisor, accepted the donation from Wendy Mahabir, division manager at Bryden pi, on behalf of Pawfect Pets. The event also saw Bryden pi team members actively participating in animal care, feeding, and maintenance activities at the TTSPCA, embodying the company’s belief that corporate responsibility begins with personal action.

    Nabila Lackhan, senior brand manager at Bryden pi, emphasized the company’s dedication to animal welfare. ‘Pawfect Pets was created to care for animals, and this initiative allows us to take that care one step further – by giving back to the organizations that dedicate their time and resources to animal welfare every day,’ she said. ‘Through donations and active volunteering, we are proud to help create a better, kinder community for all creatures, big and small.’

    The Pawfect Pets line, which includes Waterless Shampoo, Puppy Shampoo, Oatmeal Shampoo, and Whitening Shampoo, is designed with love and protection in mind, reinforcing Bryden pi’s message of empathy and responsible care. The company’s CSR philosophy, centered on ’empathy in action,’ continues to drive meaningful initiatives that align with its core values and connect with the community.

  • St Benedict’s mystery letters query registration of ‘Naps’ players

    St Benedict’s mystery letters query registration of ‘Naps’ players

    A dramatic eligibility dispute has erupted hours before the 2025 Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) premier division championship decider, casting a shadow over the highly anticipated title clash. Two mysterious letters, allegedly originating from St Benedict’s College acting principal Gregory Quan Kep, questioned the registration status of three Naparima College players through communications dated November 5 and November 26.

    The correspondence, disseminated to media outlets during late-night and early-morning hours on November 26-27, raised concerns about player eligibility mere hours before Naparima’s crucial match against Signal Hill Secondary. In one document, queries were raised about a Naparima player who participated in the November 3 encounter against Benedict’s, while the other letter highlighted registration matters involving two additional Naparima squad members.

    Multiple attempts to verify the letters’ authenticity proved unsuccessful, with Quan Kep remaining unresponsive to calls and WhatsApp messages. SSFL president Merere Gonzales and first vice-president were similarly unreachable. Adding to the mystery, Benedict’s manager Ravi Ramgoolam claimed no knowledge of the correspondence when contacted on November 27. SSFL assistant secretary of operations Gerald Elliot also stated he was unaware of any eligibility inquiries from the Benedict’s camp.

    The controversy emerges amid a tense championship scenario where league leaders Naparima and second-placed Signal Hill (both at 34 points) face off at Lewis Street, San Fernando. The victor will claim the premier division title, while third-placed Benedict’s (33 points) maintains mathematical possibility of securing the trophy should they defeat Trinity College East and the top-two teams draw their decisive match.

    This incident evokes memories of Benedict’s own eligibility controversy from the previous season, when the school was stripped of premier division honors after utilizing ineligible player Derrel “Zum Zum” Garcia in four matches. The infraction resulted in a devastating 12-point deduction, though Garcia still captured the 2024 Player of the Year award and guided his team to national intercol glory against eventual league champions Fatima College.

    As of publication time, Naparima officials confirmed they had received no formal communication from the SSFL regarding player protests or eligibility investigations involving their squad members.

  • $4.4m in Colombian ‘creepy’ ganja seized

    $4.4m in Colombian ‘creepy’ ganja seized

    In a significant crackdown on illegal drug trafficking, officers from the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) of the North Eastern Division successfully arrested one suspect and confiscated a substantial quantity of marijuana valued at over $4.4 million. The operation, conducted between 6 am and 11 am on Wednesday, was led by Senior Superintendent Edwards, Superintendent Etienne, and Assistant Superintendent Lynch, with crucial support from the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF). During the mission, law enforcement intercepted a vehicle traveling west along the Churchill Roosevelt Highway, near the Ibis Building opposite Courts. A thorough search of the vehicle revealed 40 packages of compressed Colombian ‘creepy’ marijuana, weighing a total of 20.74 kilograms. Inspector Ammon coordinated the ground operations, leading to the arrest of a male suspect. Investigations into the case are ongoing as authorities aim to dismantle the broader drug network involved.

  • Brightstar empowers Memisa Centre with learning technology

    Brightstar empowers Memisa Centre with learning technology

    Brightstar Lottery celebrated International Men’s Day on November 19 by making a transformative technology donation to The Memisa Centre, a residential facility in Arima, Trinidad and Tobago, dedicated to supporting adult men with intellectual disabilities. The donation, facilitated through Brightstar’s After School Advantage (ASA) programme, included digital projectors, Samsung tablets, and Smart TVs, aimed at enhancing the centre’s vocational training and life skills programmes. Brightstar employees also volunteered their time to install the equipment and engage with the trainees, fostering meaningful connections and encouragement. The Memisa Centre, which currently serves 15 trainees, focuses on areas such as food preparation, agriculture, beauty, and remedial education. Michelle Baptiste-Games, acting manager of the centre, emphasized the impact of the donation, stating that the new technology would bring lessons to life, promote interaction, and build confidence among the residents. Desmond Sydney, Brightstar’s retail manager, highlighted the company’s commitment to inclusion and community development, viewing International Men’s Day as an opportunity to serve as positive role models. This initiative marks another milestone in Brightstar’s ongoing partnership with The Memisa Centre, which began in 2016.