标签： Trinidad and Tobago

Despite a significant reduction in the Housing Ministry’s budget for the 2025/2026 fiscal year, Minister David Lee has assured the public that the cost of government homes will remain unchanged. Speaking to reporters outside Parliament on October 23, Lee revealed that the ministry’s allocation had been reduced from $750 million in 2024 to $600 million, marking a 20% decrease. However, he emphasized that this cut would not hinder the ministry’s ability to fulfill its housing commitments. Lee attributed this confidence to a strategic shift toward public-private partnerships, which aims to diversify funding sources and reduce reliance on government guarantees or loans. Over the past five months, Lee has collaborated with the Ministers of Finance and Planning to secure international funding, ensuring the sustainability of housing projects. When questioned about potential increases in housing costs due to this new model, Lee firmly denied the possibility, stating, ‘We will be much more efficient. There was a lot of wastage under the previous government, but I will be running a very tight ship.’ He also promised citizens greater value for money, criticizing the previous administration for failing to deliver on this promise. Lee expressed frustration at not being able to fully contribute to the parliamentary debate, hinting at undisclosed information regarding contracts and past housing arrangements. He also criticized the opposition’s lack of depth in their questioning during the Standing Finance Committee deliberations, which are expected to conclude by October 25.

Ronnie Boodoosingh officially commenced his tenure as Chief Justice on October 22, delivering a heartfelt and unscripted address that underscored his humility and dedication to the judiciary. Speaking extemporaneously, Boodoosingh emphasized his commitment to hard work and humility, setting a reassuring tone for his leadership. He paid tribute to his predecessors, including former Chief Justice Ivor Archie, and acknowledged the support of his family, stating, ‘They make me a better person.’

The swift transition following Archie’s departure was met with relief, though the televised swearing-in ceremony appeared rushed, with key guests arriving late and logistical hiccups such as the absence of glasses during a toast. Behind the scenes, acting President Wade Mark faced objections from Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles, who advocated for a more senior judge to act as Chief Justice. Despite these tensions, the Constitution grants the President the authority to appoint the Chief Justice after consulting with the Prime Minister and Opposition Leader.

Boodoosingh’s recent ruling in the Court of Appeal, which affirmed a constitutional right to return home after international travel, highlights his focus on human rights. This commitment, coupled with his sponsorship of a human rights award at the Hugh Wooding Law School, suggests that fundamental rights will be a cornerstone of his tenure. As the dust settles, the nation looks forward to a judiciary led by a Chief Justice known for sound judgment, fairness, and dedication.

After nearly two decades at the helm of Trinidad and Tobago’s Judiciary, Chief Justice Ivor Archie has officially announced his retirement, effective October 22. In a statement released on October 21, Archie reflected on his tenure, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve his country and optimism for the future of the Judiciary. He emphasized the importance of leadership succession, stating, “The office of chief justice is not private property… It is a sacred baton held in trust for one’s successors and the nation.” Archie, who became the youngest chief justice in 2008, highlighted his deliberate decision to retire at 65, rather than waiting until the mandatory retirement age of 70, to pursue new challenges and opportunities. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar extended her “deep gratitude” for Archie’s 18 years of distinguished service, acknowledging his significant contributions to the nation’s judicial landscape. During his tenure, Archie spearheaded judicial reforms, including the modernization of the Judiciary and the expansion of information technology use. However, his leadership was not without controversy, including legal challenges and allegations of misconduct. Archie’s successor will be appointed by the President after consultation with the Prime Minister and Opposition Leader. As he steps down, Archie pledged his full support to his successor, vowing to offer no unsolicited advice. He also expressed heartfelt thanks to his colleagues, staff, and family for their unwavering support throughout his career.

In a significant development for Trinidad and Tobago’s judicial system, Acting President Wade Mark is set to appoint the new Chief Justice at 2 pm on October 22. This appointment comes in the wake of Chief Justice Ivor Archie’s retirement, which took effect today, leaving the nation’s highest judicial position vacant. Archie, who assumed office in 2008, served for over 17 years, marking a notable era in the country’s legal history. The Office of the President has confirmed that the appointment process adheres to Section 102 of the Constitution of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. This section mandates that the President appoint the Chief Justice after consulting with the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition. The swearing-in ceremony will be exclusively covered by the state-owned Trinidad and Tobago Television (TTT), ensuring the event is accessible to the public. This transition underscores the importance of maintaining a robust and transparent judicial system in the country.

During a session with the House of Representatives’ Standing Finance Committee on October 21, Minister of Rural Development and Local Government Khadijah Ameen disclosed that her ministry currently has 847 vacancies. She elaborated on the ongoing efforts to fill these positions, emphasizing the role of the Public Services Commission (PSC) in the recruitment process. Ameen projected that approximately 50-60 positions across various salary ranges would be filled this fiscal year, though she expressed uncertainty about the funding adequacy for these roles. Diego Martin North East MP Colm Imbert questioned the $3 million budget allocation, deeming it insufficient for the intended hires. Ameen clarified that the PSC would handle the recruitment of these positions, with partial funding from the ministry’s short-term vote. She also highlighted that 157 out of 438 contract positions remain vacant, with interviews underway for some. Additionally, 50 municipal police officers have been recently hired. The discussion also touched on the conversion of temporary posts to permanent ones, with Ameen noting the variability based on program durations. Opposition MPs raised concerns about the impact of new surcharges on local government spending, with Ameen anticipating landlords leasing to the government to absorb the costs. San Fernando East MP Brian Manning questioned the increased budget allocation for electricity, which Ameen clarified was intended to address past arrears.