标签： Trinidad and Tobago

In a compelling letter to the editor, Gordon Laughlin outlines a transformative vision for Trinidad and Tobago (TT), emphasizing the nation’s rich cultural heritage, natural wonders, and untapped tourism potential. The author highlights the importance of attracting world-class hotel chains like Sandals, which recognize TT’s unique appeal—from its vibrant Carnival, pan, and calypso traditions to its pristine beaches, waterfalls, and world-renowned fishing spots. With Tobago’s recent airport upgrades, Laughlin sees a golden opportunity to develop twin destinations such as Nylon Pool and No Man’s Land, offering tourists diverse experiences in a single trip, thereby encouraging longer stays and higher revenue. Tobago’s charm, rooted in its quaint villages, vibrant culture, and natural attractions, positions it as a global competitor. However, the push for Tobago’s full self-governance must be carefully balanced with national unity to safeguard economic stability, currency, and development plans. Strategic tourism development, including initiatives like tours to Argyle Waterfalls, salt ponds, and community-based fishing experiences, can maximize foreign exchange earnings, create jobs, and support local communities. Laughlin calls for strong leadership, urging patriots to make tough decisions in the nation’s best interest, fostering equitable development and preserving TT’s cultural legacy for future generations.

Domestic violence remains a deeply entrenched issue in modern society, prompting therapist Dr. Roz Roach to spearhead a groundbreaking initiative aimed at raising awareness and fostering societal change. The upcoming performing arts production, *Sistas Calling TT*, is set to debut at the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA) on October 25. This public education project seeks to educate the public and transform societal attitudes toward domestic violence.

At the launch event on October 9, Dr. Roach shared insights from her decades-long research and work with survivors in both Canada and Trinidad and Tobago. She emphasized the critical role of education in addressing the issue, stating, ‘The key to reducing domestic violence lies in education. We must change lives and penetrate the societal psyche to make a lasting impact.’

Dr. Roach highlighted the stigma faced by victims, who are often judged and even turned away by law enforcement and their own families. She noted that restraining orders and attempts to leave abusive relationships often escalate the danger, leaving victims with limited safe spaces or support systems, especially for those with children.

As the founder of *Dr. Roz’s Healing Place*, a Canadian shelter for women and children fleeing family violence, Dr. Roach has provided refuge and support to over 2,000 women since its establishment in 1984. The upcoming production is dedicated to the memory of Marcia Henville, a journalist tragically murdered by her husband in 2015. Dr. Roach recounted Henville’s heartbreaking story, revealing how she had sought advice for a ‘friend’ just days before her death, a common tactic among victims who feel ashamed to speak out.

Rashmi Ramsomair, One Caribbean Media’s environmental, social, and governance lead, underscored the urgency of the issue, citing 1,937 reported cases of domestic violence in 2024 alone. She emphasized that *Sistas Calling TT* is more than a campaign—it is a cultural movement aimed at combating this epidemic.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit islandetickets.com or contact 383-7174.

A horrific shooting incident in Friendship Village, San Fernando, has left a family nearly decimated. In the early hours of October 10, armed assailants stormed a two-story residence on Peterloo Street Extension, resulting in the deaths of three family members and leaving another critically injured. The victims include 48-year-old Gracelyn Ramberan and her 25-year-old son, Randy Rampersad, a gardener, both of whom died at the scene. Gracelyn’s husband, Vijai Rampersad, a construction worker and PH taxi driver, succumbed to his injuries hours later at San Fernando General Hospital. Randy’s wife, Kimberly Rampersad, remains in critical condition. Police reports indicate that the attackers entered through the front door, with Gracelyn’s body found at the entrance and Randy’s on the road outside. The assailants are believed to have fled through nearby bushes leading to Cipero Street. Authorities from the Southern Division and the Homicide Bureau of Investigations, Region Three, are actively investigating the case. This tragedy follows the recent murder of 13-year-old Mariah Seenath in the same community, raising concerns about escalating violence in the area.

The Police Complaints Authority (PCA) in Trinidad and Tobago (TT) has released a groundbreaking strategic document titled *A Blueprint for Oversight that Listens*, aimed at strengthening police oversight and addressing migrant-related complaints. Published on October 9, the 24-page report outlines a progressive framework emphasizing transparency, accountability, and public engagement. The PCA’s initiative seeks to build trust between law enforcement and communities, offering actionable recommendations to improve investigative processes, enhance institutional responsiveness, and foster a culture of active listening within oversight bodies.

Available in both English and Spanish, the document ensures accessibility and inclusivity, reflecting TT’s diverse population. The report draws insights from 30 cases handled by the PCA between 2017 and 2025, including 20 closed and 10 ongoing cases involving migrants. It highlights key reforms such as hiring Spanish-speaking staff, providing live translation services, issuing regular public reports, and training personnel to be trauma-aware and culturally sensitive.

TT has experienced a significant influx of migrants, primarily from Venezuela, over the past decade. Many arrive seeking refuge, economic opportunities, and stability, often without legal status or consistent access to state services, leaving them vulnerable in interactions with law enforcement. The report underscores TT’s obligations under international agreements like the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which mandate the protection of all individuals, including migrants, from abuse and ensure fair treatment.

While the PCA’s investigative powers are limited to its legal jurisdiction, the authority balances its responsibilities with human rights obligations and practical judgment. The report also references two high-profile cases of police-involved killings of migrants—a Venezuelan and a Cuban—in 2020, underscoring the urgency of systemic reforms.

A recent proposal by Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander to try child offenders as adults has ignited widespread concern and criticism. The suggestion, described as regressive and potentially discriminatory, threatens to undo decades of progress in juvenile justice reform. Critics argue that such a policy would disproportionately impact marginalized communities, particularly Afro-Trinidadian youth, and exacerbate cycles of inequality. The international consensus on juvenile justice emphasizes rehabilitation over retribution, grounded in developmental science and human rights principles. Children, lacking the cognitive maturity of adults, require systems that foster growth and reintegration rather than punitive measures. The minister’s proposal risks reinforcing harmful stereotypes and dehumanizing vulnerable youth, portraying them as inherently criminal rather than products of systemic social challenges. Experts warn that harsher penalties will not address the root causes of youth crime, such as poverty, family instability, and limited access to education and mental health services. Instead, they advocate for investments in education, mentorship programs, and community-based rehabilitation to provide young offenders with opportunities for reform. True leadership, they argue, demands a balanced approach that prioritizes fairness, compassion, and long-term societal well-being over punitive measures.

Commuters in Trinidad and Tobago can look forward to smoother travel on October 10, 2025, as schools across the nation will be closed to accommodate the National Teachers Convention. The announcement was confirmed by Martin Lum Kin, President of the Trinidad and Tobago Unified Teachers’ Association (TTUTA), in a WhatsApp message to Newsday on October 9. Lum Kin emphasized that teachers would be actively participating in professional discussions at various district and branch meetings organized by TTUTA. Additionally, a formal letter from the Division of Education, Research and Technology to Kady Beckles, TTUTA’s Tobago Office General Secretary, granted approval for all teachers to take time off from 8 am to 2 pm on the same day to attend the convention. This decision underscores the importance of professional development for educators while providing a temporary reprieve for daily commuters.