Page 57 – Trinidad and Tobago Newsday

Citing short notice on move to Skinner Park: Some north schools opt out of Schools’ Panorama 2026

SOME north schools have opted out of the 2026 Schools’ Panorama over the short notice given about hosting the event at Skinner Park, Todd Street, San Fernando.

Newsday understands eight-ten schools have withdrawn from the competition.

The participants, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said the issue was not with going to the southern venue but rather the timeframe given to do so as well as the day on which the event is scheduled to be held (January 19).

The musical director of one band said in a phone interview on December 23, “The Panorama usually is in Savannah (Queen’s Park) and a month ago we heard that the event may be in Skinner Park.

“At that point we started to ask questions and the ministry said nothing was confirmed as yet.”

The school’s Panorama is co-ordinated by the Education Ministry with Pan Trinbago’s assistance.

The director said they heard the date change but was told nothing definitive. However, a Pan Trinbago source said a site visit had already been done, she said.

“When we did find out that it would be in Skinner Park, they told us if we had any concerns to send them via e-mail. All the schools that had concerns sent e-mails, some were acknowledged while others weren’t.

“The message we got was to still register as it still was not confirmed.”

The director said the schools registered which appeared as though they knew the event was being held in the south and did not have a problem, she said.

A memo was later sent informing the schools that the Panorama would be held on January 19, 2026 and schools would be given $3000 in transportation assistance.

This did not cover more than one and a half maxis to get to the south, the director said.

“We want to get it clear that our issue is not hosting in Skinner Park. Our issue is that the notice we were given made it impossible to acquire the funds to go south.”

She said funds to go to the Savannah would have cost her Port of Spain school $9,000 but an estimate to go to south increased that figure to $17,000.

That was not financially feasible for the institution particularly as the first prize was $35,000.

“A financial constraint is the reason behind many schools pulling out of the competition.”

It was less of an issue for primary schools as they used the stationary ensemble on stage, she said.

Newsday understands that Bishop Anstey High School Port of Spain, Queen’s Royal College and 2025 winners Bishop Anstey East are among the withdrawn schools.

She said if it is south in 2027, schools would have a year to prepare.

She also hoped that there would eventually be an increase in prize monies as schools could easily spend over $100,000 getting ready for the competition.

A concerned teacher echoed the director’s concerns.

She said during a phone interview on December 23, “It is really unprofessional, an event that has historically been in the Queen’s Park Savannah to then suddenly move it to Skinner Park is ridiculous.”

Schools should have been given ample time to prepare, she added.

The schools transport, tuning the pans etc came up to $25,000 and that was for Port of Spain, so they did not even ask about the cost to go south, she said.

Once ample time and support was given and the event was not hosted on a Monday schools had no issue trying it in the south, she said.

Meanwhile, a bandleader said schools began working on their budgets for the competition during the school year and that included having fundraisers to get the needed money.

“To go to Skinner Park (transport only) would cost the band upwards of $5,000 or more. The ministry offered a $3,000 assistance but that still would not cover the extra amount it takes for the band to go.

“They want to make it a Monday as well which is also problematic. We depend on parental support in terms of lifting the racks, pushing the racks, extra supervision during the day…”

There were rumours since late October about the venue change but did not get confirmation until late November/early December.

“The Skinner Park option is very feasible, if we had enough time to prepare,” she said.

Newsday contacted Education Minister Dr Michael Dowlath and was told to send the necessary questions via WhatsApp. That was done but Newsday did not receive an immediate response to the questions sent on December 22 at 12 pm. A phone call on December 23 went unanswered.

Union Hall United FA complete double at NLCL Holiday Fun Festival

Union Hall United FA dribbled to two Next Level Consulting Limited (NLCL) Nations Cup International Holiday Fun Festival titles after three days of competition at Manny Ramjohn Stadium in Marbella, from December 19-21.

The South club was victorious in the Under-13 and Under-15 divisions after tense finals.

In the U15, Union Hall were held to a close-fought 0–0 draw by Cox Coaching Academy in the final. The title was settled by penalties, with Union Hall holding their nerve to win 3–2 from the spot.

Their triumph was bolstered by strong individual showings, as Sherkeem Campbell was named best defender, while Samuel Hosein earned the most valuable player and top goalkeeper awards.

Head coach Dexter Cyrus was also recognised as the division’s top coach. Dunstan Williams Soccer Academy claimed third place.

Union Hall continued their golden run in the U13 category courtesy a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Point Fortin Youth FA in the final.

Judah De Four was instrumental throughout the campaign and copped the MVP award, while teammate Kesion Agard took best striker honours. Union Hall’s Trevlon Abner was named top coach after guiding his team to the title.

Point Fortin Youth FA picked up individual awards through Zachary Smart (best defender) and Micah Mentor (top goalkeeper). Creek Sports and Cultural Club finished third, while Cox Coaching earned the most disciplined team award and Creek Sports received the team spirit award.

In the U11 championship, Cox Coaching lifted the title after edging City FC 1-0 in the final. Ival Weston enjoyed a stellar tournament for the champions, collecting both MVP and best defender accolades, while coach Dennis Cox was named top coach.

City FC’s Noah Nesbitt was named best striker and Gabriel Fernandes best goalkeeper. Jonathan Jones of GDD Generation Next FA claimed best midfielder, and Northern Stars United of St. Lucia received the team spirit award. Creek Sports secured third place.

The U9 division delivered another thrilling finale, as Creek Sports sealed a nail-biting 1-0 via kicks from the penalty spot, following a 1-1 result at the end of regulation time. The victors also claimed the team spirit award.

Creek’s Jaylon Quashie took the MVP honour while Kelani Hazel was named best defender. Siparia Soccer Stars finished third, with their player Jaseem Mendez recognised as best striker.

John Littlepage of City FC was named best midfielder, and their coach Lincoln Augustus earned the top coach award. City FC also collected the most disciplined team accolade.

Customers collect Xmas packages smoothly at Web Source

DESPITE the long line of vehicles flowing into the Web Source Trincity on December 23 from as early as 7 am, customers reported smooth collections of their Christmas packages ahead of the holiday.

“Last year would have been longer,” said 48-year-old Piarco resident Christopher, who went to collect packages for himself and other family members.

He said the introduction of an automated payment system, as well as better organisation of customer parking and vehicular traffic, made the process run smoothly.

Although she had to park well outside of the compound, 26-year-old Chrissy, who came from Caroni, said she was able to get in, grab her packages and leave Web Source within 30 minutes.

“I don’t usually order this late because of the rush, but I’m surprised at how quick it happened.”

When Newsday visited around 8 am, a congested line of vehicles stretched from Business Drive all the way to the compound, but within an hour, the traffic became almost non-existent.

One customer who arrived over an hour before the company’s 8 am opening said she was relieved that this year had none of the customs delays she experienced before.

“When I got here and I saw the amount of people, I called my husband and told him I might be here whole day. But it wasn’t even a full hour. It’s a real relief because years gone I would have had a long wait.

“It still have items I ordered from another company a couple of Christmas ago that I ain’t get them to this day…so this is a welcomed change, I hope they keep it up and other companies could be as efficient.”

D’Abadie resident Reshma said the transaction was timely, with all of her items arriving before the expected date and, in her opinion, even faster than in the non-Christmas seasons.

Business groups: Regional stability a priority

BUSINESS organisations say regional stability is essential even as Trinidad and Tobago seeks to expand its trading market outside of the region. They said they support Caricom as TT’s second-largest non-energy export market.

They made the statements to Newsday on December 23 after comments by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar criticising Caricom, describing it as fractured and an “unreliable partner,” were met with umbrage by Antigua and Barbuda PM Gaston Browne, who said Caricom was TT’s second-largest export market, behind the US.

“In 2024 alone, TT earned more than US $1.1 billion (7.5 billion) in foreign exchange from trade with Caricom, comprising approximately US$784.7 million ($5.3 billion) in domestic exports and US $501.3 million ($3.4 billion) in re-exports to Caricom states,” he said.

The PM also said TT is seeking partnerships beyond the region.

TT Manufacturers’ Association (TTMA) CEO Ramesh Ramdeen said, in a statement to Newsday on December 23, that all of Caricom producers (TT manufacturers and other regional manufacturers) would be at a disadvantageous position if Caricom takes a backward step.

“I don’t think anyone would support moving away from Caricom. We need to collectively work together to ensure all organs of Caricom are optimal, allowing for the people of the region to be the ultimate beneficiary of a solid integration effort.”

Ramdeen said TT and all of Caricom benefit from the Common External Tariff that Caricom offers as it affords the safeguard to trade competitively against extra-regional imports.

He said the association and its members recognise Caricom as TT’s most significant non-energy trading partner, and anything that disrupts trade relations to Caricom would be important to them.

“TTMA recognises and supports the position that we also have to look beyond Caricom to increase our trade in goods; it is the only way we can meet our target of doubling exports in the next five years.

“In this regard, we are doing our part at the TTMA by hosting trade missions beyond our regional space and attracting buyers from beyond Caricom to meet sellers in TT, at our inward missions and TIC. But this cannot be done at the expense of our Caricom brothers and sisters.”

Ramdeen said a push outside the regional space was needed for TT and other Caricom member states to grow, expand and thus have a redounding positive impact for citizens in jobs, standard of living and earning foreign exchange.

“TT need to attract new investments and diversify its export markets to be sustainable and grow production capabilities. Thus, TTMA would continue to build on our relationship with our Caricom brothers and sisters. We have a very strong integrated structure among the private sector bodies regionally, and we hope that efforts will be made to continue to deepen and broaden the CSME framework.”

In a message to Newsday on December 23, TT Coalition of Service Industries president Dianne Joseph said regional stability was a paramount priority for the TT business community.

“Geopolitical friction within Caricom creates uncertainty that can disrupt trade and investment. Businesses may perceive trading with Venezuela or Caribbean partners as a heightened risk prompting a ‘wait-and-see’ approach. This hesitation ultimately impacts economies and citizens across the region.”

She said while firms are increasingly pivot toward US and global markets to secure foreign exchange, Caricom remains a critical primary destination for TT’s goods and services. She said strategic global expansion should complement, rather than replace, this country’s regional commitments to ensure long-term economic resilience.

“Some of the smaller business leaders have already begun to discuss the challenges which may arise and the impact on sustainability. While the larger ones may be able to cope for a period of time, the smaller ones face a high level of risk and this must be given due consideration. TT wants to improve trade in services and an early end to the tensions will add value to our vision.”

As with Parson, Joseph urged the PM to prioritise diplomatic dialogue and functional corporation, as Caricom remains a vital “nearshore” market.

“While we respect the Prime Minister’s discretion and her assurances that nationals have nothing to fear, the final outcome will ultimately determine the validity of this strategy. We believe such tensions are best resolved through private mediation rather than public confrontation, setting a more constructive example for future leaders.”

The TT Chamber of Industry and Commerce, in a statement on December 23, said the organisation’s members regards Caricom as a critical economic partner.

“Caricom remains TT’s second-largest trading partner outside of the US, and our country has consistently played a constructive and influential role in advancing regional trade and economic co-operation.

“TT enterprises have deep and longstanding commercial ties throughout the region, including established customers, supply chains, employees, and physical investments. For many local businesses across manufacturing, services, and non-energy exports, the Caricom market remains an essential source of growth, market diversification, and foreign exchange earnings.”

The chamber said the PM’s recent comments highlight the ongoing need to ensure that regional integration evolves in a manner that balances cooperation with respect for national sovereignty, security considerations, and domestic policy space, while remaining firmly anchored in shared regional economic objectives.

“From the TT Chamber’s perspective, the priority remains continuity and predictability. Businesses are focused on sustained market access, efficient trade facilitation, and reliable transport and logistics linkages across the region. These fundamentals are essential for firms to plan with confidence, make long-term investments, and remain competitive in an increasingly challenging global environment. It is, therefore, our hope that these discussions do not result in unintended disruptions to regional commerce.”

The chamber said it remains committed to supporting a stable, rules-based, and predictable regional framework that enables businesses to operate, invest, and grow.

“We reaffirm our support for Caricom and for continued efforts to strengthen regional integration in a way that delivers practical, measurable benefits for TT and our Caribbean partners alike.”

reporting by Sean Douglas

St Benedict's land another 2nd-place finish at KFC Goodwill Series

For the second straight edition, St Benedict’s College finished second-best to the Chase’s Academic Foundation outfit from Guyana after an enthralling penalty shootout, with the latter winning the sixth edition of the KFC Goodwill International Under-18 School Football Tournament which concluded in Guyana on December 21.

In 2024, St Benedict’s lost out on 8-7 on penalties after the teams played to a goalless draw. A year later, Benedict’s and the Chase Academy again played out a goalless stalemate in regulation- and extra-time, with the home team holding their nerves from the spot to land the 5-4 victory at the Ministry of Education Grounds, Georgetown. The tense finish sealed a repeat of KFC Goodwill titles for Chase Academy, with the “La Romaine Lions” again earning the silver medal.

In the third-place playoff, Jamaica’s Kingston College made up for a semis loss to Benedict’s with a thumping 4-1 win over Nikiere Technical School from Suriname.

In the semifinals which were played on December 19, Chase Academy made light work of Nikiere Technical as they got a thumping 5-0 win, with Benedict’s earning a 2-0 victory over Kingston College courtesy a stylish first-half brace from full-back Ruben Phillip. The left-footer got his first goal with a 23-yard free kick which squeezed through the Kingston wall to beat the goalkeeper, with the second being a thing of beauty as he arrowed a long-range shot into the net after some lovely build-up down the left in the Kingston half.

St Benedict’s College’s runner-up prizes from the 2025 KFC Goodwill International Under-18 School Football Tournament. Photo courtesy St Benedict’s College –

Chase Academy’s Bryon Wharton won the golden boot award, with Flavio LaRose winning the best goalkeeper award to repeat the feat he accomplished in 2024. The competition’s MVP Malcom Hendricks was awarded a three-month training stint with Brazilian team Club Athletico Paranaense.

In the 2023 tournament, Benedict’s lost 2-1 in the finale to Jamaica’s Clarendon College. Meanwhile, in the 2022 edition, Benedict’s finished runners-up to DC Caesar Fox Secondary School.

TTPost warns customers of visa collection fee scam

THE Trinidad and Tobago Postal Corporation (TTPost) is advising customers to beware of a US visa collection fee scam.

The corporation said it has received reports of fraudulent calls and messages requesting payment of fees for the collection of passports containing US visas.

In a Facebook post on December 23, TTPost said these calls and messages are fraudulent and are in no way associated with the corporation.

TTPost warned that it does not request or collect payment for the collection of passports containing US visas and it does not charge for the delivery of courier items or Track Pak services unless officially arranged and paid for through authorised channels.

Passports containing US visas, it stated, may be collected free of charge in person at approved TTPost locations, unless delivery was specifically requested and paid for at any other selected locations at the time of application.

TTPost said, “If you are uncertain about any call, message, or correspondence claiming to be from TTPost, please verify its authenticity by contacting us directly using our official channels.”

The corporation said it is addressing this matter and “implementing measures to mitigate and prevent further fraudulent activity.”

Customers are urged to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to TTPost and the relevant authorities.

For further assistance or inquiries, contact TTPost’s Customer Service Department by calling 774-1065, 773-6098, 773-6104, or message via WhatsApp at (868) 774-0715 or via e-mail at customer.service@ttpost.gov.tt, or visit our website at www.ttpost.net.

Authorised TTPost collection locations

• Port of Spain

177 Tragarete Road, Woodbrook

• Tobago

Caroline Building, 36 Wilson Road, Scarborough

Transport Ministry appeals for holiday road safety

MINISTRY of Transport is urging the public to be safe on the roads over the holiday season.

In a news release on December 22, the ministry said, As the nation celebrates Christmas and prepares for the New Year, the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation urges everyone to help make this festive season accident-free.

Road safety, it said, starts with each person.

“Together, we can save lives and create safer roads for everyone.”

There have been 106 road deaths so far this year compared to 121 for the same period in 2024.

The ministry urged all motorists, pedestrians and road users to be vigilant on the roads.

It said, “Traffic is heavier during this time, so make every trip with safety in mind. Let us keep the festive season joyful and free of avoidable accidents.”

Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Eli Zakour urged all road users to make safety their highest, non-negotiable priority during the Christmas and New Year holidays. He underscored that a single moment of carelessness can result in irreversible loss.

He said improving road safety requires a collective effort from government agencies, transport providers, and the public.

Zakour encouraged all road users to remain alert, obey traffic laws, and cooperate with enforcement authorities to reduce accidents and save lives.

Motorists, the release said, are urged to:

●Obey all road signs, signals, and traffic lights.

●Approach pedestrian crossings, intersections, and residential areas with caution.

●Avoid overtaking in high-risk areas.

●Refrain from distracted driving and ensure all passengers, especially children, are securely buckled.

Public transportation drivers are encouraged to:

●Operate vehicles responsibly, including along the Priority Bus Route (PBR).

●Observe all traffic signals and avoid unsafe stopping or overtaking.

●Drop off passengers only at designated areas.

●Exercise patience and discipline to safeguard the commuting public.

Pedestrians are reminded to:

●Use walkovers, marked crossings, and pedestrian signals where available.

●Cross only when safe and never between parked or moving vehicles.

●Stay alert and avoid distractions such as mobile devices while crossing.

●Closely supervise children near busy roadways.

Cyclists and motorcyclists are urged to:

●Always wear protective helmets.

●Remain visible to other road users.

●Obey all traffic laws and regulations.

The Finance Bill (2025), passed recently in parliament, had several driving and road safety measures to protect citizens including: increases for drunk driving offences, higher fines for driving without a permit, tougher penalties for reckless driving and overloading, and measures against motor vehicle insurance fraud.

FireOne looking forward to the Boxing Day sale

AMID newly passed laws regulating the location and time of fireworks use, FireOne Fireworks is expecting an explosive Boxing Day sale. Managing director Andre Abraham said FireOne is expecting a high turnout for its buy one get one free sale at the company’s Macoya warehouse.

But Abraham said the event is not only about driving revenue.

“We don’t do this just for sales. This is how we protect citizens and the market,” he told Newsday in an interview on December 23

“This Boxing Day sale is to wipe out any bad products…when we give away something of equal value, it makes it very undesirable to buy a product outside of the FireOne universe. And because we are so meticulous about our reputation…even though we operate our business within the law of TT, we self-regulate and implement National Fire Protection Association guidelines that govern the industry in America.”

He said all Fire One’s products are inspected by the American Fireworks Standards Laboratory (AFSL) to ensure public safety and reduce the number of injuries caused by explosives.

“It’s not like 30 years ago where you got a product that’s overloaded with no instructions…we’re making it so attractive that you don’t even consider bamboo bursting or a scratch bomb. It’s even cheaper.”

Abraham called for those same regulations to be applied to the entire industry, both for the benefit of the company’s reputation and public safety.

He also reiterated the company’s positive views on recent amendments.

With an attached fine of $450 under the Summary Offences (Amendment) Act, 2025 (Act No. 13 of 2025), it is now an offence to discharge fireworks without a permit issued by the Commissioner of Police, except on a public holiday between 8-9 pm and on December 31 from 11.30 pm to 12.30 am of the next day.

Fireworks use within a half-mile radius of public hospitals, private hospitals, nursing homes, homes for the elderly, airports, zoos, registered animal shelters, farms, forest reserves and national parks is also now an offence.

The application must specify the type, amount, location, date and time of fireworks discharged, and is only valid for the specified usage.

The fireworks permit application fee is $100 and cannot be issued to anyone under 18.

“We’ve been, through our marketing, social media and advertising, talking to our customers for the last 20 plus years, encouraging them to be respectful, courteous and our neighbours’ keeper.”

“This law caters to the one per cent that may step out of line but the majority of our customers, the citizens of TT, are respectful, kind and considerate. All it takes is for one person to use the item at the wrong time and the wrong date and it creates so much discomfort.

“So this for us is a great thing that the government has done.”

Morris: PNM-run THA will remove US radar

THA Minority Leader Kelvon Morris has promised to remove the US military radar at the ANR Robinson International Airport at Crown Point if his party is elected into office in the January 12 Tobago House of Assembly (THA) elections.

At a political meeting on December 22 at the Pembroke bridge in the Glamorgan/ Belle Garden electoral district, Morris said: “We are going to move that radar as soon as the PNM becomes the next administration of Tobago.”

Approval for the radar was given by central government as national security is a Sixth Schedule item and not the responsibility of the THA.

The presence of the radar in Tobago has been controversial with Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar on November 26 claiming the US marines were in Tobago to help build a road near the airport.

A day later, she admitted a radar was being installed on the island to help combat drug trafficking. She said she initially tried to keep the radar’s presence a secret as it was a matter of national security.

The radar, built by American aerospace and defence technology company Northrop Grumman, is a G/ATOR system is a three-dimensional, medium/long-range multi-role radar designed to detect unmanned aerial systems, cruise missiles, air-breathing targets, rockets, artillery, and mortars.

Morris, the PNM candidate for Darrel Spring/ Whim, has criticised Chief Secretary Farley Augustine for his stance on the radar. Augustine has said he was assured by central government that the radar would not be used by the US to help attack any nation.

He later told a media house that if he had the power, he would not put the radar in Tobago or allow the US military access to the airport.

Morris said, “Farley has stopped speaking for the people of Tobago because you see those things that are coming up from Trinidad – the ham, the lamb, the TV, the hamper, Farley has sold his voice for UNC financing and therefore Farley no longer can represent us.”

He said the PNM will stand in defence of the people of Tobago.

“I’m saying to you all of Tobago, you need to get on board, you need to realise this is no longer about red, blue or black, this is no longer about code – this is now a matter of life versus death and when you go to vote, you now have to decide if you are going to preserve your life or if you are going to vote to allow people to have a radar that will lead potentially to your death.”

He played a clip of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar dismissing Augustine’s comments about hypothetically rejecting the radar.

In her response, Persad-Bissessar said, “Well, Farley does not have his way, does he? He is entitled to his opinion; I am not of that opinion.” Morris said, “You heard how easily the prime minister dismissed Farley…as if we don’t matter. I’m not here to defend Farley and perhaps I should because Farley cannot defend himself any more, but I am here to speak on behalf of the people of Tobago – take your radar and put it in Siparia.”

He also condemned TPP’s party member and ex-THA councillor Certica Williams-Orr who at a TPP meeting on December 2 in Bon Accord urged residents to embrace the presence of the radar noting that it is a “Christmas gift” to residents in that electoral district.

He begged to differ, noting that the radar is in fact “a gift of death.”

“That military radar is a military asset used in times of military conflict and war and therefore when you have two warring parties and one is about to go after the other, the first thing they do is try to take out all the various assets and that military radar serves as an eye, as an intelligence for the United States in times of conflict, and therefore the enemy of the United States, the first thing they would want to do is take out that radar, and where is that radar located – in poor sweet Tobago.

“The day we hear conflict break out between the United States and Venezuela, bet your bottom dollar, Tobago, the next thing you would hear is boom. Not ah we would be able to tell the next story because all ah we might just be …”

3 plead guilty to killing cop, sentenced

THREE MEN who pleaded guilty to killing a police corporal during an armed robbery in 2019 in Arima have each been sentenced to lengthy prison terms by the High Court.

In sentencing Anthony Salina, Ackeel Mohammed and Jamal Andrews, Justice Nalini Singh said the crime fell at the higher end of robbery-murder cases.

“This was a case of profit-driven motivation,” the judge said, as she sentenced Salina and Mohammed to 18 years’ imprisonment each and Andrews to 20 years and eight months for the killing of Frank Fox, a 60-year-old police corporal, during a daylight robbery in 2019.

Fox, who was assigned to the Emergency Response Patrol Unit at the Barataria Police Station, was at a mechanic’s shop on Righteous Lane, Pinto Road, Arima, on November 23, 2019, when he was confronted by the three men.

Andrews, armed with a firearm fitted with an extended magazine, pressed the weapon to Fox’s waist and demanded his gold chain.

As Fox resisted, Salina and Mohammed joined the confrontation and stripped him of rings, a bracelet and an identification band. During the robbery, one of the assailants discovered Fox was armed and shouted a warning, “This man ha thing, this man ha thing.” Four shots were fired moments later, and the men fled, leaving Fox wounded. He later died on December 18, 2019, from complications of gunshot injuries following surgery.

All three men later pleaded guilty to murder based on the felony murder rule after plea discussions with the state, accepting that the killing occurred in the course of a robbery in which they knowingly participated.

Salina and Mohammed were also shot during the incident, and the former gave a detailed statement to police, admitting his involvement. He said he met the other two and was told they were “going to do something on Righteous Lane.” Salina was asked to accompany the other two and knew one of them had a gun. He said he did not know Fox was a police officer or that the gun would be used, but admitted to removing the officer’s jewellery. All three men were identified by Fox before he died on December 18, 2019.

In delivering the sentence, Singh fixed a starting point of 30 years’ imprisonment, citing multiple aggravating factors: the prevalence of armed robberies, the use of a loaded firearm, the profit-driven motive, the joint nature of the crime, its commission in a public place in daylight, and the foreseeability of death once a firearm was introduced.

She rejected arguments that the case warranted life imprisonment, noting there was no evidence the killing was premeditated or execution-style, but said the offence remained a grave example of violent robbery culminating in loss of life.

Salina, also called Bover, was sentenced to 18 years’ imprisonment with hard labour, with full credit for just over six years already spent in pretrial custody.

Mohammed, also called Fresh, was also sentenced to 18 years’ imprisonment with hard labour, less time already served on remand.

For Andrews, also called Jumbo, the court applied a three-year uplift because he was the armed assailant who initiated the confrontation. After deductions for good character and remorse and a one-third credit for his guilty plea, Andrews was sentenced to 20 years and eight months’ imprisonment with hard labour, also reduced by the period of pretrial custody, which will be calculated by the prison service.

All three men also pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm and possession of ammunition. Justice Singh imposed concurrent sentences of five years and four months for the firearm offence and four years for the ammunition offence, but ruled those sentences were deemed served because of the time already spent in custody.

“The sentences strike the right balance between punishment and mercy,” Justice Singh said, adding they were consistent with guidance from the appellate court and reflected the differing levels of culpability among the offenders.

Stephen Wilson and Analisa Ramsaran represented Salina; Sallian Holdip-Francis represented Mohammed; Darryl Douglas and Laurina Ramkaran represented Andrews, while Dylan Martin and Cassie Bisram represented the state.

Virtual Access Court Centres to replace police station hearings

JUSTICE Minister Devesh Maharaj on December 22 visited the newly constructed Virtual Access Court Centres (VACC) at the Hall of Justice on Knox Street, Port of Spain, to assess progress in expanding public access to judicial services, a statement from the ministry said on December 23.

Maharaj was accompanied by Trudy Lewis, acting permanent secretary; Fran Chaitoo-Jacob, acting deputy permanent secretary; Nicholas Suban, senior project manager; and Dr Louis Percival Anthony Nurse as part of the Ministry of Justice’s ongoing efforts to modernise court operations. The visit was facilitated by Chief Justice Ronnie Boodoosingh, along with Jamie Philbert, court executive administrator, and Kimberly Prescott, acting registrar of the High Court.

The statement said the visit highlighted an inter-agency approach to reviewing operational challenges and identifying solutions aimed at improving efficiency and strengthening access to justice.

The minister and his team, along with the Chief Justice and the judiciary’s team, discussed how the centres are designed to provide a secure, accessible alternative to police stations for the conduct of virtual court hearings.

The establishment of the Virtual Access Court Centres follows concerns raised in May 2025 about virtual hearings being conducted within police stations and the resulting strain on policing operations. In response, Maharaj established a working group in July 2025 to review the conduct of virtual hearings. After that review, the Judiciary created a dedicated suite of centres at the Hall of Justice, the statement said.

Once fully operational, the centres are expected to return critical space at the Besson Street Police Station to the TT Police Service, enabling the continuation of key crime-fighting initiatives, including identification parades.

During the visit, the delegation received a comprehensive overview of the centres’ operations, including their capacity to accommodate court users and their role in reducing reliance on police stations.

Maharaj also participated in a demonstration of a virtual court hearing, where officials noted that the technology allows judicial officers to maintain full control of proceedings, manage participation, ensure orderly conduct and safeguard the integrity of the judicial process in a virtual environment.

The Virtual Access Court Centres form part of the ministry’s broader digital transformation initiative, which uses technology to enhance and expedite the delivery of judicial services while improving transparency, efficiency and responsiveness across the justice system, the statement added.

Central defender Kobi Henry signs two-year deal with Real Salt Lake

Trinidad and Tobago men’s football team centre back Kobi Henry has signed a two-year deal with Major League Soccer (MLS) club Real Salt Lake after an initial loan move from French Ligue 2 team Stade de Reims. The move was confirmed by Real Salt Lake on December 18.

The 21-year-old Henry was loaned to Real Salt Lake in January, but an early-season hamstring injury restricted him to just five games with the first team before he eventually played 14 matches for Salt Lake’s MLS Next Pro team, Real Monarchs. Before the hamstring injury, Henry played in two Concacaf Champions Cup matches in February against Costa Rican powerhouse CS Herediano.

The Florida-born Henry made his debut for TT in September against Curacao and the centre back was an automatic fit for coach Dwight Yorke’s squad as he proved to be a solid figure in the backline for the final round of Fifa 2026 World Cup qualification, playing all six matches. TT’s qualification bid to make a second men’s World Cup eventually fell short, but the lanky Henry was almost an immediate fan favourite. The former US youth national also showed his worth in the opposing penalty area, scoring against Bermuda in both home and away matches.

The deal is guaranteed through December 2027, with a club option also in place for the subsequent year. Henry is happy with the move and is eager to show his worth for the Utah club.

“I’m extremely excited to be signing permanently with RSL,” he said, via a Salt Lake release. “Last season on loan taught me a lot and I feel ready to make the next step. I’ve been working hard this off-season and can’t wait to help our team enjoy a successful season and show the community and all the RSL fans what I can bring.”

Salt Lake sporting director Kurt Schmid is also happy to have the big centre-half in the ranks.

“We’re pleased to bring Kobi back to Real Salt Lake. His foundational development during 2025 paid dividends late in the season, while his abilities on the backline in multiple setups will provide great competition within our roster. We look forward to Kobi’s continued growth as a professional.”

Before his loan move to Salt Lake, Henry made 21 appearances for Stade Reims B, while he also played 15 times in a loan move to FC Villefranche.

JCC warns: Caricom indispensable to Trinidad and Tobago economy

The Joint Consultative Council for the Construction Industry (JCC) has warned that the Caricom market is currently “indispensable” to TT’s economic resilience.

In a media release on December 23, JCC president Fazir Khan said TT should reject any notion that it could prosper without the support of Caricom.

His comments follow statements by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar criticising Caricom and describing it as fractured and an “unreliable partner”. She added that TT is seeking partnerships beyond the region.

She claimed Caricom members had sided with Venezuela against the US in the latter’s war against drug trafficking and that Antiguans were “bad-mouthing” the US which resulted in further visa restrictions being placed on that country.

In a response on Facebook on December 21, Browne took umbrage with the claim of being an unreliable partner, noting Caricom was TT’s second-largest export market, behind the US.

“In 2024 alone, TT earned more than US $1.1 billion in foreign exchange from trade with Caricom, comprising approximately US $784.7 million in domestic exports and US $501.3 million in re-exports to Caricom states,” he said.

Khan agreed that TT cannot take Caricom for granted, noting the regional group accounts for roughly a tenth of all global exports and an even larger share of the country’s non‑energy exports.

“Excluding petroleum and petroleum products, exports to Caricom have been estimated at over US$560 million in a recent benchmark year, representing about one quarter of all intra‑regional exports – by far the largest share enjoyed by any member state. This is not the profile of a marginal or unreliable market; it is the profile of a vital anchor for diversification and the pivot away from energy.”

He said for the domestic construction industry, this regional demand translates into jobs for technicians, engineers, contractors and professional consultants who would otherwise be constrained by the vagaries of the local market.

He said the Caricom market is crucial to earning foreign exchange and any disruptions could result in “hundreds of millions of US dollars in potential annual export losses for TT, particularly in non‑energy sectors that are still struggling to gain a foothold in extra‑regional markets.

“At a time when the country is seeking to stabilise foreign‑exchange earnings and broaden its productive base, flirting with such losses would be economically ill-advised.”

Asked on Newsday on December 22 whether withdrawal from Caricom was being considered by herself or Cabinet, Persad-Bissessar said, “Withdrawal from Caricom has not been discussed by Cabinet.”

She said she was also not worried about any economic impact owing to the Caricom divide.

Elderly beaten, injured in violent robberies

POLICE are searching for several suspects following two separate, violent robberies targeting senior citizens in Malabar and Belmont on December 22.

In the first incident, an 80-year-old American retiree was injured while defending her property at the O’Meara Industrial Estate.

Reports say around 2.45 pm, the victim and her husband were seated in their car at the Vulcan Mufflers car park when two men approached the vehicle.

The men announced a robbery and grabbed the woman’s handbag. During a brief struggle, the strap of the bag broke, cutting the victim’s finger.

The men escaped with $9,000 in cash, bank cards, and personal documents.

They fled in a white Nissan AD wagon, registration PCX 8210.

One suspect is described as a slim man of African descent in his late teens, with a large Afro. He was wearing a white T-shirt, blue three-quarter pants, and white replica Air Jordans.

The second suspect, also of African descent, is approximately five feet, seven inches tall with an unkempt beard and was wearing a red jersey, a medical mask, and similar sneakers.

Less than 20 minutes earlier in Port of Spain, a 70-year-old veteran was beaten and robbed by four men.

At about 2.30 pm, the senior citizen of Belmont, was entering his Mazda 323 on Cockerton Street when he was accosted. Two of the four men were armed with knives.

The group pulled the victim from his car and beat him before stealing $4,600 in cash, a Motorola cellphone, and his Defence Force veteran’s ID.

The suspects, described as three men of African descent and one of dougla descent, fled south along Nelson Street.

In an unrelated incident earlier that morning, a 39-year-old Valsayn man was robbed by four men posing as police officers.

Around 3.55 am, the victim was awakened by loud knocking and shouts of “Police! Open up!” While the victim was on the phone with the 999 emergency operators, the men kicked in his door.

Two of the intruders were armed with guns and wore blue and grey police camouflage. They ransacked the one-bedroom apartment and fled with $2,000. Investigations into all three matters are ongoing.

Bandits on pre-Xmas crime spree in east Trinidad

NORTHERN and eastern police divisions are investigating a series of robberies and break-ins leading into the Christmas week, including a daring daylight heist at a popular textile store and the carjacking of a Coast Guard officer.

Police are searching for a man with a distinct skin condition following a robbery at Yufe’s Ltd in Arima on the morning of December 22.

Around 11 am, two men entered the establishment and walked directly behind the counter, where a female cashier was tallying the store’s takings.

One man announced a robbery while his accomplice pulled out a handgun. The fearful cashier handed over a plastic bag containing an undisclosed sum of cash.

The first suspect is described as slim, of African descent, wearing a red jersey and a cap. He has visible tinea versicolour (white spots) on the left side of his face. His accomplice was dressed in dark clothing.

In a separate incident on December 21, a female petty officer of the TT Coast Guard was robbed of her $250,000 Hyundai Tucson.

Around 10.36 pm, the officer was getting out of her car near her home in Arima when two armed men in dark clothing accosted her. They demanded her keys and fled in the white SUV.

Arima police are also investigating the disappearance of an 18-foot shipping container from a job site at St Carlos Road, Manuel Congo.

Reports say an employee left the site around 3 pm on December 20. When he returned on December 22, he found the container missing.

In Malabar, a 37-year-old self-employed man was robbed in front of his wife and daughter at their home around midday on December 22.

Reports say the family’s front door was unlocked, and the two men walked into their home. One of the suspects is reportedly known to the victim.

The men made off with an Inco welding plant, a DeWalt chop saw, an air compressor, a Sony 32-inch smart TV, and $1,300 in cash. The men fled in a silver Mazda 3.

Meanwhile in Valencia, a 22-year-old Sunshine Snacks salesman was lured into an ambush on December 22.

The victim told police he received a call from a “new customer” directing him to Gocool Lands, Valencia Old Road. On arrival, four masked men surrounded the truck, beat the salesman about the head, and robbed him of $600 and his iPhone 13.

The bandits then used bolt cutters to break into the truck’s vault, escaping with approximately $12,000 in cash.

In Sangre Grande, burglars broke into Darryl’s Famous Food at the corner of Foster Road and Brierley Street, gaining access by cutting through the galvanised roof.

The restaurant supervisor discovered the break-in on the morning of December 22. The establishment’s safe, valued at $8,000, was damaged during the burglary. The thieves, however, were only able to steal a BLU cellphone.

New life for Christmas Oye

Nine years after its original release, Christmas Oye, a catchy rapso parang by Jason “Fridge” Seecharan and Wade “Tim Starr” Christian, has gained new life with the recent release of its music video.

Seecharan, a singer, songwriter and former member of the popular 90s R&B group H2O Phlo and Tim Starr, media personality and rapper/singer, formally of Spotrushaz, and DJ and producer Jayron “Rawkus” Remy came together to create something to which Trinis could relate.

Remy told Newsday he had been working on some rapso Christmas riddims with musician, composer and actor Nickolai “Gyazette” Salcedo. Although they abandoned the project, he played it for Tim Starr.

Tim Starr really liked the song and played it for Seecharan as they were working on some Christmas songs.

They wrote the lyrics and Christmas Oye was born.

Media personality and rapper/singer Wade “Tim Starr” Christian. – Photo courtesy Tim Starr.

Remy, who has been producing music for 3Canal, among other artistes, said, “I’ve been doing more behind-the-scenes work. Not trying to be like some super-producers, but we’ve been working on building authentic things that we like. I want to experiment and work on things like that. And I’d never done a Christmas song before this one. And then we did it in our own way.”

He said one of the reasons they did the song was because, even before he started working on a cruise ship, Seecharan got a lot of calls to perform, especially around Christmas.

“People would always be calling Fridge for this Christmas type of gig to do covers. Fridge could sing, so he could sing anything he wanted to, so I felt it was important to have some songs in his arsenal that were original as well.

“I think that also lent itself to why we did that song. Because, even if it didn’t get radio rotation, Fridge was still able to perform in for the people.”

Singer and songwriter Jason “Fridge” Seecharan. Photo courtesy Fridge. –

Tim Starr said that, at that time, he had distributed the song to radio stations but never promoted it. He recalled artiste Shane “Rizon” Gibson loved the song and encouraged him to release it “properly.” So he told Seecharan they had to revisit Christmas Oye, even though they have several other song together.

Seecharan has been performing on cruise ships since 2020 and is not often in the country. He is currently half of the duo, Tru Vibrations The Band, on the Carnival Cruise Ship line.

He admitted his absence has been the reason for the video’s delay and the reason Tim Starr insisted they make the video this year, which they did in October, before he left the country again.

Even though they made the video, he did not expect much from it, but was delighted to be wrong.

“It’s such a short season, and so many people bring out Christmas music that everybody can’t get played. And, of course, the big-name artists will get a lot more rotation than someone less known, no matter how great it is.”

He added that, before Christmas Oye, he did not know Remy was a producer. He described the music as well-produced and different from anything else on the radio, which inspired his lyrics.

“I would have never written a song like that if it weren’t for the music. The way the music was structured was instrumental in me being able to write what I did.”

When Seecharan heard the hook of the song, he wanted to write about things people could relate to, and he had the idea of people in a bar, singing along to the song, in his head. So he wrote:

Christmas is here.

A time to love, a time to share, a time to care,

Love in the air,

Enjoying the lime,

With the sorrel, the fruitcake, the pastelle,

It’s roast pork time,

Bring the homemade wine.

Tim Starr thought about the type of people who go from house to house during the Christmas season just to eat. He pictured himself as one of them and wrote along those lines.

He added that the lyrics to his part of the song were adjusted after he recorded it. He was told it was “too much,” so he took the healthy criticism and got assistance in restructuring the verses.

As a result, one verse goes:

This one a big tune, enormous,

The Fridge, Tim Starr, DJ Rawkus,

I ain’t trying to be rude,

But we just came for the food,

Turkey and ham,

Chicken and lamb,

Ah have two beers in meh hand,

Family and friends is the plan.

That relaxed atmosphere of having a good time with family and friends was reflected in the music video, which Tim Starr shot on his phone.

DJ and producer Jayron “Rawkus” Remy. Photo courtesy Rawkus. –

He recalled several friends were not available until the next week, but Seecharan was leaving the country a few days later and he refused to postpone it another year. So a small crew showed up at Adam Smith Square in Woodbrook and he pulled out his phone.

“We kept making excuses for not getting it done so I took the responsibility. However it played out, I had to make the best of it and have a proper product at the end of it all.

“I came up with the idea to just pull out my phone and shoot this. You can see it’s just me walking around with my phone and I just vibesing with everybody.

“And I figured if people can’t make it, we will just reach out to them to send footage of them vibesing to the song and enjoying themselves in their own little space.”

As a result, there were cameos by artistes, household names, family and friends including music artistes Roland “RemBunction” Yearwood, Lujoe and the Gifted, Marcus Braveboy, Seecharan’s former H2O Phlo bandmates Junior Nelson and Keston Rosales, Marcia Miranda, Edwin “Crazy” Ayoung, Rohan “Fireball” Richards, Rossi “RKG” Gray and radio icon Allan Diaz of Sweet 100.1 FM.

Both the video and the song have been getting positive reviews and, to Remy’s surprise, there has been a resurgence of interest in Christmas Oye.

Remy said when they released the song nine years ago, it did not become a hit so he moved on. This experience made him realise that music is timeless.

“When we released the video now, we get a whole new wave of appreciation. It still sounds fresh. People saying, ‘I never hear this before. Where this come from?’ And even some of my DJ partners saying, ‘Aye, you never sent me this song,’ and I had to tell them I sent it a long time ago.

“The lesson to me is that music don’t expire. It’s just sometimes they have to get at the right time, when people ready to receive it.”

Seecharan added that what the artiste thinks will be a hit is not always the song people will connect with. It’s up to the people to judge.

Tim Starr agreed with Remy, which was why he had been pushing Seecharan to make the video, as well as promote their older songs, for the past two years.

“Some of these things, people need to hear. We have to give these older songs some kind of justice and put it out to the people in the right way. Keeping the music to yourself and overthinking about who will and won’t like it makes no sense.”

He said, especially with social media, a song does not need to be played on the radio. He believed that if it’s on a platform, ten years from now, someone new will discover it, and people can go online to enjoy it at any time.

Couva police spread Christmas cheer

THE SPIRIT of Christmas was alive and infectious when the Couva Police Station Community Council (CPSCC) held its Christmas on the Promenade celebration at the Inshan Ali Promenade, Couva, on December 19.

The event brought together some 300 residents from Couva and neighbouring communities for an evening of festive cheer, musical performances and unity. Approximately 130 children received Christmas gifts as part of the celebration.

Levantamientos Parang Group perform at the Christmas celebration organised by the Couva Police Station Community Council. – Photo courtesy CPSCC

The initiative, which deepens the council’s outreach programme of activities in the central region, is a vision of CPSCC president, Bishop Ezekiel Clarke. It was successfully executed by the council’s event planning committee, headed by vice president Miguel Charles.

The programme featured uplifting messages from police leadership led by CPSCC chairman, Insp Khan, of the Couva Police, cultural and youth performances, parang and steelpan offerings, all reinforcing the council’s theme: one district, one family.

Aliyah Livingstone, student of Couva Anglican Primary School, displays her skill on the tenor pan at the Couva Police Station Community Council’s Christmas on Promenade event on Friday
– Photo courtesy CPSCC

Among the performers who entertained the gathering were Levantamientos Parang Group, Couva Anglican Primary School Steel Orchestra, Dow Village Dance Group, Couva South Primary School, Ella Isaac, Siarah Mohammed, Zaria Sahadeo, Mya Charles, Brandon Khan, DJ Zion Child, Marsha Cavan and Nigel O’Connor.

Host for the evening was Bishop Clarke, aka D’ Gateman, who premiered his catchy community song, Peace and Love.

Bishop Ezekiel Clarke, President of the Couva Police Station Community Council (right) shared a light moment with Insp. Khan, Chairman of the council, at Christmas on the Promenade celebrations –

The CPSCC expressed heartfelt thanks to its sponsors and partners for making the celebration a huge success. Among them are Mr Anonymous, Ezekiel All Nations Chapel, R&R Trading, Couva Glass, Kayvanic Logistics and Transportation Servjces, Truck Tech Ltd., DJ Wax Live, CT Cover, NB Environmental Services, Face Painting by Destiny, Socially Displaced Restoration Centre, the Couva/Tabaquite/Talparo Regional Corporation and the Couva Police Station.

Laventille family’s Christmas hope ends in tragedy

A LAVENTILLE FAMILY’S hope for a Christmas miracle ended in heartbreak after the body of a missing 25-year-old man was discovered floating beneath a bridge in a swampy area near the WASA facility at Beetham Gardens.

The deceased has been identified as Jamal Brandon Jessop, an MTS Security officer of Eastern Quarry, Laventille.

Jessop was reported missing by his mother, Sherry-Ann Jessop, at the Besson Street Police Station around 9.30 pm on December 20. She told police she last saw Jessop around midday the same day. He had lunch at the home they shared and left.

According to his mother, it was the first time Jessop had ever gone missing. She told police Jessop suffered from a mental illness and was receiving ongoing treatment as an outpatient at St Ann’s Hospital.

He was described as a black male of muscular build, approximately six feet tall, bald, with a short goatee and a tattoo of the word “Jessop” on his chest. At the time he was last seen, he was barefoot and wearing green MTS Security long pants.

Sherry-Ann further reported on Sunday, December 21, she received several phone calls from people known to her, claiming her son had been killed. She was told Jessop was killed sometime between 2 am and 6 am after becoming involved in an altercation with a man at Phase One, First Street, Beetham.

According to the information relayed to her, Jessop was allegedly shot during the incident, and his body was later dumped either in a swamp at Sea Lots or near the WASA pump at Clear Water along the Beetham Highway, Laventille.

The grieving mother declined to disclose the source of the information to police, citing concerns for the safety of the individuals involved.

In her desperate search for answers, Sherry-Ann Jessop also contacted Vallence Rambharat of the Hunters Search and Rescue Team, who assisted police with search efforts.

The initial search began around 3 pm on December 21 and continued until midnight but was eventually suspended due to poor lighting, dense vegetation, and the difficult terrain in the area.

Search operations resumed at 8 am on December 22, with support from the Police K9 Unit, Air Support, the Hunters Search and Rescue Team, and officers from several police divisions.

The grim discovery was made later that day when a member of the search and rescue team entered the swamp and recovered Jessop’s body beneath a bridge.

Spent shell casings were reportedly found near the site. Videos circulating on social media showed Jessop’s mother and other relatives at the scene. Several clips captured the distraught woman inconsolable as search teams worked nearby.

Investigations into Jessop’s death are being led by officers of the Anti-Kidnapping and Homicide Bureau.

In another unrelated incident, police are probing a suspected homicide in the Beetham Gardens. Reports say around 12 pm on December 21, officers from the Besson Street Police Station, while on mobile patrol, responded to a report from the Command Centre of a man lying motionless on the roadway.

On arriving at Sixth Street, officers found the body of an African male, about 25 years old, lying face down along a track in a pool of blood. The victim was dressed in a white T-shirt and black three-quarter jeans and wore his hair in a cornrow hairstyle.

He had been shot in the face. Officers were unable to immediately determine his identity. Officers from the Homicide Bureau and Crime Scene Investigators also visited the scene.

During processing, investigators recovered 28 spent shell casings and five live rounds of ammunition. Enquiries are ongoing as police work to identify the victim and determine the circumstances surrounding his death.

Meanwhile, in Morvant, police are investigating a wounding incident that occurred during the early hours of December 21, around 2 am. The victim, a 21-year-old man of Sixth Avenue, Malick, Barataria, was walking along Upper Sixth Avenue, Valley Drive, Malick, Barataria, on his way to visit his girlfriend.

Reports say the man was approached by two men with guns. The men opened fire, shooting the victim in his left leg. Despite his injuries, the wounded man managed to run a short distance before collapsing nearby.

He was later taken by emergency medical services to the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex, where he received treatment. Police visited the victim at the hospital, where he told officers he did not know his attackers.

Crime Scene Investigators processed and photographed the scene, recovering 14 spent nine mm shell casings, one live 7.62 round, and a blood swab.

Beckles: PM behaving like a dictator

OPPOSITION Leader Pennelope Beckles says Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s shifting narrative on TT’s support for the ongoing US military deployment in the Southern Caribbean and the establishment of a US military radar in Tobago, suggest Persad-Bissessar is increasingly behaving like a dictator rather than a leader who will subject herself to proper accountability and scrutiny by the people who elected her to office on April 28.

Beckles, who is also PNM political leader, made this comment in response to Persad-Bissessar’s disclosure for the first time that US Marines have established a support office at the ANR Robinson International Airport next to the G/ATOR radar system which they established there in November.

Developed by American aerospace and defence technology company Northrop Grumman, the G/ATOR is a three-dimensional, medium/long-range multi-role radar designed to detect unmanned aerial systems, cruise missiles, air-breathing targets, rockets, artillery, and mortars.

The company “primarily serves US. defense needs and its allies, solving tough problems in national security.”

Northrop Grumman’s areas of focus include developing military aircraft such as stealth bombers, defence systems (military radars) and autonomous systems (such as unmanned aerial drones).

In response to questions posed on December 21 about support vehicles and tents established around the radar at the airport, Persad-Bissessar said, “The picture is self-explanatory. There is a radar with the support office to operate it.”

In one media report, Persad-Bissessar appeared to become irritated with continuing questions about the radar. “Please stop wasting my time with this nonsense. Feel free to send any questions on sensible issues in the future. Have a wonderful evening.”

In a Facebook post on December 22, Beckles said Persad-Bissessar comments reflect a shifting narrative about the radar which continues to leave the country with more questions than answers.

“Citizens should not have to go on a hunt for information that rightfully belongs to them, especially when the issue touches national security and sovereignty. Leadership requires openness, not dismissiveness.” Beckles observed Persad-Bissessar repeated allegations about alleged drug ties to the PNM and the PNM having an obsession with the radar, in response to questions about the radar.

“When pressed to explain what appears to be a military base, the Prime Minister chose instead to attack the PNM. That response was reckless and irresponsible” Beckles has dismissed Persad-Bissessar’s drug tie claims

She said, “Even more disturbing was her suggestion that genuine questions from the public are a waste of her time and mere nonsense. That attitude reflects contempt for the very people she is meant to serve.”

Beckles added Persad-Bissessar is wrong to claim that anyone is obsessed about the radar and the reasons for its establishment.

“No Trinbagonian is obsessed but rather concerned. We are asking for clarity on a matter of national importance.” Beckles repeated,”What deepens the unease is the constantly shifting narrative. One day the story changes, the next day the tone changes.”

She said, “This inconsistency erodes trust and fuels uncertainty.”

Tobagonians, Beckles continued, should be very concerned about Tobago House of Assembly (THA) Chief Secretary Farley Augustine lack of clarity about the radar.

“It is also deeply troubling that the Chief Secretary, who was promised Tobago autonomy, appears to have been left in the dark on matters that should be shared as a matter of respect and protocol.”

Augustine has publicly said he was never consulted about the radar and should be a member of the National Security Council (NSC) which is now chaired by Persad-Bissessar. Former national security minister Gary Griffith has said only cabinet ministers qualify to be NSC members and even within cabinet, only a select few are allowed to sit on the NSC.

Griffith added the heads of the protective services, such as the police commissioner and TT Defence Force chief of staff, are not NSC members. Beckles repeated her condemnation of Persad-Bissessar’s criticism of anyone questioning the radar and TT’s ongoing support for US actions in the southern Caribbean at a UNC Christmas Supper at the Diplomatic Centre, St Ann’s on December 18.

“I have always maintained, as every prime minister before has done, that TT must respect international law and maintain proper relations with all countries, including the US.” Beckles also repeated her condemnation of Persad-Bissessar’s continuing simultaneous defence of the US and criticism of Caricom for questioning US actions in the region.

She said every prime minister from Dr Eric Williams to Stuart Young “before April 2025 has also accepted the duty of upholding and enhancing the value and importance of Caricom solidarity and contributing to our regional integration movement.”

Beckles, a former TT ambassador to the UN, added, “Our nation cannot consider itself well represented by a prime minister who demonstrates public disdain for international law, for the UN Charter, as well as such flagrant disregard for the concerns and questions of the population.” She said, “We cannot be expected to accept unlawful interference in the affairs of a sovereign nation, particularly when the safety of our country, our people, and our facilities may be placed at risk by the decisions and utterances of the prime minister.”

Beckles reminded Persad-Bissessar she is only prime minister because of the will of the people.

“She is not above questioning. She is not beyond accountability. This country does not belong to any one individual. It belongs to the people of TT and we deserve honesty, transparency and respect.”

TTUTA: Schools must be safe zone

THE TT Unified Teachers Association (TTUTA), the teacher’s union, condemned any sexual misconduct perpetrated by school teachers on their pupils, in a statement to Newsday on December 22.

TTUTA president Crystal Ashe said schools must be safe zones for children.

Under the headline “Probe into touchy teachers,” Newsday on December 18 had reported 16 allegations of sexual abuse levelled against some five teachers in the 2024 Teaching Service Commission (TSC) annual report. In the report one primary school teacher had five allegations of abuse made against him, while another primary teacher was accused of two cases of abuse and another primary teacher accused of one incident of sexual misconduct.

At secondary school, one teacher was accused of one case of sexual misconduct, while another secondary teacher was accused of four matters of sexual misconduct. For multiple offenders the report did not say if it was one victim repeatedly abused or whether one teacher had multiple victims.

None of the five teachers are in court, with the matters simply before the TSC.

TTUTA told Newsday, “With respect to the TSC’s publication of teachers accused of sexual misconduct please note that TTUTA is very concerned about this situation.

“Our schools are and should always be safe zones for all who occupy them including students.”

In the statement, TTUTA said it could not comment on any specific matters as they were being addressed by the TSC at this time.

“We know that there are mechanisms in place with respect to the law and the TSC, with the assistance of the Ministry of Education to address all such occurrences.”

TTUTA advised all TSC members to adhere to the law.

“This would include but is not limited to the efficient and effective reporting of all cases of sexual misconduct.

“Our students are our future leaders and we all should work together to keep them safe.”