Carib Scope

标签： Trinidad and Tobago

特立尼达和多巴哥

  • Twin power: Tenique, Tyrique Vincent shine at NAAA meet

    Twin power: Tenique, Tyrique Vincent shine at NAAA meet

    Track and field’s rising stars Tenique and Tyrique Vincent delivered spectacular performances at the National Association of Athletics Administration’s Season Opener meet on January 10, each securing dual victories at Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo. The exceptional siblings, fresh from receiving Multi-events Athlete of the Year honors just one week prior, demonstrated why they’re considered among Trinidad and Tobago’s most promising athletic talents.

    Tyrique Vincent edged out fierce competition in the boys’ Under-20 100-meter hurdles, clocking 14.07 seconds to narrowly defeat Omari Brown (14.09s) in a thrilling photo finish. The Concorde Athletic Club phenom continued his dominance in the long jump pit, achieving a winning leap of 7.18 meters to outdistance Kristiano Perez’s 7.13-meter effort.

    Tenique Vincent mirrored her brother’s success with commanding performances in the girls’ Under-20 division. She captured the long jump title with a 5.55-meter effort, nearly sixty centimeters clear of silver medalist Hailey Lynch (4.96m). The talented hurdler then blazed through the 100-meter hurdles in 15.57 seconds, finishing ahead of Neon Wolves’ McKaikah Warde (15.68s).

    The development meet showcased several other standout performances across various age categories. Peyton Winter emerged as a throwing sensation with victories in both discus (37.05m) and shot put (12.80m) in the girls’ Under-20 division. Ethan Myers demonstrated similar prowess in the boys’ Under-17 category, winning discus (37.33m) and shot put (13.91m) events.

    Sprint prodigy Eden Chee-Wah, a 2025 Carifta Games bronze medalist, displayed her versatility with wins in both the girls’ Under-17 100m (12.03s) and 400m (56.25s) events. The meet concluded with relay excitement as Burnley and Stallions Athletics claimed victories in the women’s and men’s 4x200m relays respectively.

  • Farley-Kamla alliance

    Farley-Kamla alliance

    The recent electoral triumph of Farley Augustine and his Tobago People’s Party (TPP) has delivered a profound political realignment on the island territory. This decisive victory represents both a strong endorsement of Augustine’s leadership and a striking repudiation of the ruling People’s National Movement (PNM), which suffered substantial losses in the polls.

    Political analysts note the outcome carries significant implications beyond Tobago’s shores. The results suggest a strategic alliance between Augustine and United National Congress leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar, evidenced by recent budgetary increases for Tobago and discussions around greater autonomy for the island. Notably, criticisms leveled against Persad-Bissessar—particularly regarding her alignment with United States interests and domestic policy measures—appeared to have minimal impact on voter behavior in Tobago.

    The election results reveal a notable divergence between Tobago voters and their Trinidad counterparts. While Persad-Bissessar’s initiatives have faced considerable scrutiny nationally, Tobago’s electorate demonstrated either indifference to these concerns or prioritized local issues above national political controversies. The overwhelming support for Augustine’s platform indicates a growing appetite for political change and alternative governance approaches.

    This electoral outcome signals a potential paradigm shift in Tobago’s political consciousness. Beyond the immediate victory, the results suggest emerging support for progressive policies and non-traditional political thinking, challenging established party loyalties and signaling possible broader changes in the nation’s political landscape in future elections.

  • Economist warns businesses of ‘black swan events’

    Economist warns businesses of ‘black swan events’

    Economist and Independent Senator Marlene Attzs has issued a stark warning to Trinidad and Tobago’s business community about the looming threat of catastrophic “black swan” events that could devastate even well-established enterprises. Speaking at a conference hosted by the TT Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative and the TT Chamber of Industry and Commerce on January 13, Attzs described these events as a dangerous convergence of unpredictable shocks that could derail the most carefully laid business plans.

    The urgency of this warning is underscored by recent developments in the local business landscape, including Newsday’s announcement of its winding-up process after more than three decades of operation. Managing director Grant Taylor attributed this decision to a “perfect storm” of challenges, mirroring similar struggles across multiple industries from energy to retail and entertainment.

    Attzs emphasized that these black swan events may already be unfolding, citing recent airspace compromises that forced flight cancellations as a potential precursor to more significant disruptions. She pointed to escalating geopolitical tensions, including the US-China rivalry and renewed Russian activity, as factors that could create concentric circles of impact affecting even peripheral economies like Trinidad and Tobago.

    The conference panel, which included TTEITI co-ordinator Sherwin Long, senior fellow Preeya Mohan, and chairman Gregory McGuire, identified multiple systemic risks to the national economy. Chief among these is the country’s persistent dependence on the volatile oil and gas sector, which continues to drive GDP fluctuations and government revenue instability.

    Long revealed that between 2011 and 2024, the upstream energy sector contributed US$17.3 billion in foreign exchange, with companies like bpTT and NGC providing over US$7 billion. However, he noted that this volatility is largely driven by external factors beyond local control, including global energy prices, demand-supply imbalances, and geopolitical tensions.

    Attzs highlighted additional concerns regarding the nation’s economic dependence on government support and rising debt challenges. Latest data indicates Trinidad and Tobago’s debt-to-GDP ratio has reached 85 percent and continues to climb, creating fiscal constraints that could limit the government’s ability to respond to economic crises.

    Mohan addressed emerging trade-related risks, particularly the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and adjustments to tariff regimes. She warned that 90 percent of TT’s exports to the EU—accounting for 14 percent of total exports—could be affected by CBAM, while half of exports to the US (30 percent of total) face similar exposure. These mechanisms could increase taxes on the ammonia sector by 22 percent, though implementation of emission reduction technologies like carbon capture could mitigate these impacts.

    The consensus among experts is that data-driven preparedness represents the most effective defense against these converging challenges. Attzs urged businesses to professionalize, modernize, and leverage available data to build resilience, conduct thorough risk analyses, and develop strategic plans for survival in an increasingly uncertain global economic landscape.

  • Societal elder abuse

    Societal elder abuse

    A poignant revelation from an 87-year-old Trinidadian writer has unveiled systemic age discrimination permeating financial institutions and social structures. HD Greaves, a published author of twelve books, finds himself denied basic financial services including credit cards and purchase financing solely based on his age, despite maintaining robust health and mental acuity. This case exemplifies a broader pattern of institutional ageism that treats senior citizens as liabilities rather than valuable contributors.

    The situation extends beyond financial exclusion into systemic administrative failures. Thousands of elderly citizens face prolonged pension processing delays—some waiting over two years for entitlements—creating unnecessary economic hardship during their most vulnerable years. These bureaucratic inefficiencies represent what experts describe as ‘economic violence’ against the aging population.

    More disturbingly, many seniors experience various forms of domestic mistreatment including financial exploitation, emotional neglect, and physical abuse within their own families. These violations often remain hidden behind closed doors, leaving victims without recourse or protection.

    Psychology expert Dr. Margaret Nakhid-Chatoor analyzes this crisis as reflecting deeper societal values that prioritize youth and productivity over wisdom and experience. The banking industry’s risk-aversion toward older clients, combined with inadequate social support systems, creates an environment where aging becomes synonymous with irrelevance rather than respected maturity.

    The solution requires multidimensional reform: financial institutions must adopt capacity-based assessments rather than age-based discrimination, government agencies need to streamline pension processing systems, and families must recognize elder care as privilege rather than burden. Culturally, societies must reimagine aging as a continuation of contribution through intergenerational knowledge-sharing programs that begin as early as preschool education.

    This collective awakening demands policy revisions, corporate responsibility, and cultural transformation to ensure senior citizens receive the dignity and respect their lifetime of contribution deserves.

  • How to migrate to Thailand from Trinidad and Tobago

    How to migrate to Thailand from Trinidad and Tobago

    In a significant shift from traditional migration patterns, professionals and families from Trinidad and Tobago are increasingly looking toward Southeast Asia as viable relocation destinations. While the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom have historically dominated migration conversations, these routes have become progressively challenging due to visa backlogs, stringent immigration policies, and escalating living costs.

    Thailand has strategically positioned itself as an attractive alternative through comprehensive immigration reforms implemented over the past two years. The country now offers structured visa programs specifically designed to accommodate Caribbean nationals seeking short, medium, or long-term residence solutions. This development comes at a critical time when economic pressures are compelling individuals to reconsider conventional migration paradigms.

    The financial advantages present a compelling case for consideration. Thailand’s comparatively lower cost of living enables foreign currency earners and digital professionals to achieve greater financial flexibility. Metropolitan centers like Bangkok and Chiang Mai offer substantially reduced housing expenses compared to Trinidad and Tobago, complemented by reliable utilities, affordable internet services, and diverse culinary options ranging from local cuisine to international fare.

    Thailand’s immigration framework demonstrates remarkable flexibility through its visa-free entry policy for TT passport holders, permitting initial 60-day stays with optional 30-day extensions. This approach facilitates practical ‘trial periods’ where prospective migrants can evaluate living conditions before making long-term commitments. The geographical proximity to neighboring countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos further enables cost-effective regional exploration.

    A distinctive advantage lies in Thailand’s family-inclusive visa policies, which contrast sharply with the complex family reunification processes typical of Western nations. Several long-stay visa categories permit spouses and children to accompany primary applicants, supported by expanding international education infrastructure offering British, American, and IB curricula across major cities.

    Key visa options include:
    – Destination Thailand Visa (DTV): Five-year validity for digital professionals and remote workers, allowing 180-day stays per entry
    – SMART Visa: Four-year duration for specialists in technology, engineering, biotechnology, and digital innovation
    – Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visas: Decade-long options for high-net-worth individuals, investors, and executives
    – Education Visas: For language studies, university programs, and specialized training courses
    – Retirement Visas: For applicants over 50 with sufficient pension income and health insurance

    Critical compliance considerations include mandatory yellow fever vaccination documentation for TT nationals and strict adherence to local immigration reporting requirements. These regulatory measures ensure smooth entry and sustained legal residency for all migrants.

    This paradigm shift represents more than mere destination diversification—it signifies a fundamental reimagining of migration as a strategic lifestyle choice rather than necessity. Thailand offers modern infrastructure, robust healthcare systems, digital public services, and regional connectivity that align with contemporary professional and personal aspirations. For Trinidad and Tobago citizens seeking alternatives to traditional migration challenges, Thailand presents a practical, accessible, and financially sustainable solution.

  • New Grant man jailed for disobeying court order for damages

    New Grant man jailed for disobeying court order for damages

    In a decisive judicial ruling that underscores the mandatory nature of court compliance, Justice Frank Seepersad has sentenced New Grant resident Groodial Badal to three days’ imprisonment for deliberate defiance of a court order to compensate an assault victim. The January 15th verdict represents a significant reinforcement of judicial authority against willful non-compliance.

    Justice Seepersad delivered a nuanced judgment that balanced judicial empathy with necessary enforcement, stating: ‘The dispensation of justice at times necessitates an empathetic approach to the application of the rule of law. However, where there has been willful disobedience despite having the means to comply, the court must protect and preserve its authority.’

    The case originated from a 2012 assault and battery claim filed by fellow New Grant resident Balkaran. After extensive legal proceedings, both parties reached a 2016 consent agreement requiring Badal to pay $70,000—comprising a lump sum payment followed by monthly $1,500 installments. Court records reveal only $23,500 has been paid over eight years, with the debt ballooning to $68,523.10 due to accumulating interest.

    Evidence presented demonstrated Badal maintains multiple income streams through home ownership, a roti shop, and a burger cart operation. The judge characterized Badal’s behavior as ‘nonchalance’ and ‘pervicacious disobedience,’ noting his failure to provide substantiated proof of financial hardship.

    In a direct address to the defendant, Justice Seepersad declared: ‘You are in contempt for your failure to make any payment. This does not absolve you of payment of the balance owed. I hope it gives you time to reflect.’

    The ruling included a broader societal critique, observing that ‘disregard for the law appears entrenched in our society, and far too often, citizens only comply with legal obligations under threat of severe sanction.’ Justice Seepersad lamented what he termed the ‘big stick over your head syndrome’ as the primary catalyst for compliance.

    Badal’s defense, represented by attorney Mustapha Khan, cited pandemic-related financial hardships and claimed willingness to continue payments at reduced rates. These arguments were rejected based on evidence of consistent earning capacity and the lengthy duration of non-compliance.

    The imprisonment order takes immediate effect, though the outstanding financial obligation remains fully enforceable upon Badal’s release.

  • Tricks and traps of aircraft leasing

    Tricks and traps of aircraft leasing

    The complex world of aircraft leasing presents formidable financial risks for airlines, as demonstrated by multiple case studies of carriers facing severe contractual consequences. One particularly cautionary tale involves a local entrepreneur who embarked on establishing an airline, initiating the rigorous five-phase certification process mandated by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The businessperson dry-leased an Airbus A321-131 jet from a United States leasing company, anticipating commercial operations.

    Dry leasing arrangements—where airlines procure aircraft without crew, maintenance, or insurance—typically serve as long-term solutions spanning three to twelve years, ideal for market expansion or new route development. However, when the entrepreneur abruptly withdrew the air operator certificate application mid-process, contractual obligations triggered severe financial repercussions.

    The lease agreement stipulated return conditions requiring the aircraft to qualify for a US 14 CFR Part 121 Certificate, mandating compliance with all Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) modifications and inspections through a Continuous Airworthiness Maintenance Programme (CAMP). The aircraft had reached threshold requirements under the Supplemental Structural Inspection Programme (SSIP), compelling the lessee to expend millions addressing mandatory airworthiness standards—ultimately forcing the sale of both lucrative business assets and personal real estate.

    This scenario exemplifies a broader pattern in aviation leasing. Historical precedents include BWIA’s experience when acquiring an MD83 twinjet, where personnel discovered an ‘as is, where is’ clause only upon delivery refusal attempts. Similarly, BWIA’s seven-year dry lease of two Airbus A321-131 aircraft resulted in substantial financial losses when leadership deemed the aircraft type inappropriate. With no termination grounds available, the carrier subleased to Turkish operator Air Alpha at reduced rates, incurring monthly deficits of $20,000 per aircraft.

    More recently, Caribbean Airlines faced significant penalties when discontinuing its London Gatwick route, agreeing to early redelivery of two Boeing 767-300ER aircraft with termination penalties totaling $135,000 monthly per aircraft. The carrier’s current commitment to four Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft through twelve-year leases with Air Lease Corporation further underscores the long-term financial commitments inherent in aircraft leasing.

    Industry experts emphasize that lessors make substantial capital investments expecting fair returns, leaving airlines with subleasing as the most practical alternative when aircraft become unnecessary. Fleet planning represents a critical strategic function balancing capacity, range, fuel efficiency, and maintenance considerations—a data-driven process profoundly impacting operational viability and financial sustainability.

  • Operators say crime, logistics hinder Sunday NLCB draws

    Operators say crime, logistics hinder Sunday NLCB draws

    Trinidad’s online gaming sector faces potential disruption as the National Lotteries Control Board (NLCB) considers implementing Sunday draws for several popular lottery games, despite no official confirmation from the regulatory body.

    According to Dean Persad, President of the Online Gaming Agents Association of TT (OGAATT), lottery equipment provider Brightstar Lottery (formerly IGT lottery division) has been circulating notices among agents regarding proposed Sunday drawings for Play Whe, Pick 2, Pick 4 and Cash Pot games, effective February 8, 2026. The document, which surfaced on social media January 14, claims the NLCB board resolved to amend draw schedules under the National Lotteries Act.

    Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo, whose ministry oversees NLCB, acknowledged awareness of the initiative as part of the board’s “business expansion model” but provided no further details. Newsday’s attempts to verify the document’s authenticity with NLCB and Brightstar representatives proved unsuccessful.

    Persad expressed significant concerns about the potential implementation, citing multiple operational challenges. “The disrespect, callousness, exploitation and lack of consideration towards agents continues under this new regime,” he stated, emphasizing that the association should have been consulted on matters directly affecting their members.

    Key concerns include uncertainty about whether Sunday operations would be mandatory or optional, potential labor cost implications requiring double and triple-time payments under Trinidad’s labor laws, increased security risks due to reduced street activity on Sundays, and anticipated low sales volumes as families typically remain home. Additionally, agents questioned how Sunday operations would affect weekly settlement procedures that currently run Monday through Saturday.

    The association president revealed profound disappointment with the newly appointed NLCB board’s lack of engagement since their July 25 installation. Despite repeated attempts to schedule meetings—including one cancellation after date confirmation—and direct intervention from the Prime Minister who emailed ministers instructing them to meet with OGAATT, Persad said the board has consistently ignored communication attempts.

    “We are the most important stakeholders in the whole organization,” Persad emphasized. “We are the point people bringing in the money for the organization. Why not engage us and hear what we have to say?” The association continues seeking respectful dialogue with NLCB leadership to address their operational concerns before any Sunday draw implementation.

  • Tobago rejects Beckles and PNM

    Tobago rejects Beckles and PNM

    In a seismic political shift, Tobago’s electorate has delivered an unprecedented verdict against the People’s National Movement (PNM), stripping the party of all fifteen seats in the Tobago House of Assembly elections. This historic 15-0 defeat represents not merely an electoral loss but a comprehensive rejection of the party’s decade-long governance approach.

    Political leader Pennelope Beckles’ post-election declaration that the PNM would “put Tobago first again” has been met with widespread skepticism. Critics point to the party’s ten uninterrupted years in national office, during which Tobago experienced persistent neglect despite numerous promises. The island suffered from undelivered timelines, substance-deficient speeches, and perpetually incomplete projects.

    The PNM’s governance record reveals a pattern of systematic neglect across both Tobago and Trinidad. Economic diversification remained theoretical while infrastructure development languished, driving young Tobagonians to seek opportunities elsewhere. Concurrently, Trinidad witnessed collapsing public confidence, weakened institutions, spiraling crime rates, and increasingly reactive governance.

    Political analysts view this electoral outcome as voters seeing through recycled slogans and empty rhetoric. The complete sweep demonstrates the electorate’s ability to distinguish between political posturing and tangible outcomes. Beckles’ leadership has been fundamentally undermined by her inability to secure even a single seat, inspire confidence, or defend her party’s governing record.

    This political demolition serves as a stark reminder that leadership is measured by outcomes rather than post-defeat press statements. The Tobago electorate has rendered its verdict with unmistakable clarity, leaving the PNM’s future relevance in question and demonstrating that populations ultimately reject leaders lacking moral authority and proven results.

  • Health Division kicks off drug awareness, prevention activities

    Health Division kicks off drug awareness, prevention activities

    The Division of Health, Wellness and Social Protection (DHWSP) in Tobago has announced an extensive drug prevention campaign through its Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Programme (ADAPP), scheduled to run from January through June 2026. The initiative will deliver targeted educational interventions across multiple demographics in six Tobago districts.

    The comprehensive program will specifically engage Standard Three primary school students with age-appropriate drug education, refusal skills training, and healthy alternative strategies. Parallel sessions will be conducted for Parent-Teacher Associations, equipping parents with skills to identify warning signs, establish supportive home environments, and facilitate constructive drug-related conversations with their children.

    Health center outreach components will incorporate drug screening services, necessary interventions, and referral systems to ensure at-risk individuals receive timely support alongside drug awareness presentations.

    A highlight of the 2026 calendar includes Drug Awareness Week from February 9-12, focusing on the connection between substance use and stress. The week will feature interactive sessions with Standard Four students utilizing Trinity SMART videos, Fatal Vision Goggles, and Smoker’s Lung and Mouth Specimens for enhanced learning. February 11 is designated as Drug Awareness Media Day, featuring live interviews across traditional and social media platforms to broaden audience engagement.

    The initiative will culminate in a public Expo on February 12 at Lowlands Mall, with participation from multiple stakeholders including the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) and Tobago Regional Health Authority (TRHA).