Amidst severe financial constraints, the government remains committed to fulfilling its pledge of a ten per cent salary increase for public servants during the 2014-2019 period, as promised during the election campaign. This commitment, however, places the administration in a precarious position, given the current economic challenges of declining revenue, rising debt, and the potential threat of a credit rating downgrade. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo is reportedly grappling with the complexities of reconciling this promise with other pressing national priorities, as evidenced by the delayed announcement of the national budget, which is typically presented by early October. The situation is further complicated by the unresolved wage negotiations for the 2020-2022 period, raising questions about whether the Public Services Association (PSA) will accept a similar five per cent increase agreed upon by other unions or push for more. Additionally, the settlement with the PSA could set a precedent for other unions, such as the Oilfields Workers’ Trade Union (OWTU), potentially reigniting industrial unrest if parity is not achieved. The government’s decision to offer the PSA a ten per cent increase is not merely a labour agreement but a move that could significantly impact the broader industrial relations landscape, with other unions likely to demand similar terms. As the government navigates these challenges, the future of its relationship with the labour movement remains uncertain, with potentially significant implications for the country’s economic stability.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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US media: Trump calls off diplomacy to Venezuela
In a significant escalation of tensions between the United States and Venezuela, President Donald Trump has decided to halt all diplomatic outreach efforts toward Caracas. This decision comes amidst a backdrop of heightened military activity in the Southern Caribbean, including the sinking of four alleged “drug boats” by US forces off the Venezuelan coast. The New York Times reported on October 6 that Trump’s move could pave the way for potential military escalation against the Venezuelan government led by Nicolás Maduro or drug traffickers operating in the region. Special presidential envoy Richard Grenell, who had been leading negotiations with Maduro and other Venezuelan officials, was ordered to cease all diplomatic engagements. According to the report, Trump’s frustration stems from Maduro’s refusal to relinquish power voluntarily and Venezuela’s persistent denial of involvement in drug trafficking. The Trump administration has reportedly drafted multiple military plans, including one aimed at forcing Maduro from power. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has labeled Maduro an “illegitimate” leader and a “fugitive from American justice,” referencing a US indictment on drug trafficking charges and a $50 million bounty on Maduro’s head. Grenell’s negotiations, which aimed to avoid a larger conflict and secure US access to Venezuelan oil, were deemed unproductive by Rubio and his allies. The US military has claimed its recent strikes on “drug boats” occurred in international waters, but concerns persist within the Trump administration that further military action could entangle the US in a prolonged conflict. Meanwhile, the US Southern Command and the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit have been conducting extensive military exercises in the Caribbean, showcasing aerial insert operations and live-fire training. On the Venezuelan side, President Maduro announced the activation of defense plans in two northern regions, signaling heightened alertness amid the escalating tensions.
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Malabar Youngstars, Maloney maintain unbeaten records in EFA
The Eastern Football Association (EFA) 2025 season continues to showcase thrilling performances, with Malabar Youngstars leading the charge. On October 5, the defending champions delivered a commanding 5-1 victory over Heatwave FC at the Arima Velodrome, extending their unbeaten run to seven matches. Midfielder Abraham Martin starred with a brace, supported by goals from Kendell Borneo, Jeromy Joseph, and veteran striker Ricardo John. Youngstars now sit comfortably atop Group A with 19 points, four points clear of CPC Athletic International Academy, who made a statement of their own with a 7-0 thrashing of SKHY FC. Malachi Woodley’s hat-trick led CPC’s dominant display, complemented by Isaiah Isaac’s brace and contributions from Koby Morin and Damon Sankar. Meanwhile, Athletic United secured a 6-1 win over La Horquetta XF, with Jeneke Danzell netting a hat-trick. In Group B, FC Maloney maintained their perfect record with a narrow win over Wallerfield United, while Eastern Connect FC stumbled with a 2-2 draw against Trincity Nationals. FC Porto Arima and CG Poseidon also secured victories, setting the stage for the upcoming “Big 8” knockout stage starting October 26. The EFA final on November 9 will crown the champions, who will take home a $15,000 prize.
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![[UPDATED] $m Manuel Congo site shut down – Illegal quarry boss nabbed](https://wp.caribscopeonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/0ad08bfeb98b046337c8ee32bb9484fb.jpg)
[UPDATED] $m Manuel Congo site shut down – Illegal quarry boss nabbed
In a decisive early-morning raid on October 9, heavily armed police dismantled a sophisticated illegal quarrying operation in Manuel Congo, Guanapo, east Trinidad. The operation, which had been under surveillance for over a year, was described as one of the most environmentally devastating and financially lucrative illegal activities in the region. The raid resulted in the arrest of 19 individuals, including the quarry owner, who police identified as a major figure in the illegal quarrying industry with operations spanning two decades. The site, which had been previously shut down in July, had quietly resumed operations before being permanently closed during the raid. The quarry, equipped with advanced machinery and a fully air-conditioned administrative building, was responsible for clearing acres of virgin forest, mining hills, and processing minerals into construction materials like red sand, sharp sand, and gravel. Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro condemned the operation as a theft of national resources, emphasizing its ecological and financial toll. The investigation will now focus on the financial networks and real estate portfolios linked to the quarrying profits, with police vowing to prosecute those involved rigorously.
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RFHL director retires
Shameer Ronnie Mohammed, former chairman of Caribbean Airlines, has officially resigned from his position as a director at Republic Financial Holdings Limited (RFHL). The announcement was made public on October 8 through a notice on the Trinidad and Tobago Stock Exchange’s website, citing compliance with Section 64(1)(B) of the Securities Act. Mohammed, who joined RFHL’s board in 2019, has been recognized for his extensive leadership and operational expertise in the agricultural and manufacturing sectors. Since 2000, he has served as the Group Executive Director of Nutrimix Group, where he played a pivotal role in executing strategic initiatives. Earlier this year, Mohammed also stepped down as chairman of Caribbean Airlines, with attorney Reyna Kowlessar taking over the role. RFHL, the parent company of Republic Bank and its subsidiaries across the Caribbean and beyond, was established to enhance operational efficiency, strategic focus, and shareholder value. Mohammed’s departure marks a significant transition for the financial group, which continues to prioritize international best practices and diversified growth.
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Three players hit fifites, but rain spoils party in Super50 trials
The Trinidad and Tobago Red Force hopefuls faced a setback in their preparations for the upcoming CG United Super50 tournament as rain disrupted the National Senior 50-Overs Cup matches on October 8. At the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba, the Scarlet Blazers were in a strong position against the Cocrico Warriors, posting 271 for five in 43.3 overs before the weather intervened. Key contributions came from Jeremy Solozano, who scored a solid 76 off 81 balls, and captain Joshua Da Silva, who retired hurt after a brisk 57 off 46 deliveries. Vikash Mohan also impressed with a half-century, scoring 51 off 50 balls. However, the Blazers’ innings was cut short, leaving their momentum incomplete. Meanwhile, at the National Cricket Centre in Couva, the match between the Soca Strikers and Steelpan Titans was entirely washed out. Both teams had previously secured victories on the opening day of the tournament on October 4. The final preliminary round matches are now scheduled for October 15, with the Titans set to face the Warriors at the NCC and the Blazers taking on the Strikers at the BLCA. These matches serve as crucial preparation for players aiming to secure spots in the Red Force squad for the upcoming Super50 tournament.
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Patience Hill stay perfect, surge into Tobago T10 Windball semis
The Tobago T10 Community Windball Championship witnessed thrilling quarterfinal clashes on October 5 at Parade Grounds in Bacolet, Tobago, with Patience Hill Mumbai emerging as the standout team. Continuing their flawless run, Patience Hill secured a resounding 79-run victory over Buccoo United, advancing to the semifinals in style. The team’s top-order batsmen delivered a masterclass, propelling them to an imposing total of 160 for nine. Opener Ancil Nedd set the tone with a quickfire 25 off 11 balls, while Daveon Shangie (78 off 25) and Olando James (45 off 14) combined for a crucial 91-run partnership. Despite losing partners regularly, Shangie’s explosive innings, featuring five fours and eight sixes, ensured a dominant score. Buccoo United struggled in reply, managing only 81 for seven, with Elton Cruickshank (3 for 18) and Alana Smith (2 for 14) leading Patience Hill’s bowling attack. In other matches, Kabs Solutions Roxborough Gunners overpowered Betsys Hope Scrape Up, posting 133 for three and restricting their opponents to 62 for nine. Jahron Alfred’s 61 off 22 balls, including eight sixes, was the highlight. Meanwhile, Jade Monkey Belle Garden Cuzins and Goodwood Knight Riders also secured semifinal berths, with Shane Ali’s unbeaten 46 and Keron McPherson’s all-round performance (57 not out and 2 for 13) proving decisive.
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Magistrate wants clarity on time limit in Paria diving case
The legal proceedings surrounding the 2022 Paria diving tragedy have reached a critical juncture, with Deputy Chief Magistrate Brian Dabideen emphasizing the need to resolve the limitation period issue before further progress can be made. The case, involving charges under the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Act, stems from the deaths of four divers employed by Land and Marine Construction Services Ltd (LMCS), who were trapped in an underwater pipeline at Paria Fuel Trading Company Ltd’s Pointe-a-Pierre facility. A recent Privy Council ruling on September 16, addressing the limitation period under Sections 93 and 97B of the OSH Act, could determine whether the case proceeds or is dismissed. Dabideen stressed the importance of addressing this ruling first, noting that if the claims are deemed out of time, the case will end. However, if they are within the permissible period, the court will proceed to disclosure and trial. Senior Counsel Pamela Elder, representing the OSH Agency (OSHA), argued that the limitation period begins after the release of the Commission of Enquiry report, which was published on November 30, 2023. OSHA maintains that its complaint, filed on December 13, 2023, remains valid as it was initiated within six months of the report’s release. The Privy Council’s ruling clarified that the six-month limitation period applies to all criminal offences under the OSH Act, resolving a long-standing legal debate. This decision is expected to impact hundreds of pending cases, with Industrial Court President Heather Seale noting that approximately 400 OSH complaints had been stayed pending the judgment. The case also involves Paria Fuel Trading Company Ltd, represented by Senior Counsel Sophia Chote, and LMCS managing director Kazim Ali, represented by attorneys Dinesh Rambally and Renuka Rambhajan. Dabideen is expected to rule on submissions regarding the limitation period on December 12.
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Chairman of selectors : Red Force can win Super50 Cup
Rajendra Mangalie, the newly appointed chairman of the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board’s national selectors, has expressed confidence in the TT Red Force’s ability to clinch the Cricket West Indies (CWI) CG United Super50 Cup title. The tournament is set to commence in Trinidad this November, and Mangalie, a former opening batsman for Trinidad and Tobago, is optimistic about the team’s chances, particularly given their home advantage. Mangalie, who is joined on the selection committee by Frank Simmons, David Mohammed, Ricardo Paty, and head coach Rayad Emrit, emphasized the importance of assembling a balanced team to continue their proud record in the competition. The Red Force are the defending champions, having won the title in 2023 after a controversial finish last year saw the final forfeited by both Barbados Pride and Jamaica Scorpions. Mangalie highlighted the strong performances in the ongoing trial matches, noting the impressive contributions from players like Abdul-Raheem Toppin, Shaaron Lewis, and Tion Webster, who have already made their mark. He also praised the mix of youth and experience in the squad, which he believes will be crucial in maintaining their dominance in the limited-overs format. Despite the abundance of talent, Mangalie acknowledged the challenges of selecting the final squad but remains focused on giving Trinidad and Tobago the best chance to lift the trophy once more.
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Caribbean culture takes centre stage — Trinis illuminate Disney’s Diwali Dance Fest
The Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, is set to illuminate with the vibrant rhythms and cultural richness of Diwali as it hosts the Diwali Dance Fest 2025 from October 9 to 11. This three-day extravaganza will bring together hundreds of performers from across the globe, with a special spotlight on Caribbean artists, including Trinidad and Tobago-born creators and dancers. Among them are cultural ambassador Natasha Laggan and the Devyani School of Cultural Arts, a troupe featuring dancers of Trinidadian, Guyanese, and Jamaican descent. For Laggan, this event holds profound personal significance. ‘I’m honoured to have been invited to cover it,’ she shared. ‘Seeing the Caribbean represented in such a major celebration fills me with pride.’ Laggan will document the event for her global audience, describing it as ‘a true privilege’ to witness Caribbean artistry on such a prestigious stage. The Devyani School of Cultural Arts, founded in 2009, will perform a fusion of Bharatanatyam, Indian folk, and chutney dance. Founder Priya Persaud emphasized the cultural affirmation behind their performance, stating, ‘We’re not just performing – we’re representing, educating, and inspiring.’ The event, now in its third consecutive year, follows the success of the 2024 festival, which garnered international attention and featured performances by over 300 artists. This year’s festivities include a welcome party, an international dance showcase, and a grand Diwali parade, marking a powerful shift toward cultural inclusion and appreciation.