In a scathing critique, Barry Padarath, the Leader of Government Business, has lambasted the opposition People’s National Movement (PNM) for what he describes as a dereliction of their parliamentary responsibilities. The accusation came in a Facebook post following an unexpected halt to the budget debate on October 17, triggered by the absence of contributions from five PNM MPs. Padarath, who also serves as the Minister of Public Utilities and MP for Couva South, highlighted that after the seventh government speaker, Hansen Narinesingh, concluded his remarks, no PNM member stepped forward to continue the debate, despite having five members yet to speak. He pointed out that confusion reigned on the PNM bench, exacerbated by the absence of the Leader of the Opposition during this critical juncture. Padarath further criticized senior PNM members, including Colm Imbert, Marvin Gonzales, Simon De Nobriga, and Stuart Young, for their inaction when called upon to participate. He asserted that this incident underscores the PNM’s inability to effectively analyze and respond to the national budget, signaling a collapse under pressure. The government now anticipates the commencement of the Standing Finance Committee on October 21. Meanwhile, the PNM is scheduled to hold a news conference at Balisier House in Port of Spain on October 18 to address the controversy.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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Top teams look for separation in SSFL
The Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) premiership is reaching a pivotal stage as the top four teams gear up for their round 11 matches on October 18, each aiming to secure three crucial points in their quest for the 2025 title. League leaders Naparima College, boasting an unbeaten record with 24 points, face a challenging encounter against fifth-placed Queen’s Royal College (QRC) at QRC’s home ground. Naparima, fresh off a dominant 4-1 victory over reigning champions Fatima College, are determined to maintain their flawless run and continue their defensive prowess, having conceded only two goals this season. Meanwhile, QRC, with 16 points, has struggled recently, suffering back-to-back 2-1 defeats to Fatima and Trinity Moka, and will need to regroup to challenge the league leaders. Second-placed Fatima College (22 points) seeks to rebound from their mid-week loss as they host Signal Hill Secondary, while third-ranked Presentation College San Fernando (21 points) faces a tough test against St Anthony’s College. Fourth-placed St Benedict’s College (18 points) also has a challenging fixture against San Juan North, who are coming off a 4-0 victory. Other matches in round 11 include St Mary’s College versus Trinity Moka, St Augustine Secondary against Scarborough Secondary, and Malick’s clash with Arima North. With the standings tightly contested, every match could prove decisive in the race for the championship.
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US Embassy raises alert level over Divali weekend
The US Embassy in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, has issued a security alert for US nationals, urging them to avoid all US government facilities in the country during the holiday weekend. The advisory, posted on the embassy’s Facebook page on October 18, cited a heightened state of alert as the reason for the warning. The embassy emphasized the importance of vigilance, advising US citizens to remain aware of their surroundings and monitor reputable news outlets for updates. Additionally, the embassy reminded travelers to ensure they possess a valid US passport for any planned trips to the United States. US nationals were also encouraged to report any suspicious activities to local authorities and to sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive timely alerts and updates. This precautionary measure underscores the embassy’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of US citizens abroad.
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Windies Under-19 men to play seven Youth ODIs versus England
The West Indies men’s Under-19 cricket team is set to clash with their English counterparts in a high-stakes seven-match Youth One-Day International (ODI) series from November 16 to December 1 at the Grenada National Stadium in St George’s. This announcement, made by Cricket West Indies (CWI) on October 16, comes on the back of the Windies’ thrilling 4-3 series victory over Sri Lanka’s Under-19 team last month. The series is a pivotal part of the West Indies’ preparation for the International Cricket Council Men’s Under-19 World Cup, scheduled for January 2026. Originally planned for St Vincent and the Grenadines, the venue was shifted to Grenada due to scheduling conflicts with the National Sports Council. CWI director of cricket Miles Bascombe emphasized the importance of the series, stating that it aligns with the regional body’s strategy to expose young players to high-quality competition. ‘The recent win against Sri Lanka has already boosted the team’s confidence, and this series against England will further hone their skills and match awareness,’ Bascombe remarked. Both teams will arrive in Grenada on November 8, with three days of training and a warm-up match against a Grenada Under-25 select XI on November 12. All matches will commence at 9 am.
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Wade Mark appointed as acting president
In a significant political development, Senate President Wade Mark has been appointed as the acting head of State for the Republic, stepping in for President Christine Kangaloo during her absence abroad. The confirmation of this appointment was officially communicated via a text message from President’s House on October 18. The message stated, ‘Yes. He was sworn in and will serve as acting President while Her Excellency is out of the country.’ However, the duration of his acting presidency remains unspecified. Mark, who was previously sworn in as Senate President on May 23, now takes on this crucial interim role, ensuring the continuity of governance in the absence of the President.
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Eggless red velvet cake
Red velvet cake, with its striking color, delicate texture, and subtle cocoa flavor, has long been a favorite among dessert enthusiasts. This eggless version, shared by Naomi Anderson of Unicakery, offers a simpler yet equally indulgent alternative that’s perfect for home baking. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it as a personal treat, this cake is sure to impress. At Unicakery, a renowned baking studio in Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago, Anderson and her team teach this recipe and many others in their workshops, empowering bakers to create stunning and delicious cakes with confidence. The recipe, which serves as a half batch, includes accessible ingredients like all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, buttermilk (or almond milk), and red gel food coloring. The method is straightforward: mix dry and wet ingredients separately, combine gently, bake, and cool before frosting. Anderson also dispels a common myth about red velvet cake—it’s not merely chocolate cake dyed red. Its origins trace back to early 20th-century America, where its signature hue initially resulted from a chemical reaction between cocoa and acidic ingredients like buttermilk. Today, food coloring enhances its vibrant red appearance, making it a timeless dessert. Anderson, with over 12 years of pastry expertise, continues to inspire through her community-driven classes and creative desserts. For more, visit Unicakery’s social media or website.
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Relief is here
In a heartfelt letter to the editor, Barry S. Bissessar from Fyzabad expressed his gratitude for the recent reduction in gasoline prices, a move announced by the Finance Minister during the budget presentation. For the first time in nearly a decade, Bissessar noted a palpable sense of relief as he filled his vehicle with gasoline on October 16. Previously, a $100 investment would yield a mere 16.75 litres of super gasoline, but on this occasion, the same amount provided 20 litres, marking a significant improvement. This reduction of $1 per litre has brought much-needed comfort to daily commuters who have endured years of financial strain. Bissessar extended his thanks to Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, expressing confidence that the majority of the nation would join him in appreciating this timely relief.
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Tribute to Peter Tosh at Valhalla on October 18
Reggae enthusiasts are set to experience an unforgettable evening of roots, rhythm, and remembrance as SRP (Steppin Razor Promotions) hosts a tribute to the legendary Peter Tosh on October 18 at Valhalla, located at 113 Frederick Settlement, Old Southern Main Road. The event, running from 10 pm to 4 am, will feature a stellar lineup of performances and DJ sets dedicated to honoring the late reggae icon.
Headlining the event is Daniel Bless, who will deliver live renditions of Tosh’s classic anthems. He will be joined by renowned selectors Jah Blood, Royalty International, Solid Rock, Black Chariot, and 9 Miles International, ensuring a night filled with conscious music and Rastafari spirit. DJ Doctrine will kick off the evening with an early warm-up set, setting the stage for a celebration of Tosh’s enduring legacy.
Born Winston Hubert McIntosh in 1944, Peter Tosh was a founding member of The Wailers alongside Bob Marley and Bunny Wailer. Known for his militant advocacy for equal rights and social justice, Tosh’s music seamlessly blended fiery activism with profound spiritual conviction. After leaving The Wailers in the mid-1970s, he embarked on a solo career that produced iconic hits such as ‘Legalize It,’ ‘Equal Rights,’ ‘Get Up, Stand Up,’ ‘Johnny B. Goode,’ and ‘Maga Dog.’ His bold lyrics and revolutionary message continue to resonate with reggae fans across generations.
This tribute event not only celebrates Tosh’s musical genius but also honors his legacy as a fearless warrior for freedom, peace, and unity. His message, as sharp as a ‘Steppin’ Razor,’ remains relevant and impactful to this day.
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Penal man dies days after gas tank explosion
A 28-year-old laborer, Bevaughn Joseph, tragically passed away on October 17 after sustaining severe injuries from a liquid petroleum gas (LPG) tank explosion at his home in Penal. The incident occurred on October 13 when a 20-pound gas cylinder exploded in the kitchen of his ground-floor apartment. Joseph was rushed to the San Fernando General Hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery before succumbing to his injuries. A relative who heard the explosion found Joseph and his apartment engulfed in flames. Firefighters from the Mon Repos Fire Station responded promptly and extinguished the blaze. Investigations by WPC Benjamin of the Penal Police Station confirmed that the explosion was caused by the gas cylinder. This incident adds to a concerning surge in LPG-related accidents across Trinidad and Tobago this year, which have resulted in multiple injuries and at least three other fatalities. On October 16, Ramco Industries Ltd issued a statement expressing deep concern over the increasing number of such incidents, attributing them primarily to defective regulators and hoses. The company urged consumers to use only approved equipment, replace regulators every five years, and regularly inspect hoses for leaks or damage. Earlier this year, Ria George, 45, of Digity Trace in Penal, died nearly two months after being injured in a similar explosion. The National Petroleum Marketing Company has advised consumers to test new gas tanks for leaks using soapy water and report any defects immediately. Other victims include Raquel Babwah, 44, of Claxton Bay, and Naomi Aliyah Mya De Mille, 19, of Lopinot, who also lost their lives in LPG-related incidents.
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TECU Credit Union donates $13,000 to St Peter’s Private Primary School
In a significant act of community support, TECU Credit Union Cooperative Society Limited has donated $13,000 to St Peter’s Private Primary School in Pointe-a-Pierre. This contribution comes in the wake of a devastating fire on August 28 that destroyed the school’s administrative building, including critical infrastructure, equipment, and irreplaceable documents. The donation aims to facilitate the systematic rebuilding of the school’s administrative capabilities, ensuring the restoration of essential operations. The cheque was formally presented by TECU President Sandra Matthews-Noel to Principal Georgette Medford during a ceremony held on October 15. Matthews-Noel emphasized that the partnership extends beyond financial aid, focusing on fostering youth development and financial literacy. ‘Our collaboration is about creating a comprehensive ecosystem for the next generation,’ she stated. Interim Chairman of the St Peter’s Parents Association, Andre Lee Ha, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the partnership’s potential to create sustainable opportunities for students. Principal Medford expressed profound gratitude, noting that the donation marks the beginning of a long-term relationship between the institutions. Beyond immediate recovery efforts, TECU plans to introduce educational programs on financial literacy, cooperative principles, and youth development, including workshops and mentorship initiatives. With an 80-year legacy and over 57,000 members, TECU continues to champion community development, leveraging this partnership to empower future generations through education and financial awareness.