In a significant business move, Ansa McAL, a prominent conglomerate in Trinidad and Tobago, has sold its long-standing retail subsidiary, Standard Distributors, to Term Finance (TT). The deal, announced on November 3, includes Standard’s Barbados-based arm, Standard Distribution and Sales Barbados. The transaction is set to finalize by December 31, pending regulatory approvals. Term Finance plans to transform Standard into a dedicated credit provider and e-commerce platform, leveraging its 80-year legacy in hire-purchase services. The new entity, rebranded as Standard Credit, aims to offer innovative financial solutions while maintaining the trust of its loyal customer base. Standard’s retail outlets ceased operations on November 1, marking the end of an era for the iconic brand. Customers with active hire-purchase agreements will continue to receive support, with payments accepted at existing branches and through various digital channels. Ansa McAL has assured affected employees of redeployment opportunities or enhanced separation packages, alongside access to financial counselling and job fairs. The sale reflects Ansa McAL’s strategy to streamline operations while supporting Term Finance’s regional expansion. Founded in 1945, Standard Distributors joined the Ansa McAL Group in 1967, becoming a cornerstone of Caribbean retail. The transition underscores the evolving retail landscape, with a shift toward digital financial services.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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DOMA head: Nothing good comes from panic
Gregory Aboud, President of the Downtown Owners and Merchants Association (DOMA), emphasized the importance of maintaining composure in the face of heightened military alertness and public speculation. In a phone interview on November 2, Aboud reflected on the recent order for all military personnel to report to their bases on October 31, stating that the mobilization of police and military forces did not directly disrupt Port of Spain. Instead, he attributed the unrest to the public’s reaction to the situation. Aboud dismissed the notion of impending danger, pointing out that the atmosphere was dominated by threats and counter-threats between the US and Venezuela, along with increased military presence. He questioned the logic behind fears that Venezuela might retaliate against Trinidad and Tobago (TT) if the US took military action, calling such assumptions unrealistic. Aboud stressed the need for rationality and calm, highlighting TT’s longstanding issues with porous borders that facilitate the illegal trade of drugs and firearms. He expressed concern over the spread of inaccurate stories and rumors, which have damaged reputations and deterred good citizens from participating in national development. Aboud voiced support for robust national defense measures to secure TT’s borders and curb the societal corruption fueled by illicit activities. He acknowledged the government’s stance on American intervention in the region, viewing it as a potential means to disrupt the damaging illegal trade that has plagued TT for decades. Aboud concluded by advocating for greater transparency and information sharing, where possible, to alleviate public panic and foster a more informed society.
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NCRHA denies ‘chronic nurse shortage’ at Mt Hope hospital
The North Central Regional Health Authority (NCRHA) has attributed the recent staffing crisis at the Eric Williams Medical Science Complex (EWMSC) in Mt Hope to ‘unexpected absenteeism.’ This admission comes in response to allegations made by the TT Registered Nurses Association (TTRNA) on November 2, which highlighted a ‘severe staff shortage’ at the facility. The TTRNA described the issue as ‘chronic,’ exacerbated by management’s reduction of the extra duty pool and a hiring freeze that redirects all new hires through the central government campaign. The association warned nurses against working alone and emphasized the need for at least three registered nurses (RNs) per ward, with two being the absolute minimum for safe care. In a media release, the NCRHA dismissed the TTRNA’s claims as ‘reckless, inaccurate, and misleading,’ but conceded that four wards operated with only one RN on November 1 due to absenteeism. The authority maintained that all other wards had a ‘satisfactory’ nurse-to-patient ratio, though it did not specify the exact figures. The TTRNA countered, stating that the NCRHA’s admission of nurses working alone undermines patient safety, particularly with ratios as high as one nurse to 24 patients. International standards, however, suggest a ratio of one nurse to four or five patients as acceptable, with 1:8 being the safe minimum. Studies from the US National Library of Medicine indicate that low/middle-income countries (LMICs) often face even worse ratios, with one nurse caring for over 25 patients. The NCRHA defended its practices, asserting that patient care and safety remain uncompromised and that recruitment efforts are ongoing, with 345 vacancies advertised for enrolled nursing assistants. Despite these efforts, only 34 qualified candidates have been appointed. The authority expressed its commitment to engaging with stakeholders to strengthen the national health system. Calls to NCRHA chairman Dr. Tim Gopeesingh and TTRNA president Idi Stuart went unanswered, with Stuart visiting EWMSC to assess staffing levels firsthand.
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Ace spinner Gudakesh Motie dropped from T20 squad for ‘dip in form’
Guyanese left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie has been excluded from the West Indies’ 15-man squad for the upcoming five-match T20 series against New Zealand, scheduled from November 5-12. The decision, announced by Cricket West Indies (CWI) on November 2, stems from Motie’s recent dip in form, attributed to technical issues with his bowling action. Despite this setback, the 30-year-old spinner remains a key part of West Indies’ long-term plans, particularly with the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka on the horizon. Motie will now collaborate with specialists from the Royal Sports Group, owners of the South African franchise Paarl Royals, as he prepares to compete in the SA20 tournament starting December 26. CWI emphasized that this move is crucial for Motie to regain his peak performance. Since his T20 debut in 2021, Motie has played 85 matches across formats, taking 36 T20 wickets at an economy of 7.96. His recent performances, including a solitary over in the T20 series against Bangladesh, where he conceded 11 runs, have been underwhelming. In the preceding ODI series against Bangladesh, Motie managed four wickets at an economy of 5.79, but the West Indies lost the series 2-1. The West Indies squad will also miss injured left-arm pacers Jediah Blades and Ramon Simmonds, while Guyanese quick Shamar Joseph remains sidelined. The team, led by wicket-keeper/batsman Shai Hope, includes notable names like Roston Chase, Jason Holder, and Rovman Powell. Trinidadian spinners Akeal Hosein and Khary Pierre are expected to lead the spin-bowling department in Motie’s absence, with allrounders Matthew Forde and Shamar Springer bolstering the pace attack. Romario Shepherd, who recently won the Player of the Series award in the T20 sweep over Bangladesh, will spearhead the pace lineup. The West Indies camp will also benefit from the addition of clinical psychologist Krisnan Hurdle, who joins as a mental skills and performance coach. CWI director of cricket Miles Bascombe highlighted the importance of mental strength in elite cricket, stating that Hurdle’s appointment reflects the board’s commitment to developing well-rounded players. The T20 series against New Zealand begins on November 5 at Eden Park in Auckland, with matches also scheduled in Nelson and Dunedin.
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NCC set to launch Carnival 2026 on November 7
The National Carnival Commission (NCC) is set to officially inaugurate Carnival 2026 this Friday, marking a vibrant celebration of culture and tradition. The event will take place between Chacon and Abercrombie Streets along the Brian Lara Promenade, running from 9 am to 6 pm. Attendees can look forward to a rich array of activities, including traditional character displays, interactive exhibitions, workshops, dedicated kids’ zones, and a special performance by the 2025 Panorama champion, Republic Bank Exodus. The day will culminate in a concert showcasing some of the biggest names in calypso and soca music. Minister of Culture and Community Development Michelle Benjamin and NCC chairman Peter Kanhai are scheduled to deliver speeches at the event. This official launch follows a soft launch held on August 15 at the National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA), where Benjamin revealed a groundbreaking collaboration between her ministry and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). The partnership aims to conduct a comprehensive study of Carnival 2026, focusing on its economic impact and its role in generating revenue for Trinidad and Tobago.
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Deal with fireworksterror now
The Fireworks Use Sufferers (FUS) organization has extended its heartfelt condolences to the family of a three-day-old infant who tragically passed away the morning after Divali celebrations. Reports indicate that the family was subjected to relentless noise from fireworks throughout the night, despite their desperate pleas for the disturbances to cease. While the exact cause of the infant’s death remains uncertain—potentially linked to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) or the stress induced by the fireworks—the incident has sparked widespread outrage. Critics argue that the government’s decision to ban fireworks for Independence Day while permitting them for Divali reflects a reckless and biased approach. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has been urged to address the issue, particularly given the adverse effects of fireworks on vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and animals. FUS President Nalini Dial has called for immediate government action, emphasizing the need for stricter regulations, including permits for silent fireworks and enforcement against lawbreakers. The organization also criticized the police for their lack of responsiveness and the government’s apparent favoritism toward fireworks importers. With Old Year’s Night approaching, activists are demanding public protests or official statements from the Prime Minister and Attorney General to outline concrete measures to prevent further harm.
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Trump: Maduro’s days are numbered
Amid ongoing US military operations in the Southern Caribbean, President Donald Trump has suggested that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro’s tenure may be nearing its end. During an interview with CBS’s 60 Minutes host Norah O’Donnell at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida, Trump addressed a range of topics, including Venezuela, the Israel-Palestine conflict, and nuclear tests. When questioned about the possibility of war with Venezuela, Trump responded ambiguously, stating, ‘I doubt it. I don’t think so,’ but added that Venezuela has treated the US ‘very badly,’ particularly regarding drug trafficking and the alleged release of prisoners and mental health patients into the US. The US military buildup in the region, which began in late August, includes a guided missile destroyer, attack helicopters, stealth fighter jets, and a nuclear submarine, with the USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier en route. Officially, the operations aim to combat narco-terrorism, with at least nine air strikes reportedly killing 60 people on vessels accused of smuggling drugs. However, Trump hinted that the campaign also addresses broader issues, including Venezuela’s actions toward the US. When asked if Maduro’s days were numbered, Trump affirmed, ‘I would say, yeah. I think so, yeah.’ Despite speculation about potential land strikes, Trump refused to disclose details, emphasizing he wouldn’t discuss military plans with reporters. Recent reports of a planned strike on Venezuelan military targets were denied by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Trump. Meanwhile, the TT Defence Force was placed on high alert, causing public unease, though officials described it as a drill. The presence of the USS Gravely in Trinidad and Tobago’s waters sparked protests and condemnation from Venezuela, with the TT government defending the visit as part of long-standing security and humanitarian collaboration.
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Dealing with deepfakes
In response to growing concerns over the rise of deepfake technology, Dominic Smith, Minister of Public Administration and AI, has announced the formation of specialized committees to address the risks associated with artificial intelligence. As the current president of the Caribbean Telecommunications Union, Smith emphasized the urgency of combating AI-enabled fraud and disinformation campaigns. This initiative follows his earlier announcement in September of an inter-ministerial committee focused on cybersecurity threats and AI scams. However, critics argue that the proposed committees are overly bureaucratic, with too many marginally-related stakeholders involved. Key agencies like the Attorney General’s Office, the police service’s cyber and social media unit, and the TT Cybersecurity Incident and Response Team (TTCSIRT) are expected to play pivotal roles in this effort. The TTCSIRT, in particular, is positioned to lead in issuing website takedown notices and countering falsehoods on social media platforms. The widespread use of AI to create fake images and videos, termed ‘AI slop,’ has exacerbated the problem, with deepfakes being used to promote scams and distort historical events. Despite the committees’ formation, the rapid evolution of AI technology demands faster, more focused action to prevent sophisticated deepfakes from deceiving even the most skeptical individuals. A technology-savvy task force, rather than a slow-moving committee, is seen as essential to effectively combat this escalating threat.
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Retired fireman found dead in Cumuto
The tragic discovery of 63-year-old Anslym Alonzo’s body has left his family and community in shock. Alonzo, a retired fireman and resident of Duranta Gardens, was last seen on October 31 in his workshop in Coalmine, Sangre Grande. Driving a burgundy Nissan Note, he failed to return home that evening, prompting his family to report him missing. After an extensive search, police located his body in a forested area along Little Coora Road, Cumuto, on November 3. His daughter identified the remains at the scene. Relatives, speaking to Newsday, expressed their bewilderment, stating they could not fathom any reason for him to be targeted. They refrained from speculation, awaiting further details from the ongoing investigation. ‘We have no idea what happened or why anyone would have wanted him dead,’ a family member said. The district medical officer has ordered an autopsy, with Alonzo’s body transferred to the Forensic Science Centre in St James on November 4. The case remains under investigation as authorities work to uncover the circumstances surrounding his untimely death.
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Police still on high alert
In a recent development, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Junior Benjamin confirmed that law enforcement agencies in Trinidad and Tobago remain on high alert, particularly within operational sections. This heightened security posture follows the parliamentary approval of a three-month extension to the State of Emergency (SoE) on Friday. Initially, members of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force (TTDF) were ordered to report for duty, and police leave for both regular and special reserved officers was suspended. However, hours later, the alert level was downgraded, allowing non-rostered officers to return home, as reported by a Sunday media outlet. DCP Benjamin emphasized that the suspension of leave is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and security of all officers. He assured the public that the police service is continuously monitoring the situation on a day-to-day basis, making decisions based on the evolving security climate. Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro is scheduled to host an executive meeting on November 3 to further assess the situation. Benjamin reiterated that any changes in the security posture would be communicated to the media promptly. He also urged the public to remain calm, emphasizing that there is no cause for alarm. The recent news had led to panic buying at supermarkets and the closure of some schools. Benjamin advised the public to rely on verified sources of information, such as the TTPS corporate communication, and to cooperate with law enforcement. He highlighted ongoing police operations aimed at reducing crime and targeting priority offenders, calling for public support and patience during roadblocks and other security measures.