Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Rambharat: Let trained people lead hikes

    Rambharat: Let trained people lead hikes

    In the wake of a devastating hiking incident that claimed the life of 41-year-old Jessica Jordan, urgent calls for professional guide certification and enhanced safety protocols have emerged from rescue authorities. Captain Vallence Rambharath, head of the Hunters Search and Rescue Team, has issued a comprehensive safety manifesto following Jordan’s tragic drowning at Madamas River on January 10th.

    The tragedy unfolded when Jordan, part of an eight-person hiking group, slipped while crossing a deteriorated log in rapidly swelling waters. Her legs became trapped between the log and gorge wall, creating an extraction scenario that even professional rescuers found extremely challenging. Rambharath emphasized that the location where Jordan perished was fundamentally inappropriate for hiking activities given the dangerous water conditions.

    ‘Where she fell is exactly where she was found,’ Rambharath stated, highlighting the preventable nature of the incident. ‘If Hunters Search and Rescue cannot navigate the water height in these gorges, no hiker should be there.’

    The rescue captain identified multiple critical failures: the use of a bark-less, moss-covered log for crossing that provided zero grip, poor river-crossing techniques, and most importantly, the decision to proceed with the hike despite nationwide rainfall. ‘Why couldn’t you just cancel the hike?’ he questioned, emphasizing that no commercial considerations should override safety priorities.

    Rambharath advocated for formalized oversight including mandatory guide certification, safety personnel integration within hiking groups, and weather-conscious planning. He specifically recommended against Northern Range hiking during rainy conditions and warned against crossing on smooth, bark-less logs that become dangerously slippery.

    Separately, Palance868 Adventures Team clarified through a Facebook statement that they had no involvement in the fatal hike and maintain a strict safety-first approach, including cancellation policies during adverse weather. The organization expressed condolences while emphasizing their rigorous risk mitigation protocols and incident-free record.

    The hiking community now faces pressing questions about professional standards, regulatory frameworks, and whether the industry requires formal oversight to prevent similar tragedies.

  • Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Monday January 12th 2026

    Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Monday January 12th 2026

    In the sprawling, multi-billion dollar wellness industry, dietary supplements represent a frontier of both immense promise and significant peril. Unlike pharmaceutical drugs, which undergo rigorous testing and approval processes by agencies like the FDA, the supplement market operates under a fundamentally different regulatory framework. Governed by the 1994 Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), these products are largely presumed safe until proven otherwise, placing the burden of proof on regulators after they have entered the market.

    This post-market oversight model creates a landscape where thousands of products, from vitamins and minerals to herbal extracts and proprietary blends, are readily available to consumers with limited pre-approval scrutiny. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their products are safe and that label claims are truthful and not misleading. However, the sheer volume of products and the reactive nature of regulation mean that potentially dangerous or misbranded supplements can remain on shelves for extended periods before regulatory action is taken.

    The implications for consumer health are profound. While many supplements offer genuine benefits, the market is also rife with issues including adulteration with pharmaceutical ingredients, contamination with heavy metals, and exaggerated or outright false health claims. This environment demands a heightened level of consumer vigilance, critical evaluation of marketing claims, and consultation with healthcare professionals before integrating any new supplement into a wellness regimen.

  • First interview was with Newsday

    First interview was with Newsday

    In a heartfelt letter to the editor, Dr. Jamelia Harris, an assistant professor, has joined the chorus of voices expressing profound sadness following the announcement of Newsday’s imminent closure. The academic shared personal anecdotes highlighting the newspaper’s significant role in both her personal and professional development.

    Dr. Harris revealed that her connection to the publication dates back to her childhood, where she developed the daily habit of reading Newsday and completing its crossword puzzles. This relationship deepened considerably in 2007 when she received notification of being awarded the prestigious President’s Medal from a Newsday reporter—a communication that surprisingly preceded the official announcement from the Ministry of Education. That initial contact culminated in her first interview with the newspaper, marking a pivotal moment in her public recognition.

    More recently, Dr. Harris expressed gratitude for the newspaper’s consistent platforming of her opinion pieces throughout the past year. Her letter serves as both a tribute to the publication’s legacy and a farewell message to the entire Newsday team, wishing them success in their forthcoming professional transitions. The correspondence stands as testament to the enduring impact community newspapers have on their readership and contributors alike.

  • Proman pauses melamine production in Pt Lisas

    Proman pauses melamine production in Pt Lisas

    In a significant development for Trinidad’s industrial sector, Proman Trinidad has announced a two-year suspension of operations at its melamine production facility in Point Lisas. The decision comes as a direct response to persistently unfavorable market conditions exacerbated by recent international trade measures.

    The company revealed that this strategic pause follows an extensive evaluation of global market dynamics, with the primary objective of safeguarding long-term operational sustainability. The move was largely precipitated by the United States International Trade Commission’s imposition of substantial anti-dumping and countervailing duties reaching 154.28% on melamine imports from Trinidad and Tobago and several other nations in January 2025.

    Executive Director Anand Ragbir emphasized the gravity of this decision, noting Proman’s 35-year legacy as a cornerstone of Trinidad’s energy sector. ‘We do not take these decisions lightly,’ Ragbir stated. ‘We remain committed to investing in our operations, our personnel, and local communities despite this challenging period.’

    The production halt specifically affects the melamine unit, which produces chemical compounds essential for manufacturing heat-resistant plastics and dinnerware products. Company officials confirmed that other Proman facilities in Trinidad will continue normal operations without interruption.

    Regarding workforce implications, Proman has developed a comprehensive transition plan for the 89 employees potentially affected. The majority will be reassigned to other plants, projects, and roles within the company’s operations, with access to appropriate training and resources. For those unable to be redeployed, the company promises full outplacement support, Employee Assistance Programme benefits, and statutory severance packages.

    The corporation maintains a vigilant stance toward market evolution, indicating willingness to reconsider production resumption should economic conditions improve. Current priorities include fortifying core operations and enhancing long-term competitive positioning in the global market.

  • Trinidad and Tobago gets first hyperbaric oxygen therapy chamber

    Trinidad and Tobago gets first hyperbaric oxygen therapy chamber

    Trinidad and Tobago has entered a new era of advanced medical treatment with the inauguration of the International Hyperbaric Medical Facility Ltd on January 8. This groundbreaking center, situated in Marabella, represents the nation’s first comprehensive facility specializing in hard-shell hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) combined with integrated diabetic wound care and advanced neurological services.

    The establishment addresses critical healthcare deficiencies by providing cutting-edge treatment options previously unavailable domestically. The facility specifically targets the reduction of diabetes-related amputations through advanced wound management protocols and offers solutions for neurological conditions and severe burns that traditionally required overseas referrals.

    Ray Hinds, General Manager of the facility, emphasized their mission: “Our objective is to make sophisticated medical care more accessible, affordable, and available within Trinidad and Tobago. For years, families have sought these essential services abroad. Today, we present viable local alternatives that deliver results.”

    The center operates using Class A hard-shell hyperbaric chambers that meet international safety standards, where patients breathe 100% medical-grade oxygen under pressurized conditions. This process enhances oxygen dissolution in the bloodstream, accelerating natural healing mechanisms, reducing inflammation, and promoting tissue regeneration.

    Medical applications of HBOT include treatment for chronic non-healing wounds, diabetic foot ulcers, radiation injuries, soft tissue damage, and various neurological disorders. The facility uniquely incorporates SnapshotNIR technology for optimized limb salvage and NeuroCatch—an AI-powered brain function assessment tool that provides clinical insights within six minutes.

    All prospective patients must undergo mandatory consultations with certified hyperbaric specialists to determine treatment appropriateness, session frequency, and duration based on individual medical requirements. During its initial operational phase, the facility is offering HBOT at promotional rates, with discounted packages available for multi-session treatment plans.

  • Cops in Western Division seize guns, ammo

    Cops in Western Division seize guns, ammo

    In a significant blow to criminal networks, Trinidad and Tobago’s Western Division police have executed a major operation resulting in the seizure of an extensive arsenal of weapons, ammunition, and narcotics. The operation, conducted on January 11, demonstrates intensified law enforcement efforts against organized crime in the region.

    Commissioner of Police Allister Guevarro personally commended the officers involved, highlighting the operation as “an excellent and timely response to criminal activity” that reflects the division’s “continued commitment to proactive policing, sustained enforcement, and the protection of communities.” The police chief specifically praised acting Senior Superintendent Williams and his team for maintaining operational focus amid challenging circumstances.

    The coordinated operations began around 2:53 PM when officers, acting on intelligence, searched an abandoned concrete structure at Faustin Trace, Maraval. Behind concealed galvanized material, they discovered a multi-colored backpack containing a Glock 19 pistol and 369 rounds of assorted ammunition, including 100 rounds of 9mm, 106 rounds of 7.62mm, and 163 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition.

    Further搜查 revealed additional critical findings: a white crocus bag containing six rifle magazines, two pistol drum magazines, various firearm components, 356.6 grams of cannabis, eight black ski masks, and several dark-colored clothing items – suggesting preparation for significant criminal activities.

    In a parallel operation in Belle-Vue, Long Circular Road, St James, officers located a black plastic bag near a garbage heap containing a Beretta firearm with magazine and five rounds of 9mm ammunition. The operation also led to the arrest of a 30-year-old priority offender from Jeffers Lane, St James, under the Emergency Powers Regulation 2025.

    Additionally, police identified and impounded a suspicious silver Nissan AD van with false registration plates and tampered ignition along Nicholas Street, Maraval, which has been transported to St James Police Station for further investigation.

    The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service has confirmed that investigations into all seized items and related criminal activities are ongoing.

  • Moonilal delighted as stickfighting returns to Debe

    Moonilal delighted as stickfighting returns to Debe

    The vibrant tradition of stickfighting has officially returned to the community of Debe following a ten-year hiatus, marking a significant cultural revival in the Trinidadian region. The event was celebrated with considerable fanfare, attracting community members and dignitaries alike.

    Energy Minister Dr. Roodal Moonilal, who also serves as the Oropouche East MP representing Debe, expressed profound appreciation for the restoration of this ancestral practice. In public statements, Minister Moonilal extended gratitude to Culture Minister Michelle Benjamin, National Carnival Commission (NCC) chairman Peter Kanhai, and the entire NCC team for their instrumental roles in facilitating the cultural resurgence.

    The gathering featured an array of traditional elements that enriched the cultural experience, including performances by a moko jumbie (stilt walker) and a fire-breathing devil character, both iconic figures in Trinidadian folklore. Young stickfighters demonstrated their skills in the gayelle (fighting ring), showcasing the martial art that has been passed down through generations.

    The event drew significant political representation, with attendance from Ernesto Kesar (Minister in the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries and Point Fortin MP), Clyde Elder (Minister in the Ministry of Public Utilities and La Brea MP), Kurt Ramlal (chairman of Heritage Petroleum), and Gowtam Maharaj (chairman of the Penal/Debe Regional Corporation).

    Minister Moonilal characterized the return as “a powerful celebration of culture, heritage, and community pride” that reconnects Debe with its rich cultural legacy while demonstrating a renewed commitment to preserving national traditions.

  • Defamation claim against Energy Minister thrown out

    Defamation claim against Energy Minister thrown out

    A High Court judge has dismissed a defamation lawsuit against Trinidad and Tobago’s Energy Minister Dr. Roodal Moonilal, citing the claimants’ persistent failure to advance their case through proper legal channels. Justice Frank Seepersad ruled against investment entities Trillions Systems Ltd, Rose Capital Investments Ltd, and businessman James Kerron Rose, while simultaneously granting permission for their legal representatives to formally withdraw from the matter.

    The court expressed significant concern over the claimants’ disregard for judicial directives issued since July 2025, which mandated specific procedural actions including the filing of formal replies and document disclosures. Justice Seepersad noted that six months had elapsed without meaningful progress, stating: “The court must jealously guard its process. Delay will not be tolerated by this court.”

    Legal representatives for the claimants detailed extensive but unsuccessful efforts to contact their clients between July and September 2025, utilizing multiple communication channels including email, telephone calls, and WhatsApp messaging. The attorneys revealed that despite attending case management conferences in May 2023 and June 2025, they had received no instructions from Rose or the companies to comply with court requirements.

    Minister Moonilal’s defense team, led by Senior Counsel Anand Ramlogan and attorney Jared Jagroo, highlighted the unusual circumstance of supposedly substantial corporate entities being unreachable by their own legal counsel. Ramlogan emphasized the significant public interest dimensions of the case, noting that the minister’s controversial statements addressed allegations of illegal quarrying and financial improprieties affecting public investors.

    The defamation claim originated from Minister Moonilal’s September 2024 press briefing, streamed on the United National Congress’s Facebook platform and shared through his personal social media accounts. The claimants alleged the minister had falsely associated them with illicit quarry operations, questionable government contracts, and financial misconduct, resulting in substantial reputational damage and business losses.

    Following the dismissal, Minister Moonilal issued a statement characterizing the ruling as a complete vindication of his public interest advocacy. He referenced ongoing investigations by the Securities and Exchange Commission into the claimants’ operations and expressed concern for citizens who allegedly suffered financial losses through their dealings with Rose’s companies. The minister pledged to continue addressing matters of public concern regardless of potential legal challenges, while acknowledging his legal team for their steadfast representation throughout the proceedings.

  • Top cop: No reported incidents in Tobago for THA polls

    Top cop: No reported incidents in Tobago for THA polls

    Tobago’s House of Assembly elections concluded without incident on January 12, thanks to comprehensive security oversight led by Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro and Deputy Commissioner Suzette Martin. The top brass of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) personally supervised electoral operations across the island, implementing strategic measures to ensure public safety and electoral integrity.

    Commissioner Guevarro conducted inspections at multiple key stations including Scarborough, Charlotteville, and Roxborough, engaging directly with station commanders and frontline officers. His visits focused on assessing policing requirements specific to the electoral context and providing operational guidance. He was accompanied by Assistant Commissioners of Police Earl Elie and Collis Hazel during these critical assessments.

    The TTPS executed widespread officer deployments throughout Tobago with the dual objective of maintaining orderly electoral proceedings and safeguarding all citizens, stakeholders, and institutions involved. In a post-election statement via social media, the police service highlighted its commitment to facilitating a smooth and incident-free democratic process.

    Commissioner Guevarro publicly commended Tobagonians for their exemplary conduct throughout the voting exercise, noting the absence of any significant disturbances or security breaches. The successful security operation demonstrates the TTPS’s capacity to manage large-scale democratic events while maintaining public order.

  • TPP trounces PNM 15-0 in THA elections

    TPP trounces PNM 15-0 in THA elections

    In an unprecedented electoral triumph, the Tobago People’s Party (TPP) led by Chief Secretary Farley Augustine secured a comprehensive victory in the Tobago House Assembly elections on January 12, capturing all 15 contested seats. The decisive win marks a significant political shift in the island’s governance, completely eliminating opposition representation from the People’s National Movement (PNM).

    The TPP declared victory shortly after 9 pm, surpassing their previous 14-1 seat achievement in the 2021 elections. The outcome was particularly devastating for PNM’s Kelvon Morris, who lost his Darrel Spring/Whim constituency by a narrow margin of 17 votes after previously winning by just three votes in 2021.

    PNM Tobago leader Tracy Davidson-Celestine announced her resignation following the crushing defeat, stating her support for “transition to new leadership” while confirming the party would seek recounts in several marginal constituencies. The resignation came amidst a atmosphere of stunned disbelief within PNM ranks, which had maintained hope until late evening that Morris might retain his seat.

    This victory continues the TPP’s remarkable electoral trajectory. In the 2021 THA polls, the party’s predecessor organization (PDP) secured 58% of votes (16,932 votes) compared to PNM’s 41% (11,942 votes). The trend continued in the 2025 general election where TPP captured two parliamentary seats with 55% of votes cast (13,857 votes versus PNM’s 11,000 votes).

    The campaign featured intense debate around both local and national issues. Critical discussion points included the controversial placement of a US military radar at ANR Robinson Airport, substantial increases in traffic fines, and rising late fees for driver’s permits. The THA’s procurement of ambulances also emerged as a significant campaign topic, with the PNM criticizing the $18 million expenditure for 12 vehicles.

    Augustine had previously made headlines by vowing to personally “mash up” the US radar installation if evidence emerged it had assisted American operations against Venezuelan leadership. The PNM campaign attempted to raise concerns about potential Trinidad-style closures of Cepep and URP programs, allegations that Augustine dismissed as fearmongering tactics.

    Despite the overwhelming defeat, Davidson-Celestine praised PNM’s “excellent candidates” and acknowledged democratic processes while urging supporters not to “lose hope in the PNM and do not lose hope in Tobago.” She noted the party had detected significant voter dissatisfaction during campaigning that ultimately failed to translate into electoral support.

    The electoral process involved 42 candidates competing across 15 constituencies, with TPP and PNM contesting all seats while the Innovative Democratic Alliance fielded 11 candidates and Unity of the People presented one candidate. The Elections and Boundaries Commission reported no voting irregularities despite minor confusion among some voters regarding polling station locations.

    This electoral restructuring followed the EBC’s creation of three new seats in 2021 (Lambeau/Lowlands, Darrel Spring/Whim and Mt St George/Goodwood) to prevent recurrence of the previous 6-6 deadlock that had paralyzed the assembly. Boundary adjustments in Mason Hall North/Moriah and Mason Hall South/Bagatelle further refined the electoral landscape ahead of the January 12 poll.