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标签： Trinidad and Tobago

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  • Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Wednesday January 21st 2026

    Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Wednesday January 21st 2026

    The global dietary supplement sector is confronting intensified examination as regulatory bodies and consumer advocacy groups raise pressing questions about product effectiveness and safety oversight. This multi-billion dollar industry, which has experienced exponential growth over the past decade, now stands at a critical juncture regarding standardization and transparency practices.

    Recent developments indicate regulatory agencies are considering strengthened monitoring protocols for supplement manufacturers following numerous consumer reports of inconsistent ingredient quality and misleading marketing claims. The industry’s current regulatory framework, which differs significantly from pharmaceutical oversight, permits products to reach market without mandatory pre-approval regarding efficacy or purity verification.

    Medical professionals have expressed particular concern about potential interactions between supplements and prescription medications, noting that many consumers operate under the mistaken assumption that “natural” automatically equates to safety. Research institutions have initiated several longitudinal studies to better understand both the benefits and risks associated with common supplement ingredients.

    Industry representatives emphasize their commitment to quality control while maintaining that dietary supplements play a valuable role in supporting overall wellness when used appropriately. Many companies have voluntarily implemented third-party testing and quality certification programs to address consumer safety concerns.

    The ongoing debate highlights the complex balance between preserving consumer access to wellness products while ensuring adequate protection against potentially harmful or ineffective substances. This conversation has gained renewed urgency as supplement usage continues to expand across diverse demographic groups.

  • TTPS promotes 9 senior officers

    TTPS promotes 9 senior officers

    In a significant organizational development, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) has elevated nine officers to higher leadership positions through a formal promotion ceremony held on January 19 at the Solomon McLeod Theatre in Port of Spain. The event marked the advancement of five officers to superintendent and four to senior superintendent ranks, signaling a strategic strengthening of the police service’s command structure.

    The ceremony witnessed the presence of key dignitaries including Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander—a former senior superintendent himself—Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro, several Deputy Commissioners, and Ishmael Pitt, president of the TTPS Social Welfare Association. Minister Alexander personally presented the letters of appointment to the promoted officers during the proceedings.

    Commissioner Guevarro addressed attendees, emphasizing the critical importance of leadership in the TTPS’s ongoing transformational journey. He revealed that 2025 had become a pivotal year for the service, with documented substantial reductions in major crime categories—including a remarkable 42% decrease in homicides alongside significant declines in shootings, larcenies, and burglaries. The commissioner attributed these improvements to the dedication and sacrifices of officers who have committed extensive time to public safety, often at the expense of personal commitments.

    Pitt acknowledged the commissioner’s efforts in creating enhanced advancement opportunities within the organization, characterizing the developments as ‘changing the gear’ of the TTPS. He further encouraged the newly promoted officers to maintain attentiveness to colleague welfare as they assume greater leadership responsibilities.

    The newly promoted senior superintendents are Alva Gordon, Geoffrey Hospedales, Karen Lancaster-Ellis, and Sean Dhillpaul. Those elevated to superintendent include Mulchan Nanan, Heeraman Singh, Edgar Baird, Mark Joseph, and Mario Robain.

    The TTPS maintains a structured ranking system comprising ten positions, ranging from police constable to commissioner, with promoted officers now occupying critical middle-management roles that bridge strategic planning and operational execution.

  • Attzs warns: Some communities in zones could be stigmatised

    Attzs warns: Some communities in zones could be stigmatised

    Independent Senator Dr. Marlene Attzs has raised significant concerns about potential stigmatization effects of Trinidad and Tobago’s proposed anti-crime legislation during parliamentary debates on January 21. The Law Reform (Zones of Special Operations) Bill 2026 aims to establish special security zones in high-crime communities under joint police-military command with social transformation councils.

    Dr. Attzs, an economist and university lecturer, articulated that well-intentioned crime prevention measures could inadvertently brand entire communities as criminal hotspots. She emphasized the risk of collateral damage to law-abiding citizens, including hard-working parents, ambitious students, and elderly residents who have endured decades of hardship.

    The senator specifically highlighted concerns regarding Clause 24, which grants security forces authority to require personal information disclosure within designated zones. While operationally understandable, she warned that indiscriminate use of such powers could create perceptions of permanent suspicion against entire neighborhoods.

    Citing international research, Dr. Attzs demonstrated that community stigmatization often persists long after special operations conclude. This labeling effect manifests through employer hesitation, banking discrimination, educational biases, and internalized psychological impacts on children who begin believing their origins determine their future potential.

    Her arguments referenced a 2024 Trinidad and Tobago Criminal Dynamics study by criminologist Dr. Randy Seepersad, which identified over 180 active gangs involving approximately 1,700 individuals. The research indicated that nearly 40% of murders are gang-related and emphasized that enforcement alone cannot dismantle criminal networks without sustained social intervention, youth engagement, and economic inclusion.

    While acknowledging the real fear of crime affecting citizens’ daily lives—including business closures, community retreats behind gates, and normalization of violence among youth—Dr. Attzs cautioned against short-term thinking. She stressed that urgency in addressing crime must not override constitutional duties and reasoned policymaking, emphasizing that the fundamental question is whether these zones can suppress violence lawfully while producing lasting stability rather than temporary calm.

  • Man dead, woman injured after high-speed chase

    Man dead, woman injured after high-speed chase

    A high-speed police pursuit turned fatal on January 20 when a vehicle crashed into a drainage canal in St Augustine, resulting in one fatality and leaving a female passenger fighting for her life. The dramatic incident unfolded within minutes, beginning in Maloney around 2 pm and concluding at the intersection of Dooksingh Street and Bassie Street Extension.

    Law enforcement officials have identified the deceased driver as Joshua Samaroo. The critically injured woman, reportedly from Bamboo Settlement in Valsayn, remains unidentified as authorities continue their investigation. Both individuals were urgently transported to the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex in Mt Hope following the collision.

    Eyewitness accounts describe a white Toyota Aqua submerged in a shallow drainage ditch at the scene, which was subsequently recovered by police tow services. Patrol officers indicated they initiated pursuit after receiving critical information through police communications systems.

    While the precise circumstances triggering the chase remain under investigation, police sources confirmed the discovery of a Glock handgun within the vehicle. The recovery of the weapon suggests potential criminal activity preceding the pursuit, though official statements await completion of forensic analysis.

    The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service has launched a comprehensive investigation into the incident, examining both the events leading to the pursuit and the circumstances of the crash itself. The case has drawn attention to police pursuit protocols and public safety considerations during high-speed interventions.

  • Pregnant woman shot dead

    Pregnant woman shot dead

    In a tragic incident that unfolded on January 21st in Arouca, a pregnant woman believed to be a Venezuelan national was fatally shot when an unidentified gunman opened fire on a group of individuals gathered beneath a shed. The victim, reportedly in her third trimester of pregnancy, succumbed to her injuries shortly after being transported to Arima Hospital.

    Eyewitness accounts indicate the shooting occurred approximately at 1:00 PM along Garden Road. The deceased was seated with her partner and several others when the assailant initiated gunfire. While the pregnant woman was struck, the remainder of the group managed to flee the scene unharmed. Law enforcement officials have preliminarily indicated that the victim was likely not the intended target of the attack, though the precise motive remains undetermined.

    Personnel from the Homicide Bureau of Investigations (Region Two) have launched a comprehensive investigation into the matter. Forensic teams were documented collecting evidence at the crime scene as part of ongoing efforts to identify the perpetrator. This incident highlights continuing concerns regarding public safety and gun violence in the region.

  • Pan American Life: Putting humanity into digitisation

    Pan American Life: Putting humanity into digitisation

    In an era of rapid technological transformation, Pan American Life Insurance Group is making strategic investments to enhance digital capabilities while maintaining the essential human element that defines the insurance industry. During a media conference at Hyatt Regency in Port of Spain on January 20, company executives outlined their vision for balancing technological innovation with personalized customer relationships.

    The insurance giant, operating across 22 countries with over 2,200 employees, announced plans to invest approximately $4 million in two new digital tools scheduled for release in 2026. The first tool targets corporate clients by streamlining claims processing, while the second implements ‘straight through processing’ technology that automates end-to-end workflows including underwriting and data entry.

    Executive Vice President of International Markets Daniel Costello emphasized that these advancements would position the company competitively. ‘These tools are critical to move forward,’ Costello stated. ‘We’re not just keeping pace with competitors—we’re setting new standards for customer satisfaction.’

    Despite the digital push, executives stressed that insurance fundamentally remains about human connections. President of Global Benefits Robert DiCianni noted that while technology has evolved, customer needs haven’t changed since the company’s founding in 1911. ‘People need protection—that’s been our cornerstone since 1958. Technology simply enables us to reach customers more effectively through our agents.’

    The company acknowledges varying technological adoption rates across generations. President of Global Life Bruce Parker explained their phased approach: ‘Younger generations adopt technology much quicker, while older clients have established interaction patterns we won’t abandon. We’re managing digitalization at a pace that brings all customers along.’

    Caribbean CEO Winston Williams highlighted technology’s role as an enabler rather than replacement for human interaction. ‘The face-to-face encounter is still better when discussing dreams—technology doesn’t convert dreams into plans. What technology allows is meaningful connection when physical meetings aren’t possible.’

    Regarding regional operations, executives identified Trinidad and Tobago and the broader Caribbean as crucial growth markets. DiCianni confirmed, ‘We can’t reach our corporate goals without achieving our growth objectives in the Caribbean. We see significant opportunities here.’

    The company is monitoring proposed financial regulation changes, including increased asset levies for financial institutions and pension tax removals. Williams indicated these changes might benefit customers directly, potentially putting ’25 percent more in their pockets’ once implemented.

  • Senator Lalite-Ettienne: Parts not easily sourced, timeframe too short for repairs

    Senator Lalite-Ettienne: Parts not easily sourced, timeframe too short for repairs

    In a nuanced Senate deliberation on January 20, Independent Senator Alicia Lalite-Ettienne endorsed the government’s Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill while advocating for practical adjustments to its grace period provisions. The visually impaired senator drew upon her husband’s experiences as a taxi driver to highlight systemic challenges in vehicle maintenance within Trinidad and Tobago’s import-dependent automotive ecosystem.

    Senator Lalite-Ettienne articulated how sourcing specific vehicle components—particularly for models like the Toyota Yaris—often requires international procurement, with lead times extending to months rather than days. She emphasized that while the bill’s 3-7 day compliance window appears reasonable theoretically, it fails to account for logistical realities in developing nations without local manufacturing capabilities. The senator specifically requested implementation of a documentation system that motorists could present to law enforcement while awaiting parts, noting that current enforcement approaches lack necessary flexibility.

    The legislative amendment, previously passed in the House of Representatives on January 16, establishes graduated grace periods for regulatory violations, allowing motorists to rectify issues before automatic fines trigger. Government Senator David Nakhid responded that discretion remains essential in enforcement, acknowledging that legislation cannot anticipate all practical complexities.

    Opposition Senator Janelle John-Bates raised complementary concerns regarding administrative burdens on under-resourced police and licensing officers. She cited the 2018 case of Patrick Awong—detained for eight hours over a previously paid fine—as evidence of systemic vulnerabilities that could exacerbate under the new timeline pressures. Senator John-Bates warned that automated systems could generate penalties despite compliance if certification paperwork experiences processing delays.

    Despite these concerns, Senator Lalite-Ettienne affirmed her fundamental support for the legislation, framing vehicle maintenance as a civic responsibility comparable to personal health management. The debate highlighted the ongoing tension between legislative idealism and implementational practicality in Trinidad and Tobago’s governance landscape.

  • Penny: Soon, population will say ‘enough is enough’

    Penny: Soon, population will say ‘enough is enough’

    In a forceful parliamentary address on January 16, Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles issued a stark warning to Trinidad and Tobago’s ruling United National Congress (UNC) government, asserting that citizens are approaching a breaking point over unfulfilled election commitments. The Arima Member of Parliament delivered her critique alongside Opposition Chief Whip Marvin Gonzales during a press conference that highlighted growing discontent with the administration.

    Beckles directed pointed remarks toward Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, challenging the government’s assumption that its 26-seat majority in the House of Representatives grants unlimited authority. “Don’t feel because you have 26 seats that you can do to the people as you feel!” she declared, emphasizing that electoral strength does not equate to unchecked power.

    The opposition leader accused the UNC of systematically misleading voters during the April 28 general election through empty promises that remain undelivered. She specifically cited assurances about job security for CEPEP and URP workers that allegedly vanished post-election, characterizing the government as fundamentally unconcerned with citizen welfare.

    Economic indicators reveal troubling trends, according to Beckles. She referenced reports from major fast-food chains like KFC noting decreased consumer spending, alongside numerous business closures contradicting government claims of presenting “the best budget ever.” Notable casualties include MovieTowne Tobago, Nutrien, Proman, D Bocas, Woodside, and RIK on Queen Street, Port of Spain, plus numerous small bars forced to shut down after liquor license fees skyrocketed from $1,500 to $9,000—a move Beckles described as “absolute wickedness.”

    The opposition leader questioned the government’s highly publicized national recruitment drive, demanding transparency about actual employment numbers generated. She further highlighted a 70% increase in natural gas prices and general inflation as evidence of deteriorating economic conditions.

    Beckles condemned the government’s tendency to blame the previous People’s National Movement (PNM) administration when facing difficulties, noting that even salary and pension delays are attributed to the opposition. She concluded by promising that a future PNM government would immediately review what she termed “foolish measures” implemented by the current administration.

  • Venezuelan ambassador: Region stands united for peace, sovereignty

    Venezuelan ambassador: Region stands united for peace, sovereignty

    Caribbean nations have demonstrated remarkable regional solidarity in response to what they characterize as unlawful US military actions against Venezuela. The First Regional Conference: The Voices of the Caribbean in Defense of Venezuela and International Law convened on January 19, bringing together over 180 political and civil representatives from across the hemisphere to address escalating tensions.

    The gathering, which included delegates from Trinidad and Tobago, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Cuba, Jamaica, and numerous other Caribbean states, plus representation from Palestine’s Gaza Strip, focused on coordinating a unified response to the January 3rd military operation that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores.

    Venezuelan Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago Álvaro Sánchez Cordero stated that the conference served as a platform to articulate coordinated proposals between social and solidarity movements throughout the Caribbean. Participants unanimously condemned the Trump administration’s military intervention, which reportedly resulted in over 100 casualties and what attendees labeled the ‘unlawful kidnapping’ of Venezuela’s constitutional leaders.

    The primary objectives emerging from the conference included establishing an international solidarity network to defend national sovereignty, developing actionable plans to influence foreign policy reformulation across participant nations, and creating legal instruments to preserve Caribbean unity and territorial integrity.

    Maduro and Flores, who appeared before a New York court on January 5th pleading not guilty to narcoterrorism and drug trafficking charges, are scheduled for their next court appearance on March 17th. Meanwhile, Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez has assumed the role of interim president following Maduro’s capture.

    The conference represents the initial phase of coordinated activities that will include expert presentations on international law, analytical sessions, and thoughtful discussions aimed at maintaining regional stability against external threats.

  • Judge rules PM’s ‘administrative silence’ breached permanent secretary’s rights

    Judge rules PM’s ‘administrative silence’ breached permanent secretary’s rights

    In a landmark constitutional judgment, High Court Justice Westmin James has delivered a scathing rebuke of a sitting Prime Minister’s administrative conduct, ruling that prolonged silence on appointment recommendations constituted an unconstitutional violation of a senior public officer’s rights.

    The court upheld the constitutional claim brought by retired public service director John Edwards against the Attorney General, finding that the Prime Minister’s repeated failure to respond to Public Service Commission (PSC) consultations effectively created an illegal “de facto veto” that blocked Edwards’ career advancement unjustly.

    Evidence presented to the court revealed that between 2010 and 2013, Edwards received multiple recommendations from the PSC to act as Deputy Permanent Secretary. However, the Prime Minister failed to respond to three separate consultation requests in 2012 while approving other officers’ appointments within normal timeframes. This selective administrative silence continued until August 2013, when approval finally came—coinciding exactly with Edwards’ commencement of pre-retirement leave, rendering the authorization practically useless.

    Justice James determined that this conduct violated Sections 4(b) and 4(d) of the Constitution, pertaining to protection of the law and equality of treatment by public authorities. The ruling emphasized that while Section 121 grants the Prime Minister appointment veto power, this authority must be exercised rationally, independently, and without unreasonable delay.

    The court awarded Edwards $250,000 in damages—$100,000 as compensatory damages for distress and inconvenience, and $150,000 as vindicatory damages to underscore the seriousness of the constitutional breaches and deter future similar conduct by public authorities.

    Significantly, the judge rejected the State’s arguments regarding delay in filing the claim, accepting Edwards’ explanation that he only discovered the true reason for his non-appointment through Freedom of Information Act disclosures in 2022. The court recognized the case’s broader implications for constitutional governance and accountability, noting that permitting such administrative silence would enable executives to circumvent legal requirements and undermine independent constitutional bodies like the PSC.

    The judgment establishes crucial precedent regarding ministerial accountability and the limits of executive power, asserting that administrative silence cannot serve as an indirect veto mechanism without transparency or justification.