In a recent session of the House of Representatives on November 21, Defence Minister Wayne Sturge declined to respond to a query regarding the alleged presence of US military forces in Trinidad and Tobago (TT). The question, posed by Arouca/Lopinot MP Marvin Gonzales, sought clarification on whether the TT government had authorized US military operations, including warships in the Gulf of Paria and aircraft in TT airspace, based on videos, satellite imagery, and media reports. Minister Sturge invoked public interest immunity, stating that he would not disclose any information unless convinced that doing so would serve the public interest. He referenced Standing Order 27(1)(g), which permits ministers to withhold information if its release is deemed contrary to national interest. This development has sparked debates over transparency and sovereignty, as the public remains uninformed about the extent of US military activities in TT territory.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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Air Supply to bring A Gift of Love to Trinidad and Tobago
The iconic Australian-British soft-rock duo, Air Supply, is set to bring their 50th Anniversary Tour to Trinidad and Tobago on May 2, 2026, at the Queen’s Park Oval. Known for timeless hits like ‘Lost in Love’ and ‘The One That You Love,’ the band’s performance promises to be a nostalgic journey through five decades of music. Produced by Gemini Production and One Fete Inc., the event aims to fill a gap in the local entertainment scene by offering a family-friendly concert that spans generations. Derek Ragoonath, founder and CEO of the production companies, emphasized the universal appeal of Air Supply’s music, which continues to resonate with themes of love and heartbreak. The tour, which began in 2025, has already visited 11 countries, including the US, Canada, and Malaysia. The Trinidad and Tobago stop is particularly significant as it marks the band’s fifth visit to the region, symbolizing a ’50th and fifth’ milestone. Fans can expect a full-scale production featuring premium sound systems, elaborate décor, and surprise guest performers. Ragoonath also highlighted the event’s potential to boost tourism, with visitors expected from across the Caribbean and South America. Early bird ticket sales have already shown high demand, with VIP cabanas selling out months in advance. For more details, visit www.geminiproduction.com.
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Farley: No date for Tobago election, yet
As anticipation builds for the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) election, Chief Secretary Farley Augustine has yet to announce the specific date, though he confirmed it will occur sooner than expected. Speaking to reporters on November 20 at the Parliament building in Port of Spain during a UNICEF event, Augustine emphasized that the election must be held between January 12 and February 12, as mandated by Act 40 of 1996. Augustine, who leads the Tobago People’s Party (TPP), expressed confidence in his party’s prospects, citing significant achievements during his administration’s four-year tenure. These include substantial investments in school repairs, gratuities, and insurance, as well as efforts to stabilize the island’s economy. The TPP, formed in August 2023 after a split from the Progressive Democratic Patriots (PDP), will face competition from the PDP, the People’s National Movement (PNM), and other smaller parties and independent candidates. Deputy Chief Secretary Dr. Faith Brebnor praised the TPP’s resilience and leadership, rating their performance as a nine out of ten despite numerous challenges. Augustine’s administration aims to surpass its previous accomplishments, reinforcing its commitment to Tobago’s development.
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CPO tells PSA head: Trinidad and Tobago’s economy is not stagnant
Chief Personnel Officer (CPO) Commander Dr. Daryl Dindial has reaffirmed that the planned meeting with the Public Services Association (PSA) on November 21 will proceed as scheduled. The meeting aims to discuss a proposed ten per cent wage increase for public servants, a key campaign promise by the United National Congress (UNC) during the April 28 general election. Dindial dismissed claims by PSA president Felisha Thomas regarding hidden agendas and stalled negotiations, emphasizing that the economy is dynamic and requires a comprehensive understanding for effective wage discussions. He noted that the Ministry of Finance will present the current economic state to provide context for the negotiations. Thomas, however, has insisted that the PSA is solely interested in receiving the ten per cent wage offer and is not concerned with economic presentations. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo has clarified that the CPO is the constitutionally mandated authority for such negotiations and expects discussions to proceed professionally. The proposed wage increase covers the 2014–2016 and 2017–2019 collective bargaining periods, with Thomas optimistic about concluding negotiations by Christmas.
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Give cops their due rank
The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) is grappling with a deepening crisis as unresolved promotion disputes continue to undermine morale and efficiency. Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro recently shed light on the severe impact of these delays, emphasizing the loss of experienced officers due to mandatory retirements and the squandering of millions invested in succession planning. The issue, which predates Guevarro’s tenure, has reached a critical juncture, with legal battles further complicating the situation. On November 18, the Court of Appeal reserved its ruling in a lawsuit filed by 30 second-division officers, while a separate case involving 169 first-division officers remains adjourned. The promotion process, governed by a labyrinth of constitutional provisions, regulations, and departmental orders, is described as convoluted and often misunderstood even by senior officials. This has led to frequent rule violations, accusations of cronyism, and widespread demoralization within the force. With over 2,357 officers awaiting promotion and backlogs stretching for years, the system is in dire need of legislative reform. Commissioner Guevarro has called for urgent intervention to overhaul the process, ensuring fairness and efficiency in recognizing merit and service.
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Gary Aboud claims US visa cancelled over criticism of missile strikes
Gary Aboud, the corporate secretary of Fishermen & Friends of the Sea (FFOS), has alleged that his US visa was revoked due to his vocal criticism of the United States’ missile strikes in the Caribbean over the past two and a half months. The strikes, part of the US war on drug traffickers in the Southern Caribbean and Pacific, have reportedly killed over 80 people, including two Trinidadians, Chad Joseph and Rishi Samaroo. Since September 2, the US has launched more than 20 lethal missile strikes targeting alleged drug trafficking vessels, including a submarine, though no evidence of narcotics has been publicly provided. Two bodies suspected to be victims of these strikes washed ashore on Trinidad and Tobago’s north-eastern coast in September. Aboud received notification of his visa revocation via email on November 20, citing ‘new information’ obtained by US authorities. In a media release titled ‘Silencing Civil Society,’ Aboud expressed concern over the intimidation of NGOs, emphasizing their role in promoting equity, justice, and sustainable development. He criticized the US strikes on Venezuelan vessels, which have been condemned by international bodies like the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and Human Rights Watch as ‘unacceptable’ and ‘extra-judicial killings.’ Aboud also questioned the support of Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, for the strikes, urging the US to present its intelligence in court rather than resorting to deadly force in international waters.
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Quarry boss Danny Guerra, son detained under SoE
Prominent quarry operator and real estate businessman Danny Guerra, along with his son, was detained on November 20 under the state of emergency’s preventative-detention provisions. The arrest, linked to serious allegations involving national security, was confirmed by Assistant Commissioner of Police Richard Smith. Guerra, who was previously out on bail for alleged illegal quarry operations in Guanapo, was taken to the Eastern Correctional Rehabilitation Centre by the Special Investigations Unit (SIU). Smith stated that Guerra would likely remain in custody for the full 90 days permitted under the state of emergency while investigations continue. The detention order was issued by Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander, though specific details of the allegations were not disclosed. A source close to Guerra, however, claimed the detention lacked factual basis and was tied to previous quarry-related charges. The source also revealed that Guerra had made significant political donations during the April 28 election campaign, though the recipient party was not specified. Guerra’s health condition remains unknown following his hospitalization in October for complications arising from his initial arrest. The Guerra family’s legal troubles began on October 9 when Danny Guerra, his son Garvin Guerra, and 16 others were arrested during a police operation that shut down an alleged illegal quarry in Guanapo, seizing millions of dollars worth of equipment.
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New TT hockey board executive appointed
The Trinidad and Tobago Hockey Board (TTHB) has ushered in a new leadership era following its 28th annual council meeting held at the National Racquet Centre in Tacarigua on November 17, 2025. The elections marked a significant transition as the board appointed its executive for the 2025–2027 term. Cindy Martin-Faustin of Paragon Hockey Club was unanimously elected as president, leaving her previous role as an elected member vacant. This position was subsequently filled by Natakii Bua, who was also elected unopposed. The election saw five key positions contested, including president, second vice-president, third vice-president, honorary treasurer, and assistant secretary. Rob Wyatt of Prosport secured the second vice-president role without opposition, while Akil Nancoo of Notre Dame Hockey Club triumphed in the only contested race for third vice-president. Riger Gomes of QPCC and Teresa Lezama of Malvern Sports Club were elected unopposed as honorary treasurer and assistant secretary, respectively. The meeting, which commenced at 6:54 p.m., also addressed the transition of several officer positions whose terms concluded in 2025. The newly elected executive will serve until 2027, with some roles continuing from their 2024–2026 terms. The TTHB’s leadership now includes Cindy Martin-Faustin as president, Garth Baptiste as first vice-president, Rob Wyatt as second vice-president, Akil Nancoo as third vice-president, Riger Gomes as honorary treasurer, Anthony Marcano as assistant treasurer, Reyah Richardson as honorary secretary, Teresa Lezama as assistant secretary, Ayanna McClean as an elected member, and Natakii Bua as an elected member.
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![[UPDATED] Tancoo calls on banks to absorb asset levy](https://wp.caribscopeonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/cbc142252942151397f4d08a389235f7.jpg)
[UPDATED] Tancoo calls on banks to absorb asset levy
Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo has reassured the public that the newly introduced 0.25% asset levy on commercial banks and insurance companies, effective January 1, 2026, will not adversely affect customers. Speaking at the ICATT conference held at the Hyatt Regency in Port of Spain, Tancoo emphasized that the Central Bank would be tasked with ensuring that these institutions absorb the levy without passing additional costs onto consumers. The levy is expected to generate significant revenue, with commercial banks and insurance companies holding combined assets of over $230 billion, yielding an estimated $5 billion and $75 million annually, respectively. Tancoo highlighted the importance of financial responsibility and equity, urging the Central Bank to maintain strict oversight. Despite concerns from critics about potential cost transfers to customers, Tancoo expressed confidence in the public’s digital awareness and ability to seek better financial options if necessary. Additionally, the government is focusing on enhancing the efficiency of the Board of Inland Revenue (BIR) and Customs and Excise to address tax evasion and reduce the budget deficit, which currently stands at 2.17% of GDP. Tancoo also mentioned ongoing efforts to modernize the BIR, aiming to improve accountability and revenue collection to support national development.
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Moonilal upbeat about gas supply as bpTT completes Cypre project
The successful completion of bpTT’s Cypre seven-well drilling program has garnered praise from both current and former Energy Ministers, underscoring its pivotal role in Trinidad and Tobago’s energy landscape. Energy Minister Dr. Roodal Moonilal lauded the project’s early delivery, noting that Phase 2’s three wells were operational ahead of their 2026 schedule. The Cypre subsea development, tied to bpTT’s Juniper platform, is expected to produce 45,000 barrels of oil equivalent daily at peak capacity, significantly bolstering the nation’s natural gas supply. Moonilal attributed the project’s success to policies enacted by the People’s Partnership government in 2014, including exploration incentives that spurred investments like the Macadamia-1 well in 2017. Former Energy Minister Stuart R Young also commended bpTT, emphasizing the project’s role in mitigating natural gas decline. Despite concerns raised by former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley about declining gas production, the Cypre project represents a critical step toward securing Trinidad and Tobago’s energy future. Located 78 kilometers off the southeast coast, the Cypre gas field is wholly owned by bpTT, a joint venture of bp and Repsol.