In a tightly contested match on November 10, Naparima College secured a crucial 1-0 victory over St Mary’s College on Serpentine Road, St Clair, reclaiming the top spot in the Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) premier division. With this win, Naparima now holds 34 points, narrowly surpassing St Benedict’s College, who trail by a single point. The decisive moment came in the 40th minute when national under-17 wing back Jayden Caprietta headed in from a right-side corner, marking the only goal of the game. Despite a lackluster performance, Naparima managed to control the match, fending off St Mary’s sporadic attempts, including a close-range shot by Jaylon Roberts in the 80th minute that narrowly missed the target. The victory positions Naparima favorably with just one game remaining in the season. Meanwhile, Signal Hill Secondary, currently sixth with 22 points, remains a dark horse with five games left, including a pivotal clash against Naparima later this month. In other matches, Arima North Secondary climbed to seventh place after a dominant 3-0 win over Carapichaima East, while St Augustine Secondary moved out of the relegation zone with a 2-0 victory against St Anthony’s. The SSFL season is nearing its climax, with the top five teams separated by just five points and the relegation battle intensifying.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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Alexander mum on SoE review tribunal recommendations
Six reports from the State of Emergency Review Tribunal have been submitted to Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander, yet it remains unclear whether detainees have been informed of the tribunal’s findings. The reports, delivered on September 12, 19, and 28, and October 6, 9, and 22, contain recommendations on whether detainees, including prisons supervisor Garth Guada, should remain in custody. Despite repeated inquiries sent to Alexander on November 10 and 11, neither the minister, the ministry’s permanent secretary, nor its corporate communications unit have responded. Guada’s attorneys also remain silent, while attorney Darren Mitchell, representing six detainees, confirmed his clients have not received any updates. The tribunal’s secretary, however, indicated that reports for three of Mitchell’s clients were sent to the minister. Under regulations gazetted on July 18, the tribunal is tasked with assessing whether sufficient cause exists for detention and may recommend its continuation or termination. Detainees are entitled to receive the tribunal’s conclusions, though the full report remains confidential unless the minister authorizes its disclosure. The minister retains sole discretion to act on the tribunal’s recommendations, as its findings are not binding. A 2024 Court of Appeal ruling emphasized that detainees must be informed of the grounds for their detention and that ministerial decisions are subject to judicial review. The tribunal recently defended its role, stating it operates within the Emergency Powers Regulations 2025, which limit its function to reviewing detentions and reporting to the minister. Critics, including attorneys, have accused the police of using preventative detention orders (PDOs) as a substitute for proper investigations. The government extended the state of emergency for a second three-month period on October 31, with 98 of 156 PDOs executed so far.
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NCRHA hosts Mental Health Open Day for staff, public and patients
The North Central Regional Health Authority (NCRHA) marked Mental Health Awareness Day with a series of events aimed at fostering understanding, reducing stigma, and encouraging mental well-being. Celebrated globally on October 10, the NCRHA extended its observance throughout the month with activities designed to engage the public in meaningful ways. Key events included a Mental Health Open Day at the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex (EWMSC) on October 15 and another at Arima General Hospital on October 24. These events provided a welcoming environment for individuals to relax, reflect, and seek support. Attendees enjoyed fun games, giveaways, practical mental wellness tips, and one-on-one consultations, all aimed at teaching positive stress management techniques and promoting overall well-being. Prof Gerard Hutchinson, head of the Mental Health Unit, emphasized the importance of such initiatives in bridging the gap between awareness and access to care. He noted a significant increase in individuals seeking help for anxiety, depression, and stress-related issues, highlighting the growing recognition of the need for early intervention. The NCRHA’s Mental Health Unit continues to offer essential outpatient and stress relief services, with approximately 3,000 individuals accessing care monthly across various clinics. Interim CEO Bhadase Seetahal Maraj reaffirmed the NCRHA’s commitment to addressing mental health through strategic, non-judgmental approaches. Chairman Dr Tim Gopeesingh praised the dedication of staff and the encouraging turnout, underscoring the importance of accessible mental health support. The NCRHA remains steadfast in its mission to provide holistic care and ensure mental wellness services are available to all.
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Pennywise to retail ZO Skin Health range
Pennywise Cosmetics Ltd, a leading health and beauty retail chain in the Caribbean, has been granted exclusive commercial rights to distribute the ZO Skin Health line of medical-grade skincare products in Trinidad and Tobago. This decision follows a resolution of a legal dispute between Pennywise and the Maraval-based Skin Health Institute (SHI), led by dermatologist Dr. Rachel Eckel. The SHI had previously obtained a High Court injunction in April 2024, preventing Pennywise from selling ZO Skin Health products in its ten local outlets, arguing that the products should only be sold under medical supervision. Pennywise contested the injunction, asserting that it had legally imported genuine products and offered them at competitive prices. After months of negotiations, both parties reached a settlement, allowing Pennywise to become the exclusive authorized retailer. Justice Joan Charles had initially ruled in favor of SHI, stating that Pennywise’s marketing practices created a false impression of an exclusive partnership with SHI, potentially misleading customers. Despite allegations of unfair competition and “passing off” by SHI, Eckel, and Dermedica Medical Ltd., Pennywise maintained its innocence, emphasizing its commitment to honest business practices. The settlement marks a significant milestone for Pennywise, reinforcing its position in the Caribbean’s health and beauty market. ZO Skin Health products, developed by renowned dermatologist Dr. Zein Obagi, are now set to reach a broader audience through Pennywise’s extensive retail network.
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US seeks to deny residency visa applicants with co-morbidities
The US State Department has issued a directive to embassies worldwide, instructing them to scrutinize applicants for US residency visas and green cards who have chronic health conditions. This policy aims to safeguard the American public purse from the financial burden of providing healthcare to immigrants with costly medical needs. Conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, respiratory illnesses, cancers, diabetes, and mental health disorders are specifically highlighted, as they often require extensive, long-term care. Visa officers are also encouraged to consider factors like obesity, which can lead to complications such as asthma, sleep apnea, and high blood pressure, in their assessments of whether an applicant might become a public charge. The directive emphasizes the need for applicants to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover their healthcare costs without relying on public assistance. Critics, including Guerline Jozef of the Haitian Bridge Alliance, argue that this policy could unfairly target immigrants and undermine their opportunities. Local health practitioners, such as Dr. Andrew Dhanoo of the Diabetes Association of Trinidad and Tobago, stress the importance of fairness, feasibility, and ethical considerations in implementing such measures. Dr. Rishi Ramoutar of Wellnest Caribbean Mental Health Specialists Ltd adds that policies linking visa eligibility to health conditions must balance public health concerns with the dignity and rights of individuals. The directive has sparked debate over its potential to reinforce stigma and discrimination, particularly against those with mental health conditions. Meanwhile, the prevalence of non-communicable diseases in Trinidad and Tobago underscores the broader challenges of managing chronic health issues globally.
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Moonilal: Energy ‘decline’ halted, oil output up 5.5%
Trinidad and Tobago’s Energy Minister, Dr. Roodal Moonilal, has announced a significant uptick in the nation’s oil and gas production, attributing the growth to renewed investor confidence and the return of ExxonMobil after a 22-year absence. Speaking at the American Chamber of Commerce TT’s Health, Safety, Security, and Environment (HSSE) Conference in Port of Spain on November 11, Moonilal revealed a 5.5% increase in oil output, rising from 52,357 barrels per day in April to 55,271 barrels per day in October. Natural gas production also saw a boost, climbing from 2.41 to 2.63 billion cubic feet per day between April and June. Moonilal emphasized that the new UNC administration’s aggressive policy interventions and expedited negotiations have revitalized exploration activities and restored investor trust. He highlighted ExxonMobil’s return as a pivotal moment, describing it as achieving ‘the gold standard for the pace of negotiations.’ The minister also noted the potential for over $20 billion in investment from ExxonMobil’s ultra-deepwater campaign in the Eastern Tobago Basin, targeting depths exceeding 2,000 metres. Despite these advancements, production levels remain below historical highs, with sustained growth dependent on new exploration projects, regulatory stability, and market conditions. Moonilal expressed optimism, stating, ‘We are bringing change with optimism and hope. And with that optimism will come results.’ Additionally, he mentioned progress in talks with Shell on the Manatee Plus project and securing a new U.S. licence to advance work on Venezuela’s Dragon gas field, despite recent tensions with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.
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Pitbull mauls dad, but fearing slow justice, relatives won’t press charges
A retired police officer from Claxton Bay, O’Neil Sookhoo, 62, is recovering after a harrowing pitbull attack at his home on November 10. The incident occurred when a neighbor’s pitbull, which had escaped on November 8, mauled Sookhoo, leaving him with severe injuries to his forearms, chest, and legs. His wife, Sherry Sookhoo, 53, recounted the traumatic event, describing how she intervened by striking the dog with a piece of wood, only for the animal to turn its aggression toward her. The attack ended when Sookhoo used a cutlass to fend off the dog, which then retreated after its owner called it back. The couple rushed to Point Fortin Hospital, where Sookhoo received prompt medical attention. Despite the ordeal, the family has decided not to press charges, opting instead for a compensation agreement with the dog’s owner. Sherry cited the slow judicial system as the primary reason for this decision, emphasizing the need to prioritize her husband’s recovery and the emotional well-being of their traumatized children. The incident has reignited concerns about dog attacks in the community, with Sherry urging measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The attack was reported to the Couva Police Station, and while legal action remains possible, the family’s focus remains on healing and moving forward.
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Ministry distributes $310k in disaster relief grants
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.
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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.