In response to severe weather conditions that caused widespread flooding and damage in Chaguanas, Couva/Tabaquite/Talparo, and Tunapuna/Piarco, the Ministry of the People, Social Development and Family Services has disbursed $310,000 in disaster relief grants. The grants were distributed on November 8 at the Cunupia Government Primary School, benefiting 45 recipients representing 121 households. The financial aid, part of the National Social Development Programme, aims to assist families in replacing damaged furniture, appliances, and clothing. Specifically, $283,000 was allocated for household items, while $27,000 was designated for clothing. Vandana Mohit, Minister of the People, Social Development and Family Services, highlighted the government’s unwavering support during the event, stating, ‘Every cheque, every grant, every visit is an act of love. It is the Government saying to its people, you matter, you are not forgotten, and we will stand with you until you can stand again.’ The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to providing responsive, people-centered assistance to communities across Trinidad and Tobago, ensuring that aid reaches those most in need.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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More first-class cricket necessary
The West Indies cricket team’s recent performance in the T20 series against New Zealand has brought to light significant challenges in their batting strategy. Despite moments of brilliance, such as Romario Shepherd’s commendable bowling efforts, the team’s inability to build a solid foundation has been a recurring issue. Shepherd, reflecting on the second T20 match, acknowledged the need for better planning and execution in setting up the innings. He emphasized the importance of being alert on every ball, given the small boundaries and high-scoring nature of modern T20 cricket. However, the third game saw the West Indies fall short by nine runs, with New Zealand taking a 2-1 lead in the series. This loss underscored the team’s over-reliance on the lower order to post competitive totals. The root of this problem lies in the lack of first-class cricket and two-inning matches in the West Indies, which are crucial for developing batsmen capable of excelling in all formats. The financial responsibility for organizing such tournaments falls on Cricket West Indies (CWI), highlighting the need for structural reforms to nurture future talent.
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Windies to play Afghanistan in three T20s before T20 World Cup
In a strategic move to prepare for the 2026 International Cricket Council (ICC) Men’s T20 World Cup, the West Indies cricket team is set to face Afghanistan in a three-match T20 series. The matches will take place at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in the UAE from January 19 to 22, 2026. This series, announced by Cricket West Indies (CWI) on November 10, aims to provide both teams with crucial game time as they refine their strategies and combinations for the upcoming global event. The West Indies, currently ranked sixth in the ICC T20 rankings, are under the guidance of coach Daren Sammy, while Afghanistan holds the tenth position. The West Indies are currently engaged in a five-match T20 series against New Zealand, trailing 2-1 after four matches. The final match is scheduled for November 12. CWI director of cricket Miles Bascombe emphasized the importance of playing in Sharjah, stating that it would help the team adapt to conditions similar to those expected in India and Sri Lanka, the hosts of the 2026 World Cup. Bascombe highlighted the series as an ideal platform for preparation, allowing players to build confidence and sharpen their approach. Similarly, Afghanistan Cricket Board CEO Naseeb Khan expressed optimism about the series, noting that it offers a valuable opportunity for his team to finalize their lineup and enhance their readiness for the World Cup. Afghanistan recently secured a 3-0 victory against Zimbabwe in their latest T20 series but faced a 3-0 defeat against Bangladesh earlier. The upcoming series marks another chapter in the competitive history between the two teams, who were grouped together in the 2024 T20 World Cup. The West Indies dominated that encounter with four consecutive wins, including a decisive 104-run victory over Afghanistan. However, while the West Indies were eliminated in the Super Eight stage, Afghanistan advanced to the semifinals before being defeated by South Africa.
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Diabetes and foot care
As World Diabetes Day 2025 approaches, the theme ‘Diabetes and Well-being’ underscores the importance of holistic health management for individuals living with diabetes. Among the critical yet often neglected aspects of diabetes care is foot health. For diabetics, foot care is not merely a cosmetic concern but a vital component of overall well-being. Poor circulation and nerve damage, common in diabetes, heighten the risk of foot ulcers, infections, and even amputations if left unchecked. Regular foot examinations, daily inspections, and wearing appropriate footwear are essential preventive measures. Moisturising the skin is equally important, as dry skin caused by nerve damage can lead to cracks, creating entry points for infections. Using diabetic-specific moisturisers can help maintain skin hydration and reduce complications. For those seeking to indulge in pedicures, diabetic-friendly spas offer specialised care, ensuring procedures are conducted with utmost safety and precision. Communication with spa staff about medical conditions and specific needs is crucial. Beyond foot care, diabetics must also prioritise sun protection. High blood sugar levels can impair collagen production, making the skin more vulnerable to damage. Applying high-SPF sunscreen and wearing protective clothing can mitigate risks of sunburn and skin cancer. Daily moisturising, staying hydrated, and avoiding harsh chemicals are additional steps to maintain skin health. Regular skin checks for abnormalities are vital for early detection of potential issues. As we commemorate World Diabetes Day 2025, let us remember that proactive care of feet and skin can significantly enhance quality of life and prevent serious complications. Your well-being is in your hands—prioritise your health daily. Delicia Burris, owner of Glorious Touch Health and Wellness Spa, emphasises these practices for a healthier future.
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Six Trinidad and Tobago athletes receive Olympic scholarships
The Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee (TTOC) has announced the awarding of Olympic scholarships to six national athletes as they gear up for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. These scholarships, funded by the International Olympic Committee through its Olympic Solidarity program, aim to support athletes with high potential to qualify and compete at the highest level. Among the recipients are five seasoned Olympians—cyclists Nicholas Paul and Teneil Campbell, track athletes Jereem Richards and Leah Bertrand, and swimmer Dylan Carter—all of whom have represented Trinidad and Tobago in previous Olympic Games. Notably, two of these athletes are first-time beneficiaries of the Olympic Solidarity Scholarship. The sixth recipient is emerging cycling star Makaira Wallace, who is transitioning from junior to senior competition. Established in 1992, the Olympic Solidarity program provides financial assistance for world-class coaching, competition exposure, elite training environments, travel to qualification events, and access to medical and sport science services. TTOC president Diane Henderson emphasized the committee’s commitment to supporting athletes holistically, both on and off the field, to ensure they excel at the highest levels. Leah Bertrand, a first-time scholarship recipient, expressed her gratitude, highlighting the financial and motivational benefits of the award. Over the years, the program has supported numerous Trinidad and Tobago athletes who have gone on to achieve global success. The TTOC congratulated all six recipients and wished them continued success on their journey to the 2028 Olympics.
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Trinidad and Tobago’s Kobi Henry: We must set tone vs Reggae Boyz
Trinidad and Tobago’s central defender Kobi Henry has called on his teammates to adopt an aggressive approach from the outset in their upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifier against Jamaica. The crucial match is scheduled for November 13 at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo. Henry emphasized the importance of setting the tone early rather than waiting to fall behind, a pattern that has plagued TT in previous games. With TT needing two consecutive victories against Jamaica and Bermuda to keep their World Cup hopes alive, the stakes are incredibly high. Currently, TT sits third in Concacaf Group B with five points, trailing Jamaica (nine points) and Curacao (eight points). Only the group winner secures direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, while the runner-up enters the intercontinental playoffs. Head coach Dwight Yorke announced a 26-man squad on November 10, including newcomer Roald Mitchell, a striker who has impressed in the US league. Henry highlighted the significance of home support, urging fans to rally behind the team. Despite the absence of injured regular starter Rio Cardines, utility player Noah Powder expressed confidence in the squad’s depth and determination. The team remains optimistic, with Henry noting high morale and a collective focus on seizing this historic opportunity.
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Frightening fire failures
The tragic death of a government minister and her two children in a fire nearly a year ago remains shrouded in unanswered questions, exposing glaring deficiencies in the nation’s emergency response system. This issue was further underscored by the recent fire station debacle in Sangre Grande on November 7. While a neighbor’s quick actions prevented loss of life in a mini-mart blaze at Vega de Oropouche, the incident left 15 people homeless, including seven children, and destroyed significant property. The delayed and inadequate response from the Ojoe Road fire station, which was found shuttered and understaffed, highlights systemic failures. Reports indicate that the station’s sole fire truck was under maintenance, forcing reliance on distant resources from the Arima Fire Station, itself criticized following a 2024 tragedy. The Sangre Grande station serves a vast and growing area, including Valencia, Toco, Matelot, Manzanilla, and Mayaro, straining its limited resources. Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander has acknowledged the system as ‘a mess,’ with millions in grant funding and international resources potentially on the horizon. However, immediate action is crucial. Authorities must rethink the division of emergency services, enforce stricter building codes, and invest in long-term improvements to prevent future disasters. The recent near-miss serves as a stark reminder of the high cost of inaction.
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Workplace wellness and diabetes: Turning awareness into action
As the world observes World Diabetes Day on November 14, this year’s theme, ‘Diabetes and Well-being,’ with a focus on the workplace, resonates deeply in Trinidad and Tobago. With diabetes affecting 12-15% of adults, the workplace has become a critical arena for prevention and health management. Most adults spend the majority of their day at work—sitting, snacking, and stressing—often with limited opportunities for movement or mindful eating. This sedentary lifestyle exacerbates health risks, making workplaces pivotal in shaping healthier habits. Fitness and nutrition coach Abeni Procope emphasizes that employers play a vital role in fostering wellness. Healthier employees are more productive, take fewer sick days, and exhibit higher morale. Simple, cost-effective measures can make a significant impact. These include hosting on-site health screenings, encouraging movement through stretch breaks or walking meetings, promoting healthier food options, and creating a supportive environment for employees managing diabetes. Procope advocates for consistent, small changes, such as wellness talks or balanced meal ideas, to build a culture of health. Diabetes prevention is rooted in daily habits like movement, balanced nutrition, hydration, and stress management. By partnering with wellness professionals, workplaces can create a ripple effect, leading to healthier families and a stronger nation. This World Diabetes Day, Procope urges businesses to take actionable steps, from hosting health talks to sharing wellness information. Awareness is crucial, but action is transformative. Abeni Procope, a certified fitness trainer and nutrition coach, specializes in holistic wellness and empowers individuals and organizations to lead healthier lives. For more information, visit www.abenipro.com.
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Steel Workers Union appeals Industrial Court’s Desalcott covid19 ruling
The Steel Workers Union (SWU) has escalated its legal battle against the Desalination Company (Desalcott) by appealing the Industrial Court’s dismissal of their complaint regarding actions taken during the COVID-19 pandemic. The court’s September 26 ruling, delivered by Vice President Hubert Soverall and Essential Services Division Chairman Larry Achong, concluded that Desalcott did not violate any laws by enforcing pandemic-related measures. However, court member Gregory Rousseau dissented, arguing that the company unlawfully locked out workers who refused the COVID-19 vaccine and breached the Industrial Relations Act by implementing a unilateral “rotation” policy that sent employees home without pay. Rousseau’s dissenting ruling, issued on November 5, ordered Desalcott to reinstate affected workers by November 10 and compensate them for lost wages and benefits dating back to June 17, 2021. The company was also fined $20,000 for the industrial relations offense. The case originated from a July 2021 union complaint after unvaccinated employees were instructed to stay home indefinitely. Rousseau criticized Desalcott for failing to consult workers before imposing the policy and later replacing their positions, effectively terminating their employment without notice or cause. He emphasized that no law authorized employers to place workers on unpaid leave, highlighting the government’s failure to address industrial relations issues arising from the pandemic. In contrast, Soverall and Achong’s majority ruling defended Desalcott’s actions, stating the company acted in compliance with existing laws and government directives, prioritizing public health and worker safety. They acknowledged the challenges posed by rapidly changing regulations and the company’s efforts to act in good faith. The case underscores the complexities of balancing public health mandates with workers’ rights during unprecedented crises.
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Modern medicine brings new hope but: Diabetes on the rise in Trinidad and Tobago
The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) has revealed alarming statistics indicating that over 40% of adults in Trinidad and Tobago (TT) are overweight or obese, a significant risk factor for Type 2 diabetes. Currently, diabetes affects 12-15% of the population, with at least 150,000 individuals diagnosed. However, Dr. Chad Bisambar, a renowned diabetes specialist and endocrinologist, warns that the actual number is likely higher due to undiagnosed cases. Diabetes, a chronic condition characterized by elevated blood glucose levels, arises from insufficient insulin production or ineffective insulin use. Dr. Bisambar, who trained at the University of Cambridge and practices at multiple medical institutions in TT, highlights that 90% of diabetes cases are Type 2, often asymptomatic, leading to delayed diagnosis. He also notes a worrying surge in cases among children and young adults under 40. Major risk factors include poor diet, sedentary lifestyles, family history, East Indian descent, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) in women. Dr. Bisambar emphasizes that diabetes is the leading cause of heart attacks, strokes, blindness, kidney failure, and lower limb amputations in TT. Addressing misconceptions, he clarifies that elevated blood glucose can cause organ damage even without symptoms and that lifestyle changes can sometimes eliminate the need for medication. Over the past decade, diabetes treatments have evolved significantly. Newer medications like SGLT2 inhibitors and GLP-1 agonists not only lower blood sugar but also protect major organs and reduce body fat. These drugs are now recommended internationally as first- or second-line treatments, particularly for patients with heart or kidney disease. Despite these advancements, access to newer drugs like semaglutide and terzepatide remains limited in TT, posing financial and logistical challenges for patients. Dr. Bisambar stresses the importance of patient education, early detection, and a national screening program to combat the diabetes epidemic. He encourages those affected to seek support from family, healthcare providers, and organizations like the Diabetes Association of TT, emphasizing that with proper guidance, diabetes management can be simplified and remission achieved.