This week in Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago experienced a week of varied news, marked by significant sporting achievements including cricket victories and cycling gold medals, alongside concerns over athlete funding and potential event cancellations. A national security incident involving a gang member prompted increased protection for officials, while the Energy Minister disclosed numerous unreported oil spills from the previous administration. The Prime Minister's visit to India yielded eight MOUs, as the nation also grapples with economic balancing acts and a notable surge in OnlyFans spending.
About Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago, a vibrant twin-island nation in the southern Caribbean, is globally recognized as the birthplace of the steelpan and limbo, and for its spectacular Carnival celebrations. Its robust economy, among the wealthiest in the Caribbean, is primarily fueled by extensive oil and natural gas reserves. The country also boasts exceptional biodiversity and unique natural wonders, all within a dynamic environment supported by a free and diverse press.
Visiting Trinidad and Tobago
Media landscape
Trinidad and Tobago maintains a free press environment, characterized by diverse media outlets that provide extensive national and regional news coverage. The landscape includes several daily newspapers, television stations, and growing digital platforms.
To gain a comprehensive understanding, seek out outlets that offer both national news and distinct local perspectives from both Trinidad and Tobago.
Misbehaviour charges against 2 cops dropped
- Two police officers, charged with misbehaviour in public office in 2014, had the corruption allegations against them dismissed. - The charges stemmed from an alleged attempt to accept $15,000 from a…
Relative: He wasn’t much of a threat
- Relatives of Abraham Hackette, fatally shot by police, stated they had called officers for assistance during his mental health episode. - Police reported Hackette attacked responding officers with a…
US, Trinidad and Tobago security forces complete combat casualty care training
- Security forces from the United States and Trinidad and Tobago completed a four-day training exchange focused on tactical combat casualty care. - The training involved realistic trauma scenarios to …
‘Teacher training, staffing key to success’
- The Trinidad and Tobago Unified Teachers’ Association (TTUTA) supports the reintroduction of the Continuous Assessment Component (CAC) in primary schools. - TTUTA emphasizes that adequate teacher tr…
AMAZING AAMIR
- Aamir Khan, diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer at age ten, graduated from Trinity College East at 19, overcoming significant health challenges. - Despite developing seizures in Form Three that l…
T&T home to 186 gangs
- A UK Home Office report identifies 186 gangs with an estimated 1,750 members operating in Trinidad and Tobago. - Gangs are linked to a significant percentage of murders, with 43.7% in 2024 and about…
CPL, Rush bringing all-cricket TV channel
- The Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and Rush Sports have launched a dedicated cricket television channel called Rush Live & Louder. - The channel will broadcast Men's and Women's CPL matches, along w…
NLCL to stage ‘Perfect Ten’ fundraiser
- The NLCL Nation's Cup Perfect TEN 5K/10K walk/run charitable fundraiser is scheduled for Saturday, July 11. - Hosted by the Next Level Foundation, the event aims to benefit youth football developmen…
Speed Paradise ‘eye-opener’
- The Speed Paradise Carnival of Speed cycling event provided UCI points, primarily earned by international competitors. - Chief organizer Robert Farrier noted the event was a valuable learning experi…
Hanamji set to take helm of Private Sector Organisation of T&T
- Rudolph Hanamji will become the new CEO of the Private Sector Organisation of Trinidad and Tobago (PSOTT) on July 1. - Hanamji's career began at age 15 with a UN-backed publication after success in …
Young realtor aims to redefine property marketing in T&T
- 22-year-old Jovan Lousaing has established his own real estate brokerage, Lousaing's Realty, facilitating over $20 million in sales and rentals. - Lousaing differentiates himself through a focus on …
Digital Marketing Is More Than Social Media, Experts Urge Holistic Approach
- Businesses must move beyond social media to a comprehensive digital marketing strategy, including websites and AI, as consumer attention fragments. - Digital marketing now encompasses a wide range o…
T&T's best upstream outlook in years, but don’t celebrate yet
- Trinidad and Tobago's energy sector faces a challenging gas supply situation, with declining production and depleted fields impacting industrial operations. - Despite the ongoing issues, new project…
OAS launches collaboration with private sector
- The Organization of American States (OAS) has launched a collaboration platform with the private sector to foster economic growth and social development in the Americas. - The platform aims to lever…
Fiction fiasco a failure for all
- The Commonwealth Foundation's short story prize has collapsed due to a "fiction fiasco." - This literary debacle could have implications beyond the publishing world. - The failure raises questions a…
Why Trinidad and Tobago must invest in sports to realize its potential
- Trinidad and Tobago possesses significant sporting talent, evidenced by past achievements in Olympics, cricket, and football. - The nation's primary challenge is not a lack of talent but the absence…
Caribbean minister calls for urgent reforms in development financing access
- A government minister urged for urgent reforms in how Caribbean nations access development financing. - He highlighted that regional challenges like climate vulnerability and debt require stronger c…
Family pleads for help after fire destroys home
- A family of six lost their home and belongings in a fire on Sunday in La Romaine, Trinidad and Tobago. - Neighbors and local officials are assisting the displaced family, who are appealing for publi…
More Messi magic: Argentina star sets new World Cup goal record
- Lionel Messi scored two goals, setting a new record of 18 World Cup goals, in Argentina's 2-0 victory over Austria. - The win secured Argentina's advancement to the knockout stage of the tournament.…
Trinidad police suspensions cost millions, strain budget
- Trinidad and Tobago's Police Commissioner disclosed that 290 officers are suspended, costing taxpayers an estimated $55-60 million annually. - The suspension costs are attributed to bureaucratic red…
The history we write together
- The article argues that digital interactions are shaping a potentially dangerous historical narrative in Trinidad and Tobago. - It calls for a radical alteration in how citizens interact, emphasizin…
FTC pushes for stronger competition, business engagement
- The Fair Trading Commission (FTC) is committed to promoting competitive markets and engaging with businesses. - FTC Chairman Nisha Persad stated that competition is a catalyst for economic growth, i…
Humanism: the compass we need today
- Humanism offers a relevant moral framework for addressing contemporary challenges like climate change, inequality, and technological disruption. - Rooted in reason, compassion, and human dignity, it…
Da Silva ready for S/Lanka battle
- West Indies wicketkeeper Joshua Da Silva anticipates a tough contest against Sri Lanka in the upcoming two-match Test series in Antigua. - Da Silva returns to the Test squad after strong performance…
How fathers affect daughters
- Research consistently shows a significant link between father absence and increased youth delinquency and substance use. - The quality of a father's emotional engagement, not just his presence, prof…
Scale Up TT launches new cohort amid export growth push
- The Trinidad and Tobago Unit Trust Corporation (UTC) launched the sixth cohort of the Scale Up TT Scalerator programme to boost local companies and non-energy exports. - The program aims to help est…
Deitz stresses improvement to cement semis spot
- West Indies coach Shane Deitz emphasizes the need for improvement despite the team being close to securing a semi-final spot in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup. - Deitz acknowledged areas needing work…
Edwards-Taylor cops triple crown
- Imani Edwards-Taylor secured a triple crown at the Arawak Trinidad and Tobago Table Tennis Association Senior Championship, winning the women's singles, women's doubles, and mixed doubles. - Aaron W…
UWI launches initiative to empower women in artificial intelligence
- The University of the West Indies (The UWI) launched "Her Space in AI," a working group to boost women's participation in artificial intelligence. - The initiative aims to create a supportive ecosys…
Guyana urges Sandals to invest, touting unique tourism potential
- Guyana's government is actively seeking to attract Sandals Resorts International to establish a presence in the country. - President Irfaan Ali highlighted Guyana's strong tourism potential, citing …
T&T needs a football machine to back World Cup dream
- Trinidad and Tobago needs a structured football system, not just nostalgia or coaching changes, to qualify for the World Cup. - The country should establish a permanent global recruitment unit to id…
Young stars shine at ‘Lease’
- Young tennis talents in Trinidad and Tobago were crowned champions at the Lease Operators Ltd Junior Tennis Tournament. - Christopher Khan won the Boys 16 & Under title but lost the Boys 18 & Under …
Activists granted $60,000 bail after Labour Day march arrests
- Activists Alyssa Phillip and her mother Camille Caresquero were granted $60,000 bail on charges stemming from a Labour Day march arrest. - Phillip faces charges including leading a march and resisti…
Mother loses third child to gun violence
- Marlon Williams was chased and fatally shot in Pleasantville, becoming the third child Patricia Williams has lost to gun violence. - The 73-year-old mother, a stroke victim, described the pervasive …
Tobago tourism 'extremely dead' ahead of budget
- Tobago's tourism sector is described as "extremely dead" and stagnant for over 30 years, according to Reginald MacLean of the Tobago Hotel and Tourism Association. - MacLean called for the reopening…
Natuc stands with Alyssa
- The National Trade Union Centre (NATUC) in Trinidad and Tobago is consulting senior counsel regarding the arrest of activist Alyssa Phillip during Labour Day celebrations. - NATUC and the Joint Trad…
AI cloud over writing prize
- Literary magazine Granta will cease publishing winning entries of the Commonwealth Short Story prize due to controversy over AI-generated content. - Trinidad and Tobago writer Jamir Nazir faced accu…
Police chief defends officers after record fatal shootings
- Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro defended officers' use of force following a report of 60 fatal police shootings in one year, the highest in over a decade. - The Police Complaints Authority's a…
Don’t Turn Your Back On Dog Bite Prevention
- The U.S. Postal Service is launching a Dog Bite Awareness campaign in June to reduce the over 5,200 attacks on its employees last year. - USPS urges pet owners to manage dogs during deliveries by ke…
How Playing A Quick Puzzle Can Improve Your Workday
- Daily puzzle games offer a quick mental break to improve focus and productivity during the workday. - LinkedIn's new game, Wend, combines word-finding with logic puzzles, complementing its existing …
Managed Landscapes Help Combat Summer’s Biggest Challenges
- Federal investments in scientific research have yielded significant national achievements, from eradicating diseases to technological innovation. - However, recent indiscriminate cuts to federal sci…
The Cost of Cutting Funding to US Scientific Research
- Federal investments in scientific research have yielded significant national achievements, from eradicating diseases to technological innovation. - However, recent indiscriminate cuts to federal sci…
West Indies women not worried by batting despite T20 World Cup win
- West Indies women's cricket team secured a win against Sri Lanka in the ICC T20 World Cup despite losing five wickets while chasing a low total. - Captain Hayley Matthews delivered a career-best bow…
Assassination as ‘state policy’: London arson attack highlights disturbing trend
- Two foreign construction workers were convicted in London for an arson attack targeting homes once owned by British politician Sir Keir Starmer. - The attackers, a Ukrainian and a Romanian national,…
Teen social media ban is common sense
- A proposal to ban children under 16 from social media is being debated, with proponents arguing it's necessary for their development and safety. - The ban is compared to existing age restrictions fo…
Trinidad and Tobago's crime focus misses white-collar offenses, harming disabled citizens
- Trinidad and Tobago's daily crime discourse often focuses on visible street crime, overlooking the less apparent world of white-collar offenses. - White-collar crime, involving financial fraud and i…
Why Men Ignore Symptoms Until It's Too Late
- Many men ignore health symptoms, attributing them to work pressure or other external factors, delaying necessary medical attention. - Societal expectations often teach men to suppress emotions and a…
The cost of wage promises
- Ancel Roget, head of the Joint Trade Union Movement, announced that 14 worker groups will receive a promised 10% wage settlement from the government. - This announcement was made during Friday's Lab…
Wake up, Law Association
- The Law Association of Trinidad and Tobago's stated role is to uphold the Constitution and the rule of law. - The association has declared its commitment to participating in debates. - The article i…
Not all presence is work: Trinidad observes Labour Day
- Trinidad and Tobago observed Labour Day on Friday with protests and public addresses. - The article notes the close proximity of Labour Day to Father's Day, suggesting a connection in their practica…
Honour the past, but protect today’s workers
- Trinidad and Tobago observes Labour Day on June 19, commemorating a pivotal moment in national development. - The day should not be reduced to a mere public holiday or political event. - It serves a…
Bassarath for CWI president
- Jack Warner suggests Azim Bassarath should not seek another term as head of the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board. - Warner believes Bassarath's next administrative step in cricket should be elsewhe…
T&T beat Panama in Billie Jean King Cup
- Trinidad and Tobago secured a victory against Panama in the Billie Jean King Cup. - The team won the tie after Jordane Dookie and Anneliese Rose came from a set down in a doubles match. - This win h…
Good IR practices
- The article reflects on the progress made in Trinidad and Tobago's industrial sector over the past 60 years, coinciding with Labour Day celebrations. - It emphasizes the importance of good Industria…
Wary WI women take on Scots
- West Indies women's cricket coach Shane Deitz warned against complacency ahead of their T20 World Cup match against Scotland. - Both teams enter the game with confidence after surprising opening vic…
Ministry flags Tancoo deepfake video
- Trinidad and Tobago's Finance Ministry has issued a warning about a fraudulent "deepfake" video circulating on social media. - The video falsely depicts Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo endorsin…
The need to be needed
- Human beings have a fundamental psychological need to belong, feel valued, and be connected to others, as suggested by Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and Self-Determination Theory. - For some, this nee…
Where do families go for peace?
- A mother expresses distress over excessive noise from amplified music disrupting family peace. - The noise emanates from various sources including bars, businesses, homes, and events. - Families are…
Ali renews commitment to modernise sugar industry
- The Guyanese government is committed to modernizing its sugar industry. - President Irfaan Ali acknowledged challenges in meeting production targets and demanded greater accountability. - The modern…
Energy Chamber pushes for higher domestic output despite fiscal gains
- The Energy Chamber of Trinidad and Tobago advocates for increased domestic energy output for sustainable revenue growth. - This recommendation comes despite short-term fiscal gains from favorable in…
Gas and pension reforms could reshape growth and savings
- Fiscal reforms targeting marginal gas fields and pension taxation could boost investment and savings. - Economist Dr. Vaalmikki Arjoon believes these measures will strengthen long-term savings and d…
Romany, Kerr shine in ‘Arbor’ 5K
- Hundreds participated in the Arbor Rosewood-Trimont College 5K race at Queen’s Park Savannah, celebrating family, fitness, and education. - Nicholas Romany won the men's division in 15:11, while Nya…
Sammy hails Windies’ ‘smart’ T20 series win
- West Indies secured a long-awaited T20 International series victory at home, beating Sri Lanka by five wickets in the decider. - Head coach Daren Sammy praised the team's "thoughtful and smart crick…
Comrade Rienzi wanted unity
- Adrian Cola Rienzi, an influential figure in Trinidad and Tobago's labor movement, is highlighted for his role in advocating for Indian political representation and Afro-Indian unity. - Rienzi led a…
Please put back the red string
- The author, a retiree in Trinidad and Tobago, expresses frustration over multiple issues including delayed backpay, political division, and increased taxes. - They highlight concerns about rising gr…
A nation’s growing disenchantment
- The article criticizes the recent conduct in Trinidad and Tobago's Parliament, describing it as unbecoming and a betrayal of public trust. - It argues that such behavior from elected officials under…
Trinidadian javelin star LeBron James commits to Virginia Tech
- Trinidad and Tobago star javelin thrower LeBron James has committed to Virginia Tech, aiming for NCAA championships in 2027. - James recently defended his NJCAA Division 1 javelin title with a recor…
T&T beat Jamaica for opening win in Billie Jean King Cup
- Trinidad and Tobago secured a 2-1 victory against Jamaica in their opening Billie Jean King Cup tie in El Salvador. - The team faced funding challenges but achieved a winning start to their promotio…
Use local mangos, pineapples in manufactured foods, urges writer
- A writer suggests Trinidad and Tobago's bakeries and food manufacturers should incorporate local mangos and pineapples into their products. - The writer questions the use of artificial flavors in ma…
Iere Village Celebrates Its History and Community Builders
- Iere Village in Princes Town, Trinidad, recently held an awards ceremony to honor elders and community contributors. - Iere Concepts Limited recognized 21 individuals for their dedication to communi…
Remember Rio Claro's 'Bloody Tuesday' martyrs
- The article reflects on the largely unrecognized "Bloody Tuesday" on June 22, 1937, in Rio Claro, Trinidad, when disgruntled workers protested for better conditions. - The protest led to a violent c…
Venezuelan woman fatally stabbed on way to work in Trinidad
- A 28-year-old Venezuelan woman, Mariannys Jiménez, was fatally stabbed on her way to work in Chaguanas, Trinidad. - Police believe the attack was a domestic dispute, and the suspect fled the scene a…
Trinidad community holds vigil for murdered schoolgirl, calls for child protection
- Hundreds gathered in Los Iros, Trinidad, for a vigil honoring murdered schoolgirl Mercedez Layne, calling for greater child protection. - Speakers urged increased vigilance and proactive measures fr…
Venezuelan man abducted for ransom after business meeting in Trinidad
- Police are investigating the kidnapping of a 30-year-old Venezuelan national, Albert George Navarro Arcia, in central Trinidad. - Arcia was abducted by armed men on Friday night after a business mee…
Chamber Urges Government to Cut Red Tape, Boost Growth
- The Greater San Fernando Chamber of Commerce urges the government to cut red tape and implement growth-oriented policies. - Businesses face challenges including limited foreign exchange, rising cost…
Businesses Urge Economic Action as Government Reviews Mid-Year Budget
- Business groups urge the government to address economic weaknesses and seize opportunities ahead of the mid-year budget review. - Opposition MP Stuart Young expresses low confidence in the governmen…
Tobago's new airport terminal nears opening as certifications handed over
- The new ANR Robinson International Airport terminal in Tobago is nearing its opening after the National Infrastructure Development Company (NIDCO) handed over certifications and documentation. - The…
When ‘emergency’ becomes routine, civic rights are lost
- The article critiques the normalization of states of emergency, arguing it erodes civic rights. - It questions the common justification that only criminals are affected by emergency measures. - The …
Talking Unity but Saturated with Hate
- A concerned citizen laments the prevalence of hate speech and division in Trinidad and Tobago, despite calls for unity. - The author criticizes leaders from both major political parties for making d…
MP's tribalism deeply disappointing, says Express
- Laventille West MP Kareem Marcelle's recent remarks to supporters, stating the government "does not like us" and that "we do not like the UNC either," have drawn criticism for promoting political tr…
Bring a Modern Mass Transit Strategy to Trinidad and Tobago
- Trinidad and Tobago faces a growing economic and social crisis due to traffic congestion. - The country abandoned its railway network for roads and private vehicles, leading to gridlock and lost pro…
The 'fowl thief' era: A longing for a more governable past
- Older generations in the Caribbean often refer to the
Man killed in shooting at Diego Martin home; 20 bullets fired
- Nigel Ferguson, also known as "Ling," was fatally shot at his home in Diego Martin early Saturday morning. - Gunmen opened fire on the property, and residents reported hearing multiple gunshots befo…
Soca Singer Anton Wilcox and Avionne Mark Celebrate Nuptials with Second Wedding
- Soca singer Anton Wilcox and former Miss Universe T&T Avionne Mark celebrated their marriage with a second, larger ceremony in Port of Spain. - The couple, who met on the set of Wilcox's music video…
Moody's upgrades Trinidad and Tobago's outlook to stable
- International rating agency Moody's has upgraded Trinidad and Tobago's economic outlook from negative to stable. - Moody's affirmed the country's Ba2 sovereign credit rating. - The upgrade signals i…
E-cigarette clue in teenager's death
- A 15-year-old girl died after collapsing at her home in Petit Valley, Trinidad. - Police are awaiting post-mortem results to determine the cause of death. - An electronic cigarette was found in her …
Remembering the day the Soca Warriors took the world stage
- Trinidad and Tobago celebrated the 20th anniversary of its historic FIFA World Cup debut. - Photo editor Robert Taylor shared his memories of covering the Soca Warriors' first match against Sweden i…
Inmates sue State over denial of Eid observance
- Twenty-seven Muslim inmates are suing the State, alleging their fundamental rights were violated when prison authorities denied them the observance of Eid-ul-Adha. - The inmates claim the refusal to…
PM: Law-abiding citizens back SoE
- Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar stated that most law-abiding citizens and businesses support the extended state of emergency and the government's security measures. - She urged concerned busin…
Prisoner beaten to death in MSP cell
- A prisoner, identified as 48-year-old Christopher Banfield, died after being beaten by an inmate with mental health issues at the Maximum Security Prison (MSP) in Arouca. - The attack occurred betwe…
Unions seek meeting with PM over protest zones
- Thirteen trade unions have requested a meeting with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar to discuss the 15 no-protest zones established under an Emergency Powers Regulations order. - The unions arg…
4 Ways Families Can Support Struggling Readers This Summer
- Parents can help struggling readers maintain skills over the summer with simple, consistent reading habits. - Strategies include integrating reading into daily activities and encouraging children to…
Combat 'Summer Slide' and Screen Fatigue with Free Outdoor STEM Lessons
- The TurfMutt Foundation offers free outdoor STEM lessons to combat the "summer slide," where students lose academic gains over the break. - These hands-on activities encourage children in grades K-8…
Biography of Trinidad and Tobago Figure Chanka Maharaj Added to Heritage Library
- Author and historian Dr. Satnarine Balkaransingh presented his new biography, "Chanka Maharaj," to the Heritage Library. - The book chronicles the life of Chanka Maharaj, a notable Trinidad and Toba…
The fading legacy of community hubs: Trinidad's post offices
- Technology has led to the decline of traditional community hubs like post offices, video rental stores, and travel agencies. - The article focuses on the historical significance and current state of…
Trinidad and Tobago Government Must Justify Future States of Emergency
- Trinidad and Tobago's Prime Minister stated a state of emergency was justified by increased criminal activity. - The rationale was provided by the National Security Council following the end of a pr…
Protests Erupt in Trinidad Over Police Shooting Incident
- Protests have erupted in Trinidad and Tobago following the police shooting death of Joshua Samaroo and the paralysis of Kaia Sealy. - Demonstrations have taken various forms, including peaceful gath…
When calypsonians become prophets
- Calypsonians in Trinidad and Tobago have historically served as the nation's conscience, speaking truths through song. - The article reflects on the role of calypso music in challenging societal nor…
A question of justice
- Trinidad and Tobago faces a crisis of justice as escalating violence, including the killing of a child, challenges the state's duty to protect life. - The country grapples with the practical applica…
Education systems blind to our talents
- After seven years in Canada, an educator reflects on Caribbean education systems, identifying challenges but also unrealized potential. - The author argues that educational transformation requires a…