Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • CAL provides 3,200 more seats for Tobago carnival

    CAL provides 3,200 more seats for Tobago carnival

    In response to the soaring demand for the Tobago Carnival, the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) has announced a significant increase in flight capacity to facilitate smoother travel for both locals and tourists. From October 22 to 29, Caribbean Airlines Ltd (CAL) will add 3,200 extra seats to its existing inventory, supplementing the already available 18,792 seats. To support this expansion, an additional Boeing 737 aircraft will be deployed to enhance the airbridge between Trinidad and Tobago, alleviating travel congestion and ensuring more people can partake in the festivities.

    The decision to bolster air travel was the result of persistent advocacy by key figures, including Chief Secretary Farley Augustine, Tobago West MP Joel Sampson, Tobago East MP David Thomas, and Secretary for Culture and Antiquities Zorisha Hackett. In a media release on October 21, the THA also acknowledged the contributions of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, line minister Davendranath Tancoo, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Eli Zakour, and the CAL board. Their collaborative efforts have led to a tangible improvement in airlift services during one of Tobago’s most cherished cultural events, ensuring a seamless experience for all attendees.

  • Occupational therapy association aims to expand services in local healthcare

    Occupational therapy association aims to expand services in local healthcare

    As World Occupational Therapy Day approaches on October 27, the Trinidad and Tobago Occupational Therapy Association (TTOTA) is marking its 20th anniversary with a celebration of progress, inclusion, and advocacy. Under the theme “Occupational Therapy in Action,” the association is highlighting the transformative power of the profession in fostering independence and wellbeing for individuals of all ages.

  • Murally appointed Carib managing director

    Murally appointed Carib managing director

    In a landmark appointment, Leesa Murally has been named the first female managing director of Carib Brewery Ltd, a subsidiary of the Ansa McAL group, effective November 1. This historic move underscores the company’s commitment to diversity and leadership excellence. Murally, who currently serves as the beverage sector’s chief financial officer and corporate secretary to the board of Caribbean Development Company Ltd (CDC), brings a wealth of experience in finance, risk management, and corporate governance. Her career spans key roles at CDC and Witco, and she currently sits on the boards of CDC, Bayside Towers, and Community Chest. Murally’s academic credentials include an MBA in strategic planning from Heriot-Watt University, and she is a Fellow of the ACCA and a Certified Internal Auditor. Known for her people-centered leadership style, Murally has a proven track record of driving continuous improvement, fostering data-driven decision-making, and enhancing governance and cybersecurity. In addition to Murally’s appointment, Ansa McAL announced David Welch as the new managing director of AMCO, effective November 1. Welch, with over 25 years of experience in the FMCG industry, previously served as managing director of Carib Brewery and marketing director at CBL. The group expressed confidence that both leaders will play pivotal roles in advancing the beverage and distribution sectors’ growth and success.

  • Police have ‘no additional information’ on US threat

    Police have ‘no additional information’ on US threat

    Acting Police Commissioner Junior Benjamin has reassured the public that there is no immediate threat to Trinidad and Tobago (TT) following a security alert issued by the US Embassy. The embassy advised US nationals to avoid visiting US government facilities in TT during the Divali holiday weekend, citing a heightened state of alert. However, Benjamin emphasized that local intelligence does not indicate any specific danger to citizens or critical infrastructure. He stated that while the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) lacks additional information beyond what is publicly available, they have implemented proactive security measures to ensure safety. These measures include increased vigilance at police stations and regular checks on essential services such as the TT Electricity Commission (TTEC) and the Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA). Benjamin urged the public to remain calm, noting that there is no evidence of unusual activity within TT. Meanwhile, Finance Minister Dave Tancoo criticized the spread of misinformation on social media, particularly a false claim about a security alert at the Central Bank of TT. He dismissed the message as fake news and accused certain ‘news sources’ of inciting panic. Tancoo emphasized that any US actions toward Venezuela would be highly confidential and unlikely to be disclosed to local media. He encouraged the public to rely on credible sources for accurate information.

  • Trinidad and Tobago stands firm with US on regional security

    Trinidad and Tobago stands firm with US on regional security

    The government of Trinidad and Tobago (TT) has publicly diverged from Caricom’s collective stance on maintaining the Caribbean as a zone of peace, opting instead to support the United States’ military intervention in the region. This decision, announced on October 19, follows Caricom’s October 18 statement reaffirming the principle of regional peace, which noted TT’s reservation on the matter. The Caricom statement emphasized dialogue and international cooperation to combat narco-trafficking and illegal arms trade, while TT’s government expressed unwavering support for US-led operations aimed at curbing transnational crime. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has consistently endorsed US military presence in the southern Caribbean, citing the threat posed by criminal organizations. International relations experts have criticized TT’s stance, with some describing it as a setback for Caricom’s integration efforts. Meanwhile, the US has intensified its anti-narcotics operations, recently targeting a vessel allegedly linked to Colombia’s National Liberation Army (ELN), a group classified as a terrorist organization. The incident has raised concerns about regional stability and the potential for collateral damage in the ongoing US-Venezuela tensions.

  • Speyside top Tobago, book SSFL boys’ championship division ‘Big 5’ spot

    Speyside top Tobago, book SSFL boys’ championship division ‘Big 5’ spot

    The Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) boys’ championship division is reaching its climax, with several teams securing their positions in the highly anticipated ‘Big 5’ playoffs. Speyside Secondary has already clinched the top spot in the Tobago zone, cementing their place in the playoffs after a dominant 10-0 victory over Pentecostal Light and Life on October 17. In the east zone, Hillview College remains unbeaten with 21 points and a staggering +48 goal difference, setting the stage for a decisive clash against second-placed El Dorado East Secondary on October 21. Meanwhile, the central zone sees Presentation College Chaguanas leading with 24 points, though Chaguanas North Secondary has appealed the SSFL’s decision to award Presentation a 3-0 win for their abandoned September 22 match. The south zone is equally competitive, with Palo Seco Secondary holding a slim one-point lead over Pleasantville Secondary, who recently triumphed 3-1 against Siparia West Secondary. In the north, Mucurapo West and East Mucurapo Secondary are locked in a tight battle for the final playoff spot. As the final round of matches approaches, the SSFL Appeals Committee is set to rule on Chaguanas North’s appeal, adding further intrigue to an already thrilling season.

  • Prime Minister absent from Divali Nagar finale

    Prime Minister absent from Divali Nagar finale

    Amid escalating security concerns following a United States advisory to its citizens in Trinidad and Tobago, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar was conspicuously absent from the final night of Divali Nagar on October 19, where she was slated to deliver the keynote address. Despite multiple attempts by Newsday to reach her for comment, the Prime Minister remained unresponsive. Surujdeo Mangaroo, president of the National Council of Indian Culture (NCIC), which organized the nine-night event, indicated around 1 pm on Sunday that no security sweep had been conducted at the Chaguanas venue, suggesting Persad-Bissessar’s attendance was unlikely. Nevertheless, the NCIC implemented additional security measures as a precaution. Later that evening, ushers and NCIC members confirmed to the media that the Prime Minister would not be attending. In her Divali message, Mangaroo emphasized the importance of unity and harmony, urging citizens to strengthen the bonds that unite them. In a special message in the Divali Nagar 2025 commemorative magazine, Persad-Bissessar reflected on the event’s theme, ‘Loka Sangraha – the Welfare of the World,’ highlighting the need for compassion, justice, and peace in a world plagued by conflict and division. She underscored the nation’s commitment to building a society where every individual can live with dignity, opportunity, and hope. Meanwhile, tensions have been rising nationwide since the US deployed military assets off the Venezuelan coast to combat the drug trade. Persad-Bissessar has faced criticism for her support of US operations and her controversial statement advocating violent measures against drug runners. On October 18, the US Embassy in Port of Spain issued a social media alert warning of a heightened state of alert and advised its nationals to avoid US government facilities in Trinidad and Tobago. Rumors circulated that Persad-Bissessar and Attorney General John Jeremie had been relocated to safe houses, a claim denied by acting Commissioner of Police Junior Benjamin. Both Benjamin and Minister of National Security Roger Alexander acknowledged a credible threat but urged the public not to panic. Calls have grown for the Prime Minister to address the nation regarding the nature of the threat, particularly its connection to the US military presence in the southern Caribbean and potential risks to Trinidad and Tobago nationals. While Persad-Bissessar has remained publicly silent, she shared photographs on October 18 of herself and Foreign Affairs Minister Sean Sobers hosting US Embassy staff at a private Divali celebration at her home in Phillipine, South Trinidad—coinciding with the embassy’s alert.

  • Divali: The celebration of light for the enlightenment of life

    Divali: The celebration of light for the enlightenment of life

    Divali, also known as Deepavali or Deepamalika, is a festival that transcends borders, cultures, and generations, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Rooted in ancient scriptures, this sacred occasion carries a profound spiritual message: to live in the light, share it with others, and become a beacon of hope for the world. The clay lamp, or deya, serves as a powerful metaphor for the human body, with its flame representing the inner light of consciousness. Lighting a deya is a call to dispel ignorance, confusion, and negativity, fostering an awakening of awareness on personal, familial, social, and global levels.

    Historically, Divali has been celebrated as a divine victory across various epochs. From Lord Indra’s ascension as King of the heavens to the Pandavas’ triumph in the Mahabharat war, the festival has marked moments of enlightenment and renewal. In modern times, India’s independence in 1947 and the inauguration of the Sri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya in 2024 have further illuminated the nation’s journey toward freedom and unity. The lighting of millions of deyas across the globe underscores the festival’s universal appeal and its ability to unite people across cultures and creeds.

    In the postmodern era, humanity continues to grapple with challenges such as war, terrorism, and the proliferation of destructive weapons. Swami Brahma Swarupananda, founder of Brahma Vidya Peetham International, emphasizes that the true struggle lies within the human mind. The lighting of deyas symbolizes the eradication of inner turmoil, urging individuals and nations to embrace truth, compassion, and harmony. At Brahma Vidya Peetham, the celebration of Divali extends beyond the physical act of lighting lamps to fostering love and goodwill among neighbors, communities, and nations.

    In Trinidad and Tobago (TT), Divali is celebrated with immense devotion and cultural pride. The annual Divali Nagar in Chaguanas, established in 1986, attracts thousands, showcasing the community’s deep connection to its Indian heritage. This year, the festival’s radiance was further amplified by the Artificial Limb Fitment Camp inaugurated at the Diplomatic Centre, a collaborative effort led by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Indian High Commissioner Dr. Pradeep Rajpurohit. As the world celebrates Divali, Swami Brahma Swarupananda offers a heartfelt prayer for global peace, prosperity, and unity, urging humanity to live in the light and share it with all.

  • Acting President: Reflect on the spiritual meaning of Divali

    Acting President: Reflect on the spiritual meaning of Divali

    Acting President Wade Mark delivered a heartfelt national message in honor of Divali, the Festival of Lights, urging citizens to embrace the spiritual and communal significance of the celebration. Speaking on October 11, Mark highlighted the festival’s core themes of light triumphing over darkness, unity, and compassion. He emphasized that Divali, which commemorates the return of Lord Rama and Mother Sita to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile, symbolizes resilience, duty, and the enduring strength of family and community bonds. Mark described the lighting of deyas (oil lamps) as a powerful tradition that serves as a reminder of the ability of even a single light to dispel darkness. He encouraged citizens to embody this light by fostering love, understanding, and peace in their communities. The acting president also noted the widespread celebrations across the nation, with thousands illuminating their homes and businesses while offering prayers to Mother Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Mark called for both personal and national transformation, urging citizens to reflect on values such as freedom, integrity, truth, and justice. He emphasized that Divali’s true essence lies not only in lighting physical lamps but also in keeping one’s spiritual light radiant. Mark concluded his message by extending warm greetings on behalf of President Christine Kangaloo and his family, wishing the Hindu community and the nation a joyous and holy Divali. ‘May the joy and peace of Divali fill all homes throughout the nation. Shubh Divali!’ he said.

  • Aaron Jewan Singh: Imparting the light of musical wisdom

    Aaron Jewan Singh: Imparting the light of musical wisdom

    For Aaron Jewan Singh, a 51-year-old music instructor and guru, Divali represents the enlightenment of the spirit through knowledge. Born in Marabella, Trinidad and Tobago, Singh has dedicated over four decades to mastering and teaching Indian classical music. Today, he is celebrated as one of the nation’s most revered musicians, sharing his passion and expertise with students across Trinidad, Canada, and the United States. This Divali, Singh’s mission is to ensure that the light of cultural knowledge continues to shine brightly, preserving the rich heritage of Indian classical and chutney music. To mark the occasion, he has released a new song titled *Happy Divali*. Singh believes that Divali symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, equating that light with wisdom. Through his teachings and compositions, he sees himself as lighting a metaphorical *deya* (oil lamp) in the world, spreading hope and inspiration. Singh’s journey began in a musically rich household. His parents, both accomplished musicians, immersed him in rhythm and melody from a young age. By the age of five, he was already performing publicly, accompanying renowned vocalists on the *dholak*, a traditional hand drum. His talent quickly earned him recognition, and by his teens, he was a sought-after accompanist for top performers across the Caribbean and North America. Despite facing cultural and financial challenges after migrating to the U.S. in 1997, Singh remained steadfast in his commitment to music. In 2019, he co-founded the Trinidad Classical Music Foundation (TCM) with Priya Paray, a young singer dedicated to mastering Trinidad’s classical traditions. Through TCM, Singh mentors a new generation of musicians, ensuring that the rhythms of Trinidad continue to resonate globally. His dream is to leave a lasting legacy, keeping the music and culture alive for future generations. This Divali, Singh sends a message of hope and unity, urging everyone to celebrate the festival as a symbol of renewal and strength.