标签： Trinidad and Tobago

The recent Divali celebrations in Trinidad descended into chaos as neighborhoods were transformed into what residents described as a ‘war zone.’ Fireworks exploded incessantly throughout the night, causing widespread distress among families, pets, and wildlife. Many reported their dogs trembling in fear, while others struggled to calm their terrified animals. The aftermath saw social media platforms flooded with posts about missing pets and complaints about the reckless use of fireworks. This stark contrast to the peaceful Independence Day celebrations, which followed a temporary fireworks ban, has left many disheartened. Residents had hoped for a permanent shift toward safer, more responsible festivities, but instead, the situation has worsened. Beyond the noise, fireworks have caused environmental harm, air and water pollution, and heightened anxiety among citizens, particularly during a weekend already fraught with tension due to US Embassy warnings. Amid a state of emergency, such activities should be prohibited. The author, Sharon Burford, urges the government to take decisive action by permanently banning the public sale of fireworks. She advocates for alternative celebrations, such as drone light shows, which are safer, environmentally friendly, and equally spectacular. Burford emphasizes the need for a government that prioritizes public well-being over the profits of fireworks vendors and calls for a future where holidays are free from fear and destruction.

A recent letter to the editor has highlighted the growing distress caused by the excessive use of fireworks during the Divali celebrations on October 20. The author, Aarti Gosine, expressed deep disappointment over the disruption, which turned what should have been a peaceful and joyous religious event into a night of chaos and fear. The loud explosions not only terrified animals, causing some to flee, get injured, or even die, but also severely affected vulnerable members of the community, including the elderly and those with health conditions. The noise was so intense that it was likened to the sound of wartime bombs, making the situation unbearable for many. Gosine called for immediate action through stricter enforcement, legislative review, or community awareness campaigns to ensure that future celebrations are conducted with respect and consideration for all. She urged the editor to use their influence to address this issue and take meaningful steps to protect both people and animals in the community.

The Trinidad and Tobago National Petroleum Marketing Company Ltd (NP) has announced a comprehensive review of national standards for liquid petroleum gas (LPG) cylinder tanks following a series of tragic explosions that resulted in multiple injuries and at least four fatalities. The incidents have raised significant concerns about the safety and handling of LPG cylinders across the country. Among the victims were Bevaughn Joseph, a 28-year-old laborer from Penal, who died on October 17 after sustaining severe injuries from a home explosion, and Ria George, 45, of Digity Trace, who succumbed to injuries nearly two months after a similar incident. Earlier this year, Raquel Babwah, 44, and Naomi Aliyah Mya De Mille, 19, also lost their lives in related accidents. In response, NP has initiated a collaborative effort with key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries (MEEI), the Occupational Health and Safety Agency (OSHA), and the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS), to enhance safety protocols. Measures include rigorous safety checks, hydraulic pressure testing every five years, and the implementation of a barcode system for digital traceability. NP emphasized its commitment to public safety, urging customers to report suspected leaks immediately and store cylinders in secure locations. The MEEI has also pledged to expedite the review and implementation of updated LPG regulations to ensure modern safety standards are met.

In a compelling letter to the editor, Navin Persad advocates for the imposition of higher taxes on fireworks, drawing parallels to existing taxes on cigarettes and alcohol aimed at curbing their use and protecting public health. Persad highlights the significant yet often overlooked harms caused by fireworks, including the release of harmful fine particles (PM2.5) and toxic metals into the air, which exacerbate conditions like asthma, heart disease, and respiratory problems, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. Additionally, the noise from fireworks, which can exceed 150 decibels—louder than a jet engine—can lead to hearing damage, anxiety, and sleep disturbances, affecting not only humans but also pets and wildlife, who often suffer from panic, injuries, or displacement. Persad argues that increasing the cost of fireworks would reduce their use, as evidenced by the decline in tobacco and alcohol consumption following price hikes. The revenue generated from such taxes could be allocated to fund professional public displays, enhance emergency services, and promote public education on responsible celebration. While some may view fireworks as a cultural tradition, Persad emphasizes that traditions evolve, citing past changes like indoor smoking bans and seatbelt laws. He also addresses concerns about illegal sales, suggesting that robust enforcement and community celebrations can mitigate such risks. Ultimately, Persad contends that taxing fireworks is a prudent step toward creating a cleaner, quieter, and more compassionate society, where celebrations bring joy without harm.

In a landmark verdict, Levon Julien, a 35-year-old man who spent 14 years awaiting trial, was acquitted of two counts of unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor. The jury delivered an eight-to-one not-guilty verdict on October 18 at the O’Meara Judicial Centre in Arima, presided over by Justice Kathy Ann Waterman-Latchoo. The charges stemmed from allegations that Julien engaged in sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl at two locations in December 2011 and January 2012. The prosecution, led by state counsel Shervone Noriega and Samantha Marajh, claimed the incidents occurred at a neighbor’s home and later at Julien’s residence in Las Alturas, Morvant. However, the neighbor was never called as a witness. Julien’s defense attorneys, Jerry Boyer and Robert Doodnath, challenged the alleged victim’s credibility during cross-examination, prompting her to admit that the December 2011 incident never occurred. Additionally, the investigating officer acknowledged that her probe was ‘less than thorough.’ After more than three hours of deliberation, the jury cleared Julien of both charges. Justice Waterman-Latchoo ordered his immediate release, ending a 14-year ordeal that left Julien struggling to find employment and living under public suspicion. Julien expressed relief, stating that the verdict restores his freedom and reputation.