In a significant move to bolster national security, the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF) has witnessed a series of high-level leadership appointments. The Office of the Attorney General confirmed that the instruments of appointment were formally presented to senior officers earlier this week, underscoring the government’s commitment to enhancing the nation’s defence capabilities.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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Joseph: ‘Ripple effect may extend to consumers’
In a significant move during the October 13 budget presentation, the government announced a sharp increase in excise duties on spirits, beer, and tobacco, leading to an immediate surge in retail prices. Dianne Joseph, President of the TT Coalition of Services Industries (TTCSI), highlighted the dual implications of this decision: a potential boost to public health by curbing harmful consumption and a strain on the alcohol and tobacco industries. Joseph emphasized that while the policy aims to reduce alcohol-related accidents, violence, and diseases, it also places substantial cost pressures on major manufacturers like Carib Brewery and Angostura. These companies, being significant employers, may have no choice but to pass the increased costs onto consumers, potentially leading to higher prices for events and hospitality services. Balliram Maharaj, CEO of ADM Import and Export Distributors Ltd and Mayor of Arima, noted that such tax hikes are a common revenue-generating strategy for governments, especially given the decline in foreign exchange. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo detailed the new excise rates: spirits now face a duty of $158.50 per litre of pure alcohol, up from $79.25, while beer duties doubled to $10.28 from $5.14. Cigarette excise also doubled to $10.52 per pack of 20. Local companies have already adjusted their prices, with Carib, Stag, and Pilsner bottles now retailing at $13, up from $10, and Angostura 1919 seeing a price increase to $349.99 for a 750ml bottle.
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Darren ”Sheppy” Shepherd turns Naparima Bowl into church
On October 10, the Naparima Bowl amphitheatre in Trinidad transformed into a sanctuary of praise and gratitude as Darren ‘Sheppy’ Shepherd hosted his Sheppy Give Thanks concert. The event was a heartfelt fusion of ministry, music, and song, blending gospel melodies with the resonant tones of steelpan. Sheppy, a renowned panman and musical director, curated an evening that celebrated faith, community, and the power of gratitude.
Accompanied by a lineup of talented gospel artists, including the St Hilaire Brothers, Renee Fortune, violinist Anslem Walters, and the Jeunes Agape Choir, the concert was more than a musical performance—it was a mission. Proceeds and donations from the event supported Court Shamrock, a home for socially displaced men. Despite the modest ticket price of $50, aimed at ensuring accessibility, only a third of the venue was filled. Yet, the spirit of the evening remained undimmed.
Anslem Walters, a resident of Court Shamrock and a celebrated violinist, delivered a moving performance of ‘The Prayer’ and ‘Wind Beneath My Wings,’ earning thunderous applause. His rendition of ‘The Goodness of God’ symbolized his gratitude for the support that helped him rebuild his life.
Reverend Mark Samuel, who addressed the audience, likened Sheppy to the one leper who returned to thank Jesus after being healed. He praised Sheppy’s humility and dedication, emphasizing that the concert was not for entertainment or profit but a genuine expression of gratitude. Sheppy, inspired by a divine message during his morning walks, conceived the event as a testament to God’s goodness.
Looking ahead, Sheppy announced plans to make Give Thanks a trilogy, with the next installment scheduled for October 18, 2026. The concert also highlighted Sheppy’s broader contributions to the community, including his work with Fonclaire, where he has impacted over 1,000 young people and seniors through pan music education. In 2022, he was honored with the Commonwealth Points of Light Award for his voluntary service.
Sheppy Give Thanks was not just a concert—it was an act of worship, a reminder that gratitude can shine even in the darkest times.
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Strikers crowned champs in 50-Over trial tourney
In a commanding display of cricketing prowess, the Soca Strikers clinched the Senior 50-Over trials final with a resounding nine-wicket victory over the Cocrico Warriors. The match, held at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba on October 17, saw the Strikers dismantle their opponents in a low-scoring affair. The Warriors, after winning the toss and choosing to bat first, were bowled out for a meager 89 runs in just 17.3 overs. Terrance Hinds, the Strikers’ fast bowler, was the standout performer, claiming four wickets for 29 runs. His aggressive spell, supported by Abdul-Raheem Toppin (2/32), Shaaron Lewis (1/10), and Damion Joachim (1/11), left the Warriors reeling at 51/6 after 11 overs. Only Joshua James (17), Navin Bidaisee (16), and Crystian Thurton (15) managed to reach double figures for the Warriors. In response, the Strikers’ top order made light work of the target. Opener Nicholas Sookdeosingh led the charge with a fearless 51 off 48 balls, including eight fours and one six. Cephas Cooper provided steady support with an unbeaten 30, while Leonardo Julien contributed five not out. The Strikers reached the target of 90 in just 15.2 overs, losing only one wicket. Terrance Hinds was named Man-of-the-Match for his pivotal role in the victory, while Abdul Raheem Toppin was awarded Player of the Tournament for his consistent performances throughout the trials.
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Trinidad and Tobago, let your light shine
The Festival of Lights, Divali, stands as a powerful symbol of hope, emphasizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Originating from the Sanskrit word Deepavali, meaning ‘row of lights,’ the festival centers on the deya, a traditional lamp that symbolizes the dispelling of ignorance and the illumination of wisdom. As Trinidad and Tobago (TT) celebrates this vibrant occasion, it also grapples with pervasive societal issues such as crime, human trafficking, child abuse, and poverty. These challenges cast a shadow over the nation, yet the essence of Divali offers a poignant reminder of the potential for transformation through unity and individual action. Angelo Marcelle, in a heartfelt letter to the editor, calls on citizens to let their light shine, fostering hope and positive change. He urges leaders to collaborate for the greater good, emphasizing that collective efforts can drive societal progress. The letter also features inspiring quotes from Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., and Eleanor Roosevelt, reinforcing the message of personal responsibility and the power of light and love to overcome adversity. As TT celebrates Divali, the festival serves as a call to action for all to contribute to a brighter, more harmonious future.
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Opposition leader: UNC silent on refinery
Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles has criticized the United National Congress (UNC) for its silence on its campaign pledge to restart the former Petrotrin refinery in Pointe-a-Pierre, suggesting the party has realized it cannot deliver on this promise. Beckles made these remarks during her contribution to the 2025/2026 budget debate in the House of Representatives on October 17. She highlighted the absence of any mention of the refinery in Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo’s budget presentation on October 13, contrasting it with the firm agreement in place when the People’s National Movement (PNM) left office after the April 28 general election. Beckles accused the UNC of misleading voters during the election by promoting false hopes of new jobs and foreign exchange revenues from the refinery’s revival. She emphasized that the PNM had made significant progress in restarting the refinery through a competitive evaluation process, which led to the selection of Nigerian company Oando Trading DMCC to lease and operate the facility. Beckles noted that this approach ensured no taxpayer burden and provided a structured path forward. However, she claimed the UNC scrapped this process without building on the PNM’s groundwork. Beckles also referenced a committee formed to explore the refinery’s feasibility, which reportedly admitted to minimal progress due to high capital costs and financial uncertainties. She criticized Minister Ernesto Kesar for prematurely claiming the refinery was ready to restart, warning the government against bypassing procurement laws. Beckles vowed to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the legal consequences of breaching the Procurement and Disposal of Public Property Act. The refinery’s potential restart has been a contentious issue since the PNM’s 2024/2025 budget statement, which shortlisted three companies, including Oando, for the lease.
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Budget debate comes to an abrupt end
In a scathing critique, Barry Padarath, the Leader of Government Business, has lambasted the opposition People’s National Movement (PNM) for what he describes as a dereliction of their parliamentary responsibilities. The accusation came in a Facebook post following an unexpected halt to the budget debate on October 17, triggered by the absence of contributions from five PNM MPs. Padarath, who also serves as the Minister of Public Utilities and MP for Couva South, highlighted that after the seventh government speaker, Hansen Narinesingh, concluded his remarks, no PNM member stepped forward to continue the debate, despite having five members yet to speak. He pointed out that confusion reigned on the PNM bench, exacerbated by the absence of the Leader of the Opposition during this critical juncture. Padarath further criticized senior PNM members, including Colm Imbert, Marvin Gonzales, Simon De Nobriga, and Stuart Young, for their inaction when called upon to participate. He asserted that this incident underscores the PNM’s inability to effectively analyze and respond to the national budget, signaling a collapse under pressure. The government now anticipates the commencement of the Standing Finance Committee on October 21. Meanwhile, the PNM is scheduled to hold a news conference at Balisier House in Port of Spain on October 18 to address the controversy.
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Top teams look for separation in SSFL
The Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) premiership is reaching a pivotal stage as the top four teams gear up for their round 11 matches on October 18, each aiming to secure three crucial points in their quest for the 2025 title. League leaders Naparima College, boasting an unbeaten record with 24 points, face a challenging encounter against fifth-placed Queen’s Royal College (QRC) at QRC’s home ground. Naparima, fresh off a dominant 4-1 victory over reigning champions Fatima College, are determined to maintain their flawless run and continue their defensive prowess, having conceded only two goals this season. Meanwhile, QRC, with 16 points, has struggled recently, suffering back-to-back 2-1 defeats to Fatima and Trinity Moka, and will need to regroup to challenge the league leaders. Second-placed Fatima College (22 points) seeks to rebound from their mid-week loss as they host Signal Hill Secondary, while third-ranked Presentation College San Fernando (21 points) faces a tough test against St Anthony’s College. Fourth-placed St Benedict’s College (18 points) also has a challenging fixture against San Juan North, who are coming off a 4-0 victory. Other matches in round 11 include St Mary’s College versus Trinity Moka, St Augustine Secondary against Scarborough Secondary, and Malick’s clash with Arima North. With the standings tightly contested, every match could prove decisive in the race for the championship.
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US Embassy raises alert level over Divali weekend
The US Embassy in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, has issued a security alert for US nationals, urging them to avoid all US government facilities in the country during the holiday weekend. The advisory, posted on the embassy’s Facebook page on October 18, cited a heightened state of alert as the reason for the warning. The embassy emphasized the importance of vigilance, advising US citizens to remain aware of their surroundings and monitor reputable news outlets for updates. Additionally, the embassy reminded travelers to ensure they possess a valid US passport for any planned trips to the United States. US nationals were also encouraged to report any suspicious activities to local authorities and to sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive timely alerts and updates. This precautionary measure underscores the embassy’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of US citizens abroad.
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Windies Under-19 men to play seven Youth ODIs versus England
The West Indies men’s Under-19 cricket team is set to clash with their English counterparts in a high-stakes seven-match Youth One-Day International (ODI) series from November 16 to December 1 at the Grenada National Stadium in St George’s. This announcement, made by Cricket West Indies (CWI) on October 16, comes on the back of the Windies’ thrilling 4-3 series victory over Sri Lanka’s Under-19 team last month. The series is a pivotal part of the West Indies’ preparation for the International Cricket Council Men’s Under-19 World Cup, scheduled for January 2026. Originally planned for St Vincent and the Grenadines, the venue was shifted to Grenada due to scheduling conflicts with the National Sports Council. CWI director of cricket Miles Bascombe emphasized the importance of the series, stating that it aligns with the regional body’s strategy to expose young players to high-quality competition. ‘The recent win against Sri Lanka has already boosted the team’s confidence, and this series against England will further hone their skills and match awareness,’ Bascombe remarked. Both teams will arrive in Grenada on November 8, with three days of training and a warm-up match against a Grenada Under-25 select XI on November 12. All matches will commence at 9 am.