Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Keshorn, Teniel cop First Citizens awards

    Keshorn, Teniel cop First Citizens awards

    The National Academy for the Performing Arts served as the prestigious backdrop on January 17 for the First Citizens Foundation’s 2025 Sports Awards and 2026 Hall of Fame Induction ceremony. The gala event, themed ‘Legacy Takes Flight,’ celebrated the extraordinary accomplishments of Trinidad and Tobago’s athletic community, recognizing those who have elevated the nation’s profile through exceptional sporting achievements.

    The evening spotlighted athletes whose dedication, leadership, and competitive excellence have brought honor to Trinidad and Tobago across international competitions. Their narratives of perseverance, passion, and national pride embody the resilient spirit of a nation continually striving for athletic distinction.

    First Citizens Group CEO Jason Julien emphasized the institution’s commitment to sports development through corporate social responsibility initiatives. ‘Sport produces role models capable of inspiring transformative change,’ Julien stated in an official release. ‘We encourage all athletes to extend their influence beyond competitive arenas and into their communities.’

    Minister of Sport and Youth Affairs Phillip Watts, representing the government, commended the athletes for their representation of the national colors while highlighting the ministry’s commitment to inclusive sports development. The ministry’s initiatives specifically focus on empowering vulnerable groups including persons with disabilities, women, and grassroots community athletes.

    The ceremony’s pinnacle moments included the induction of four legendary figures into the Sport Hall of Fame and the announcement of the 2025 Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year. Javelin champion Keshorn Walcott secured the Sportsman of the Year distinction, while cycling standout Teniel Campbell earned the Sportswoman of the Year honor.

    Posthumous Hall of Fame recognitions were awarded to Carmen Elieen King (Athletics), Sharon Castanada (Netball and Basketball), Ferdi De Gannes (Cycling), and Roland ‘Charlo’ Charles (Table Tennis). Additional awards celebrated emerging talent with Jaden Marchan and Janae De Gannes receiving Youth Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year accolades respectively, while the Junior Cycling Sprint Team claimed the Lystra Lewis Award for Team of the Year.

    The event successfully united athletes, sporting organizations, dignitaries, and supporters in a memorable celebration that underscored sport’s profound capacity to transform communities and strengthen national identity.

  • Trinidad and Tobago tourism: Beyond cruise ship numbers

    Trinidad and Tobago tourism: Beyond cruise ship numbers

    Recent media reports questioning Trinidad and Tobago’s tourism vitality due to fluctuating cruise arrivals have sparked industry debate. However, a ground-level perspective reveals a sector undergoing profound transformation rather than decline. The traditional tourism landscape has fundamentally shifted from large corporate dominance to an ecosystem of agile, digitally-native operators leveraging platforms like Viator, TripAdvisor, and Google to connect directly with global travelers.

    This digital revolution has created significant gaps in official statistics. Visitors now routinely book private cultural tours, local guides, and complete Carnival experiences through direct digital channels—economic activities that remain largely invisible to conventional tracking systems. The accommodation sector mirrors this transformation, with Airbnb and Booking.com enabling stays in guest houses from Paramin to beachfront cottages in Tobago, all occurring outside traditional measurement frameworks.

    Three distinctive visitor profiles illustrate this new reality: a American seeking 48-hour stress relief through cultural immersion, a Ukrainian spiritual traveler selecting Trinidad as his sanctuary, and a dedicated birther pursuing rare hummingbird species. Perhaps most significantly, transit tourism has emerged as a substantial category, with layover passengers booking four-hour tours with local cuisine between flights at Piarco International Airport—experiences completely absent from overnight stay statistics.

    The sector has diversified into specialized niches including culinary tourism (focused on doubles, roti, and pelau), extended Carnival stays, heritage root-tracing, birdwatching expeditions, and medical/wellness visits. These experience-driven travelers demonstrate higher spending commitment and resilience compared to traditional cruise passengers.

    The critical challenge lies in perception management. While government investment in aggressive destination marketing remains essential, equally crucial is curbing self-defeating narratives that undermine Trinidad and Tobago’s global competitiveness. The nation’s authentic cultural assets—from steelbands to calypso storytelling—represent precisely what modern discerning travelers seek. Rather than decline, the sector demonstrates evolution toward its true potential, measured inadequately with outdated metrics. The world stands ready to discover Trinidad and Tobago’s unique offerings—the question remains whether local stakeholders can align behind a unified promotional vision.

  • Migrants seek clarity on new registration process

    Migrants seek clarity on new registration process

    Trinidad and Tobago’s migrant population is expressing growing concerns over the government’s newly announced Migrant Registration Framework (MRF), citing insufficient information and communication gaps that have created widespread anxiety and confusion.

    The framework, established through Legal Notice 470 in late 2025, aims to provide undocumented migrants—not exclusively Venezuelans—with legal status to reside and work in the country from January 1 through September 30, 2026. However, with the Ministry of Homeland Security yet to publish formal requirements, implementation phases, or specific timelines, uncertainty continues to mount within vulnerable communities.

    Andreina Briceno Ventura-Brown, founder of La Casita Hispanic Cultural Centre, emphasized that while migrants have responded receptively to the initiative, the absence of clear official guidance has fostered misinformation and distress. She highlighted that the registration represents a vital opportunity for thousands to regularize their status, access dignified employment, and achieve social inclusion without fear of persecution.

    A significant information disparity has also emerged between Spanish-speaking migrants, who are actively preparing for the process, and English-speaking migrants from other Caribbean nations, many of whom remain unaware of their potential eligibility. Additionally, families with existing deportation orders fear exclusion from the program, raising concerns over transparency and equitable treatment.

    Ventura-Brown urged authorities to enhance official communication, clarify eligibility criteria, and ensure the process aligns with principles of human dignity, due process, and equality. Yesenia Gonzalez, a Venezuelan activist, echoed these concerns, noting that many fear registration could lead to deportation or detention.

    Attempts to reach Foreign and Caricom Affairs Minister Sean Sobers for comment were unsuccessful. The situation underscores the critical balance between national security priorities and humanitarian obligations in migration policy.

  • Government to pay former private sugarcane farmers

    Government to pay former private sugarcane farmers

    The Trinidad and Tobago government has reached a landmark settlement to resolve a protracted compensation dispute with former private sugarcane farmers, concluding a decade-long legal battle stemming from the closure of Caroni (1975) Ltd during the Manning administration.

    This resolution emerged from a High Court hearing where the Attorney General’s Office consented to an order addressing 256 claims filed by former farmers seeking enforcement of a Cabinet-approved compensation package from December 2014. The original agreement authorized a $130 million settlement package structured in three tranches to address the 2007 transition out of the sugar industry.

    The compensation framework included an initial $27 million from European Union funds under the Sugar Protocol Programme, followed by $75 million upon receipt of 8 million euros from the EU in 2015, and a final $28 million payment in 2016. Despite receiving the European funds in 2015, the previous administration diverted the money into the Consolidated Fund for general government expenditure instead of compensating the farmers.

    Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, whose administration originally approved the compensation package, had pledged during the recent election campaign that a UNC government would honor the commitment. The matter was finally resolved before Justice Gobin on January 16, with the state agreeing to implement the outstanding payments.

    Attorney Gerald Ramdeen, representing the former farmers, expressed appreciation for the resolution, stating: “I wish to thank the honorable prime minister and the attorney general for doing what should have been done ten years ago. The actions of the present Attorney General have brought ten years of discrimination by the PNM to an end.”

    The settlement concludes years of legal challenges, including unsuccessful state appeals and a 2019 Court of Appeal decision that favored six former sugarcane farmers. The farmers had rejected a 2016 government offer of $84 million instead of the promised $130 million, choosing instead to pursue full compensation through the judicial system.

  • Youth steel on a positive note

    Youth steel on a positive note

    Trinidad and Tobago’s vibrant youth steelpan community demonstrated remarkable resilience during the National Schools’ Panorama event held on January 18-19. Despite last-minute venue changes that relocated the finals to Skinner Park in San Fernando, participation numbers remained strong with schools from across the nation—from Diego Martin to Penal—showcasing their musical talents.

    The competition featured the top 12 primary schools and ten secondary school finalists, highlighting the widespread engagement of young musicians. The venue shift unexpectedly created greater opportunities for school bands outside traditional hubs like San Fernando and Port of Spain, suggesting potential benefits for decentralizing cultural events.

    Pan Trinbago’s additional under-21 and under-19 competitions, maintained at Queen’s Park Savannah, further enriched the youth music scene, representing a significant net gain for young musicians developing passion for the national instrument beyond Carnival pressures.

    However, serious safety concerns emerged regarding the Skinner Park stage design. Pan Trinbago President Beverley Ramsey-Moore publicly criticized NCC chairman Peter Kanhai after instruments and two moko jumbies fell from the stage due to its smooth surface, steep incline, and inadequate size. These conditions pose particular danger to child performers compared to experienced adult bands.

    Broader systemic issues surfaced regarding government support for steelpan culture. While Culture Minister Michelle Benjamin highlighted ministry support for unsponsored steelbands, five bands—Skiffle Bunch, Siparia Deltones, Couva Joylanders, La Brea Nightingales, and Steel Xplosion—lost sponsorship from National Gas Company and Heritage Petroleum at the end of 2025, severely impacting their Panorama preparations.

    The apparent confrontation between Sport Ministry PS David Nakhid and Mrs. Ramsey-Moore further illustrates the misalignment between government promises of cultural support and the reality faced by steelpan organizations.

  • Central Bank seeks to postpone CL Financial hearing

    Central Bank seeks to postpone CL Financial hearing

    Trinidad’s High Court has been requested to postpone a landmark lawsuit against former CL Financial executives following the parliamentary submission of a long-awaited commission of enquiry report into one of the Caribbean’s most devastating financial collapses.

    The Central Bank formally sought an adjournment of its protracted legal battle against former CL Financial chairman Lawrence Duprey and other directors, citing the need to thoroughly analyze the newly released Colman Report. This 676-page investigative document, laid before Parliament on January 16, 2026, details the catastrophic 2009 collapse that necessitated a massive government bailout exceeding $28 billion.

    Attorney Elena Araujo, representing the Central Bank, communicated to Justice Robin Mohammed that claimants require until January 26 to review the voluminous report and assess its implications for the ongoing proceedings. The lawsuit, originally filed in 2011, alleges severe mismanagement and financial misconduct within Colonial Life Insurance Company (Trinidad) Ltd and its parent conglomerate CL Financial.

    Attorney General John Jeremie revealed the staggering scale of the financial disaster, noting that beyond the direct bailout costs, an additional $3-4 billion was incurred in legal and administrative expenses. The report concludes that the rescue operation created a significant long-term burden on public finances, constraining government spending on infrastructure and social services for years.

    Despite over a decade of investigations and hundreds of millions in professional fees, no criminal charges have resulted from the collapse. Jeremie indicated the state would seek to terminate costly civil proceedings that have failed to deliver meaningful outcomes.

    The trial, which commenced earlier this month, involves allegations that CL Financial executives operated without proper governance, using policyholder funds to finance personal lifestyles and private companies. The conglomerate’s failure threatened national economic stability and wiped out millions in investor savings.

    Former Central Bank governor Ewart Williams is among dozens of witnesses expected to testify in what was anticipated to be a month-long trial before the report’s emergence delayed proceedings.

  • Beckles: Amendment to THA laws will benefit Tobago

    Beckles: Amendment to THA laws will benefit Tobago

    In a historic parliamentary session, Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles has affirmed her party’s unwavering support for Tobago’s developmental agenda during debates on the Tobago House of Assembly (Amendment) Bill, 2026. The PNM political leader emphasized her party’s longstanding commitment to advancing legislative measures that benefit all citizens of Trinidad and Tobago.

    Addressing the House of Representatives on January 16, Beckles provided historical context, noting that discussions regarding Tobago’s greater autonomy have persisted for decades. She revealed that the People’s National Movement had conducted extensive consultations with Tobagonians over the years, culminating in the previous Tobago Self-Government Bill presented to Parliament in 2020.

    Beckles addressed concerns raised by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar regarding the discretionary powers granted to the THA Chief Secretary to expand secretarial positions within the assembly. The opposition leader clarified that such provisions were already incorporated within the 2020 legislation, indicating continuity between the previous and current bills.

    While acknowledging that Tobago didn’t receive all requested resources during the PNM’s administration from 2015-2025, Beckles highlighted several completed projects demonstrating her party’s commitment, including the Southwest Tobago Wastewater Project, Hillsborough Dam, and acquisition of the Cove Industrial Estate.

    The legislative process concluded with overwhelming bipartisan support, as the bill passed with 38 affirmative votes and no opposition or abstentions. This political consensus emerges following the Tobago People’s Party’s decisive 15-0 victory in the January 12 THA elections, which resulted in the PNM losing its sole representative seat for Darrel Spring/Whim.

    Both government and opposition leaders extended congratulations to TPP political leader Farley Augustine on his electoral triumph and assumption of the Chief Secretary role.

  • Junior pannists shine in the Savannah

    Junior pannists shine in the Savannah

    PORT OF SPAIN – The vibrant sounds of steelpan music filled Queen’s Park Savannah on January 18 as Trinidad’s most talented young musicians competed in Pan Trinbago’s Junior Panorama finals. The prestigious under-19 competition showcased exceptional musical artistry from next-generation performers preserving the nation’s cultural heritage.

    East PoS Stars Steel Orchestra captivated audiences with their energetic performance of “Jamtown,” setting the stage for an evening of musical excellence. From Belmont, St Francois Valley Stars delivered a sophisticated interpretation of “Too Own Way,” a composition by Jason Shaft Bishop, Scott Galt, and Michael Hulsmeier, expertly arranged by McKeem Joseph and Nalo Elie.

    Legacy Steel Orchestra moved listeners with their spiritual rendition of “Blessing,” composed by Wrenroy “Blaka Dan” Ogiste and arranged by Daniob Phillip. Meanwhile, El Dorado’s Eldo East Blue Steel Orchestra brought shimmering artistry to their performance of “Gold,” demonstrating technical precision and emotional depth.

    The event transcended mere competition as family and friends packed the stands, creating an atmosphere of communal support and cultural celebration. The enthusiastic audience reflected the deep connection between Trinidad’s steelpan tradition and its community roots, with generations coming together to nurture emerging talent.

    This annual event represents a critical investment in the future of Trinidad’s national instrument, ensuring the continuity of steelpan artistry while fostering musical innovation among youth. The Junior Panorama serves as both training ground and showcase for musicians who may eventually grace the main Panorama stage as professional performers.

  • Regional Carnival $$ distribution begins Jan 21

    Regional Carnival $$ distribution begins Jan 21

    The Trinidad and Tobago government has initiated substantial financial support for regional Carnival celebrations, with Culture and Community Development Minister Michelle Benjamin announcing imminent disbursements totaling $35 million. Pan Trinbago is slated to receive $20 million while the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians’ Organisation (TUCO) will obtain $15 million in structured tranches throughout the Carnival period.

    Minister Benjamin, speaking at a UNC media briefing in Chaguanas on January 18, emphasized the government’s commitment to timely funding distribution and accountability standards. She directly addressed criticisms about insufficient support for cultural organizations, stating: “There are a lot of claims that this government does not like pan, does not fund pan, and I would like that to stop.” She confirmed that prize monies would not see reductions despite economic pressures.

    The ministry has pioneered new cultural initiatives including Flava Village, John Cupid Carnival Village, and the traveling Welcome to the Gayelle program that has visited Moruga, Debe, Tunapuna, and will soon reach Mayaro. These developments respond to public demand for expanded cultural spaces beyond Port of Spain. Benjamin highlighted the remarkable public response, noting that the John Cupid Village nearly reached capacity closures due to overwhelming attendance.

    NCC chairman Peter Kanhai provided infrastructure updates, revealing that the North Stand is 85% complete with handover expected by January 25. Construction efficiency has significantly improved with current pricing for major structures running 40-45% lower than 2025 figures. The Downtown stand and Skinner Park stage for Calypso Fiesta are progressing according to schedule.

    Economic indicators show robust Carnival engagement with hotels at full capacity and incoming flights fully booked. Vendors at Flava Village report exceptional earnings, surpassing their entire 2025 revenue within the first week of operation. The NCC is considering maintaining the village year-round to accommodate tourist demand and cruise ship visitors.

    The cultural calendar remains packed with events including a free Patrice Roberts concert, chutnight night, and rhythm and steel performances, demonstrating the expanded footprint of Carnival celebrations across Trinidad and Tobago.

  • West Indies Under-19s bruised at World Cup

    West Indies Under-19s bruised at World Cup

    In a stunning display of cricketing prowess, Afghanistan’s Under-19 team delivered a comprehensive 138-run victory over the West Indies in their ICC Under-19 World Cup encounter on January 18th in Windhoek, Namibia. The emphatic win secured Afghanistan’s advancement to the Super-Six stage of the tournament while leaving the Caribbean side facing significant challenges.

    Afghanistan’s decision to bat first after winning the toss proved strategically sound as their batting lineup demonstrated remarkable resilience and partnership building. Openers Khalid Ahmadzai and Osman Sadat established a solid foundation with an 86-run stand, effectively neutralizing the early threat posed by West Indian seamers Jakeem Pollard and Shaquan Belle.

    The West Indies briefly found hope through spinner Vitel Lawes, who broke the opening partnership and claimed two quick wickets to reduce Afghanistan to 110-3 in the 26th over. Lawes’ breakthroughs included dismissing Ahmadzai for 34 and clean bowling Faisal Shinodza for 4, followed by removing Uzaiullah Niazai for 12.

    However, Afghanistan’s recovery was orchestrated by captain Mehboob Khan and the composed Sadat, who constructed a decisive 77-run partnership. Both batsmen reached well-deserved half-centuries, with Sadat anchoring the innings with a top score of 88 while Khan contributed a crucial 86 runs. Their partnership propelled Afghanistan to a competitive total of 262-6 from their allotted 50 overs.

    Afghanistan’s bowling response was immediate and devastating. Their combined pace and spin attack dismantled the West Indies top order within the first five overs, reducing them to a precarious position with three quick wickets. Off-spinner Wahidullah Zadran was particularly destructive, claiming the wickets of opener Tanez Francis (9), Zachary Carter (3), and captain Joshua Dorne for a duck.

    West Indies wicketkeeper-batsman Jewel Andrew mounted a lone resistance with a classy 57 from 70 deliveries, featuring four boundaries and three sixes. Despite Andrew’s valiant effort, the disciplined Afghan bowling attack maintained constant pressure, with Nooristani Omarzai leading the charge with an impressive four-wicket haul. Supported by Khatir Stanikzai (3-20) and Zadran (3-36), Afghanistan bundled out the West Indies for a meager 124 in the 32nd over.

    The victory marks Afghanistan’s confident progression to the Super Six stage, where they will next face Tanzania on January 21st. The West Indies, meanwhile, must regroup quickly for their crucial encounter against South Africa on January 22nd as they seek to keep their tournament hopes alive.