In a spectacular display of football prowess, CG Poseidon, last season’s Eastern Football Association (EFA) runners-up, secured their place in the EFA Big 8 with a resounding 12-0 victory over Trincity Nationals on October 19. The match, held at the Clayton Ince recreation grounds in Maloney, saw Poseidon finish third in Group B, ensuring their progression to the tournament’s quarterfinals. Entering the game in sixth place with 11 points, Poseidon needed a win to secure a top-four spot in their group. Their dominant performance not only achieved this but also leapfrogged them to third place with 14 points, trailing only group winners FC Maloney (21 points) and second-placed Eastern Connect FC (16 points). Poseidon’s Isaiah Farrell led the charge with a hat-trick, supported by Kedell Jones and Joshua Rogers, who each scored twice. Lejean Lezama, Jamal Oliver, Zedane Ravello, and Kemo Toby also contributed to the goal fest. Meanwhile, FC Maloney, already confirmed as group winners, dashed FC Porto Arima’s Big 8 hopes with a 5-2 victory, led by Saleem Henry’s brace. In another thrilling match, Zebulun narrowly defeated USC Hummers 4-3, with Hasie Alexander scoring a hat-trick. The Big 8 matches are set for this weekend, featuring high-stakes clashes such as Eastern Connect vs. Athletic United FC and reigning champions Malabar Youngstars vs. Wallerfield. The EFA final, scheduled for November 9, will see the champions take home a $15,000 prize, with $10,000 and $5,000 awarded to the second and third-placed teams, respectively.
标签： Trinidad and Tobago
特立尼达和多巴哥
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A headache for Divali
In a recent letter to the editor, concerns were raised about the United National Congress (UNC) government’s handling of fireworks regulations during the Divali celebrations. Despite their election slogan, ‘When UNC wins, everybody wins,’ the government has been criticized for its apparent inaction on the indiscriminate sale and use of fireworks, mirroring the previous administration’s approach. Phillip Alexander, a prominent supporter of the UNC, has been vocal in defending the government and criticizing the past administration’s shortcomings. However, the lack of effective enforcement of fireworks bans during the Independence holiday and Divali night has sparked public outrage. The letter highlights the adverse effects of the loud explosions on vulnerable populations, including the elderly, infants, autistic individuals, and those with noise sensitivities. The writer questions whether the UNC is truly different from the People’s National Movement (PNM) or merely a repackaged version of the same policies. The letter concludes by emphasizing the need for legislative reforms to promote responsible fireworks use, similar to practices in other Caribbean nations like Barbados.
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PNM, UNC wrangle over ‘new ministry’ being ‘in a mess’
A contentious meeting of the Standing Finance Committee in the House of Representatives unfolded on October 22, as government and opposition members clashed over the approval of a $1.8 billion expenditure for the Ministry of Tertiary Education and Skills Training. Minister Prof Prakash Persad defended the ministry’s budget, describing it as a ‘lean, small, and agile’ entity. He acknowledged the challenges of establishing baseline financial figures for the newly reconstituted ministry and hinted at potential mid-year funding adjustments if allocations proved insufficient. However, the meeting quickly devolved into a heated exchange over long-standing vacancies within the ministry. Opposition MP Dr Nyan Gadsby-Dolly pressed Persad for clarity on the number of unfilled positions, to which he responded that 126 out of 911 positions had been filled, attributing the disarray to the previous administration. The debate grew increasingly acrimonious, with MPs from both sides interjecting and Speaker Jagdeo Singh repeatedly calling for order. Persad denied evading questions, while Gadsby-Dolly accused him of providing inconsistent answers. The session highlighted the deep political divisions surrounding the ministry’s restructuring and financial management.
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October filled with faith, pride for Venezuelan migrants
October 2025 has become a month of profound significance for Venezuelans worldwide, marked by a blend of pride, hope, and emotional renewal. On October 10, Maria Corina Machado, a prominent opposition leader, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her unwavering commitment to defending democratic rights and fostering a peaceful transition in Venezuela. This global recognition resonated deeply with millions of Venezuelans living abroad, reigniting a sense of pride and optimism for their homeland. Just nine days later, on October 19, the Vatican celebrated the canonization of Venezuela’s first two saints, Dr. Jose Gregorio Hernandez and Mother Maria Carmen Rendiles Martinez, in a grand ceremony at St. Peter’s Square led by Pope Francis. These two revered figures, symbols of faith, science, and humility, provided a spiritual affirmation for Venezuelans both at home and in the diaspora. For Venezuelans in Trinidad and Tobago, these events carried special emotional weight. Carolina Alvarez, originally from Barquisimeto and now residing in Chaguanas, described the canonization as a moment when ‘Venezuela stood up again,’ recalling her grandmother’s prayers and the enduring legacy of Dr. Hernandez. Luis Martinez, from Caracas and now living in Port of Spain, shared how hearing the Pope mention Dr. Hernandez’s name brought tears to his eyes, rekindling a sense of hope. Maria Fernanda Perez, from Maracaibo and living in San Fernando, expressed that the canonization felt like ‘a caress for those of us who are far away,’ restoring faith in the midst of adversity. Javier Gomez, a construction worker from Valencia now living in Arima, encapsulated the collective sentiment, stating, ‘The Nobel filled me with pride, but the saints gave me back my soul.’ These events, he reflected, reminded Venezuelans of their enduring faith and resilience, offering a glimmer of hope for a brighter future.
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Holy Name student bakes cupcake delights in The Pink Oven
At just 15 years old, Rachel Kirton, a student at Holy Name Convent, has turned her passion for baking into a thriving business venture called The Pink Oven. Combining her love for baking, her favorite color pink, and an entrepreneurial spirit, Rachel has created a brand that is as vibrant as it is successful. Her journey began in her family’s kitchen at the age of eight, where she first discovered her love for baking. Despite her young age, Rachel’s determination and creativity have propelled her business forward, proving that age is no barrier to success. With the support of her family, particularly her mother Sherry-Ann Jack, who serves as her first investor and business advisor, Rachel has managed to balance her academic responsibilities with her entrepreneurial ambitions. The Pink Oven officially launched five months ago, but Rachel had been baking for friends and family long before that. Her business focuses on creating delightful cupcakes for birthdays and other special occasions, a niche she is deeply passionate about. Rachel’s approach to business is both practical and resilient. She emphasizes the importance of learning from failures and maintaining a positive mindset. Her advice to other young entrepreneurs is to believe in themselves and their unique talents. Rachel’s future aspirations include expanding The Pink Oven into multiple pink-themed stores, offering baking kits and utensils, and even teaching children how to bake. She is also considering a career in accounting to complement her baking business. Rachel’s story is a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and a strong support system. As The Pink Oven continues to grow, Rachel’s future looks as bright and promising as the pink frosting on her cupcakes.
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Quarry operator seeks return of seized property
Prominent businessman Danny Guerra, along with 14 other individuals, appeared in court for the first time following charges related to the unlawful processing of aggregate without a license from the Ministry of Energy. Guerra, 50, the proprietor of DG Homes and manager of D Guerra Ltd, was among 17 people detained during a significant police operation on October 9. The operation targeted an alleged illegal quarry in Manuel Congo, Guanapo, resulting in the seizure of a multi-million-dollar washplant, trucks, excavators, and other heavy machinery. Guerra’s son, Garvin Guerra, 28, was also among those detained. The group, which includes Carminco Ltd supervisor Hannah Bovell, several truck drivers, and foreign nationals, was granted $50,000 bail on October 11, though three foreign nationals remain in custody due to their inability to access bail. Magistrate Avoinne Gill upheld the existing bail terms. Police informed the court that their investigation remains incomplete, requesting two months for the Director of Public Prosecutions to assign state counsel. Defence attorneys objected to the delay, prompting the court to order interim disclosure by October 24. Volumetric testing of materials from the site is still pending. Attorney Dayadai Harripaul, representing Guerra, indicated her client’s intent to seek High Court relief for the release of seized property, urging the police to return the equipment. The group faces charges under Section 45(1)(a) of the Minerals Act for processing minerals without a license at Lot A, San Carlos Estate, Manuel Congo. The case is set to resume on November 11.
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Sucre promises aims for bigger success in 2026
Sucre, the 2025 Youth Soca Champion, is poised to make waves in the soca music industry as he sets his sights on 2026. Representing the Zig Boi Music Group, Sucre has already established himself as a formidable talent with a title to his name. His journey to success has been marked by a rigorous development program, guided by the experienced hand of Zig Boi Music Group CEO, Mr. Spine. Over the past two years, Sucre has been immersed in a comprehensive training regimen that included studio sessions, live performances, and networking opportunities. His collaboration with the legendary band Traffik and the formation of the youth-centric Evolution Band have further honed his skills and expanded his reach. Sucre’s victory in the Soca Champions competition was a testament to his dedication and talent. Since then, he has performed on international stages, including an opening act for Morgan Heritage in St. Maarten. As he prepares to compete against top acts like Blaka Dan in the 2026 Soca Champions competition, Sucre remains committed to inspiring the next generation of soca artists. His latest single, ‘Gimme Wuk Darlin,’ continues a love story narrative that began with his 2025 hit, ‘Hold on Darlin.’ Sucre’s vision extends beyond personal success; he aims to create a community that nurtures young talent and ushers in a new era of soca music.
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Recruitment drive gives hope for young people
A national recruitment drive launched over the weekend has drawn tens of thousands of hopeful applicants vying for approximately 20,000 public sector jobs. The initiative, which began on October 19, saw over 30,000 online applications within the first 24 hours, signaling a strong demand for sustainable employment opportunities. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar hailed the response as a testament to the nation’s readiness to work, grow, and build a better future. She emphasized that the drive aims to empower families, strengthen communities, and drive progress across the country. Among the applicants was Curtly Nedd, 31, who, despite having submitted applications online, visited the recruitment fair at the National Cycling Centre in Couva to meet recruiters in person. Nedd, who has only experienced short-term contract work, expressed hope for a more permanent position that could advance his career. Similarly, Krista-Leigh Dass, a recent law school graduate, viewed the drive as a chance to secure her first full-time job after months of unsuccessful applications. While some applicants expressed concerns about the prevalence of contract positions, many acknowledged the initiative as a valuable opportunity for young people to gain experience and build their resumes. The Greater San Fernando Area Chamber of Commerce president, Kiran Singh, praised the drive for addressing unemployment and filling long-standing vacancies in the public sector. A second phase of the drive, expected to include private sector vacancies, is anticipated, though details remain undisclosed. Business leaders have called for clarity on incentives and operational frameworks to ensure the initiative’s success. The latest unemployment statistics, standing at 3.8% as of June 2025, may shift following the termination of two government employment programs, which left an estimated 10,000 workers jobless. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo stated that these programs were discontinued to prevent state funds from reaching criminals and would be replaced by full-time employment opportunities.
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Delcy: TT economy would collapse without Venezuela gas
Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez issued a stark warning to Trinidad and Tobago, asserting that its economy would face collapse without securing gas agreements with Venezuela. Speaking at the Venezuela Productiva 2030 Business Expo Forum on October 22, Rodríguez emphasized that Venezuelan gas must be paid for and criticized Trinidadian Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar for relying on U.S. promises to access Venezuelan resources. Rodríguez accused Persad-Bissessar of being misled by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who allegedly promised free access to Venezuela’s gas. She described such claims as “fantasy” and warned that Trinidad’s business sectors would be left vulnerable if the country continued to pursue this path. Rodríguez underscored that Venezuela’s gas exports, including those to Trinidad and Tobago, are governed by international trade principles and require payment. She also highlighted the historical significance of Venezuela’s energy cooperation with Caribbean nations through initiatives like Petrocaribe, which the U.S. allegedly disrupted. Rodríguez’s remarks come amid renewed negotiations over the Dragon Gas project, a cross-border initiative involving Venezuela’s offshore reserves. Trinidad and Tobago recently secured a U.S. license to resume talks on the project, but Rodríguez insisted that only Venezuela’s government can facilitate the gas trade. Persad-Bissessar has yet to respond to Rodríguez’s comments.
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Trinidad and Tobago’s Chloe Fraser cops ping-pong U19 gold in Paris
Trinidad and Tobago’s rising table tennis star, Chloe Fraser, secured a remarkable victory at the Criterium Federal National 1A Junior Tournament in Châtenay-Malabry, Paris, on October 14. The 17-year-old claimed the girls’ under-19 singles title after a thrilling comeback in the final against Maelys Messe. Fraser, who initially lost the first set 3-11, demonstrated exceptional resilience to win the next three sets 11-5, 11-6, and 11-8, clinching the championship. Her path to the final was equally challenging, as she overcame Margaux Rouet in a grueling five-set quarter-final and defeated Gaetane Bled in straight sets during the semi-finals. This victory marked a significant rebound for Fraser, who had recently competed at the World Table Tennis (WTT) Youth Contender in Montenegro, where she reached the U17 round of 16 but was eliminated in the U19 round of 32. Reflecting on her performance, Fraser expressed satisfaction with her ability to maintain a high level of play across both tournaments. She credited her coach for identifying and addressing technical errors after the WTT, which contributed to her success in Paris. Currently ranked 12th in France’s junior category and 70th globally in U17, Fraser’s triumph underscores her growing prominence in international table tennis.