Agostini Ltd has once again postponed the closing date for its acquisition bid of Prestige Holdings Ltd, the local operator of prominent franchises including KFC, TGI Fridays, Subway, and Starbucks. This marks the fourth extension, with the new deadline now set for November 18. The announcement was made public on October 21 through a notice in local newspapers and on the Trinidad and Tobago Stock Exchange website. According to the notice, the delay is intended to allow for the completion of all necessary regulatory approvals, particularly the merger application submitted to the TT Fair Trade Commission. The initial share-swap proposal, introduced in June, offered one Agostini share for every 4.8 Prestige Holdings shares. Agostini has committed to purchasing all deposited shares within the timeframe mandated by securities law. The original closing date was July 20, with subsequent extensions pushing the deadline to August 5, September 5, and October 21. Agostini CEO Barry Davis previously cited delays in the share-swap process, attributing them to issues such as misplaced share certificates and the passing of some shareholders. Despite these challenges, Agostini confirmed on September 10 that it had secured the minimum shareholding required to proceed with the takeover.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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NCIC: Divali Nagar successful, incident-free
The final night of the Divali Nagar in Chaguanas on October 19 was a resounding success, despite adverse weather conditions that caused temporary flooding. Surujdeo Mangaroo, president of the National Council for Indian Culture (NCIC), expressed his delight at the large turnout, particularly among young people and families. He emphasized the event’s incident-free nature and the organization’s commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for all attendees. Mangaroo noted that while the flooding was a minor setback, it was quickly managed, and the event proceeded smoothly. He also mentioned the absence of the Prime Minister, who has traditionally attended the closing night, but acknowledged her continued support for cultural events. Mangaroo extended his gratitude to all participants, including vendors, service providers, and the media, for their contributions to the successful celebration of Divali.
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Trinidad and Tobago grouped with Mexico for 2026 Concacaf U-17 Men’s qualifiers
Trinidad and Tobago’s under-17 men’s football team has been placed in a challenging group for the 2026 Concacaf Under-17 Men’s Qualifiers, which will determine the participants for the FIFA Under-17 Men’s World Cup. The draw, held on October 21, placed TT in Group A alongside regional powerhouse Mexico, as well as Barbados, Saint Martin, and Sint Maarten. The qualifiers are scheduled to take place from February 3 to 12, with TT serving as one of the six host nations, alongside Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Panama, and St Vincent and the Grenadines. A total of eight groups have been formed, with each team playing against every other team in their group once. The top team from each group will secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA Under-17 World Cup. Trinidad and Tobago, ranked 15th in Concacaf’s Men’s Under-17 rankings as of April 2025, were placed in Pot 2 prior to the draw. This marks a critical opportunity for the Shawn Cooper-coached team, which narrowly missed qualification for the 2025 World Cup after finishing as runners-up to Costa Rica in their group earlier this year. Mexico, a dominant force in the region, has already secured its place in the 2025 World Cup, set to be held in Qatar from November 3 to 27. The upcoming qualifiers will test TT’s resilience and determination as they aim to make their mark on the international stage.
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Ag CoP: Nothing suspicious around US offices last weekend
Acting Commissioner of Police Junior Benjamin has reassured the public that no suspicious activities have been detected around the US Embassy in Trinidad and Tobago (TT), despite a recent advisory urging US citizens to avoid visiting US facilities during the Divali long weekend. Speaking to Newsday on October 20, Benjamin emphasized that the police intelligence has not identified any threats that warrant panic. He attributed the advisory solely to the US government’s precautionary measures for its citizens.
At 5 pm on October 20, the US Embassy confirmed via its website and social media that it would remain open on October 21, with visa appointments and citizen services proceeding as scheduled. The embassy also encouraged US citizens to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive timely alerts and updates.
Benjamin noted that while the situation remains calm, the police force has maintained a heightened state of alert in response to the embassy’s warning. He highlighted that increased police presence across the country has contributed to a notable reduction in the homicide rate over the weekend. As of October 16, the number of homicides for the month stood at 28, compared to 29 in the same period last year. By October 20, the figure had risen to 31, still significantly lower than the 37 recorded in 2024. Year-to-date, the total number of murders is 302, a substantial decrease from last year’s 511.
Benjamin expressed optimism about the ongoing efforts to reduce crime, stating, ‘If we keep pushing forward, we are heading in the right direction to achieve one of the highest reductions so far.’ He emphasized the importance of maintaining police visibility, targeting priority offenders, and fostering a collaborative relationship with the community.
The US Embassy had earlier issued a Facebook post on October 18, advising US nationals to avoid all US government facilities in TT, remain vigilant, and monitor reputable news sources. It also reminded travelers to ensure they possess a valid US passport and report any suspicious activities.
In a brief statement to Newsday, Defence Minister Wayne Sturge sought to allay public concerns, stating, ‘The Trinidadian public needn’t worry.’ Additionally, Benjamin dismissed unverified social media rumors claiming that the Prime Minister, Attorney General, and US officials were hiding in safe houses, asserting that investigations found no truth to these claims.
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Trini in US boat strike related to dead gang leader
A recent US military strike targeting an alleged Venezuelan drug boat has left two Trinidad and Tobago (TT) citizens dead, including Chad Joseph, a resident of Las Cuevas. The incident, which occurred on October 14 in international waters off Venezuela’s coast, has sparked controversy as Joseph’s family questions the relevance of his familial ties to the deceased drug lord Vaughn “Sandman” Mieres. Joseph, believed to be among the six men killed in the strike, was Mieres’ nephew. Mieres, a notorious figure, was charged during the 2011 state of emergency as a gang leader but was released due to insufficient evidence. He was later killed in a 2019 attack on his fortified home. Joseph’s aunt, Lynette Burnley, emphasized that Joseph had distanced himself from his past and was leading a normal life, urging the public not to tarnish his character. Meanwhile, Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of Homeland Security, Roger Alexander, has advised Joseph’s family to file a missing person’s report, referencing a 2018 incident where Joseph was arrested on a drug-carrying vessel. This strike marks the fifth such operation by the US in its campaign against alleged narco-traffickers in the southern Caribbean, with the death toll now exceeding 30. Survivors from the latest strike, two men from Colombia and Ecuador, have been repatriated to their respective countries.
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TTPFL 2025/26 season launched, TTFA VP: ‘This is the heartbeat of TT football’
The Trinidad and Tobago Premier Football League (TTPFL) has officially launched its 2025/26 season, marking the fourth year under its current banner. The league, described by TTFA third vice-president Jameson Rigues as the ‘heartbeat of TT football,’ aims to strengthen the nation’s men’s football team by fostering a robust local competition. The season was unveiled at the Hasely Crawford Stadium’s VIP lounge in Mucurapo on October 19, with the action set to commence on October 24 at the Dwight Yorke Stadium in Bacolet, Tobago. The opening double-header will feature San Juan Jabloteh vs. Miscellaneous Police FC at 6 pm, followed by Terminix La Horquetta Rangers vs. 1976 FC Phoenix at 8 pm. For Phoenix, this season offers a chance to reconnect with their Tobago fanbase after playing the entirety of the 2024/25 campaign without home fixtures. They are scheduled to feature in at least six Bacolet double-headers by early January. Reigning champions Defence Force, who enjoyed an unbeaten run last season, will begin their title defense against 2023/24 winners AC Port of Spain at the Arima Velodrome on October 25. Meanwhile, last season’s runners-up, MIC Central FC Reboot, will face cellar-placed Point Fortin Civic on October 26 at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva. The league, running from October 2025 to March 2026, plans to introduce a knockout tournament alongside the First Citizens Cup, which Defence Force successfully defended last season. Acting CEO Yale Antoine also revealed intentions to implement promotion and relegation at the season’s end, with both on-field and off-field performance being considered. However, clubs with teams in both tiers—Police, Defence Force, Prisons, and Eagles—will be exempt from this system. The prize structure remains unchanged, pending Cabinet approval, with winners receiving $150,000, runners-up $90,000, and third-placed teams $50,000. Rigues emphasized the TTPFL’s role in youth development, unity, and providing a pathway for aspiring footballers. He stated, ‘When our local leagues thrive, our national teams thrive. And when our national teams thrive, our people stand taller.’ The league continues to attract sponsors, including ADM, KFC, and Stag, with efforts ongoing to enhance branding and marketing.
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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) reflects on 20 years of transformative work under this year’s theme, ‘Occupational Therapy in Action.’ Khamara-Lani Tarradath, TTOTA’s chairman, emphasizes the importance of focusing on shared humanity and strengths rather than differences, advocating for inclusive and accessible environments where everyone can thrive. Occupational therapy, a healthcare profession dedicated to helping individuals of all ages engage fully in daily activities, has evolved significantly since TTOTA’s inception in 2004. Founded by four pioneers—Lesley Garcia, Neela Ojar, Rosemary Green, and Margaret Hussain—the association has grown into a national force, influencing health policies and promoting accessibility, rehabilitation, and community inclusion. Over the years, TTOTA has achieved milestones such as launching the first master’s degree in occupational therapy at the University of the Southern Caribbean, hosting regional conferences, and initiating community projects like Team HOPE, which raised over $200,000. Despite these successes, challenges remain, including financial barriers, limited public sector positions, and public misunderstanding of the profession. Shaianne Pemberton, TTOTA’s public relations officer, highlights the need for increased government funding, expanded public sector roles, and greater public education to strengthen the impact of occupational therapy. The association continues to advocate for its members while advancing national healthcare goals, focusing on improving access to therapy services and enhancing health literacy. To mark its 20th anniversary, TTOTA will host its first-ever awards ceremony on November 26, celebrating outstanding contributions to the field. Additionally, the association is supporting a Caregiver Health Fair at St Ann’s Psychiatric Hospital on November 1, empowering caregivers of individuals with disabilities. Looking ahead, TTOTA envisions a future where occupational therapy is widely recognized, accessible, and integrated across health, education, and community services, with growth in non-traditional roles such as corporate wellness, disaster relief, and sports rehabilitation. The public is encouraged to support the field by engaging with TTOTA’s outreach events, attending awareness sessions, or contributing through donations and volunteerism.
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St Lucian Olympic champ Alfred launches jewellery line
GROS ISLET: A unique jewellery collection celebrating the achievements of Olympic champion Julien Alfred has been unveiled, with proceeds dedicated to supporting her charitable foundation. The “Julien Alfred Legacy Collection,” crafted by Eleanor Prospere, founder of Fearless Jewellery, was officially launched at a fundraising event for the Julien Alfred Foundation on October 11. The foundation is committed to nurturing the development of young athletes in St Lucia, Alfred’s home country. Inspired by Alfred’s gold medal-winning performance in the 100-metre sprint at the Paris 2024 Olympics, the collection includes unisex bracelets, earrings, and necklaces. Each piece is designed around the shape of the Olympic medal and incorporates symbols of St Lucian national pride, such as the flag and the national flower. “Her victory was transformative for St Lucia. She has truly put our nation on the global stage,” Prospere shared with the St Lucia Times. “I wanted to create something that would allow everyone to celebrate her success.” After receiving approval from Alfred and her manager, Prospere personally financed and produced the collection. The launch aligns with the establishment of Alfred’s foundation, ensuring her legacy inspires and supports the next generation of athletes. CMC
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Reopening the hotel school
The Trinidad and Tobago Hospitality and Tourism Institute (TTHTI), once a cornerstone of the nation’s hospitality sector, is set to reopen following an announcement by the Finance Minister. This move has reignited hope for the revitalization of an industry that has long struggled with systemic challenges. The institution, located in Chaguaramas, was abruptly closed in 2020, ostensibly due to COVID-19 restrictions. However, the closure was merely the culmination of years of financial neglect, administrative mismanagement, and dwindling government support. The TTHTI had been grappling with unpaid subventions totaling $13.17 million, and its registration with the Accreditation Council remained incomplete, raising concerns about the transferability of student records. Despite efforts by some students to transfer to the Tobago Hospitality and Tourism Institute, the abrupt shutdown left many in limbo. The closure also drew criticism from then-Education Minister Dr. Nyan Gadsby-Dolly, though no concrete action was taken to address the issue. Over its 48-year history, the TTHTI had not only trained aspiring hospitality professionals but also offered popular short courses in culinary arts to individuals of all ages. Its graduates played a pivotal role in initiatives like the School Feeding Programme and went on to establish successful businesses in the hospitality sector. The Finance Minister’s pledge to reopen the institute must go beyond mere restoration; it demands a comprehensive modernization of the facility to align with the evolving needs of the industry. This revival could serve as a critical step in the broader agenda of economic diversification, ensuring that the hospitality sector remains a vital contributor to the nation’s economy.
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Sneaky Cheeky set to fly at Santa Rosa
The Santa Rosa Park in Arima is set to host a thrilling day of horse racing on October 25, 2025, with the highlight being the Fly Junior Sprint, a Grade Three contest over 1,100 metres on the turf course. This penultimate event of the racing season has attracted a competitive field of five thoroughbreds, with the American-bred Sneaky Cheeky emerging as the pre-race favorite. The race will also feature three other American-bred runners, including Midnight Lover, El Chico Malo, Striking Chrome, and The Goddess Nike, each representing top trainers and owners in the industry. Additionally, the day will mark the first juvenile contest of the season, a 1,000-metre race on the main track, featuring three promising two-year-olds. Barbadian apprentice rider Raheem Thorpe, the leading apprentice for the 2025 Barbados racing season, has secured four rides on the six-race card, including the feature event aboard Sneaky Cheeky. The racing action is scheduled to commence at 12:45 pm, promising an exciting day for turfites and punters alike.