标签： Trinidad and Tobago

In an unexpected turn of events, all licensing offices across Trinidad and Tobago have been temporarily shut down due to a significant technical malfunction. The Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation announced this immediate suspension of services in a press release issued on November 18. The disruption stems from a critical system failure that has affected operations nationwide. The ministry has assured the public of its dedication to swiftly restoring services and has requested patience and understanding during this period. Earlier this year, Transport Commissioner Clive Clarke highlighted the scale of operations, noting that there are over 600,000 registered drivers and thousands of monthly transactions processed by the Licensing Division. The division handles approximately 8,000 certified copies and 3,000 license renewals each month. The ministry has promised to keep the public informed through official social media channels as updates become available.

In a landmark ruling, Justice Westmin James of the High Court has delivered a verdict against a couple involved in unauthorized construction works at East Park Villas, a townhouse development located on Maruana Road in Valsayn. The judgment, issued on November 17, prohibits the defendants from further construction or interference with the property or its common areas. Additionally, the court has mandated the removal of any unauthorized structures, restoration of the affected land, and clearance of all rubble and materials at the defendants’ expense.

The case was brought forward by East Park Villas Ltd and Charlievillage Service Station Company Ltd, who accused the defendants of breaching restrictive covenants outlined in the head lease. The claimants argued that the defendants had commenced construction without obtaining the necessary permissions from the lessor, the management company, or the Town and Country Planning Division. The unauthorized works, which began in September 2024, included the demolition of an existing annex and the initiation of new construction that extended beyond the original footprint, impacting adjacent properties.

Despite the defendants’ claims that the construction was remedial and aimed at addressing safety concerns, the court found their actions to be in violation of the lease and disruptive to the community. The defendants were also ordered to restore common areas and pathways within three months, with the claimants authorized to undertake the work and recover costs if the defendants fail to comply. Furthermore, the couple was ordered to pay nominal damages of $10,000 to East Park Villas Ltd and cover the claimants’ legal costs, assessed at $14,000 each.

The defendants, represented by attorneys Kent Samlal, Shirvan Ramdhanie, and Nadia Hassan-Mohammed, had argued that the works fell under an exception in the Town and Country Planning Act, being interior or non-material alterations. However, the court dismissed their counterclaim, emphasizing the importance of adhering to lease agreements and community standards.

The recent government decision to halt fetes at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy has sparked significant debate. Contrary to claims that this move is an attack on cultural traditions, it is being framed as a necessary step to protect the well-being of ordinary citizens. For decades, residents living near large event venues have endured sleepless nights, property damage, and distress caused by excessive noise. The government’s action aims to address these long-standing issues by implementing modern, technology-driven solutions that balance entertainment with community rights.

Event promoters have historically profited from these events, while nearby residents bore the brunt of the negative impacts. However, advancements in technology now offer viable alternatives. Silent-party options, where patrons use wireless headsets connected to a DJ’s console or digital stream, have become commonplace at major international music festivals. This approach allows attendees to enjoy the music at any volume without disturbing surrounding neighborhoods. The government’s push for such innovations aligns with its broader policy goals of modernizing outdated regulations and enforcing reasonable standards.

Social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok have amplified the voices of affected residents, with numerous clips showcasing the disruptive effects of loud fetes. These include rattling windows, crying babies, and distressed elderly individuals. The public sentiment is clear: while many citizens are not opposed to fetes, they are against the imposition of noise pollution that compromises their peace, health, and safety.

The government’s decision is not a ban on culture but a call for evolution. Just as steelpan and soca music have evolved over time, so too can nightlife practices. By adopting citizen-friendly entertainment methods, promoters can ensure that fetes continue to thrive without harming communities. This approach also aligns with the government’s manifesto and recent policy directions, emphasizing the need to protect communities and modernize regulations.

Ultimately, the government’s action is a responsible step towards creating a balance where enjoyment and respect coexist. It challenges promoters to innovate rather than intimidate, ensuring that the rights of all citizens are upheld in the pursuit of entertainment.

The I Am Academy in Woodbrook has unveiled its newly transformed schoolyard, now known as ‘The Garden of Oneness.’ What was once a simple space has been reimagined into an eco-conscious haven featuring a butterfly and hummingbird garden, a river-themed landscape, a companion-planted vegetable and herb garden, a tribute to national heroes, and a rustic welcome wall adorned with affirmations and the school’s motto. This initiative, led by TropiMulch Ltd in partnership with Miss Environment TT Rebecca Baptiste, repurposes waste wood into mulch, art installations, and purposeful spaces, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Founded in 2019, I Am Academy serves 40 students with special needs, emphasizing individualized learning and holistic development. Principal Lynn Diann Russell-Allen explained that the school’s philosophy centers on teaching identity, awareness, and purpose, viewing every child as ‘whole, perfect, and filled with divine potential.’ The garden, she noted, is more than a landscaping project—it is a ‘living classroom’ that fosters healing, inspiration, and education.

The project began with a vision to beautify the school space in a way that reflects the calm and divine order of the universe. Collaborations with TropiMulch CEO Lionel Seucharan and Miss Environment TT brought the vision to life. Students and parents actively participated in clearing debris, preparing soil, planting seedlings, and painting walls, fostering a sense of pride and ownership.

Russell-Allen highlighted the garden’s impact on students, noting increased confidence, cooperation, and expressiveness. The multisensory environment has become a sanctuary for neurodiverse learners, reinforcing the school’s mission to nurture each child’s highest potential. Plans are already underway to expand the garden, adding sensory zones, a meditation corner, and an extended butterfly garden.

The principal expressed gratitude to TropiMulch Ltd, Miss Environment TT, and all contributors, emphasizing that inclusion begins with love. ‘When we honour the divine essence in every child, we naturally extend that care to the environment,’ she said. ‘Education and ecology go hand in hand—both are acts of stewardship.’