The Opposition has accused the government of failing to fulfill its duty during the 2025/2026 budget debate, citing a lack of preparedness among ministers to present their plans and policies. The critique was voiced by PNM MPs Marvin Gonzales, Colm Imbert, and Symon de Nobriga during a press conference at Balisier House in Port of Spain on October 18. They expressed surprise at the government’s decision to prematurely conclude the debate, which they described as an evasion of accountability. Gonzales highlighted that only two senior ministers participated in the debate, while seven PNM MPs responded, leaving key portfolios such as Homeland Security, Education, and Energy unaddressed. The Opposition’s strategy was to reserve their speakers for responding to senior ministers rather than UNC backbenchers. However, the government’s refusal to engage further forced the Finance Minister to hastily wind up the session without addressing critical points raised by the Opposition. Imbert emphasized that the government’s failure to clarify budget measures and respond to discrepancies in tax impacts was a disservice to the public. Gonzales also criticized the Prime Minister’s absence, particularly given the need to address the retrenchment of thousands of workers. Additionally, he condemned the referral of Opposition Leader Beckles to the Privileges Committee as a procedural breach and an attack on democratic processes, vowing that the PNM would address this issue.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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Carter looks to build on backstroke bronze from first leg of Swimming World Cup
Trinidad and Tobago’s swimming sensation, Dylan Carter, is set to continue his impressive run at the second leg of the 2025 World Aquatics Swimming World Cup in Westmont, Illinois, USA, from October 17-19. Fresh off a commendable performance in the first leg held in Carmel, Indiana, Carter is determined to build on his momentum. In Carmel, he secured a bronze medal in the men’s 50-meter backstroke and finished fourth and fifth in the 50m freestyle and 50m butterfly finals, respectively. Carter’s journey in Westmont begins with the 50m freestyle heats on October 17, where he will compete in lane four of heat six, aiming to qualify for the final scheduled later that evening. In Carmel, Carter clocked 21.42 seconds in the 50m freestyle heats, improving to 21.12 seconds in the final, narrowly missing a podium finish. The event was dominated by American swimmers Chris Juliano (20.83) and Jack Alexy (20.88), with Canada’s Ilya Kharun (20.89) taking bronze. Carter will face stiff competition in Westmont, including Kharun and Bahamian Lamar Taylor, who recently claimed silver at the Junior Pan American Games. Additionally, Carter is slated to compete in the 100m freestyle, 50m backstroke, and 50m butterfly heats over the next two days. The third leg of the Swimming World Cup will take place in Ontario, Canada, from October 23-25.
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Alexander: File missing-persons report for Trinis allegedly killed on drug boat
In the wake of a controversial US missile strike targeting a suspected drug-trafficking vessel in international waters, Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Homeland Security, Roger Alexander, has called on the families of two Trinidadian nationals allegedly killed in the incident to file missing-persons reports immediately. The strike, which occurred on October 14, resulted in the deaths of six individuals, including a Las Cuevas man and another Trinidadian referred to as ‘Samaroo.’ This marks the fifth such operation by the US in its ongoing campaign against narco-trafficking in the southern Caribbean, which has claimed over 20 lives. Despite the severity of the actions, no concrete evidence of illegal drugs aboard the vessels has been publicly disclosed. US President Donald Trump and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth have defended the strikes, asserting the reliability of their intelligence. During an interview with i95.5FM on October 17, Alexander revealed that his ministry had not received official information about the incident and was relying solely on media reports. He emphasized the importance of families reporting their missing relatives to the police to initiate an investigation. ‘That is the first thing they should have done,’ Alexander stated. ‘Tell the police that their family member was in a specific location and has not been in contact. As it stands, there is nothing to work with—absolutely nothing.’ Alexander also questioned the nature of the ‘runs’ the men were reportedly making to Venezuela, expressing confusion over the media’s lack of inquiry into the specifics. He urged those with knowledge of the individuals’ activities to come forward and assist in the investigation. Additionally, Alexander referenced a 2018 incident involving one of the alleged victims, noting his familiarity with the individual’s past behavior and actions.
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International Credit Union Day 2025
Newsday, a renowned media outlet, continues to deliver valuable insights through its Special Publications. Released just 31 minutes ago, these publications serve as a vital resource for readers seeking in-depth analysis and comprehensive coverage on a wide range of topics. While the specific content of this latest release remains undisclosed, Newsday’s reputation for high-quality journalism ensures that it will provide authoritative and timely information. Special Publications often delve into critical issues, offering readers a deeper understanding of complex subjects. This latest addition to their portfolio reaffirms Newsday’s commitment to excellence in journalism and its role as a trusted source of news and analysis.
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Isabella Ramdeen cops AIB Ladies’ Golf title
In a display of resilience and skill, Trinidad and Tobago’s Isabella Ramdeen emerged victorious at the 2025 Ladies Golf Invitational, held at the St Andrews Golf Club on October 11-12. Despite relentless rainfall that plagued the Moka course over the two-day event, Ramdeen maintained her composure to secure the first flight title with a 15-over-par score across 27 holes, finishing four shots ahead of runner-up Elise Laborde. The tournament, sponsored by Agostini Insurance Brokers (AIB) Ltd, also saw Hailey Layne claim top honours in the net division, while Kahlan Francis delivered a commendable performance among the prize winners. Veteran golfer Joanne Bryden made a triumphant return to competitive play by winning the second flight, with Gail Rajack and Juliana Jodhan-Boodram securing second and third places, respectively. In the third flight, Symoniez Clouston edged out Brenda Clarke by three points under the Stableford format, while Ann Marie Forde of the Tobago Ladies clinched the newly introduced fourth flight. Despite the challenging weather, which forced early halts and shortened rounds, all four divisions successfully crowned champions. Now in its 30th year, the Ladies Golf Invitational remains a cornerstone of women’s golf in Trinidad and Tobago, showcasing inclusivity with expanded handicap ranges and tailored formats for players of all skill levels. St Andrews ladies’ captain Nicole Lawrence lauded the growing network of women’s golf groups for fostering participation and camaraderie, while AIB executive director Mark Henderson joined players in celebrating the event’s success. “The weather may have been wet, but the enthusiasm and friendship on display made for a truly memorable weekend,” Lawrence remarked.
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Hackett: Masqueraders, artistes unable to get to Tobago for carnival
The Tobago Carnival 2025, scheduled for October 24-26, faces significant challenges as transportation issues hinder the arrival of masqueraders and performers. Secretary of Culture and Antiquities Zorisha Hackett expressed concerns during a media conference at the Hochoy Charles Administrative Complex in Scarborough on October 16. She highlighted the administrative challenges with Caribbean Airlines (CAL), which have compounded the difficulties in securing additional flights to the island. Despite numerous efforts, including letters and meetings, the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) has yet to make substantial progress in resolving the issue.
Hackett emphasized the importance of the carnival, now in its fourth year, and the ongoing efforts to refine the event based on stakeholder feedback. She remains hopeful that CAL will respond to the urgent pleas for increased flights, ensuring a successful celebration. Meanwhile, THA Minority Leader Kelvon Morris has called for collaboration with CAL to address the transportation crisis, urging the Chief Secretary to join forces for the benefit of Tobago.
In response to the air travel limitations, The Port Authority has added extra sailings on the TT Spirit ferry between Trinidad and Tobago, with additional trips scheduled from October 22-29. This move aims to facilitate the movement of passengers to and from the island during the carnival period. Dexter Sandy, president of the Tobago October Carnival Association (TOCO), had previously appealed for increased transportation support, stressing the importance of bringing more masqueraders to the island.
The carnival events kick off on October 17 with Monarchs of Mas in Scarborough, followed by a series of cultural performances and competitions, including Pan Omega, Tobago Soca Titans, and the Calypso Monarch Competition. The festivities culminate on October 26 with the Parade of Bands, showcasing the vibrant traditions of Tobago.
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Venezuela ambassador: Many may perish in US action
Venezuela’s Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, Alvaro Sanchez Cordero, has strongly criticized the recent US military strike on October 15, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of two Trinidadians and four others aboard a vessel allegedly involved in narcotics trafficking. Cordero described the incident as tragic but inevitable, citing the US government’s persistent disregard for international law. This marks the fifth such strike off Venezuela’s coast, bringing the death toll close to 30. Speaking at the University of the West Indies on October 16, Cordero emphasized Venezuela’s commitment to combating drug trafficking and refuted claims by US President Donald Trump that the country is a hub for narco-trafficking. He presented data showing that only 40% of Venezuela’s 90.64 million hectares of land is classified as drug-producing, and a 2025 UN report confirmed that the country is not a major drug trafficking route. Cordero highlighted Venezuela’s peaceful nature, stating that its 34 million citizens are focused on education, work, and enjoying life, not conflict. He accused the US of targeting Venezuela for its vast oil and gas reserves, the largest proven in the world. David Abdulah, an executive member of the Assembly of Caribbean People, also condemned the strike, calling it a war crime under the Geneva Convention. He urged Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar to retract statements supporting the strikes and called for regional collaboration to maintain peace. Abdulah encouraged Caricom chair, Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness, to convene an emergency meeting to address the escalating tensions.
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John Procope targets another attempt as swim around Tobago ends due to current
John Procope, a 49-year-old endurance swimmer, was forced to abandon his ambitious 100-kilometer swim around Tobago after battling strong currents for 33 hours. The swim, which began on October 13 at Pigeon Point, saw Procope accompanied by a support team, including a boat named Predator, a kayak, and fellow swimmers Richard Conybear, Jacob Cox, and William Carr. Despite completing approximately 68% of the journey, Procope and his team had to halt the mission off the coast of Delaford due to relentless currents that stalled his progress for extended periods. Procope expressed no regrets, stating he felt physically, mentally, and emotionally strong throughout the attempt. He has already set his sights on a second attempt, tentatively planned for September next year, citing calmer waters during that period as ideal for such a challenge. Procope’s swim aimed to raise awareness for marine conservation organizations SpeSeas and The Aqua-Smart Foundation. This is not his first major swimming feat; in October 2024, he successfully swam from Tobago to Trinidad after two previous failed attempts. Procope’s resilience and determination continue to inspire, as he remains undeterred by setbacks and committed to pushing his limits.
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10% offer to public servants may have led to TTUTA head’s defeat
In a significant shift for the Trinidad and Tobago Unified Teachers Association (TTUTA), Crystal Bevin Ashe has been elected as the new president, succeeding Martin Lum Kin. The election, held on October 14, saw Ashe secure 3,546 votes, far outpacing Lum Kin’s 1,019. The outcome appears to have been influenced by the government’s last-minute decision to grant public servants a ten per cent pay increase, a move that contrasted sharply with Lum Kin’s acceptance of a five per cent wage offer earlier this year. Ashe, while cautious in his remarks, hinted that Lum Kin’s handling of the wage negotiations and a perceived lack of communication with the membership may have contributed to his defeat. ‘The main thing is that the membership wants to be communicated with,’ Ashe told Newsday, emphasizing the need for transparency in decision-making. Despite the circumstances, Ashe spoke respectfully of Lum Kin, describing him as ‘a pleasant, soft-spoken gentleman’ and acknowledging his congratulatory call post-election. Ashe, who remains a School Supervisor I until his official installation as TTUTA president within the next two weeks, indicated that while he would not actively pursue reopening wage negotiations with the Chief Personnel Officer (CPO), he would consider any offers made. ‘If it is offered to us, we would not deny the membership that opportunity of an increased wage,’ he said. The new payments, though not yet disbursed, have been ratified by the Ministry of Finance, with $214 million allocated annually and $730 million in arrears due by December 2025. Reflecting on his victory, Ashe expressed humility and a commitment to advocating for teachers’ interests, particularly those outlined in the Rebirth manifesto. He also pledged to work collaboratively with both his fellow elected officers and the Ministry of Education, stating, ‘I have a talent for getting people to work together as a cohesive unit.’
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Carib Brewery, Angostura announce increased prices
In a significant move impacting the local beverage industry, Trinidad and Tobago’s leading alcohol producers, Carib Brewery and Angostura, have announced substantial price increases across their product lines. This decision comes in response to the government’s recent doubling of excise duties on spirits, beer, and tobacco, as outlined in the 2026 national budget. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo revealed on October 13 that excise duties on spirits have surged from $79.25 to $158.50 per litre of pure alcohol, while beer duties rose from $5.14 to $10.28 by gravity. Cigarette excise also doubled to $10.52 per pack of 20, effective immediately. Excise duty, a tax levied on domestically manufactured goods, directly affects local producers like Carib Brewery and Angostura before similar adjustments are applied to imported products. Carib Brewery announced on October 16 that its new prices would take effect immediately, describing the move as a ‘responsible and measured response’ to the government’s fiscal policy. The company emphasized its efforts to minimize price hikes, adjusting only where necessary. Notable increases include Carib, Stag, and Pilsner rising to $13 per bottle from $10, while Royal Extra Stout now costs $15, up from under $10. Heineken and Guinness have jumped to $22 from under $16. Non-alcoholic beverages like Malta and Shandy have also seen price increases. Angostura, meanwhile, announced its price adjustments would take effect on October 17, citing the need to ensure business continuity and maintain its workforce of over 537 employees. The company expressed support for the government’s fiscal sustainability efforts while reaffirming its commitment to product quality and international market presence. The price hikes have sparked mixed reactions among consumers, with some criticizing the timing amid economic challenges, while others remain unfazed. Bar owners anticipate further price adjustments as new stock arrives. Finance Minister Tancoo defended the excise duty increase as a measure to boost revenue and promote responsible consumption, noting that the last major revision occurred nearly a decade ago. Both Carib Brewery and Angostura have pledged to continue supporting the local economy and maintaining product quality despite the new tax burden.