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.’
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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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.
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Hillview stretch perfect run in east zone of SSFL championship division
The Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) championship division is witnessing a thrilling battle as teams across five districts vie for a spot in the prestigious Big 5 playoffs. Scheduled for October 17, the upcoming matches will determine which schools advance to the promotional tournament, with the top three teams earning a place in the premier division next season. Hillview College and Speyside Secondary have emerged as dominant forces in the east and Tobago zones, respectively, while the central, north, and south zones remain fiercely contested. Hillview, boasting a perfect record with 21 points, recently demolished Holy Cross 9-0, with Jahmarley Ellis scoring a hat-trick. In the north zone, Mucurapo West and East Mucurapo are locked in a tight race, separated by just one point. The south zone sees Palo Seco Secondary leading by a narrow margin, while Presentation College Chaguanas tops the central zone on goal difference. Speyside, with an eight-point lead in Tobago, is poised to secure their Big 5 spot. As the competition intensifies, every match becomes crucial for teams aiming to make their mark in the SSFL.
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Judge: Charge or release suspects in murder of ‘Clubs’
The Port of Spain High Court has mandated the release of two individuals detained in connection with the disappearance and murder of 60-year-old Charleville businessman Imraz “Clubs” Ali, unless formal charges are filed by 4 pm on October 17. Justice Karen Reid issued the order on October 16 following a virtual hearing of a habeas corpus application submitted on behalf of the suspects—a market vendor and a laborer—against the Commissioner of Police. The court ruled that the second applicant must be released immediately if no charges are brought by the stipulated deadline. Additionally, the judge noted that the investigative file for the first applicant, who accused the police of misconduct, had been forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The judge emphasized that his detention should not extend beyond that of the other applicant, pending advice from the DPP. Attorney Taradath Singh represented both individuals. Ali’s body was discovered on October 11 near a precipice along the North Coast Road, over a month after he was reported missing on September 4. The suspects were taken into custody on October 9.
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Kamla: Each lease for Caroni workers is a ‘deya of justice’
In a significant ceremony held at the Diplomatic Centre in Port of Spain, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar distributed land leases to 110 former employees of Caroni (1975) Ltd. The event, timed to coincide with the Hindu festival of Divali, symbolized the triumph of light over darkness and justice over oppression. The Prime Minister emphasized the historical significance of the occasion, noting that many recipients had waited 22 years for this moment, a delay she attributed to the previous administration’s alleged neglect and mismanagement. Minister of Land and Legal Affairs Saddam Hosein played a pivotal role in preparing the land parcels, ensuring the long-awaited distribution could proceed. Persad-Bissessar highlighted the resilience of the Caroni workers, whose labor once supported Trinidad and Tobago’s economy, and framed the land distribution as a restoration of dignity and belonging. She also drew parallels between the workers’ journey and the story of Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya, underscoring themes of faith, perseverance, and renewal. The Prime Minister urged recipients to use their land wisely, viewing it as a foundation for future prosperity. Hosein later criticized the former government for neglecting the land sites, revealing that significant funds had been wasted on legal fees rather than development. The government plans to distribute a total of 2,000 lots, with the next phase set for Exchange, Couva. The ceremony concluded with a message of hope and unity, as Persad-Bissessar wished the nation a blessed Divali, invoking the blessings of Mother Lakshmi.
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Promises kept, lives changed
The 2026 budget presented by Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo under the new UNC administration marks a pivotal moment for Trinidad and Tobago. More than a fiscal plan, it represents a bold declaration of national renewal, addressing long-standing issues and delivering tangible benefits to citizens. The budget, meticulously crafted and confidently unveiled, underscores the government’s commitment to fulfilling its mandate and addressing urgent national needs. It focuses on repairing the damage of the past decade, particularly for workers, retirees, students, and families who have been marginalized for years. The document acknowledges the financial challenges inherited, including rising debt, depleted savings, and weakened public services, but shifts the focus from blame to action. Within just 150 days, the administration has made significant strides: distributing land leases to former Caroni workers, repairing hundreds of schools, providing book grants and laptops to students, and revitalizing abandoned hospitals and flood-prone communities. The government has also taken steps to stabilize employment by transitioning Cepep, URP, and reforestation workers into permanent roles, while addressing public servants’ concerns through salary increases and job security measures. Retirees have not been overlooked, with over 6,000 pension applications being processed and private pension income now exempt from taxation. A notable measure is the $1 reduction in the price of super gasoline, directly benefiting working families and small businesses. Beyond immediate relief, the budget emphasizes long-term reform, modernizing the Inland Revenue Division and revitalizing the energy sector through agreements with Exxon Mobil and the development of the Dragon field. While the budget’s tone is firm and unapologetic, calling out past failures and demanding accountability, its focus on delivering real change has resonated with citizens. This budget is not just a fiscal document; it’s a responsible and transformative step toward national renewal.
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Suspected gang leader, wife arrested in Maloney
In a dramatic turn of events, a suspected gang leader was apprehended by police after he visited the Maloney Police Station to inquire about his wife, who had been arrested earlier. The incident unfolded on the evening of October 16, when law enforcement officers, acting on intelligence, conducted a search of the couple’s apartment under the state of emergency (SoE) regulations. The woman, who was present at the time, informed officers that her husband had stepped out. During the search, police discovered a customized Glock 19 handgun, a magazine containing 15 rounds of 9mm ammunition, and a patented Glock drum magazine concealed in a blue and red knapsack in a bedroom. The woman was immediately cautioned, arrested, and taken into custody. Shortly after, her husband arrived at the police station to check on her status, only to be detained himself in connection with the illegal firearm. Both individuals remain in custody and are expected to face charges soon. Additionally, police invoked Regulation 13 of the Emergency Powers Regulations to detain two other residents of the same building, including a neighbor of the suspected gang leader. This regulation empowers officers to conduct searches without a warrant if they suspect evidence of criminal activity. The operation was led by Superintendent McKenzie and supervised by Acting Sergeant Forgenie, with the involvement of several officers including WCpl Castillo-Lewis, WPC Simon, PC Carter, PC Augustine, PC Gopaul, PC Villaroel, and PC Fisher.
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Saudi envoy brings US$5m
In a significant diplomatic event, Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago (TT), Abdullah bin Mohammed Al-Sihani, was hosted by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar at the second distribution ceremony for land leases to former workers of Caroni (1975) Ltd. The event, held on October 16 at the Diplomatic Centre in St Ann’s, marked a milestone in bilateral relations between the two nations. Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar warmly welcomed the ambassador, highlighting his journey from Saudi Arabia and his generous contribution of a $5 million grant to TT. She emphasized that the grant, which is not a loan, underscores the strong and enduring friendship between the countries. The Prime Minister also reiterated TT’s openness for business, inviting global partnerships. The ceremony was attended by several ministers, including Saddam Hosein and Barry Padarath, and was documented on the UNC’s Facebook page, which featured a photo of the PM, Ambassador Al-Sihani, and Foreign Affairs Minister Sean Sobers. Ambassador Al-Sihani, who is also accredited to Venezuela, operates from Caracas, further strengthening the diplomatic ties in the region.
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Tobago’s historic allocation
In a historic move, Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo has allocated 5% of the national budget to Tobago, amounting to $2.96 billion. This marks a significant departure from the past, where Tobago consistently received the bare minimum of 4.03% to 6.9% as recommended by the Dispute Resolution Committee in 2000. The allocation is not only higher in percentage terms but also in real value, surpassing previous budgets under both the current and former administrations. Ministerial spending on Tobago has also seen a notable increase, rising by 12.5% to $763 million, bringing the total spending to 6.3% or $3.72 billion. However, this has sparked criticism from Minority Leader Kelvon Morris, who labeled the budget as ‘smoke and mirrors,’ citing a decrease in development spending to $201.5 million and a lack of detailed breakdown of the $2.96 billion allocation. Despite the criticism, the Draft Estimates of Expenditure clearly outline the allocation, with $2.74 billion for recurrent expenditure, $201 million for development, and $28.5 million for Tobago’s Central Administrative Services. This increased allocation presents both an opportunity and a challenge for Chief Secretary Farley Augustine, as the focus on recurrent expenditure and institutional strengthening aims to drive economic growth. The move also strategically pressures the opposition PNM, which failed to significantly increase Tobago’s budget during its tenure.
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Queen’s Park Judo tourney returns after six years
The Cascade Community Centre is set to host a thrilling judo tournament on October 18, marking the first event of its kind in six years organized by the Queen’s Park Judo Club (QPJC). This eagerly anticipated competition coincides with the club’s upcoming 30th anniversary in 2026, making it a significant milestone for the judo community. Approximately 40 judokas will take to the mat, demonstrating their strength, skill, and sportsmanship in a celebration of the martial art. The tournament will feature both traditional judo matches and submission grappling, reflecting the growing interest in grappling disciplines nationwide. In a nod to judo’s roots, the event will revive traditional contest rules, including leg-grabs as practiced by the Kodokan in Japan, offering a refreshing alternative to the Olympic-style format. Highlighting the event, former Olympian Christopher George, the first judoka from the country to compete in the 2016 Olympics, will face off against Xavier Jones, a former world-ranked cadet judoka. Additionally, young talents Adam Laing and Ky-Lynn Smith, both 13, will showcase their skills, promising an exciting display of judo’s future. The tournament begins at 10 am, with registration closing at 6 pm on October 17. Established on November 7, 1996, QPJC continues to foster judo excellence and community engagement.