In a significant move to enhance economic fairness and regional representation, Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo announced that the government will soon appoint a majority of directors at Republic Bank Ltd. This announcement was made during the presentation of the 2025/2026 national budget at the Red House on October 13. Minister Tancoo emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring that Tobago’s interests are represented on the boards of major financial institutions, including Republic Bank Ltd, First Citizens Bank, and Eximbank. He proudly stated that each of these boards will include a Tobago union-based presence, reflecting the government’s dedication to regional inclusivity. Currently, Republic Bank Ltd’s board includes chairman Vincent Pereira, president and managing director Nigel Baptiste, and directors Trevor Gomez, Edward Ince, Jacqueline HC Quamina, Caroline Toni Sirju-Ramnarine, Kristine Thompson, and Gregory Thomson. Republic Bank Ltd is a subsidiary of Republic Financial Holdings Ltd (RFHL), which recently saw the resignation of two directors: Shameer Ronnie Mohammed on October 3 and Waltnel Sosa on October 7. This strategic move by the government aims to strengthen governance and ensure equitable representation across the nation’s financial sector.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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Cool It, Xclusive win in Big Ballers Football League
The Big Ballers Football League witnessed another thrilling round of matches on October 11, with Cool It FC and Xclusive FC delivering standout performances. Cool It FC continued their unbeaten streak with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over 1st Engineer Battalion at the Northeastern Regional Multipurpose Sporting Facility in Sangre Grande. The decisive moment came in the second half when Ryan ‘Frye’ Stewart showcased his brilliance with a perfectly executed free kick, securing the win and maintaining their reputation as the league’s most formidable defense.
Meanwhile, Xclusive FC bounced back from their previous defeat with an emphatic 5-1 triumph over Boys Town Strikers. Despite a competitive first half, Xclusive capitalized on a turnover to score the opening goal. Boys Town briefly equalized after the break, but Xclusive quickly regained control, netting three more goals in rapid succession to seal their dominance.
In other league action, Manzanilla Challengers Rebirth defeated Dream Team 3-1, with Jerry Williams, Josimar Belgrave, and Darkeil Ferreira finding the net. Seed of Greatness Biche also impressed, overpowering Eastern County 4-2 with an early goal surge led by Shirvin Charles, Derrick Ali, and Nicholas Lanes.
The league continues on October 17 and 18, with key matchups including Cool It FC vs Dream Team and Seed of Greatness vs Xclusive FC, promising more excitement for football enthusiasts.
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A lesson in consequences, or Bravo, Jim Gavin
The southern Caribbean finds itself in a precarious position, caught between two volatile forces: the United States under its controversial former President Donald Trump and Venezuela led by its embattled leader Nicolás Maduro. Trinidad and Tobago (TT), seemingly powerless to influence the situation, faces a diplomatic dilemma. The Prime Minister’s strategy of picking a side and hoping for the best lacks inspiration, while neutrality risks alienating both parties. The region’s fate appears to hinge on developments beyond its control, leaving little room for meaningful intervention. Amid this uncertainty, attention shifts to Ireland, where a presidential election offers a glimmer of hope for political accountability. The race, now a two-person contest between Catherine Connolly and Heather Humphreys, was briefly disrupted by the withdrawal of Jim Gavin, a former Gaelic football star. Gavin’s exit followed revelations of an unpaid debt dating back to 2009, when a tenant accidentally overpaid rent. Despite repeated requests for repayment, Gavin failed to return the money, a decision that resurfaced during his presidential campaign. His abrupt withdrawal, though causing a minor political stir, stands in stark contrast to the global trend of shameless political behavior. From Argentina’s President Javier Milei, accused of nepotism and corruption, to Donald Trump’s continued political success despite multiple legal and ethical controversies, the bar for public office seems alarmingly low. Gavin’s decision to step down, albeit under pressure, offers a rare example of accountability in public life. While some argue his actions reflect his lack of political experience, others see it as a hopeful sign that integrity still matters. Ireland’s election process itself is noteworthy, as the presidency, though largely ceremonial, is determined by direct public vote rather than parliamentary appointment. This democratic exercise underscores the importance of accountability and responsibility in governance, lessons that resonate far beyond Ireland’s borders.
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EOC supports Jaipur Foot Centre in Trinidad and Tobago: Walking toward equality
In a landmark move toward social justice and inclusion, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has announced the establishment of a Jaipur Foot Artificial Limb Fitment Centre in Trinidad and Tobago (TT). This initiative, unveiled during a ceremony at the Diplomatic Centre in St. Ann’s on October 3, underscores the government’s commitment to restoring independence and dignity to individuals with disabilities. The Jaipur Foot Organisation, renowned globally for its cost-effective and innovative prosthetic solutions, has already transformed millions of lives worldwide. By bringing this model to TT, the nation takes a significant step toward ensuring free, world-class prosthetic services for its citizens. This project transcends healthcare, embodying a broader vision of equity and social participation. It aligns with the Equal Opportunity Commission’s (EOC) mandate to combat discrimination and promote equal opportunities for all, particularly for those with disabilities, who are protected under the Equal Opportunity Act. The centre will not only provide medical support but also empower individuals to rejoin the workforce, pursue education, and engage fully in their communities. The initiative’s far-reaching benefits include economic empowerment, emotional well-being, and national development, as restored mobility enables individuals to contribute meaningfully to society. The project is a testament to international collaboration, with the TT government partnering with India’s government and the Jaipur Foot Organisation. This partnership emphasizes sustainability through knowledge transfer and local capacity building. The EOC lauds this effort as part of a broader national strategy to foster inclusion, urging employers and educational institutions to embrace accessibility and diversity. The establishment of the Jaipur Foot Centre is a moral and national achievement, reflecting TT’s commitment to treating its most vulnerable members with dignity and respect. It serves as a reminder that investing in people’s potential strengthens the nation’s future. The EOC encourages citizens to celebrate this progress while continuing to address challenges to ensure every individual in TT has the opportunity to thrive.
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Tancoo’s budget theme: Promises made, promises delivered
The Trinidad and Tobago government has unveiled its 2025/2026 national budget under the theme “Promises made, promises delivered,” emphasizing its commitment to fulfilling election pledges. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo, delivering his maiden budget speech, highlighted the government’s focus on national development and improving citizens’ lives. The budget, described as a realignment of objectives towards a TT-first policy, is structured around five strategic pillars: restoring fiscal stability, unlocking productive investments, commercializing public assets, modernizing infrastructure and digital services, and enhancing social investment and safety nets. Tancoo reiterated the government’s mandate, granted by the people on April 28, to drive sustainable outcomes across the nation. The presentation was met with enthusiastic approval from government officials, signaling confidence in the budget’s potential impact.
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The No Man’s Land challenge
The Buccoo Marine Park and No Man’s Land in Tobago face mounting environmental challenges, with a recent incident on October 5 underscoring the urgent need for stricter enforcement of ecological preservation measures. A party boat sank in the shallow waters off No Man’s Land, highlighting the fragility of this treasured ecosystem. This secluded area, accessible primarily by boat, is a Ramsar-listed Wetland of International Importance, renowned for its unique blend of freshwater and saltwater habitats. Since the 1990s, it has become a popular destination for glass-bottom boat tours, barbeques, and festivities. However, the delicate ecology of No Man’s Land is gradually degrading due to unchecked tourism and a lack of formal regulations. Currently, beach use is governed by an informal gentleman’s agreement among visitors, but recent violent incidents, including a stabbing in August 2024 and a bloody brawl in July, have shaken this sense of shared responsibility. Concerned for client safety, reef tour operators are increasingly omitting No Man’s Land from their itineraries. Unlike natural threats such as coral bleaching or lionfish invasions, the enforcement of a code of practice among tour operators falls within the Tobago House of Assembly’s (THA) jurisdiction. To preserve the sanctity of this peaceful location amidst Tobago’s growing tourism industry, collaboration among marine experts, tour operators, and visitors is essential. A sustainable approach, focused on conservation and mindful use of this fragile ecosystem, must be prioritized.
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ASYCUDA system to undergo full upgrade
The Ministry of Finance in Trinidad and Tobago has announced a comprehensive upgrade to the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA), set to be operational within the next 18 months. The enhanced system will introduce digital payment capabilities, aiming to modernize and streamline international trade processes. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo unveiled the plans during the budget presentation at the Red House on September 13. The upgrade is expected to minimize manual intervention, improve risk assessment, and expedite customs clearance, with a target of transferring goods between private bonded warehouses within 24 hours. Additionally, the system will support full valuation capabilities, electronic declarations, and integration with the court system. The project is a collaborative effort between the Trinidad and Tobago government and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), supported by a steering committee comprising public and private stakeholders. This initiative follows a major system disruption in July, which caused significant financial losses for businesses due to prolonged downtime.
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Six vie for TTUTA presidency: Candidate urges teachers to go out and vote
Anderson Zoe, a sports and physical education teacher at Matelot Community School, is among the six candidates competing for the presidency of the Trinidad and Tobago Unified Teachers’ Association (TTUTA). The election, scheduled for October 14, marks Zoe’s first foray into the TTUTA campaign trail. He is running as an independent candidate, emphasizing the need for a paradigm shift in the union’s leadership to empower teachers and address their concerns more effectively. Zoe’s campaign focuses on fostering greater teacher involvement through town hall-style meetings, both in-person and online, where educators can voice their opinions and propose solutions. He also highlights the importance of confidentiality for those who prefer private discussions. Zoe’s platform is primarily promoted through social media, as he funds his campaign out-of-pocket, describing it as a ‘weak financial campaign’ but one that has garnered significant support from teachers. Born and raised in Matelot, Zoe has a strong educational background, including studies at Valsayn Teachers College and the University of the West Indies. He is also a certified mediator and sports administrator. Zoe’s candidacy is driven by his belief that the union’s leadership has failed to address critical issues such as salary upgrades, promotions, allowances, and Unimed insurance. He also stresses the need for TTUTA to play a more active role in addressing school violence, advocating for a collaborative approach between the union and the Ministry of Education. Zoe urges teachers to vote for the change they wish to see in the union.
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Divali activities brighten up Felicity Hindu School
At Felicity Hindu School in Trinidad and Tobago, the annual inter-school decorating competition on October 9 showcased the creativity and cultural pride of its students in preparation for Divali, the Hindu festival of lights. The event, attended by Newsday Kids, featured students from infants to Standard Five participating in various age-appropriate activities. Infant students colored printouts of deyas (traditional oil lamps), while older students engaged in more complex projects such as decorating clay deyas, creating Divali wreaths, and designing kalsa sets used in puja rituals. Principal Denesh Bhagwandeen emphasized the importance of Divali to the predominantly Hindu student body, many of whom also participate in local Ramleela re-enactments. The competition not only allowed students to express their artistic talents but also reinforced their cultural heritage. Projects were judged fairly, with the best designs selected for display during the school’s Divali program on October 16. The school will also host a Divali puja on October 17, further celebrating this significant festival.
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Speaker Singh: PNM claims that I am biased are unfounded
House Speaker Jagdeo Singh has firmly rejected accusations leveled against him by the Opposition People’s National Movement (PNM), labeling them as baseless. The controversy erupted during a parliamentary session on October 10, when the PNM staged a walkout in protest against Singh’s alleged partiality in presiding over the House of Representatives. The debate centered on the motion to appoint Junior Benjamin as Acting Commissioner of Police (CoP) and ACP Kurt Simon as Acting Deputy Commissioner, necessitated by the absence of CoP Allister Guevarro and DCP Suzette Martin, who are attending an international police chiefs conference in Denver, Colorado. In a statement issued shortly after the walkout, the PNM accused Singh of exhibiting a consistent pattern of biased and prejudicial behavior, claiming that his rulings unfairly favor government members while penalizing opposition members. Singh, however, dismissed these allegations in a brief response to Newsday on October 12, stating, “I think it’s unfounded, in my view. Beyond that, I don’t think it’s appropriate for me to further comment on the business of the Parliament in the public domain.” The incident has reignited tensions between the government and the opposition, raising questions about the impartiality of parliamentary proceedings.