Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • MPs to debate bill on ‘zones of special operations’

    MPs to debate bill on ‘zones of special operations’

    The Government of Trinidad and Tobago is poised to introduce groundbreaking legislation establishing special security zones with enhanced law enforcement powers to address escalating crime rates. The Law Reform (Zones of Special Operation)(Special Security and Community Development Measures) Bill 2026 will be presented to Parliament on January 16 for debate and approval.

    This pioneering legislation empowers the Prime Minister, with parliamentary consent, to designate specific geographical areas as “zones of special operation” where police and defense forces receive extraordinary authority to conduct searches, seizures, and arrests without warrants based on reasonable suspicion of criminal activity. Each zone will operate under a joint security command while incorporating input from a social transformation council.

    The bill establishes strict operational parameters: security cordons may remain in place for maximum 24-hour periods, while curfews can be imposed for up to 72 hours in limited areas. Designated zones may maintain their special status for periods not exceeding 180 days, with possible extensions under the same duration constraints.

    Trigger mechanisms for zone declaration include reasonable belief of rampant criminality such as murder, gang warfare, or escalating violence levels, or identified threats to rule of law and public order. Crucially, the legislation explicitly prohibits declaring the entire nation as a single zone.

    The bill incorporates significant safeguards: all normal criminal procedures remain applicable, requiring law enforcement to inform detainees of arrest reasons promptly. Judicial oversight is maintained through magistrate reviews of detention justifications within 48 hours, with provisions for immediate release if arrests are deemed unjustified.

    Additional protective measures mandate body-worn cameras for security personnel where resources permit, detailed inventory documentation of seized items, and specific visitation rights for detainees. The legislation also establishes a 24-member social transformation committee representing various stakeholders including mental health professionals, disability advocates, and community representatives to address underlying social conditions contributing to criminal behavior.

    Penalties for violating zone regulations include fines up to $50,000 and imprisonment terms of one year. The government possesses the special majority required to pass this comprehensive security legislation.

  • Youths vie for National Junior Panorama titles on January 18

    Youths vie for National Junior Panorama titles on January 18

    The vibrant sounds of youthful musical excellence will resonate through Port of Spain this weekend as 22 emerging steelbands compete in the National Junior Panorama finals. The prestigious event, scheduled for January 18 at Queen’s Park Savannah, features both the established Under 21 category and a newly introduced Under 19 division that resulted from recent educational disputes.

    The creation of the Under 19 category emerged as an innovative solution after northern Trinidad school steelbands withdrew from the Ministry of Education’s competition. These institutions protested the relocation of the Schools Panorama finals from Port of Spain to Skinner Park in San Fernando, citing prohibitive transportation costs that exceeded potential prize earnings. Recognizing the immense dedication of students who had been rehearsing since August 2025, Pan Trinbago intervened by establishing this complementary competition platform.

    Ten ensembles will contend in the Under 21 category, while twelve bands make their debut in the pioneering Under 19 classification. All finalists earned their positions through rigorous preliminary and semifinal rounds conducted nationwide in local pan yards and community spaces.

    The performance order places BATCE Steel as the opening act for the Under 19 segment, followed by ensembles including Eldo East ‘Blue’ Steel Orchestra, East Port of Spain Stars Steel Orchestra, and BARS of Steel. The category concludes with San Juan North Stars Steel Orchestra, after which Katzenjammers Youths will initiate the Under 21 competition.

    Qualifying rounds revealed impressive musical prowess, with Shell Invaders Youth Steel Orchestra leading the rankings at 281 points for their interpretation of Crazy’s ‘Band From Space’. BP Renegades Youth Steel Orchestra followed closely with 278 points for ‘Jamtown’, while T&TEC Tropical Angel Harps Youth Steel Orchestra secured third position with 275 points for Baron’s ‘This Melody Sweet’.

    Pan Trinbago’s official statement celebrated the participants, noting: ‘Your talent, discipline, and passion continue to inspire the future of the steelband movement. We are proud of both categories of youth of steel, whose commitment and excellence strengthen the legacy of our national musical instrument.’

    The organization extended best wishes to all finalists, encouraging them to ‘shine on’ during this celebration of musical excellence that promises to showcase Trinidad and Tobago’s rich cultural heritage through its next generation of pannists.

  • The role, importance of administrative professionals and the organisation behind them

    The role, importance of administrative professionals and the organisation behind them

    In an era of rapid technological transformation, administrative professionals in Trinidad and Tobago are demonstrating unprecedented value as strategic partners in organizational success. The National Association of Administrative Professionals of TT (NAAP), founded in 1969 as the National Secretaries Association, has emerged as the premier organization championing the holistic development of these essential workforce members.

    NAAP’s comprehensive programs reflect the evolving nature of administrative roles. The Madam Secretary of the Year competition enhances public speaking and communication skills, while the Administrative Professional Secretary Certificate program, developed with the University of the West Indies, establishes standardized professional benchmarks. The Business Student of the Year 2025 initiative targets secondary school business students, preparing the next generation for corporate leadership through experiential learning beyond traditional classrooms.

    As Trinidad and Tobago diversifies its economy beyond energy into finance, tourism, and creative industries, administrative professionals are proving indispensable. They serve as stability anchors during organizational change, process connectors ensuring seamless communication, and adaptability champions who integrate new technologies while maintaining essential human elements. Their roles now encompass strategic support functions including project management, data analysis, and decision-making processes.

    Contrary to predictions of obsolescence due to automation and artificial intelligence, administrative professionals are experiencing enhanced relevance. Technology serves as an enabler rather than replacement, with cloud systems and AI streamlining tasks while human professionals provide judgment, empathy, and contextual understanding that machines cannot replicate. These professionals are increasingly digital literate, mastering new platforms to maintain organizational competitiveness in a globalized economy.

    The profession continues evolving with expectations for digital proficiency, cultural awareness, and strategic mindset. Administrative professionals now drive innovation support, compliance maintenance in dynamic regulatory environments, and customer service excellence that strengthens Trinidad and Tobago’s global competitiveness. They function as efficiency coordinators across departments, communication gatekeepers between executives and stakeholders, and process innovators adapting to modern workplace demands.

    As NAAP looks toward 2026, the organization emphasizes resilience, professionalism, and growth commitment as essential qualities for administrative professionals shaping organizational success. These professionals stand ready to ensure Trinidad and Tobago’s businesses remain resilient and future-prepared for national prosperity, stepping boldly into the new year with professional pride and shared vision of excellence.

  • Energy Minister, Perenco executives discuss Greater Angostura assets

    Energy Minister, Perenco executives discuss Greater Angostura assets

    In a significant development for Trinidad and Tobago’s energy sector, multinational oil and gas company Perenco convened high-level talks with Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries (MEEI) officials on January 14. The meeting centered on Perenco’s recent acquisition of Greater Angostura oil and gas assets and associated production facilities, marking a substantial investment in the country’s energy infrastructure.

    During the strategic discussions at the ministry headquarters, Perenco executives delivered comprehensive updates on operational advancements and outlined plans to enhance efficiency across their Trinidadian operations. The dialogue emphasized collaborative initiatives designed to sustain and strengthen investment in the nation’s critical energy sector.

    Energy Minister Dr. Roodal Moonilal expressed the government’s endorsement of Perenco’s initiatives to extend the productive lifespan of mature oil fields while fostering a favorable investment climate. The minister emphasized the administration’s commitment to supporting energy companies in maximizing Trinidad and Tobago’s hydrocarbon resources.

    Perenco detailed performance metrics from their existing operations, including the CAFI gas fields (Cashima, Amherstia, Flamboyant, and Immortelle) and revealed development strategies for the Onyx field situated within the Teak, Samaan, and Poui (TSP) area.

    The energy company’s delegation, led by CEO Armel Simondin, reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining close collaboration with MEEI as current projects progress and new opportunities materialize in the local energy landscape. The meeting participants included key figures from both organizations, underscoring the importance both parties place on this strategic partnership.

  • Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Thursday January 15th 2026

    Trinidad and Tobago Newsday – Thursday January 15th 2026

    The global dietary supplement market is undergoing significant transformation as regulatory bodies and health organizations intensify their examination of product safety and efficacy. This burgeoning industry, valued at over $150 billion worldwide, has experienced unprecedented growth driven by increasing consumer focus on wellness and preventive healthcare.

    Recent developments have highlighted critical challenges within the supplement sector, including quality control inconsistencies, misleading marketing claims, and potential interactions with prescription medications. Health authorities are now implementing stricter guidelines for supplement manufacturing, labeling requirements, and adverse event reporting systems to enhance consumer protection.

    The scientific community continues to debate the actual health benefits of various supplements, with some studies demonstrating positive outcomes while others show limited effectiveness. Medical professionals emphasize that supplements should complement rather than replace balanced nutrition and conventional medical treatments.

    Consumer education has become a priority, with health organizations developing resources to help individuals make informed decisions about supplement usage. The industry’s future will likely see increased transparency, improved quality standards, and more evidence-based approaches to product development and marketing.

  • CJ tackles backlog

    CJ tackles backlog

    In a significant move to tackle chronic judicial delays, Chief Justice Ronnie Boodoosingh has overseen the appointment of five new puisne judges to Trinidad and Tobago’s judiciary. The swearing-in ceremony, conducted by President Christine Kangaloo on January 13, marks a substantive response to growing concerns about case backlogs that have plagued the nation’s court system.

    The newly appointed justices—Trevor Jones, Raymond Roberts, Maria Busby Earle-Caddle, Josefina Baptiste Mohammed, and Sydelle Johnson—assume their roles amid systemic challenges that recently forced court administrators to manually count cases when activist Anthony Dopson requested backlog statistics. The absence of automated tracking systems highlighted the judiciary’s operational limitations, prompting commitments to strengthen data collection mechanisms.

    Justice Jones, speaking immediately after his inauguration at President’s House in St. Ann’s, emphasized his primary objective: addressing the overwhelming backlog through improved case management, streamlined procedures, and expanded judicial capacity. The complexity of the crisis spans all court divisions—civil, criminal, and family law—with some matters languishing for over a decade without indictments being filed.

    Structural complications have intensified the situation, including the elevation of criminal judges to the Court of Appeal without corresponding replacements at trial level. While the new appointments help address staffing gaps, judicial authorities acknowledge that personnel expansion alone cannot resolve deeply entrenched systemic issues.

    Complementary reforms are underway, including enhanced warrant powers for Justices of the Peace to reduce judicial workload. However, broader transformation requires modernization of court infrastructure, revision of antiquated procedures, and strategic prioritization of serious crimes over trivial matters. Although Chief Justice Boodoosingh has advocated returning to in-person proceedings, hybrid court formats remain essential for improving efficiency.

    The judiciary’s multifaceted challenge extends beyond courtrooms to include prison system overhaul to combat recidivism. While the path forward demands comprehensive reform, the bolstered bench represents a promising initial step toward restoring timely justice delivery.

  • Cricket facelift starts at QRC with 2026 season

    Cricket facelift starts at QRC with 2026 season

    Queen’s Royal College (QRC), historically renowned for its cricket excellence in Trinidad’s north zone, is embarking on an ambitious rebuilding mission in the Secondary Schools Cricket League (SSCL) premier I division. After securing promotion by winning the 2025 north championship division, QRC now prepares to compete against defending champions Presentation College Chaguanas and six other elite schools when the 50-over tournament commences on January 20.

    The institution boasts an impressive cricket heritage, having produced legendary West Indies wicketkeeper Deryck Murray during the 1950s-60s era, followed by standout performer Shirvan Pragg in the 1970s-80s. More recently, the school developed talents including former West Indies Under-15 captain Zaheer Ali, ex-Trinidad and Tobago cricketer Justin Guillen, and current national player Navin Bidaisee.

    Under the leadership of coach Calvin Phillip, QRC has initiated comprehensive reforms to revitalize its cricket program. Significant infrastructure improvements include upgraded practice nets on school grounds, while strategic partnerships with nearby TT Defence Force and The Harvard Coaching Clinic provide additional training facilities and pitch preparation support.

    Phillip acknowledges the challenges in rebuilding interest among students, noting that football and athletics typically attract more participation. However, he reports growing enthusiasm among junior forms, stating: ‘This marks the initial phase of our rebuilding journey. We’re cultivating a nursery of players from forms one through three to ensure long-term continuity.’

    Supported by team manager Curtis Roach and principal David Simon, the program demonstrates promising development. Phillip expresses confidence in his squad’s preparation and mentality: ‘The team possesses strong self-belief and our preparations have been well-organized. We aim to demonstrate that QRC remains committed to reclaiming its status among the nation’s top cricket programs.’

  • Government touts new anti-crime bill: Special zones for ‘hot spots’

    Government touts new anti-crime bill: Special zones for ‘hot spots’

    The Trinidad and Tobago government has announced a comprehensive legislative offensive against crime, revealing dramatic security improvements since taking office in April 2024. Minister of Land and Legal Affairs Saddam Hosein and Attorney General John Jeremie outlined their strategy during a January 14 media briefing at the United National Congress headquarters in Chaguanas.

    The administration’s centerpiece legislation, the Law Reform (Zones of Special Operations, Special Security and Community Development Measures) Bill, represents a targeted approach to combating crime in specific hotspots without implementing a nationwide state of emergency. This legislation builds upon lessons learned during previous security operations that successfully disrupted communication between incarcerated gang leaders and their external networks.

    Attorney General Jeremie emphasized the tangible results of these efforts: “The disruption yielded tangible benefits,” noting significant declines in murders, shootings, and violent crimes. The proposed zones would operate under strict judicial oversight with clearly defined procedures and time limits to ensure proportional responses to security threats.

    The government also responded to public concerns regarding traffic enforcement, announcing amendments to the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act that would introduce a system of mandatory warnings for certain offenses while maintaining road discipline initiatives.

    Minister Hosein presented compelling statistics demonstrating the administration’s impact on public safety. Murder rates dropped 42% from 626 in 2024 to 369 in 2025, while gang-related murders plummeted from 273 to 108 during the same period. Security forces have seized 292 firearms and 4,341 rounds of ammunition since the implementation of their security measures.

    Additional legislative agenda items include amendments to the Tobago House of Assembly Act, expected to receive bipartisan support following recent elections. The government emphasized its commitment to transparency through voluntary media briefings, underscoring their dedication to accountability beyond constitutional requirements.

  • Management by neglect

    Management by neglect

    A scathing critique of Trinidad’s public service operations has emerged through a citizen’s letter to Newsday, highlighting severe systemic failures at the Licensing Office in San Fernando. The correspondence, submitted by Gordon Laughlin via email, paints a picture of institutional neglect that extends beyond licensing to immigration services, banking, and transportation infrastructure.

    The core issue identified revolves around chronic mismanagement rather than procedural penalties. Citizens reportedly face financial penalties for delays directly caused by institutional shortcomings, including critically understaffed offices, inadequate planning, and obsolete operational systems. The author describes a scene of profound dysfunction: a single cashier, one photographer, and merely one teller attempting to serve thousands of citizens.

    This operational crisis creates substantial economic repercussions, wasting valuable time, financial resources, fuel, and overall productivity. The letter argues that such systemic inefficiencies directly hinder national economic improvement and development. Rather than representing governance focused on progress, the current situation exemplifies what the author terms ‘management by neglect’—a pattern of administrative failure that permeates multiple public service sectors.

    The critique suggests that the fundamental problem stems from insufficient resource allocation coupled with a concerning lack of urgency in addressing these longstanding issues. The situation at the San Fernando office, documented photographically last Friday, serves as a microcosm of broader national service delivery challenges.

  • Holders Acono Sauce storm into Norman Windball semis

    Holders Acono Sauce storm into Norman Windball semis

    The 2025/26 Norman Windball Cricket League quarterfinals delivered thrilling performances and decisive victories, headlined by reigning champions Acono Sauce’s commanding advance. On January 11 at Buggy Haynes recreation ground in Tacarigua, Acono Sauce delivered an emphatic 85-run triumph against Supersonic to secure their premier division semifinal berth.

    Acono’s batting lineup demonstrated formidable power, amassing 148 for six within their allotted 12 overs. Opening batsman Hanuman Moonsammy spearheaded the charge with a explosive 63-run performance, receiving substantial support from Raj Persad (23), Sarvesh Dindial (21 not out), and Ariz Khan (17). Supersonic’s response proved inadequate as they struggled to 63 for seven, with only Christopher Calderon (16) and James Sooknarine (10) reaching double figures. Joshua Ramrattan’s bowling excellence (three for 15) effectively dismantled Supersonic’s batting order.

    CSK mirrored this dominance with a crushing 68-run victory against More Fire International. Avian Mejias and Imtiaz Mohammed both contributed 24 runs to establish CSK’s total of 109 for five. More Fire’s batting collapsed spectacularly, managing merely 41 for eight against CSK’s relentless bowling attack led by Keron Noreiga’s impressive three for five figures.

    The tournament witnessed contrasting contests as Big Drip Heavy Hitters edged Savannah Crew Sports by ten runs in a tense low-scoring encounter. Israel Mangaroo’s 35 runs propelled Heavy Hitters to 77 for seven, ultimately defending their total by restricting Savannah Crew to 67 for seven.

    Minibar Reload secured their semifinal position with a 22-run win over Poison Sports. Kadeem Williams (34 not out) and Kapil Harry (22 not out) orchestrated a crucial 54-run partnership to set a competitive target of 82 for three. Poison Sports faltered at 60 for five, overwhelmed by Kyle Dookran’s extraordinary bowling performance of three for two from just two overs.

    The competition’s best-of-the-rest bracket saw Knock Squad defeat Backyard Ballers by 31 runs on January 10, highlighted by Kelvin Danpatia’s spectacular six for 14 bowling figures. The tournament continues with best-of-the-rest semifinals scheduled for January 17-18, while premier division semifinals are set for January 25.