Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Brilliant proposal by Irfaan

    Brilliant proposal by Irfaan

    In a bold geopolitical maneuver, Guyana President Dr. Irfaan Ali has garnered significant praise for his resolute pursuit of a cooperative agreement with the United States. This strategic partnership emerges against a backdrop of prolonged territorial tensions with Venezuela, which have intensified following renewed claims over the oil-rich Essequibo region.

    The historical context traces back to the 1899 Paris Arbitral Award, which definitively recognized Guyana’s sovereignty over Essequibo. Despite this settled matter, Venezuela has recently revitalized its expansionist ambitions, creating regional instability. The letter writer emphatically supports President Ali’s diplomatic approach, characterizing Venezuela as the Caribbean’s primary aggressor that has systematically engaged in moral brutality against Guyana while allegedly serving as a major conduit for narcotics and arms trafficking throughout the region.

    A particularly strategic proposition suggests incorporating a US military installation within the disputed territory as a permanent deterrent against Venezuelan aggression. Such presence would establish a definitive frontera—both physical and symbolic—protecting Guyana’s sovereignty while ensuring regional stability. This perspective gains credibility following Trinidad and Tobago’s recent acceptance of US radar infrastructure at Tobago airport, which has already demonstrated operational success through a landmark $171 million drug interdiction in the Caroni Swamp.

    The emerging US-Caribbean security architecture represents a pragmatic realignment against Venezuelan expansionism, with the author concluding that American partnership offers superior regional security outcomes compared to enduring Venezuelan threats. This geopolitical calculus positions military cooperation as essential for safeguarding Caribbean sovereignty and maintaining peace through demonstrated deterrence capabilities.

  • Padarath: Let Rowley stay in retirement

    Padarath: Let Rowley stay in retirement

    A significant diplomatic controversy has erupted within Trinidad and Tobago’s political landscape, pitting current government officials against former leadership over fundamental foreign policy directions. Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath has openly advised former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley to remain in retirement while vigorously defending Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s controversial ‘TT First’ approach to regional affairs.

    The political confrontation stems from Persad-Bissessar’s recent criticism of CARICOM (Caribbean Community), which she characterized as an ‘unreliable partner’ suffering from ‘dysfunctional and self-destructive’ tendencies. During a December 20 address, the Prime Minister elaborated that beneath the surface unity of the regional bloc lie ‘many widening fissures’ that threaten its stability. She specifically cited poor management, lax accountability, factional divisions, and inappropriate meddling in member states’ domestic politics as contributing factors to the organization’s rapid deterioration.

    These comments emerged following CARICOM leaders’ collective response to recent US immigration restrictions affecting citizens from Haiti, Dominica, and Antigua and Barbuda. The regional body, now operating as the Bureau of the Conference of Heads of Government, had called for renewed engagement between member states and the United States.

    Rowley responded with intense criticism through a Facebook statement on December 21, accusing Persad-Bissessar of demonstrating ‘subservience to the US’ and engaging in ‘the most unpatriotic and recklessly incompetent’ leadership he had witnessed in his lifetime. The former Prime Minister asserted that reducing Trinidad and Tobago to a ‘vassal state’ that takes ‘secret instructions from another country’ effectively negates the nation’s constitutional sovereignty and fundamental right to independent decision-making.

    In his retaliatory statement, Padarath dismissed Rowley’s decade-long premiership as ineffective and contrasted it with what he described as Persad-Bissessar’s ‘bold leadership, courageous decisions and strategic alliances.’ The Minister emphasized that the current administration refuses to ignore regional challenges including gun trafficking, drug trafficking, and human trafficking, while simultaneously avoiding coddling ‘tyranny and despotism.’

    The government’s position maintains that regional solidarity should not rely on utopian fantasies of the Caribbean as a ‘zone of peace,’ but rather confront harsh realities through decisive action. Padarath concluded that the Prime Minister is ‘redefining TT’s foreign policy’ to deliver tangible benefits in national and economic security, fully aligning with the administration’s ‘TT first’ doctrine.

  • Chase: First-innings batting failures cost Windies Test series loss

    Chase: First-innings batting failures cost Windies Test series loss

    West Indies Test captain Roston Chase has pinpointed consistent first-innings batting failures as the decisive element behind his team’s 2-0 Test series defeat against New Zealand, concluding a grueling multi-format tour in 2025. This assessment came following a comprehensive loss in the final Test at Mount Maunganui on December 22, which sealed a dismal overseas campaign that saw the Caribbean side fail to secure a single victory across all formats.

    Chase emphasized that establishing a strong first-innings total, ideally around the 300-run mark, is fundamental to controlling a Test match and pursuing a favorable outcome. He confirmed that early batting inconsistencies have been a persistent issue for the squad, one that proved exceedingly costly throughout the tour. The team’s struggles were starkly evident in the final Test, where a monumental 323-run opening partnership from New Zealand’s Devon Conway (227) and captain Tom Latham (137) led to a commanding host declaration at 575/8. Although the West Indies mounted a stern reply with 420 runs, a subsequent second-innings collapse for 138 all out confirmed a heavy defeat.

    The skipper expressed visible disappointment, particularly as the defeat extended the West Indies’ winless streak in New Zealand since 1995. He admitted the pitch’s rapid deterioration, with developing cracks and unpredictable bounce, presented an unexpected challenge for his batsmen. While defending his bowling unit’s effort amidst injury concerns, Chase was unequivocal that batting remained the central weakness, despite being encouraged by three centuries scored in the series, including a brilliant unbeaten 202 from Justin Greaves and 140 from Shai Hope in Christchurch.

    On a personal note, Chase was self-critical, labeling his own performance with a highest score of 29 as ‘very below par’ and admitting he failed to lead from the front. Looking ahead, he stated that addressing these deficiencies is non-negotiable for both himself and the team to compete more consistently on the international stage. He also praised New Zealand’s standout performers, including Jacob Duffy’s bowling effectiveness and the dominance of Conway and Latham, while paying tribute to the exceptional career of Kane Williamson.

  • Calls for TTEC New East Side to be disqualified from small band finals

    Calls for TTEC New East Side to be disqualified from small band finals

    A significant controversy has erupted following the December 20 Panorama small conventional band semifinals, with mounting calls for the disqualification of TTEC New East Side Dimension. The Tobago-based steelband failed to perform in its originally drawn position of number five due to severe travel and accommodation complications, eventually taking the stage in position nineteen instead.

    Arranger Kersh Ramsey detailed to Newsday on December 21 the extraordinary logistical challenges that plagued the band’s journey from Tobago to Trinidad. These included critical transportation failures, accommodation breakdowns, and personal baggage delays that left musicians without basic necessities and unable to practice for the prestigious competition.

    The situation has drawn comparisons to previous Panorama incidents where strict enforcement of performance order rules led to disqualifications. Critics specifically reference Valley Harps’ elimination from medium band semifinals for technical difficulties and NLCB Fonclaire’s exclusion from a Panorama final after delayed instrument arrival. Some commentators have alleged preferential treatment, noting Ramsey’s familial connection to Pan Trinbago president Beverley Ramsey-Moore, though these claims remain unsubstantiated.

    Despite the controversy and significant competitive disadvantages, TTEC New East Side Dimension achieved a remarkable fourth-place finish with 272 points for their arrangement of Sparrow’s ‘Water de Garden,’ maintaining their preliminary round ranking. The band has secured advancement to the finals scheduled for January 10, 2026, at Skinner Park in San Fernando.

    The semifinal competition at Victoria Square, Port of Spain, saw Southern Stars Steel Orchestra (D’South Band) and Uptown Fascinators Steel Orchestra maintaining their leadership positions. Defending champions Golden Hands Steel Orchestra dramatically improved their standing from seventh to third place. Due to multiple scoring ties, sixteen bands instead of the planned fourteen will progress to the finals, including three-way ties for seventh and thirteenth places among several accomplished ensembles.

    Ramsey has indicated that comprehensive arrangements are being implemented to prevent recurrence of the logistical issues, allowing the band to focus entirely on their championship aspirations in the upcoming finals.

  • Agriculture minister hosts children’s Xmas party

    Agriculture minister hosts children’s Xmas party

    In a heartwarming pre-Christmas celebration, Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Ravi Ratiram organized a special children’s party on December 21st at the National Cycling Velodrome in Couva. The event brought together approximately 800 children from ministry staff families for an afternoon filled with festive merriment and joyful activities.

    The gathering served as more than just seasonal entertainment, representing Minister Ratiram’s dedicated approach to staff welfare and family engagement. During his address to attendees, the minister emphasized the fundamental importance of creating meaningful spaces for children and acknowledging the crucial role families play in supporting public servants.

    “The Christmas season reminds us of life’s essential values—family bonds, love, kindness, gratitude, and hope,” Minister Ratiram stated. “By investing in our children and creating environments where they feel genuinely valued and cherished, we are essentially planting seeds for Trinidad and Tobago’s stronger future.”

    The minister also took the opportunity to express his profound appreciation for the dedication and professionalism demonstrated by ministry staff throughout the year. He noted that their critical work supporting national food security, agricultural sustainability, and climate resilience is fundamentally strengthened by the values they exemplify both within professional settings and at home.

    The festive event featured an array of engaging activities including traditional games, lively music, sweet treats, and surprise appearances—with Santa Claus himself making a special visit to spread Christmas cheer. The celebration successfully fostered an atmosphere of joy and togetherness among children and their families, effectively reinforcing the spirit of unity, generosity, and goodwill that characterizes the Christmas season.

    Minister Ratiram concluded the event by extending his heartfelt best wishes to all ministry staff, their children, and families for a safe, joyful, and peaceful Christmas season followed by a prosperous New Year.

  • Jaisarie family continues tradition of giving

    Jaisarie family continues tradition of giving

    The Jaisarie family of Churkoo Village, Princes Town, maintained their cherished annual tradition on December 13 by hosting a Christmas community outreach event at their residential property. The gathering brought together approximately 150 children from diverse backgrounds for an afternoon filled with festive celebrations, nourishment, and gift-giving.

    Attorney Sherlana Jaisarie, the primary organizer of this philanthropic initiative, emphasized her family’s enduring commitment to community service. The event featured meticulously decorated tents in traditional Christmas colors of red and green, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for all attendees.

    Children received McDonald’s Happy Meals, specially curated treat bags, and an assortment of toys, while parents were served hot doubles—a popular local street food. The occasion attracted support from community leaders including local government representative Shawn Premchand, who participated in the festivities and publicly commended the family’s efforts.

    Premchand described the experience as profoundly heartwarming, noting the visible joy and excitement among children and families. He particularly praised Jaisarie’s dedication to fostering community spirit during the holiday season through this annual tradition.

    The Christmas treat has evolved into an anticipated community event that effectively embodies the seasonal spirit of generosity and goodwill, strengthening community bonds through shared celebration and charitable giving.

  • Trump, the author of confusion

    Trump, the author of confusion

    In a scathing critique of U.S. foreign policy under the Trump administration, political commentators have highlighted what appears to be a pattern of bewildering contradictions and strategic inconsistencies. The editorial analysis points to President Trump’s simultaneous declaration of a war on drugs while granting presidential clemency to convicted Honduran drug traffickers as emblematic of this paradoxical approach.

    The policy landscape appears to shift abruptly from focusing on narcotics interdiction to asserting control over foreign oil resources and territorial claims, creating what observers describe as a diplomatic strategy lacking coherent direction. The administration’s ‘America First’ doctrine, according to critics, manifests as a disjointed series of actions that prioritize short-term gains over long-term strategic consistency.

    This approach has drawn significant criticism for what analysts characterize as fundamental hypocrisy: combating cartels while potentially empowering their leadership, addressing resource theft while seizing foreign assets, and pursuing peace through confrontational threats. The resulting international perception, as documented in foreign policy assessments, suggests a departure from traditional diplomatic norms and a embrace of transactional relationships that undermine consistent policy application.

    The editorial commentary concludes that these apparent contradictions have created unprecedented challenges for international relations experts attempting to analyze American foreign policy objectives, with the current administration’s actions frequently contradicting its stated principles on the global stage.

  • Venezuelan ambassador celebrates IVCC students

    Venezuelan ambassador celebrates IVCC students

    The Venezuelan Embassy in Port of Spain hosted a significant cultural and educational event on December 5, celebrating the graduation of Trinidadian students from the Spanish language and Venezuelan culture program. Ambassador Álvaro Sánchez Cordero presided over the ceremony, emphasizing the Spanish language (Castellano) as a vital bridge for mutual understanding between English and Spanish speakers while strengthening bilateral cultural ties.

    During his address, Ambassador Cordero highlighted the six-decade legacy of the Venezuelan Institute of Culture and Co-operation ‘Andres Bello’ (IVCC) as a crucial meeting point for shared knowledge and cultural exchange between Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuela. The ambassador specifically commended graduates for their dedication, particularly those who pursued studies through remote learning or weekend classes despite scheduling challenges.

    The ceremony featured multiple cultural presentations demonstrating the students’ linguistic and cultural acquisition. Professor Lisbeth Kong’s Saturday Conversation Workshop participants delivered presentations exploring cultural connections between the two nations, while Professor Coromoto Fernández-Sirju’s Advanced Spanish Group demonstrated their linguistic progression through specialized presentations. Students Jeselle Gajadhar and Dianne Persaud delivered particularly notable individual presentations.

    Musical performances formed a centerpiece of the celebration, with the IVCC Rondalla ensemble under Professor Geremías Mai Marcano’s direction performing traditional Venezuelan Christmas compositions including ‘Corre Caballito,’ ‘Niño Criollo,’ ‘Precioso Querube,’ and the patriotic anthem ‘Venezuela.’ The embassy subsequently shared performance videos on its Facebook platform on December 12, describing the event as showcasing ‘the magic of our culture at the IVCC.’

    In a testament to the program’s diplomatic significance, Ambassador Cordero declared graduates as cultural ambassadors who now represent ‘the message of peace and global solidarity’ between the neighboring nations. The embassy’s social media posts on December 9 further documented the certificate distribution ceremony, acknowledging participant dedication and the program’s role in fostering meaningful bilateral exchange.

    While the IVCC previously maintained branches in both Port of Spain and San Fernando, the embassy confirmed in 2015 that the San Fernando operations were temporarily suspended due to organizational restructuring and program updates.

  • Brilliantproposalby Irfaan

    Brilliantproposalby Irfaan

    A compelling endorsement has emerged from New York-based commentator Jay Rakhar, praising Guyanese President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s strategic decision to pursue enhanced cooperation with the United States amid escalating tensions with Venezuela. This development occurs against the backdrop of Venezuela’s renewed claims over the oil-rich Essequibo region, despite the 1899 Paris Arbitral Award that established Guyana’s legitimate sovereignty.

    The correspondence highlights Venezuela’s alleged role as a regional destabilizer, accusing the nation of being a primary exporter of illicit drugs and firearms not only to Trinidad and Tobago but also to the United States and neighboring Suriname. The author characterizes Venezuela under President Nicolás Maduro as ‘the bully of the Caribbean,’ referencing recent assertions that Trinidad and Tobago historically belonged to Venezuela—claims dismissed as baseless.

    A particularly provocative suggestion proposes the establishment of a US military base within the disputed Essequibo territory as a permanent solution to deter Venezuelan expansionism. The author argues that American military presence would serve as a protective frontier, ensuring Guyana’s security while providing psychological comfort to its citizens.

    The analysis further references Trinidad and Tobago’s existing security cooperation with the US, notably the installation of a radar system at Tobago airport that recently contributed to a significant drug bust worth $171 million in the Caroni Swamp. The author condemns any potential objections to such security measures as ‘outrageous and ludicrous,’ emphasizing their demonstrated effectiveness in combating narcotics trafficking.

    The overarching argument posits that strategic alignment with the United States represents a prudent geopolitical choice compared to enduring Venezuelan aggression, framing the proposed partnership as a necessary safeguard for regional stability.

  • Star of Bethlehem shines brightly on St Joseph’s Convent, San Fernando stage

    Star of Bethlehem shines brightly on St Joseph’s Convent, San Fernando stage

    The Dr Sister Phyllis Wharfe Auditorium radiated with festive energy on December 11 as St Joseph’s Convent in San Fernando presented its annual Christmas Song and Dance Interhouse Competition. This year’s theme, ‘The Star of Bethlehem,’ provided the backdrop for an extraordinary display of student talent and creativity that transcended mere competition.

    Five houses—St Joseph, St Xavier, Notre Dame, St Theresa, and Blessed Ann Marie—engaged in a spirited contest spanning three performance categories: choral music, dance, and traditional parang. After an evening of exceptional presentations, Blessed Ann Marie House achieved a remarkable sweep, claiming victory across all categories and securing both the championship trophy and well-earned accolades.

    The event represented far more than artistic rivalry; it demonstrated the profound discipline and dedication cultivated through the school’s performing arts program. Students balanced intensive rehearsals with academic responsibilities during the crucial end-of-term examination period, resulting in performances that showcased both technical proficiency and genuine emotional expression.

    A particularly impressive aspect emerged during the dance segment, where students overcame the absence of formal dance training facilities. Master of ceremonies Michelle Dowrich, a retired teacher from the institution, noted the exceptional quality of choreography and execution despite the lack of specialized flooring or instruction.

    In the classical music category, houses presented carefully curated selections including ‘We Three Kings,’ ‘The First Noel,’ and ‘O Come All Ye Faithful,’ with Faith Phillip of St Xavier House earning recognition as Best Conductress. Judges praised the choirs for their dynamic engagement, articulate delivery, and balanced vocal arrangements.

    The dance performances emphasized storytelling through movement, with adjudicators evaluating clarity of expression, technical execution, and synchronization with musical changes. Each house developed distinctive thematic approaches, blending traditional Christmas melodies with contemporary Caribbean influences including soca, calypso, and musical theater elements.

    The parang category received particularly enthusiastic response from judge Dr. Francesca Allard of Los Dinamicos Parang Group, who declared the tradition ‘in good hands.’ She highlighted significant advancements in vocal quality, lead performances, and overall presentation, while noting the authentic joy visible in every performer’s expression.

    As the final notes faded, the event stood as testament to the institution’s commitment to developing well-rounded individuals through artistic expression, community engagement, and cultural preservation—truly making the Star of Bethlehem shine brightly through youthful talent and creative passion.