In a strategic move to ensure smooth port operations, the Customs and Excise Division, alongside the Port Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (TT), the Port of Port of Spain (PPOS), and the Point Lisas Industrial Port Development Corporation Ltd (PLIPDECO), has introduced coordinated measures to manage vessel traffic at the Port of Port of Spain from October 22 to 30. This initiative was necessitated by the docking of the USS Gravely at the port from October 26 to 30. The Finance Ministry, in a statement on October 26, highlighted the collaborative efforts of these entities to temporarily redirect and process vessels and cargo to the Port of Point Lisas. This redirection ensures that shipping lines, agents, and shippers opting for this alternative can receive their cargo as expected. The ports’ management teams have been diligently working to guarantee seamless berthing, cargo handling, and documentation processes. The PPOS has forwarded all pertinent information to the Port of Point Lisas, and interested agents have provided their vessel details, which are now included in the vessel schedule at the Port of Point Lisas. Shipping agents have been advised to contact their vessel agents to confirm the availability of services at the Port of Point Lisas. Additionally, Customs and Excise Officers have been deployed to support enhanced inspection and clearance operations at both ports. Accommodations have been made for full export and transshipment containers in inventory at the Port of Port of Spain to be transferred to the Port of Point Lisas. Measures have been implemented to minimize disruptions to normal customs port operations, ensuring a seamless and timely transfer of containers. The Port of Point Lisas has extended its gate hours to accommodate all service requests. This arrangement will remain effective until October 30, ensuring that export containers are transferred efficiently and without delay. This collaboration underscores the shared commitment to national trade resilience and operational flexibility within TT’s port network. The teams have worked closely to efficiently accommodate all vessels and maintain the integrity of cargo flows across both ports. The agencies expressed their gratitude to all stakeholders for their cooperation and promised continuous updates as normal operations resume at the Port of Port of Spain.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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Ramkissoon elected TTCB treasurer, John remains 2nd VP
In a decisive outcome at the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board’s (TTCB) annual general meeting (AGM) held on October 25 at the National Cricket Centre in Balmain, Couva, Stephen Ramkissoon successfully retained his position as treasurer. Ramkissoon, who assumed the role earlier this year following the removal of his predecessor Kiswah Chaitoo, secured a 29-12 victory over Central Sports owner Richard Ramkissoon. The AGM also saw Kerwin John, head of the Tobago Cricket Association, re-elected as second vice-president with a 27-13 win over Rajendra Mangalie. Avinash Suruj of Central Zone was elected third vice-president, defeating Parasram Singh 29-12. Five new members—Ravi Teeluck, Anand Rampersad, Ann Brown John, Frank Simmons, and Mitra Ragoonanan—joined the executive with membership status, while Sharaz Mohammed fell short with only ten votes. Azim Bassarath, TTCB president since 2009, retained his position uncontested, marking his sixth consecutive term. However, due to recent amendments limiting presidents to two successive four-year terms, this is likely his final term. Altaf Baksh and Henry Chase were also elected unopposed as first vice-president and general secretary, respectively. Ammar Samaroo, TTCB elections committee secretary, confirmed the voting process was seamless, with no issues reported.
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Catholic Bishops call for peace amid rising military tensions in Caribbean
The Catholic Bishops of the Antilles Episcopal Conference (AEC) have issued a fervent plea for peace and dialogue in response to escalating military activities in the Southern Caribbean. In a statement released on October 25 following their annual conference, the bishops expressed deep concern over the increasing presence of naval and military assets in the region, warning that such developments could destabilize the socio-economic and political fabric of Caribbean nations. The bishops emphasized that the well-being of the region’s people is at stake, urging leaders to prioritize dialogue over conflict. Their appeal coincides with the arrival of the USS Gravely, a US warship, in Port of Spain on October 26. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar defended the vessel’s presence, citing potential benefits such as technical assistance and humanitarian efforts. However, the bishops cautioned that the militarization of the Caribbean could have broader geopolitical implications, particularly in the context of ongoing tensions between the US and Venezuela. Archbishop Jason Gordon, president of the AEC, stressed the need for cooperation and reconciliation to foster lasting peace. The bishops also condemned the arbitrary use of force, particularly in anti-drug operations, and reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to protecting human dignity and sovereignty. They called on regional leaders to de-escalate tensions and recommit to unity, emphasizing that war or the threat of war is never a viable solution. The statement concluded with an appeal to the faithful to seek hope through prayer and acts of reconciliation, underscoring the Church’s unwavering mission to safeguard the vulnerable and promote the common good.
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PNM: Budget betrays people’s trust
The People’s National Movement (PNM) has vehemently opposed the 2025/2026 national budget, labeling it a ‘betrayal of the people’s trust’ and a continuation of the United National Congress (UNC) government’s ‘deliberate campaign of deception.’ The budget, passed on October 25 after five days of deliberation in the House of Representatives, faced unanimous rejection from the 12-member Opposition. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar condemned the PNM’s stance, accusing them of betraying the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago. However, the PNM countered, asserting that the budget disproportionately burdens the poor, squeezes the middle class, and protects the wealthy. Key measures criticized include the landlord tax, electricity rate hikes, increased NIS contributions, and taxes on single-use plastics, all of which are expected to escalate living costs. The PNM also highlighted unfulfilled promises, such as the broken housing pledge, cuts to training programs, and the absence of a 10% salary increase for public officers. Additionally, the opposition criticized the government’s ‘National Recruitment Drive’ as a publicity stunt, citing re-advertised jobs and insufficient funding. The PNM accused the UNC of hiding the true fiscal deficit, manipulating expenditure figures, and engaging in political victimization by slashing funding to PNM-led corporations while favoring UNC-controlled regions. The opposition vowed to continue exposing what they describe as the UNC’s ‘reckless economic mismanagement’ and deceptive practices.
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Jamaicans brace for Hurricane Melissa
As Hurricane Melissa approaches Jamaica, residents across the island are grappling with mounting anxiety and taking urgent measures to prepare for the storm’s impact. Forecasted to make landfall on October 28 as a Category 3 hurricane, Melissa has already begun to unleash its fury on the eastern parishes of St. Thomas and Portland, bringing flooding, powerful winds, and storm surges. The hurricane, which has lingered off Jamaica’s coast for several days, remains a formidable Category 4 storm with winds reaching 145 miles per hour as of October 26, located 115 miles south-southwest of Kingston. Its trajectory is also expected to affect Cuba and Haiti.
Dr. Kai Barratt, a lecturer at the University of Technology, shared insights with Newsday via WhatsApp, highlighting the community’s preparation patterns honed since Hurricane Gilbert in 1988. She noted the widespread rush to stockpile essentials like bread, water, and medicine, as well as the surge in demand for solar-powered devices and batteries. However, Barratt emphasized the disparity in preparedness, with wealthier individuals able to secure their homes while vulnerable populations remain at risk.
In Kingston, concerns about flooding due to unchecked urban development are prevalent. Despite the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) issuing a list of shelters, uncertainty lingers about whether all residents are informed. Amelia Dunn, a land manager from St. Andrew, described the frantic efforts to fortify homes and businesses, with many boarding up windows and securing supplies. She also expressed concerns about debris and prolonged power outages.
In Westmoreland, residents have been clearing debris and reinforcing their homes, though uncertainty about the hurricane’s exact timing has complicated preparations. A local resident criticized the government for delayed efforts in cleaning watercourses but acknowledged ongoing updates via social media. Meanwhile, major hotels have implemented emergency plans, relocating guests and securing property.
The Jamaican government has activated 881 shelters, with 218 people already seeking refuge. Ministers have assured the public of coordinated efforts by utility providers to restore services post-hurricane. Trinidad and Tobago’s Foreign Minister Sean Sobers also pledged support for Jamaica, dismissing claims of strained Caricom relations and emphasizing solidarity in times of crisis.
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Cordner to lead Trinidad and Tobago for Reggae Girlz friendly
The Trinidad and Tobago (TT) senior women’s football team is gearing up for a pivotal friendly match against Jamaica on October 28 at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva. Veteran forward Kennya “Yaya” Cordner will once again lead the team as captain, a decision confirmed by newly appointed co-head coach Damian Briggs during a pre-match press conference on October 27. Cordner’s return to the national team brings much-needed leadership and experience to a squad that has been largely inactive over the past year. Briggs emphasized her role as a mentor and communicator, both on and off the pitch, highlighting her ability to motivate the team during challenging times. The match against Jamaica serves as a critical benchmark for the TT women’s team as they prepare for the upcoming Concacaf Women’s World Cup qualifiers, set to begin on November 30 against Barbados. Briggs, who shares coaching responsibilities with former Soca Warriors midfielder Densill Theobald, expressed optimism about the team’s progress despite a short preparation window of just three weeks. The coaching duo has focused on building team chemistry, structure, and belief, aiming to deliver competitive and attractive football. With only three foreign-based players in the current squad, the match will also provide an opportunity to evaluate local talent. Briggs acknowledged the challenges posed by Jamaica’s match-ready squad but remains confident in the team’s work ethic and determination. The friendly marks the start of a new chapter for TT women’s football, with Briggs and Theobald committed to helping the team achieve its goals. Kick-off is scheduled for 8 pm, with gates opening at 6 pm and admission priced at $60.
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Partygoers cause Tobago tour boat to sink
A festive outing turned perilous at Tobago’s Nylon Pool on Saturday, October 25, when a glass-bottom boat partially sank due to overcrowding. The vessel, named Rush Hour, had departed from Pigeon Point Jetty at 4 pm with 65 passengers for a reef tour. However, by 6:15 pm, while docked at the Nylon Pool jetty, the boat began to take on water after patrons from other reef boats boarded, causing the stern to submerge. Local pirogue operators swiftly intervened to evacuate the passengers, averting a potential disaster. Authorities from the Crown Point Police Station promptly responded to the incident, ensuring the safety of all involved. This incident highlights the need for stricter safety regulations and crowd control measures during popular tourist activities.
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Why still pay TTRA employees?
The recent repeal of the Trinidad and Tobago Revenue Authority (TTRA) Act by the new UNC government has sparked significant debate over the continued employment and funding of its hierarchy within the Ministry of Finance. Despite the repeal, the TTRA’s top officials, who were hired under the previous administration, remain on the payroll, costing taxpayers substantial sums. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo faces mounting questions regarding the rationale behind this financial burden on taxpayers.
The TTRA, a politically charged entity, saw its top officials earning over $150,000 monthly. Established under a prior administration’s policy agenda, the TTRA’s alignment with the current government’s priorities is now in question. Critics argue that continuing to fund such an entity undermines democratic accountability and represents a misallocation of public resources.
Governments are elected to implement their own policy objectives and allocate resources accordingly. Funding legacy entities that no longer serve the current administration’s goals is seen as wasteful, especially when these entities may have been established without proper feasibility studies or governance structures. The current administration is urged to assess the legal constitution, effectiveness, and necessity of these personnel before continuing payments.
Efficient and transparent use of public funds is a fundamental duty of any government. Paying for an entity that may no longer be operational, relevant, or producing measurable results contradicts sound fiscal management. Instead, funds should be redirected toward current national priorities or more impactful programs that align with present needs.
The current administration should not automatically inherit financial responsibility for organizations created by a previous government unless these entities continue to serve a clear, lawful, and strategic national purpose. Continued funding without such justification represents poor governance, weak accountability, and a misallocation of public resources.
Nizam Ganga, via e-mail
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Trinidad and Tobago women’s coach: Asha James ‘not left out forever’
The Trinidad and Tobago women’s football team remains united and fully focused as they prepare for their October 28 international friendly against Jamaica, despite the recent exclusion of playmaker Asha James. James was omitted from the 23-member squad announced on October 24, following a critical Facebook post she directed at team captain Kennya “Yaya” Cordner on October 20. This incident occurred just one day after former head coach Angus Eve resigned after only 20 days in charge.
Newly appointed co-head coach Damian Briggs addressed the situation during a pre-match interview at Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva on October 27. Briggs clarified that James’ omission was not disciplinary but had been handled internally before his appointment. He emphasized that the decision was not permanent and that James was informed of the outcome, with both parties reaching an amicable resolution. Briggs confirmed that James is expected to rejoin the team after the Jamaica match.
Briggs, who replaced Eve, stated that the squad has moved past the distractions and is focused on performing well against their regional rivals. He highlighted the team’s unity and shared goals, saying, “We’ve bonded and gelled together. Everyone’s singing from the same hymn sheet.” The team aims to create a legacy in women’s football for Trinidad and Tobago, with the Jamaica game serving as a platform to showcase their progress and unity.
Briggs also noted that the technical staff has implemented measures to minimize distractions and ensure the team remains focused on their upcoming challenges, including the Concacaf Women’s qualifiers starting on November 30. The Jamaica friendly marks Briggs’s first assignment as head coach of the Women Warriors.
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Paul misses Track World Championship medal
Trinidad and Tobago’s cycling sensation Nicholas Paul narrowly missed out on a podium finish at the 2025 Track World Championships in Santiago, Chile, on October 26. Paul, who had previously secured silver medals in the 2021 and 2023 editions, finished fourth in the men’s sprint event, marking a disappointing end to the nation’s campaign. This year’s result contrasts sharply with the past two championships, where Paul had been a standout performer. Ranked fourth in the International Cycling Union’s individual sprint standings, Paul faced Dutch speedster Harrie Lavreysen in the semi-finals. Despite a valiant effort, Paul was outclassed by Lavreysen, who went on to claim gold in the final. In the bronze-medal race, Paul faced Australian Leigh Hoffman. Although Paul briefly took the lead in the first race, Hoffman’s resilience in the sprint lane secured him the bronze. The second race saw Hoffman dominate, leaving Paul without a medal. The championships also saw mixed results for other Trinidad and Tobago cyclists. Makaira Wallace, making her World Championships debut in the women’s keirin, failed to advance beyond the first round. Akil Campbell finished 16th in the men’s elimination race, while his sister Teniel did not complete the women’s points race. Despite the setbacks, Paul’s performance in the keirin and 1km time trial, along with the participation of veteran Njisane Phillip, highlighted Trinidad and Tobago’s presence on the global stage.