Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Studio Joli launches new year with Canvas Caribbean

    Studio Joli launches new year with Canvas Caribbean

    Port of Spain, Trinidad – Studio Joli launches its 2026 programming with “Artistic Expressions,” a vibrant multidisciplinary exhibition showcasing the works of six distinguished artists from the Canvas Caribbean collective. The exhibition, running from January 21 to February 2, presents a diverse array of artistic mediums including silk florals, acrylic wildlife portraits, faceted copper sculptures, and watercolor depictions of everyday life.

    Founded in 2004 by University of the West Indies visual arts graduates, Canvas Caribbean brings together accomplished artists including Leona Fabien, Adele Bynoe, Raymond Alexander, Kathy Farabi, Tricia Ward, and Vejaya Mungal. Each artist contributes unique perspectives rooted in Caribbean culture and personal artistic journeys.

    Adele Bynoe draws inspiration from multiple art forms including dance, music, and drama, synthesizing these influences into her visual creations. Tricia Ward explores organic and man-made themes through semi-abstract interpretations inspired by Carnival’s vibrant colors and textures.

    Kathy Farabi, who relocated from England to Trinidad and Tobago in 1978, expresses her profound connection to her adopted homeland through paintings that reflect both her technical training and emotional attachment to Caribbean life.

    Raymond Alexander, an educator with over three decades of experience and dual degrees in English literature and visual arts, demonstrates mastery across acrylic and watercolor mediums, selecting styles that optimally communicate his intended emotional impact.

    Vejaya Mungal showcases remarkable versatility across acrylics, watercolors, textile design, and three-dimensional works, with her art deeply informed by cultural rhythms, historical layers, and personal narratives within her community.

    Leona Fabien presents wearable art through silk creations and mixed media paintings inspired by Caribbean flora and fauna, allowing viewers to literally embrace the islands’ delicate yet vibrant beauty.

    The collective maintains a shared mission to exhibit collaboratively while providing mutual encouragement and support throughout their artistic careers. The exhibition opens January 21 with a reception from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at 21 Henry Pierre Street, St. James, continuing through February 2 during regular gallery hours.

  • More inmates, officers quarantined for chickenpox at MSP

    More inmates, officers quarantined for chickenpox at MSP

    A concerning varicella virus outbreak continues to spread through Trinidad and Tobago’s Maximum Security Prison in Arouca, with health authorities confirming five additional inmate infections and a sixth prison officer diagnosis. Acting Prisons Commissioner Carlos Corraspe disclosed that the facility has now managed approximately 80 cases over 65 days since the initial infection was detected on November 11th.

    The correctional institution currently maintains 40 infected inmates in specialized containment units, while 43 previously affected prisoners have completed treatment and returned to the general population. The outbreak has shown concerning growth patterns over the past fortnight, with 29 active inmate cases recorded as of January 10th.

    Prison authorities have implemented comprehensive containment protocols including medical screening by infirmary staff, hourly sanitization of communal areas, and dedicated isolation facilities where confirmed cases undergo 21-day quarantine periods. Inmates must receive medical clearance from the Prisons Medical Officer before reintegration into general population areas.

    As proactive prevention, the Prison Service initiated a voluntary vaccination drive on January 15th targeting approximately 2,500 officers across multiple facilities. Initial participation saw 75 officers inoculated by midday, with the program continuing through subsequent days. Commissioner Corraspe emphasized that officers with prior chickenpox infections or previous vaccinations don’t require additional immunization due to built immunity.

    The institution has distributed appropriate Personal Protective Equipment including approved masks and gloves to staff members. Health management strategies are being coordinated with the Prisons Medical Officer, Prison Health Services, Ministry of Health, and the County Medical Officer of Health for St. George to contain the viral spread.

  • Profit powers purpose

    Profit powers purpose

    TOBAGO – In a groundbreaking workshop hosted by EuroChamTT (European Business Chamber in Trinidad and Tobago), United Nations development finance officer Mark Thomas presented a transformative perspective on corporate sustainability, challenging the perceived dichotomy between profitability and environmental responsibility.

    The event, held at Kariwak in Tobago and attended by business leaders and EU diplomats including Ambassador Cécile Tassin, addressed the critical misconception that sustainability initiatives inherently conflict with financial success. Thomas, who coordinates UN partnerships across Trinidad and Tobago, Aruba, Curacao, and Sint Maarten, argued that profit serves as the essential catalyst for scalable sustainable solutions.

    “Sustainable means profitable,” Thomas asserted, emphasizing that profitability enables reinvestment, growth, and systemic change. He reframed profit not as an expression of greed but as the essential fuel that transforms innovative ideas into world-changing solutions.

    The workshop highlighted how global commitments like the Paris Agreement and Sustainable Development Goals are reshaping economic landscapes. Companies embracing sustainable practices now benefit from preferential financing, insurance terms, and market access, while those neglecting environmental and social responsibilities face increasing costs and regulatory pressures.

    Tobago’s tourism industry exemplifies this interconnection, where degraded reefs and eroded beaches directly threaten economic viability. Similarly, Trinidad confronts business risks through infrastructure vulnerabilities, energy reliability issues, and social instability.

    Rather than starting from scratch, Trinidad and Tobago possesses unique advantages: Trinidad’s sophisticated energy infrastructure and industrial expertise, combined with Tobago’s premier tourism offerings, create exceptional opportunities for sustainable transformation. The islands can leverage these assets to develop waste-to-energy systems, water-smart agriculture, and technical training programs that address both environmental and economic needs.

    The event emphasized that government leadership remains essential in creating enabling environments through clear regulations, infrastructure investment, and policy alignment with global standards. This collaborative approach between business, government, and civil society creates a reinforcing cycle where strong businesses build stable communities, which in turn attract investment and fuel further growth.

    As the global economy increasingly rewards sustainable practices, Trinidad and Tobago stands positioned to transform challenges into competitive advantages, proving that profitability and planetary responsibility are not opposing forces but complementary components of long-term success.

  • Patrons enjoy Mas the Experience

    Patrons enjoy Mas the Experience

    Queen’s Hall Gardens in St. Ann’s transformed into a vibrant epicenter of Caribbean musical excellence on January 10 as 2024 Road March champion Mical Teja presented his highly anticipated “Mas The Experience” concert. The event showcased an extraordinary gathering of soca royalty that created an unforgettable night of cultural celebration.

    The stellar lineup featured legendary performers including Destra Garcia, whose powerful vocals energized the crowd, and Ronnie McIntosh, the 1995 Soca Monarch winner who demonstrated his enduring stage presence. Nadia Batson brought her distinctive singer-songwriter artistry to the stage while Patrice Roberts delivered a captivating performance that highlighted her status as a soca icon.

    International flavors enhanced the evening with Edwin Yearwood from Barbados representing the regional soca community alongside rising stars including Aaron “Voice” St Louis, Karene Asche, and GBM Nutron. The diverse musical offerings created a dynamic rhythm that kept attendees immersed in the celebration throughout the night.

    Photographer Faith Ayoung documented the spectacle, capturing both the artists’ electrifying performances and the audience’s enthusiastic participation. Images reveal veteran performer Ronnie McIntosh sharing the stage with Mical Teja, Destra Garcia commanding attention with her powerful presence, and patrons fully embracing the festive atmosphere.

    The event served as both a victory celebration for Teja’s Road March achievement and a testament to soca music’s enduring appeal. From Andre “Viking Ding Dong” Houlder’s energetic performance to Devon “Lyrikal” Martin’s interaction with fans, the concert exemplified the communal spirit that defines Trinidad and Tobago’s carnival culture.

    Audience members appeared thoroughly captivated by the productions, with photographs capturing moments of pure enjoyment as concert-goers danced and celebrated throughout the evening. The successful gathering reinforced Mical Teja’s position within the soca landscape while honoring the genre’s rich legacy through its multidisciplinary presentations.

  • MPs to debate bill on ‘zones of special operations’

    MPs to debate bill on ‘zones of special operations’

    The Government of Trinidad and Tobago is poised to introduce groundbreaking legislation establishing special security zones with enhanced law enforcement powers to address escalating crime rates. The Law Reform (Zones of Special Operation)(Special Security and Community Development Measures) Bill 2026 will be presented to Parliament on January 16 for debate and approval.

    This pioneering legislation empowers the Prime Minister, with parliamentary consent, to designate specific geographical areas as “zones of special operation” where police and defense forces receive extraordinary authority to conduct searches, seizures, and arrests without warrants based on reasonable suspicion of criminal activity. Each zone will operate under a joint security command while incorporating input from a social transformation council.

    The bill establishes strict operational parameters: security cordons may remain in place for maximum 24-hour periods, while curfews can be imposed for up to 72 hours in limited areas. Designated zones may maintain their special status for periods not exceeding 180 days, with possible extensions under the same duration constraints.

    Trigger mechanisms for zone declaration include reasonable belief of rampant criminality such as murder, gang warfare, or escalating violence levels, or identified threats to rule of law and public order. Crucially, the legislation explicitly prohibits declaring the entire nation as a single zone.

    The bill incorporates significant safeguards: all normal criminal procedures remain applicable, requiring law enforcement to inform detainees of arrest reasons promptly. Judicial oversight is maintained through magistrate reviews of detention justifications within 48 hours, with provisions for immediate release if arrests are deemed unjustified.

    Additional protective measures mandate body-worn cameras for security personnel where resources permit, detailed inventory documentation of seized items, and specific visitation rights for detainees. The legislation also establishes a 24-member social transformation committee representing various stakeholders including mental health professionals, disability advocates, and community representatives to address underlying social conditions contributing to criminal behavior.

    Penalties for violating zone regulations include fines up to $50,000 and imprisonment terms of one year. The government possesses the special majority required to pass this comprehensive security legislation.

  • Youths vie for National Junior Panorama titles on January 18

    Youths vie for National Junior Panorama titles on January 18

    The vibrant sounds of youthful musical excellence will resonate through Port of Spain this weekend as 22 emerging steelbands compete in the National Junior Panorama finals. The prestigious event, scheduled for January 18 at Queen’s Park Savannah, features both the established Under 21 category and a newly introduced Under 19 division that resulted from recent educational disputes.

    The creation of the Under 19 category emerged as an innovative solution after northern Trinidad school steelbands withdrew from the Ministry of Education’s competition. These institutions protested the relocation of the Schools Panorama finals from Port of Spain to Skinner Park in San Fernando, citing prohibitive transportation costs that exceeded potential prize earnings. Recognizing the immense dedication of students who had been rehearsing since August 2025, Pan Trinbago intervened by establishing this complementary competition platform.

    Ten ensembles will contend in the Under 21 category, while twelve bands make their debut in the pioneering Under 19 classification. All finalists earned their positions through rigorous preliminary and semifinal rounds conducted nationwide in local pan yards and community spaces.

    The performance order places BATCE Steel as the opening act for the Under 19 segment, followed by ensembles including Eldo East ‘Blue’ Steel Orchestra, East Port of Spain Stars Steel Orchestra, and BARS of Steel. The category concludes with San Juan North Stars Steel Orchestra, after which Katzenjammers Youths will initiate the Under 21 competition.

    Qualifying rounds revealed impressive musical prowess, with Shell Invaders Youth Steel Orchestra leading the rankings at 281 points for their interpretation of Crazy’s ‘Band From Space’. BP Renegades Youth Steel Orchestra followed closely with 278 points for ‘Jamtown’, while T&TEC Tropical Angel Harps Youth Steel Orchestra secured third position with 275 points for Baron’s ‘This Melody Sweet’.

    Pan Trinbago’s official statement celebrated the participants, noting: ‘Your talent, discipline, and passion continue to inspire the future of the steelband movement. We are proud of both categories of youth of steel, whose commitment and excellence strengthen the legacy of our national musical instrument.’

    The organization extended best wishes to all finalists, encouraging them to ‘shine on’ during this celebration of musical excellence that promises to showcase Trinidad and Tobago’s rich cultural heritage through its next generation of pannists.

  • The role, importance of administrative professionals and the organisation behind them

    The role, importance of administrative professionals and the organisation behind them

    In an era of rapid technological transformation, administrative professionals in Trinidad and Tobago are demonstrating unprecedented value as strategic partners in organizational success. The National Association of Administrative Professionals of TT (NAAP), founded in 1969 as the National Secretaries Association, has emerged as the premier organization championing the holistic development of these essential workforce members.

    NAAP’s comprehensive programs reflect the evolving nature of administrative roles. The Madam Secretary of the Year competition enhances public speaking and communication skills, while the Administrative Professional Secretary Certificate program, developed with the University of the West Indies, establishes standardized professional benchmarks. The Business Student of the Year 2025 initiative targets secondary school business students, preparing the next generation for corporate leadership through experiential learning beyond traditional classrooms.

    As Trinidad and Tobago diversifies its economy beyond energy into finance, tourism, and creative industries, administrative professionals are proving indispensable. They serve as stability anchors during organizational change, process connectors ensuring seamless communication, and adaptability champions who integrate new technologies while maintaining essential human elements. Their roles now encompass strategic support functions including project management, data analysis, and decision-making processes.

    Contrary to predictions of obsolescence due to automation and artificial intelligence, administrative professionals are experiencing enhanced relevance. Technology serves as an enabler rather than replacement, with cloud systems and AI streamlining tasks while human professionals provide judgment, empathy, and contextual understanding that machines cannot replicate. These professionals are increasingly digital literate, mastering new platforms to maintain organizational competitiveness in a globalized economy.

    The profession continues evolving with expectations for digital proficiency, cultural awareness, and strategic mindset. Administrative professionals now drive innovation support, compliance maintenance in dynamic regulatory environments, and customer service excellence that strengthens Trinidad and Tobago’s global competitiveness. They function as efficiency coordinators across departments, communication gatekeepers between executives and stakeholders, and process innovators adapting to modern workplace demands.

    As NAAP looks toward 2026, the organization emphasizes resilience, professionalism, and growth commitment as essential qualities for administrative professionals shaping organizational success. These professionals stand ready to ensure Trinidad and Tobago’s businesses remain resilient and future-prepared for national prosperity, stepping boldly into the new year with professional pride and shared vision of excellence.

  • Energy Minister, Perenco executives discuss Greater Angostura assets

    Energy Minister, Perenco executives discuss Greater Angostura assets

    In a significant development for Trinidad and Tobago’s energy sector, multinational oil and gas company Perenco convened high-level talks with Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries (MEEI) officials on January 14. The meeting centered on Perenco’s recent acquisition of Greater Angostura oil and gas assets and associated production facilities, marking a substantial investment in the country’s energy infrastructure.

    During the strategic discussions at the ministry headquarters, Perenco executives delivered comprehensive updates on operational advancements and outlined plans to enhance efficiency across their Trinidadian operations. The dialogue emphasized collaborative initiatives designed to sustain and strengthen investment in the nation’s critical energy sector.

    Energy Minister Dr. Roodal Moonilal expressed the government’s endorsement of Perenco’s initiatives to extend the productive lifespan of mature oil fields while fostering a favorable investment climate. The minister emphasized the administration’s commitment to supporting energy companies in maximizing Trinidad and Tobago’s hydrocarbon resources.

    Perenco detailed performance metrics from their existing operations, including the CAFI gas fields (Cashima, Amherstia, Flamboyant, and Immortelle) and revealed development strategies for the Onyx field situated within the Teak, Samaan, and Poui (TSP) area.

    The energy company’s delegation, led by CEO Armel Simondin, reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining close collaboration with MEEI as current projects progress and new opportunities materialize in the local energy landscape. The meeting participants included key figures from both organizations, underscoring the importance both parties place on this strategic partnership.

  • Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Thursday January 15th 2026

    Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Thursday January 15th 2026

    The global dietary supplement market is undergoing significant transformation as regulatory bodies and health organizations intensify their examination of product safety and efficacy. This burgeoning industry, valued at over $150 billion worldwide, has experienced unprecedented growth driven by increasing consumer focus on wellness and preventive healthcare.

    Recent developments have highlighted critical challenges within the supplement sector, including quality control inconsistencies, misleading marketing claims, and potential interactions with prescription medications. Health authorities are now implementing stricter guidelines for supplement manufacturing, labeling requirements, and adverse event reporting systems to enhance consumer protection.

    The scientific community continues to debate the actual health benefits of various supplements, with some studies demonstrating positive outcomes while others show limited effectiveness. Medical professionals emphasize that supplements should complement rather than replace balanced nutrition and conventional medical treatments.

    Consumer education has become a priority, with health organizations developing resources to help individuals make informed decisions about supplement usage. The industry’s future will likely see increased transparency, improved quality standards, and more evidence-based approaches to product development and marketing.

  • CJ tackles backlog

    CJ tackles backlog

    In a significant move to tackle chronic judicial delays, Chief Justice Ronnie Boodoosingh has overseen the appointment of five new puisne judges to Trinidad and Tobago’s judiciary. The swearing-in ceremony, conducted by President Christine Kangaloo on January 13, marks a substantive response to growing concerns about case backlogs that have plagued the nation’s court system.

    The newly appointed justices—Trevor Jones, Raymond Roberts, Maria Busby Earle-Caddle, Josefina Baptiste Mohammed, and Sydelle Johnson—assume their roles amid systemic challenges that recently forced court administrators to manually count cases when activist Anthony Dopson requested backlog statistics. The absence of automated tracking systems highlighted the judiciary’s operational limitations, prompting commitments to strengthen data collection mechanisms.

    Justice Jones, speaking immediately after his inauguration at President’s House in St. Ann’s, emphasized his primary objective: addressing the overwhelming backlog through improved case management, streamlined procedures, and expanded judicial capacity. The complexity of the crisis spans all court divisions—civil, criminal, and family law—with some matters languishing for over a decade without indictments being filed.

    Structural complications have intensified the situation, including the elevation of criminal judges to the Court of Appeal without corresponding replacements at trial level. While the new appointments help address staffing gaps, judicial authorities acknowledge that personnel expansion alone cannot resolve deeply entrenched systemic issues.

    Complementary reforms are underway, including enhanced warrant powers for Justices of the Peace to reduce judicial workload. However, broader transformation requires modernization of court infrastructure, revision of antiquated procedures, and strategic prioritization of serious crimes over trivial matters. Although Chief Justice Boodoosingh has advocated returning to in-person proceedings, hybrid court formats remain essential for improving efficiency.

    The judiciary’s multifaceted challenge extends beyond courtrooms to include prison system overhaul to combat recidivism. While the path forward demands comprehensive reform, the bolstered bench represents a promising initial step toward restoring timely justice delivery.