Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Chutney Soca Monarch semi-finals head to Port of Spain for the first time

    Chutney Soca Monarch semi-finals head to Port of Spain for the first time

    The Chutney Soca Monarch competition enters a new era as organizers announce the semi-final round will be held at Queen’s Park Savannah in Port of Spain for the first time in its history. This landmark change for Carnival 2026 marks a significant departure from previous editions, bringing the preliminary competition to the nation’s capital on January 30th.

    Three-time champion KI Persad makes a highly anticipated return after a decade-long absence, seeking an unprecedented fourth title in the competition. The veteran performer joins 32 other qualified artists who will compete for a spot in the February 8th finals at Skinner Park in San Fernando.

    Defending champion Machel Montano, who captured the 2025 crown with his collaborative hit ‘Pepper Vine’ featuring chutney legend Drupatee Ramgoonai and Lady Lava, will return to protect his title. However, 2025 CSM Queen Reshma Ramlal (Warrior Princess) has announced she will not defend her crown, expressing gratitude for her previous victory alongside Montano.

    Organizers Southex implemented a revamped selection process this year, conducting live in-person screenings at GM Labs with documented proceedings that will feature in a 30-minute finals preview. The competition roster includes notable qualifiers such as 2023 winner Ricardo ‘Daddy Chinee’ Melville, top female artists Rasika Dindial and Lady Lava, and a reserved wildcard entry that brings the total semi-final competitors to 34 artists.

    The event enjoys substantial sponsorship support from the National Carnival Commission, Guardian Media Network, and multiple beverage brands, with free admission offered to the public for the semi-final round at Flava Food Village.

  • Tancoo: Substantial amount of 2024 tax refunds issued

    Tancoo: Substantial amount of 2024 tax refunds issued

    The Trinidad and Tobago Ministry of Finance has initiated the disbursement of tax refunds for the 2024 fiscal year, according to an official statement from Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo. The announcement came through a WhatsApp exchange with Newsday on January 13th, where Minister Tancoo confirmed that “a substantial amount of 2024 tax refunds were issued last week.

    The disclosure provides tangible relief to taxpayers who have been awaiting reimbursement from the national treasury. While the minister did not specify exact figures or the total value of refunds distributed, his acknowledgment signals active processing of outstanding tax returns by government financial authorities.

    In the same communication, Minister Tancoo demonstrated diplomatic restraint when questioned about an upcoming January 14th meeting with the Chief Personnel Officer. He respectfully declined to comment on the meeting’s agenda, stating, “as you are aware, I cannot comment on discussions with the CPO,” maintaining appropriate confidentiality around internal governmental deliberations.

    The refund distribution represents a significant financial administration initiative that directly impacts citizen finances and demonstrates the government’s commitment to fulfilling its fiscal obligations.

  • EMA strengthens noise control for Carnival events

    EMA strengthens noise control for Carnival events

    The Environmental Management Authority (EMA) of Trinidad and Tobago has unveiled comprehensive noise management protocols for the upcoming Carnival season, marking a significant shift in how cultural celebrations will be acoustically regulated. These measures represent the government’s latest effort to address longstanding community concerns while preserving traditional expressions.

    Under the enhanced framework, event organizers must now comply with stringent location-specific requirements, including detailed site plans that identify proximity to residential zones and proposed noise mitigation strategies. The EMA has implemented a transparent public notification system, making all noise variation applications accessible through its official website alongside a user-friendly public comment portal.

    High-risk areas—those with historical noise complaints or near sensitive facilities like healthcare institutions—will face additional requirements including formal resident notification processes and comprehensive noise management plans. The authority has adopted intelligence-led monitoring prioritizing events with previous compliance issues.

    Environmental Police Unit officers will collaborate with event organizers to facilitate immediate corrective actions when violations occur, followed by enforcement proceedings under the Noise Pollution Control Rules (2001). The EMA has developed supporting documentation including an Event Variation Information Guide and Quick Reference Guide to assist compliance.

    The initiative aims to reduce noise-related grievances while encouraging improved sound engineering practices. The EMA will conduct ongoing monitoring of complaint trends and provide public updates on outcomes, with potential implementation of pre-event sound testing to establish acceptable noise levels.

    This balanced approach seeks to protect community wellbeing while maintaining Carnival’s cultural vitality through collaboration with government agencies, event promoters, and citizens.

  • ASJA Girls’ Sando start school v-ball season with a bang

    ASJA Girls’ Sando start school v-ball season with a bang

    The Eastern Regional Indoor Sport Arena in Tacarigua witnessed an electrifying commencement of the 2026 Secondary Schools Volleyball League (SSVL) season on January 12, with ASJA Girls’ College San Fernando emerging as early standout performers in the Under-17 category. The team demonstrated exceptional skill and resilience by securing two consecutive victories on the opening day.

    In their inaugural match, ASJA dominated St Joseph’s Convent St Joseph with a decisive straight-sets triumph (25-14, 25-21). The team faced a sterner test against defending open category champions Maple Leaf International School, dropping the first set 25-18 before mounting a spectacular comeback to claim the subsequent sets 25-23 and 15-12, securing a hard-fought 2-1 victory.

    In another thrilling Under-17 encounter, Maple Leaf International School redeemed themselves against reigning champions International School of Port of Spain (ISPS) in a three-set thriller. After conceding the first set 25-19, Maple Leaf displayed remarkable composure to edge the second set 25-22 before dominating the decisive third set 15-9.

    ISPS managed to bounce back with a straight-sets victory (25-16, 25-22) against St Joseph’s Convent, despite facing determined resistance in the second set.

    The league, which launched on January 12 and continues through February 8, features competition across Under-15, Under-17, and open age categories for both male and female teams. Defending champions include ISPS (girls’ Under-15), San Juan South Secondary (boys’ Under-17 and open), and Barrackpore West Secondary (boys’ Under-15).

    The competition brings together schools from three regional zones: East (featuring El Dorado West Secondary, San Juan South Secondary, and others), North (including Fatima College, ISPS, and Maple Leaf International), and South (comprising ASJA colleges, Naparima schools, and Barrackpore West Secondary).

  • Contingency plans in place for cargo on seabridge

    Contingency plans in place for cargo on seabridge

    Trinidad and Tobago’s maritime authorities have activated comprehensive contingency measures to maintain vital inter-island transportation services following the expiration of the MV Cabo Star’s leasing agreement on January 12. The Port Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (PATT) confirmed in an official January 14 announcement that emergency protocols are now operational to ensure uninterrupted movement of essential commodities, passengers, and accompanied vehicles during the transitional phase preceding the arrival of the replacement vessel, MV Blue Harmony.

    The strategic contingency framework involves coordinated deployment of existing maritime assets utilizing established cargo prioritization systems and booking channels. According to PATT’s detailed operational plan, the Galleons Passage will serve as the primary vessel for essential and priority cargo transportation, while TT Spirit will handle limited palletized essential cargo within strictly enforced safety and weight parameters. The APT James has been designated exclusively for passenger and accompanied vehicle services.

    Cargo management will follow a rigorously enforced three-tier priority system: Priority 1 encompasses food supplies, pharmaceuticals, and critical medical materials; Priority 2 includes essential retail and small-to-medium enterprise (SME) supplies; Priority 3 covers non-essential cargo that may be subject to transportation delays. Daily cargo acceptance will be administered by port and vessel operations teams adhering to these established guidelines.

    Existing booking infrastructure through TT Inter-Island Transportation Company Ltd (TTIT) remains fully operational, including physical ticketing offices in Port of Spain and Scarborough, authorized remote ticket agents, and approved digital booking platforms where available. The authority has established 24-hour operational support channels accessible at 467-5072 (Port of Spain), 467-5330 (Scarborough), or via email at ambikar@patnt.com to address cargo-related inquiries during this transitional period.

    PATT, in collaboration with TTIT and partner agencies, continues to actively manage the maritime transition to guarantee service continuity. Regular updates will be disseminated through official media channels and digital platforms as new information becomes available.

  • Ex-MP, sport administrator remembered: Eddie’s ‘hart’ of gold

    Ex-MP, sport administrator remembered: Eddie’s ‘hart’ of gold

    Hundreds gathered at the Eddie Hart Savannah in Tacarigua on January 13 to pay final respects to Eddie Hart, the revered football administrator and former parliamentarian who passed away at 89 on January 4. The emotional funeral service celebrated the life of a man widely remembered for his golden heart and selfless dedication to communities across Trinidad and Tobago.

    Hart’s remarkable journey from humble beginnings at St. Mary’s Children’s Home to becoming a national sports icon and PNM MP was recounted through heartfelt tributes from political leaders, sports enthusiasts, and family members. Former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley and Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles joined numerous PNM members in honoring Hart’s legacy.

    Former Minister of Sport Marilyn Gordon delivered a moving eulogy, recalling Hart’s unwavering commitment to youth development through his Eddie Hart Football League. “We have lost a giant. I don’t think anybody could come close to what he did for this country,” Gordon stated, noting how Hart’s passion for sports sometimes cost him professionally—including being suspended from a job for leaving work to buy team uniforms.

    Cultural tributes filled the service, with Trinidad All Stars stalwart Dane Gulston and vocalist Adrian Philbert performing musical honors. Family friend David Peters remembered Hart’s generosity, recalling how he donated footballs to St. Mary’s Anglican School upon learning they only had one ball. “The heart of Tunapuna has left us,” Peters lamented.

    Hart’s grandsons revealed during the wake that their grandfather would receive community members seeking assistance from 5 am daily, demonstrating his boundless commitment to helping others. Football enthusiast Earl “Mango” Pierre presented the family with a commemorative plaque and national team jersey honoring Hart’s monumental contributions to Trinidad and Tobago’s sporting landscape.

  • Padarath mandates WASA to fix leaks

    Padarath mandates WASA to fix leaks

    The Trinidadian government has launched an aggressive nationwide leak detection and repair campaign following the discovery of severe long-term water system failures in the Point Lisas Industrial Estate. Minister of Public Utilities Barry Padarath has directed the Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) to expand its Leak Management Programme after joint investigations revealed critical infrastructure neglect.

    Over the past month, WASA has collaborated with the Point Lisas Industrial Port Development Corporation (Plipdeco) to identify 15 major leaks within the industrial estate. Technical assessments confirmed that nine of these leaks directly impact high-demand petrochemical, ammonia, methanol, steel, and gas-processing facilities. Astonishingly, some leaks have persisted for up to six years due to underground congestion and access challenges.

    The cumulative effect of these failures has resulted in an estimated loss of six million imperial gallons of treated water daily—representing hundreds of millions of dollars in wasted resources. Meanwhile, communities across Central and South Trinidad have endured persistent low water pressure and rotation schedules despite this massive water loss.

    Minister Padarath expressed grave concern that numerous leaks were initially reported to WASA as early as 2020 but remained unaddressed by the previous administration under the PNM government. “While citizens were asked to accept water shortages, known leaks of national significance were ignored for years,” Padarath stated. “This government has the political will to confront inherited failures, no matter how complex.”

    Repair operations are currently underway for five major leaks, with work being strategically sequenced to navigate underground hazards including high-pressure gas pipelines, hydrogen and carbon dioxide manifolds, high-voltage electrical circuits, and telecommunications infrastructure. The most challenging leaks require complete shutdowns and extensive excavation, particularly one at Brechin Castle where preliminary investigations continue.

    The ministry expects all repairs to be completed by the end of January. Additionally, Padarath announced through his Facebook page that WASA has established four tank farms in Penal with a combined storage capacity of 80,000 gallons, providing short to medium-term relief to the region’s water shortages.

    Padarath emphasized that “leak management is part of the multi-dimensional approach to achieving our Water for All mandate. This is what responsible governance looks like: confronting inherited failures, fixing what was ignored, and putting water back where it belongs in the taps of the people of Trinidad and Tobago.”

  • San Fernando Hospital gets PAHO’s ‘Baby Friendly’ status

    San Fernando Hospital gets PAHO’s ‘Baby Friendly’ status

    The San Fernando General and Teaching Hospital has achieved a significant milestone by receiving the coveted Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative accreditation from the Pan American Health Organization and World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO). This designation makes the South West Regional Health Authority’s flagship institution the first regional health authority to have all its major facilities certified under the international program.

    The accreditation ceremony on January 13 featured PAHO/WHO Representative Dr. Gabriel Vivas Francesconi and Health Minister Dr. Lackram Bodoe, who unveiled a commemorative plaque at the facility. The hospital joins other recently accredited institutions including Point Fortin Hospital, Mt Hope Women’s Hospital, Sangre Grande, and Scarborough Hospital, with plans underway to extend the accreditation to Port of Spain General Hospital in the near future.

    The WHO/UNICEF initiative establishes rigorous standards for optimal infant feeding practices and mother-baby bonding in maternity facilities. The program aims to protect and promote breastfeeding by transforming hospital protocols to support successful breastfeeding while shielding families from commercial influences.

    SWRHA Deputy Chairperson Natasha Moonilal emphasized the transformative nature of the accreditation, noting that the hospital underwent comprehensive changes in care delivery and staff training over recent months. ‘This represents a transformation at every level,’ Moonilal stated. ‘Our medical teams have fully embraced the ten steps to successful breastfeeding, ensuring immediate skin-to-skin contact after birth, early initiation of breastfeeding, and continuous support throughout the mother’s stay.’

    Dr. Vivas Francesconi highlighted the need for concerted efforts to discourage milk substitutes, advocating for national legislation to protect against aggressive marketing by formula manufacturers. While acknowledging there is a role for milk substitutes in certain circumstances, Health Minister Bodoe confirmed the ministry is developing regulations for the industry, including front-of-package labeling requirements.

    The accreditation coincides with recent government reforms expanding parental protections, including paid breastfeeding breaks and strengthened workplace safeguards against discrimination—measures Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar promoted while encouraging young couples to consider parenthood.

  • Trini couple return home to focus on stigma of obesity

    Trini couple return home to focus on stigma of obesity

    A distinguished medical couple of Trinidadian origin has returned to their homeland to establish Stellar Medical, a specialized healthcare practice dedicated to addressing obesity and metabolic disorders through comprehensive, evidence-based approaches. Dr. Robert Jupiter and Dr. Karen Moses, both US board-certified physicians, have launched their innovative practice following extensive medical careers in the United States.

    Dr. Jupiter brings dual certification from the American Board of Family Medicine and Obesity Medicine, complemented by his registration as an obesity medical specialist with the Medical Board of Trinidad and Tobago. Dr. Moses contributes her expertise as a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, creating a multidisciplinary healthcare team.

    The doctors expressed profound enthusiasm about their homecoming, emphasizing their commitment to delivering science-driven, stigma-free healthcare. “Our return marks a significant milestone in addressing the complex biological, hormonal, and environmental factors contributing to weight gain and metabolic diseases within our community,” Dr. Jupiter stated during the practice’s inauguration on January 14.

    Stellar Medical employs advanced therapeutic protocols including GLP-1/GIP medications such as Wegovy, Ozempic, Zepbound, and Mounjaro. These contemporary pharmaceuticals demonstrate superior efficacy compared to traditional weight-loss treatments, enabling patients to achieve substantial weight reduction of 16-23% total body weight versus the 5-10% typical of earlier interventions.

    Despite their proficiency with pharmaceutical interventions, the practice prioritizes holistic assessment methodologies. Initial treatment strategies focus on fundamental health pillars including nutritional optimization, physical activity, hydration management, sleep quality, and mental wellbeing before considering medication options.

    “Obesity represents a chronic metabolic condition requiring sustained medical management rather than temporary solutions,” Dr. Jupiter emphasized. “The misconception that weight management revolves solely around willpower perpetuates harmful stigma that prevents individuals from seeking proper medical care.”

    The practice has implemented a compassionate care model that collaborates with mental health professionals to address psychological aspects of weight management, creating a supportive environment free from judgment for patients navigating their healthcare journeys.

  • Tight race for Couva Calypso Monarch titles

    Tight race for Couva Calypso Monarch titles

    The Couva Carnival Committee (CCC) anticipates fiercely competitive finals in both senior and junior divisions of its upcoming 2026 Calypso Monarch competitions. This projection comes after successful auditions held at Balmain Community Centre on January 11th, where calypsonians demonstrated exceptional early-season form.

    Ezekiel Clarke, CCC Public Relations Officer and competition coordinator, expressed confidence in the quality of performers. ‘The committee expects a truly high-octane final in both categories based on the outstanding offerings from our calypsonians during auditions,’ Clarke stated. He further assured patrons that ‘every artist performed at their peak capacity, promising an thrilling experience at the grand finals.’

    Defending champions will return to defend their titles without requiring qualification. Reigning Senior Monarch Joanne Gibson, performing as Queen Voice, and Junior Monarch Katelin Sultan automatically secure their positions in the February 13th championship event.

    The senior competition features sixteen accomplished qualifiers including Nicholas Lucas (‘The Tree Does Never Forget’), Kerine Williams Figaro (‘You Never Know’), Judith Edwards (‘Plus Size Woman’), and Omarie Asson (‘A Spituation’). Other notable entrants include Shinnelle Cottoy Davis (‘Omirnira’), the duo Ruhanie Ramdass & Marcus Seepersad (‘Calypso Chutney Love’), and Anastasia Richardson (‘Power In De Blood’).

    The junior division showcases eight promising young talents such as Janaya Clarke (‘Role Models’), Nyla Hamilton (‘What Ah Waiting For’), and Alexia Adams Alexis (‘Doh Go Down Dey’). Rehearsal schedules will be announced imminently as the community prepares for this celebrated cultural event that highlights Trinidad’s rich musical heritage.