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Chase: First-innings batting failures cost Windies Test series loss

WEST Indies Test captain Roston Chase believes repeated first-innings batting failures were the defining factor in his team’s 2-0 Test series loss to New Zealand, which brought an end to a punishing multi-format tour in 2025.

Chase identified the squad’s early batting inconsistencies as their biggest lesson from the tour, and confirmed the maroon had been struggling with this issue for some time now.

Those shortcomings, he said, proved costly as West Indies failed to register a win across three Tests, following heavy defeats in the prior limited-overs formats.

The Caribbean side lost the five-match T20 series 3-1, were swept 3-0 in the ODIs and buckled to 2-0 Test series defeat, which brought an unwanted end to their final overseas assignment of the year.

“Batting your first innings is very key,” Chase said in the post-match interview at Mount Maunganui on December 22. “I think getting that first innings score around 300 or so would really play a greater part in us being able to move the game forward in terms of looking for a result or getting the result that we want.”

In the first Test at Christchurch, West Indies capitulated for 167 in the first innings but found immense form in the second innings to post 457/6, which forced a drawn result, despite them having a chance to go for the win.

That second innings was bolstered by a scintillating, unbeaten double-century (202 not out) from Justin Greaves and a powerful knock of 140 from Shai Hope.

The maroon improved slightly in the opening innings of the second Test at Wellington, going all out for a still below-par score of 205 in the first innings, before crashing to 128 in the second, which handed the Black Caps a comfortable nine-wicket victory.

In the final Test, a mammoth 323-run opening stance from the Kiwis’ Devon Conway (227) and captain Tom Latham (137) in their first innings saw the hosts declare on 575/8.

West Indies had a stern response, but despite going all out for 420, New Zealand scored 306/2 declared in their second innings, giving the visitors a hefty target of 461 for victory. West Indies were soon bundled out for 138, affirming their series loss.

Chase was visibly deflated after the final Test, particularly as New Zealand celebrated a series win on home soil. He said that while spin was expected as the pitch dried, the level of deterioration and uneven bounce came as a surprise. After the first day, the wicket browned quickly, leading to cracks and variable bounce that brought additional challenges for their batsmen.

Asked to sum up the last day, he said, “Disappointed with the result, but we always knew it was going to be tough. We didn’t expect the pitch to deteriorate so much… Some balls obviously misbehaved, but it was always going to be tough. We really wanted to get a win here for the first time since 1995. That was the ultimate goal for the team. We fell short.”

Despite the losses, Chase defended his team’s bowling effort, especially given injury concerns. He felt the bowlers “gave a good effort and they never stopped trying,” even as conditions heavily favoured New Zealand’s attack.

Batting, however, remained the central concern. Chase was pleased to see some progress, pointing to three centuries across the series.

“We were very happy with that,” he said, confirming that centuries had been scarce for the side in recent times.

He also addressed the tactical debate surrounding the drawn Test in Christchurch, revealing that a win had been part of the plan going into the final day. However, once early wickets fell, survival became the priority, Chase added. Chase rejected any regret over the approach in Christchurch.

“No, I don’t regret it, because we sat and we had a plan. Once the team comes up with a plan, that’s what we’re going to stick with.”

On a personal level, the skipper was critical of his own struggles across the three-match series. His highest score across the six innings was 29 and his best bowling figures were 1/9.

“It was a tough series, very below par for my standards. I didn’t really lead from the front with performances. I thought I let myself and the team down.”

Looking ahead, Chase said improvement remains non-negotiable.

“It’s always a work in progress,” he said, stating that both he and the team must address their deficiencies if West Indies are to compete more consistently on future tours.

He praised New Zealand’s standout performers, lauding Jacob Duffy’s effectiveness, as well as the match-defining contributions of Conway and Latham, who “really batted us out of the game.”

Chase also paid tribute to New Zealander Kane Williamson, calling him “an exceptional player” and acknowledging his impact on world cricket amid speculation over his Test future.

Exclusive TSTT bundle for PSA members

TELECOMMUNICATIONS Services of TT (TSTT) has partnered with the Public Services Association (PSA) to launch an exclusive Affinity Plan for the union’s members.

The PSA, the country’s largest union, represents more than 16,000 members across over 100 public service organisations.

In an news release on December 21, TSTT said the bundle brings together bmobile, Amplia and bmobile “to deliver convenience, value and access to PSA members.”

Through this partnership, the release said, members now have access to convenient, set bundles that combine mobile, broadband internet, TV/landline, and home security services at discounted rates. The bundles are designed to support members at different stages of life, including young officers beginning their careers, families managing multiple users at home, home-based workers and small office operators, and retirees seeking affordability and peace of mind.

It added, “Public officers play a central role in keeping the country functioning, and the demands of modern life increasingly require reliable, affordable digital services.”

The launch was held during the PSA’s anniversary week at the TSTT Hospitality Suite at the Queen’s Park Oval, St Clair.

TSTT’s Reyanne Sobers, vice president of business and consumer sales, outlined the structure of the Affinity Bundles.

She said there will be savings available to members, adding that the bundled services simplifies the management of everyday digital and home security needs.

TSTT’s acting CEO Keino Cox said, “We are launching a converged product designed specifically for PSA members – a bundle that brings bmobile, Amplia, and bmobile Secure together in one simplified offer. At its core, this plan delivers CVA: convenience, value and access. As we continue our transformation from Telco to TechCo, our mission is clear: to provide citizens with the digital tools they need to participate fully in today’s world, support those who support our nation, and make technology an enabler of opportunity, not a barrier.”

PSA president Felisha Thomas praised the impact of the initiative on members and their families.

“This initiative is not just about discounts or perks; it is about making life easier for our members. When public officers thrive, families and communities benefit. When we support our members, we are investing in the future of TT,” she said.

Thomas also acknowledged TSTT’s approach to the partnership, noting, “Every collaboration we build is an opportunity to lighten the load our members carry. I thank TSTT’s leadership and team for their openness and commitment to delivering real value to our membership.”

TSTT chairman Kern Dass said the partnership is significant.

“Public officers perform an essential role in safeguarding and advancing the wellbeing of our country. Through this collaboration with the PSA, we are ensuring that those who serve are supported with dependable, accessible digital and home security solutions. This initiative reflects a partnership built on trust, teamwork, and a shared commitment to the future of Trinidad and Tobago.”

“The TSTT/PSA Affinity Plan is now available to eligible PSA members, marking a collaboration focused on delivering practical, people-centred benefits that support the realities of everyday life,” the release said.

 

United Way raises $917k for Jamaica recovery

UNITED WAY Trinidad and Tobago (UWTT) has raised $917,000 to support relief and recovery efforts in Jamaica following the widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.

Hurricane Melissa hit Jamaica on October 28 as a Category 5 storm leaving a trail of destruction and 45 dead.

In a news release on December 19, UWTT said the funds were raised through its “Our Hearts Are With Jamaica” campaign launched in October 2025.

UWTT, along with Southern Sales and Services Ltd, bpTT, Republic Bank Ltd, Atlantic LNG, TSTT and other individuals contributed over $917,000 to support our Jamaican United Way partner (United Way of Jamaica) relief and recovery action plan, it said.

“When disaster strikes anywhere in our region, it affects us all,” said Gail Sooknarine, chief executive officer of UWTT.

“This campaign reflects the power of collective action — bringing together corporate partners, donors, and communities to move beyond emergency relief and invest in recovery that restores dignity, livelihoods, and long-term resilience.”

United Way Jamaica’s aim is to strengthen Jamaica’s agricultural systems, support infrastructural rehabilitation and focus on restoring livelihoods that were affected by the hurricane. Phase One responds to affected families providing food packages, hygiene kits, water, shelter, and temporary support to households. Phase Two focuses on restoring agricultural activity and stabilising local economies. In partnership with the Jamaica Agricultural Society and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Mining, United Way Jamaica is distributing seeds, fertiliser, livestock feed, and greenhouse materials to farming families.

The release said, “UWTT brings significant regional disaster response experience to this effort, having supported Earthquake Relief in Haiti in 2010, Hurricane Maria Relief in 2017, the local Greenvale Floods in 2018, Soufriere Volcano relief in St Vincent 2021, and Hurricane Beryl Relief in 2024.”

These experiences, it said, have reinforced the importance of moving beyond immediate assistance to ensure sustained investment in recovery.

Justice Seepersad warns against speculation amid regional security concerns

High Court Judge Justice Frank Seepersad has cautioned against premature judgments on recent geopolitical developments, noting that state sovereignty carries both authority and responsibility to act in the best interests of citizens, including through difficult decisions and strategic alliances.

He was responding to questions from the media after delivering the Christmas sermon at the Marabella Presbyterian Church on December 21.

Seepersad said sovereignty grants a nation the power to make laws and govern for the welfare of its people, but that mandate often requires balancing national interests with regional stability, economic partnerships and, at times, military or strategic co-operation to ensure continued growth and viable bilateral trade.

Addressing public concern over recent developments in the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, Seepersad noted that much of the commentary surrounding the legality of those actions remains speculative. He said principles of natural justice require that all available evidence be assessed before conclusions are drawn, adding that, at present, the full factual record and the motivations guiding the actions in question are not publicly known.

He said it would therefore be premature to conclude that international law has been breached or that fundamental human rights violations have occurred.

The US has killed just over 100 people in approximately 28 missile strikes on alleged drug-transporting vessels in the Caribbean and Pacific since September 2. It has now shown any evidence that the vessels were transporting narcotics but insist that the intelligence about the vessels is accurate.

Seepersad urged that, even amid debate, attention must remain on the plight of the poor and those who have been oppressed or subjugated. He warned against revisionist history and said recent realities cannot be ignored, including what he described as the largest hemispheric migration from Venezuela, the region’s closest and largest neighbour, within the past decade.

He also referenced statements that have threatened the territorial integrity of Guyana, a fellow Caricom member, saying such developments must be acknowledged rather than dismissed. In that context, he said some regional or international actions may be aimed at levelling the playing field.

Seepersad said large-scale migration was often an indicator of deeper systemic problems, noting that people do not abandon their homes when conditions are stable. He suggested that such movements pointed to the need for reassessment, realignment and readjustment in policy and governance.

Calling for goodwill and prayer that decisions taken by states ultimately benefit people locally, regionally and globally, Seepersad said the goal should be a region defined by peace, harmony and free trade, where citizens can live safely without the persistent threat of crime that has affected the region in recent years.

In his Christmas sermon, Seepersad urged citizens to recommit to faith, selflessness and national unity, calling on Christians to move beyond individualism and actively rebuild a community grounded in Christ’s example.

Speaking on the fourth Sunday of Advent, Seepersad framed his message, Christmas: A Call to Christ and Community, emphasising Christ’s humility, sacrificial love and model of service as a blueprint for personal conduct and public life.

Seepersad said Christmas represents God’s enduring and transformative love, not a seasonal sentiment, reminding congregants that the birth of Christ signalled God’s willingness to dwell among humanity and bridge the separation between God and man. He cited John 3:16, underscoring that Christ’s sacrifice offered redemption, grace and reconciliation.

He urged believers first to answer what he described as the “call to love Christ,” and then to abandon self-centred living in favour of service to others. That shift, he said, is essential to cultivating strong families, resilient communities and a functional nation.

Drawing on his experience as a judge, Seepersad highlighted what he described as widespread familial dysfunction, domestic violence and workplace conflict. He also noted that envy, greed and unresolved grudges have eroded social cohesion. He said these patterns reflect a departure from Christ-like behaviour and a loss of moral grounding.

Seepersad also addressed national responsibility, warning against excessive polarisation and the tendency to place blame solely on political leaders. He said every citizen has a role in building a productive and progressive state and urged greater accountability, particularly within the public service.

While acknowledging recent salary increases for workers, he said employment must be viewed as more than a paycheck, calling for renewed work ethic, integrity and productivity. He criticised dishonest practices and underperformance, arguing that meaningful reform begins with individual conscience and ethical conduct.

Seepersad rejected divisive narratives spread through social media and encouraged independent thought, empathy and respect for diversity. He said Christ remains a unifying force who transcends tribe, class and party, offering what laws and policies alone cannot — transformation of the human heart.

Concluding his sermon, Seepersad called on citizens to become “ambassadors of reconciliation” by forgiving past wrongs, dismantling stereotypes and working collectively toward peace and prosperity. He urged the nation to bow not in fear or division, but in hope, renewal and unity, carrying the message of Christmas beyond the season and into daily life.

Ask for His forgiveness

THE EDITOR: The Old Testament Jews of the Bible often sinned against God and were punished accordingly. They were once sent into exile for multiple and continuous transgressions, and after serving a period of banishment from their homeland they were allowed to return with instructions to rebuild the temple of God.

Those who returned, however, got busy building their own houses and neglected God’s temple which lay in ruins. As a result, God ensured that they would invest much but reap little reward. He said they would earn wages but put it into a bag with holes; they would look for much but that it would come to little.

In the New Testament, God reveals that we are His temple, if the Holy Spirit dwells in us. TT, I believe, is overlooking this truth. Therefore, all our focus remains on building up our own riches or ensuring that the economy of the country prospers by any means necessary.

Unless and until we begin to examine ourselves as individuals and recognise where we’ve gone wrong, which has led us to our present set of circumstances, we will remain in banishment in this wilderness period we are experiencing now. However, God has given us this wonderful facility of repentance, whereby we can acknowledge our sins and ask for His forgiveness.

Unfortunately, we believe we can dig ourselves out of any hole by dint of our own “brightness” and effort, while we ourselves get to remain the same old creatures indulging in our same old wickedness. But God doesn’t really allow that to work for too long.

If we the people of TT do not change and turn away from our preferred wrongdoings, and allow ourselves to grow in righteousness by the Spirit of God into new creatures, then we are spinning top in mud. TT will not prosper.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, which can only truly be realised by and through the edifying grace of God.

JOANNE K JOSEPH

San Fernando

Keep Christmas spirit at parties

THE EDITOR: Over the last decade I have noticed the evolution of office Christmas parties becoming Carnival fetes. If you had awakened moments ago from a prolonged coma to hear the music from a Christmas party in an adjacent building, you would likely believe it’s Carnival time. Such is the prevalence in which the Christmas spirit or theme is seemingly disrespected and being phased out.

But many nationals hold the view that soca and calypso renditions with a Carnival theme should be played and enjoyed at any event, since it is our culture. These patriots have missed the bus with that mindset and should fully understand the significant differences between Carnival and Christmas.

Carnival originated from the blending of European pre-Lenten traditions and African cultural expressions, evolving differently across the world. On the Christian calendar in medieval Europe, Carnival marked the period before Lent – a time to indulge before fasting, hence the celebratory carefree mode maintained to the present day.

Notably, Europeans brought Carnival to the Caribbean and the Americas. After emancipation, TT citizens created elements like calypso, steelpan, and soca, blending with European masquerade. Those elements of Carnival became firmly rooted in TT’s culture.

Christmas, by contrast, celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, whom Christians hold as the Son of God. Interestingly, the Bible does not give a specific date for the birth of Christ. However, by the fourth century AD the church fixed December 25 as the celebration date.

Given the fundamental differences of the two celebrations, songs themed for each should be played in their respective season. So, citing culture as an excuse for flooding a Christmas party with Carnival soca tunes and dancehall music is simply disrespectful and disingenuous.

At Christmas time, it is a joy to hear pannists play Christmas-themed songs – local and foreign. Christmas parties should feature soca parang and soca with Christmas themes. We must remember that soca is the art form and the song is what may be themed to suit a particular occasion or season.

Whether some of us believe that Christ is the Son of God, respect must be given in this season since that religious belief is the reason for the celebrations, parties and gift-giving.

Think of the crowd’s reaction at the Queen’s Park Savannah if Exodus belted out Lennox Gray’s classic Christmas hit, Around My Christmas Tree, at the Panorama competition. Surely, that would not be a copacetic occurrence for most patrons. Would those who now applaud Carnival soca tunes at Christmas parties shout, “Tune boy! Yeah man, Exodus?”

DEXTER RIGSBY

Mt Lambert

Avoiding aches, injuries during the holidays

BAVINA SOOKDEO

With just one day left until Christmas Day, many people are still caught up in last-minute cleaning, decorating, shopping and travelling. Along with the holiday rush, however, often come aches, pains and even injuries. According to physical therapist/ergonomic assessment specialist and certified pregnancy and postpartum corrective exercise specialist, Dr Nicole de Freitas, much of this discomfort can be avoided with greater body awareness and proper movement techniques.

De Freitas, who has been practising physical therapy for 23 years is an owner of Total Rehabilitation Centre Limited on Boundary Road extension, El Socorro. She earned her clinical doctorate in physical therapy in 2002 from the University of St Augustine for Health Sciences in Florida. Motivated by the high number of patients presenting with cumulative trauma or overuse injuries, she pursued specialised training in ergonomics, obtaining certification from The Back School of Atlanta in 2010. Since then, she has conducted ergonomic assessments and presentations for numerous organisations across Trinidad.

According to De Freitas, ergonomics goes far beyond office chairs and desks. “Ergonomics is the study of the relationship between the characteristics of the job and the worker,” she said. “And the ‘job’ is more than what we do for a living. It includes being a parent, managing a household, cooking and even decorating. During the Christmas season, she noted, ergonomics becomes especially important as people juggle increased mental and physical demands. “It’s understanding our strengths and weaknesses” she added, “appreciating when we need to ask for help or being okay with simply pacing ourselves.” The doctor pointed out that most injuries happen at the end of the day which is when we are exhausted and are pushing ourselves too hard.

‘Best posture is your next posture’

From decorating to shopping to entertaining, many people unknowingly overload their bodies in December. “The holidays are a very busy period,” De Freitas said. “We’re decorating, attending events, buying and wrapping gifts, cooking and hosting.” The increase in physical and mental load, she stressed, takes a toll – especially with limited rest, alcohol consumption and sometimes poor nutrition. She warned that without adequate support, the body will eventually “break down.”

When it comes to moving decorations or furniture, De Freitas advises getting help early. “If a box weighs more than 50 pounds or is bulky, get someone to assist,” she said. “Break loads into smaller parts – each should be no more than 20 to 25 pounds.”

As for pulling boxes down from overhead cupboards, she said individuals should ensure they are on a sturdy ladder and again, break the load into smaller parts. “Stand on the step ladder in a staggered stance if possible.”

If decorating below the waist, she suggests using a stool to sit on to avoid bending. “Try to avoid awkward positions for prolonged periods of time” she stated. “Shift or move things around so that you can be closer to whatever you are working on.” This also includes gift wrapping. “For example, place the box you are wrapping close to you on the table or workspace to avoid stretching excessively and alternate between standing and sitting.”

When standing for prolonged periods of time such as during pastelle making or garlic pork bottling, she advises breaking up tasks – “Perhaps you can sit to chop the vegetables or fold the banana leaves” she suggested. De Freitas also recommends wearing shoes with cushioning such as sneakers and not flat slippers that have no arch support. “Avoid standing on one leg (stork standing) as so many of us women like to do” she warned.

She added, “Avoid bending at the waist to place large hams and turkeys into the oven. Try to bend your knees into a mini squat or get assistance to reduce the load. Some hams can be very heavy.”

With many families heading out on long drives or flights, travel-related pain is also common. “The pressure through the spinal discs that are between the vertebrae is higher in sitting than standing,” De Freitas explained. “Car seats and airplane seats don’t always have great back support, and we’re often cramped and exhausted.”

Her advice? “Motion is lotion.” She said, “Our bodies weren’t designed to stay in one position for too long, so moving frequently is the best solution.”

De Freitas encouraged travellers to take breaks, walk and stretch when possible, use towel rolls or pillows for back support, and consider compression stockings if swelling is an issue. “Try to keep the space at your legs clear so you can stretch your legs out and utilise neck pillows to also give added support” she said.

For those who are carrying heavy shopping bags, she recommends taking multiple trips and breaking the loads into smaller ones. “If you’re walk a lot while shopping, perhaps use a trolley to pull/push the load rather than carrying it all,” she suggested.

Dr Nicole de Freitas says during the Christmas season ergonomics becomes especially important as people juggle increased mental and physical demands. –

If someone does strain their back or pull a muscle while decorating or travelling, De Freitas advised changing position immediately and resting briefly. “However, we don’t want total bed rest or immobility for too long so we want to encourage you to slowly start to move within tolerable and safe positions and you can slowly increase the range as the pain settles” she said. She emphasised that if pain persists after a day or two, one should see a physician or physical therapist. De Freitas stressed, “Sharp pain, weakness, or loss of bowel or bladder control requires urgent medical attention.”

She urged people – especially older adults or those with chronic pain – to pace themselves and let pain be their guide. She also reminded the public that Christmas does not have to be perfect to be meaningful. “It’s okay if everything isn’t picture perfect. Ensuring you can enjoy the season with minimal pain and disability is the goal.”

The doctor reminded: “Your best posture is your next posture. Move frequently and maintain good strength and fitness through regular exercise.” She also strongly recommends eating nutritionally dense foods and hydrating well. De Freitas added, “Our bodies are like machines, they require love, attention and maintenance to give us the quality of life that we all deserve.”

 

Jearlean: Cabo Star replacement will arrive on time

WORKS and Infrastructure Minister Jearlean John is assuring the public, especially Tobagonians, that a replacement vessel for the MV Cabo Star will be in place when the current contract expires.

Speaking in a telephone interview on December 22, John said the contract for the Cabo Star ends on January 12, and arrangements are already in place to ensure continuity of service.

“The update (on the Cabo Star) is the contract ends, and I’ve already said the (replacement) vessel will be here, okay?” John said.

Asked whether a specific replacement vessel had been identified or contracted, and from which source, John said no contract had yet been finalised before ending the exchange.

“We have not contracted.”

John said discussions on the matter had been ongoing since June with senior Tobago House of Assembly (THA) officials. She maintained the replacement vessel will arrive on time but declined to provide further details.

“I’m not answering any more questions,” she said.

In a December 16 interview with Newsday, John confirmed both the sale of the vessel and the impending end of the contract. At the time, she said the government had no obligation to renew any lease and that a procurement process was in place.

On the same day, THA Deputy Chief Secretary Dr Faith Brebnor told Newsday while the THA was aware the lease was expiring, it was unaware the vessel had been sold.

She said discussions regarding the expiring lease were held between the THA and central government during the vessel’s dry-docking period between July 12 and August 3.

Brebnor added that since the last meeting between Chief Secretary Farley Augustine and John, it was indicated the procurement process for a replacement vessel had begun.

Brebnor said the continued supply of essential goods and products to Tobago via the inter-island ferry service remains a critical matter for the THA.

She said since the end of the Cabo Star contract was known since the June meeting between the Chief Secretary and the Minister of Works, the THA expects the ministry to be fully prepared for the transition after January 12.

Brebnor added the THA is expecting to receive a plan of action from the ministry by the end of December.

The MV Cabo Star, the roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) cargo and passenger ferry, has provided cargo transport services to TT’s inter-island seabridge since 2017.

US military activity plagues Caribbean flights: Region on edge on land, sky and sea

AMID an escalating stand-off between US and Venezuela since late August, the geopolitical tension continues to reverberate with the threat of military confrontation leaving the Caribbean on edge on land, sky and sea.

On December 16, US warships formed a blockade around Venezuela and GPS jamming has become an element of the conflict, to prevent either side from using GPS-guided technology such as drones and other modern warfare aircraft.

With TT a mere seven miles from Venezuela, civil aviation has been affected and according to reports, flights near TT and Venezuela report GPS signals dropping.

However, speaking to Newsday on December 22, Caribbean Airlines (CAL) chairman Reyna Kowlessar denied that CAL’s flights were being affected by the GPS jamming.

She said, “Before each flight leaves, there is a due diligence check before and there is currently no impact to operations regarding any GPS jamming. There is nothing like that on our end. There is currently no impact to CAL. There has been nothing reported.”

Speaking to Newsday on condition of anonymity, a CAL pilot with almost a decade experience said the GPS jamming is real but it does not affect safety.

Caribbean Airlines (CAL) chairman Reyna Kowlessar. –

However, he said the inability at times to use GPS to fly in a straight line from point to point affects the duration of flights, essentially making the flight time longer and burning more fuel, which is costing the airline.

He said in the absence of GPS, which offers precise global positioning with detailed data, pilots would use the VOR airways to arrive at their destination. VOR is is an aviation term that stands for very high frequency omni-directional range. It is a short-range radio navigation that pilots use for navigation.

He said pilots would then fly using the “conventional navigation,” but this would add more flying time.

“Whereas you may reach New York in five hours, you might take six hours instead. That is how it is affecting flights. There would be delays. It is not affecting safety. We’re taking longer to reach the destination.”

He said if GPS fails mid-flight, you would “pull the QRH (quick reference handbook) and it would tell you if you within accuracy, you continue the flight path.”

On landing without GPS, he said the ILS (instrument landing system) approaches – precision radio-based systems providing pilots with crucial horizontal and vertical guidance for safe landings – would ensure safety is optimised.

The pilot said the more pressing issue is the lack of usage of transponders by some US military aircraft in TT airspace.

Approximately a week ago, a JetBlue Airlines pilot complained to air traffic control in Curacao about US military activity near his flight path.

“We almost had a mid-air collision up here…They don’t have their transponder turned on, it’s outrageous,” the pilot of JetBlue flight 1112 from Curacao to New York said.

The CAL pilot told Newsday it was dangerous for US military aircraft to be operating without transponders turned on.

“They are flying in our airspace. They’re saying they will be responsible for traffic. They’re supposed to be in communication but I’m not sure they are,” he said.

He said sometimes they would briefly turn on the transponder and you would see a target but would not know the altitude of the aircraft.

He said airplanes use the Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) which gives specific guidance mid-flight to avoid traffic. He said the TCAS would give the ideal adjustment to avoid collision if the transponder of the other aircraft is on.

In the absence of that information, it could spell disaster.

“This is the danger with airplanes not having the transponder on.

“The military should work with out air traffic controls – they’re supposed to.”

He noted a January 29 mid-air crash over the Potomac River in Washington DC, involving a US military Black Hawk helicopter and a commercial airline. All 67 people aboard both aircraft were killed. The US government recently accepted liability for the fatal crash.

According to reports, the helicopter had its automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) system turned off.

According to Airservices Australia, ADS-B is an air traffic surveillance technology that enables aircraft to be accurately tracked by air traffic controllers and other pilots without the need for conventional radar.

A source at Air Traffic Control agreed that the GPS issues was not really affecting the flights. However, he said the use of transponders was more crucial.

He said US military aircraft, even if they switch off their transponder, are supposed to give a general location they are operating in, but they are not.

“It’s a whole sh–show right now,” he said.

“If something happens, the controller gonna have to answer questions.”

Asked whether US military aircraft flying without transponders turned on was a cause of concern, Kowlessar said, “Safety, first of all, is paramount to CAL. Our operational team is equipped to manage our routes on a flight-by-fight basis. We will continue to do so.

“As of today, our operations, we see no impact. What we will do is continue to monitor and take the necessary action as we deem fit. Right now there is absolutely no safety issue.”

Lutchmedial: US won’t jeopardise civil aviation

Retired director general of Civil Aviation Ramesh Lutchmedial, in an interview with Newsday, said the US has been leading the way in aviation safety globally and would not do anything to jeopardise that.

“What they have now is ADS-B. What that does, it broadcasts the aircraft GPS co-ordinates, altitude, heading, speed. They can tell exactly where the aircraft is. ADS-B is slowly replacing conventional radar. If the GPS data is jammed you won’t be able to get it.

“The GPS system is owned by the US government. The Russians have a similar system. The Americans, they would not jam GPS system to jeopardise the safety of civil aviation. The Russians may have supplied the Venezuelans with equipment that could jam it.”

He noted that on September 1, 1983, the Soviet Union shot down a commercial aircraft from New York to South Korea. Owing to a navigational error, the airplane flew into Soviet airspace and was treated as a hostile aircraft and hit by missiles, killing 246 passengers and 23 crew members. He said since then, GPS technology was given to civil aviation, all to improve safety.

Lutchmedial said he does not believe civil aviation is currently in danger. He said if the situation escalates, an announcement would be made.

 

Kamla: No fears of economic impact from Caricom fallout

PRIME MINISTER Kamla Persad-Bissessar said she had no fears over any economic impact from Caricom, although not spelling out details, amid a potential brewing rift between her and Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne.

Persad-Bissessar has been accused of side-lining Caricom as “an unreliable partner” and its zone of peace policy in order to side with the US whose fleet is now positioned against narco traffickers allegedly linked to Venezuelan leader Nicholas Maduro.

However on December 21 in a Facebook post, Browne said last year TT had earned US$1.1 billion ($7.7 billion) in Caricom, including benefiting from US$142 million ($968.6 million) paid in Caricom nations in customs revenue to source TT goods under Caricom’s common external tariff (CET) protection.

However the 2024 Review of the Economy in the latest TT budget citing lower figures, saying TT’s balance of trade with Caricom was $4.9 billion over nine months.

This included $5.9 billion in exports to Caricom and $1.03 billion in imports from Caricom, the document said.

Newsday asked the PM if the government might consider withdrawing TT from Caricom.

Persad-Bissessar, via WhatsApp, said, “Withdrawal from Caricom has not been discussed by Cabinet.

“I am not worried about any economic impact.”

Port of Spain North/St Ann’s West MP Stuart Young in a post on X (formerly Twitter) chided the PM.

Young said, “Kamla Persad Bissessar’s continued attack on Caricom and its members is not only reckless and unwarranted it is also dangerous and destructive.

“Someone explain to her how important Caricom is for our manufacturers and our economy. TT is not winning.”

Opposition Senator Dr Amery Browne who is a former foreign affairs minister was very critical of Persad-Bissessar’s position on Caricom.

“When you try to discredit and attack Caricom, you are attacking a 21 member state regional organisation established on the July 4, 1973, comprised of 15 full members and six associate members.

“When in the absence of any evidence you accuse Caricom of being ‘narco-aligned’, you are making a very serious accusation against Guyana, Jamaica, Barbados, the Bahamas, Belize, Suriname, Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Haiti, Dominica, St Lucia, Montserrat, and the Caricom Secretariat plus the six associates.”

In a Facebook post on December 22, Gaston Browne said he loves his Trinidadian brothers and sisters “and no familial dispute can change that.”

He added, “Kamla – season’s greetings.”

One year later, prayer service for missing Pete Phillip

IMMEDIATE relatives of Well Services Ltd employee Pete Phillip, were expected to gather at his George Street, La Romaine home on December 22 for a prayer service to commemorate the first anniversary of the accident, which presumably claimed his life.

Well Services Ltd Rig 110 in the East Soldado Field suffered a partial collapse in the early hours of December 22, 2024. Phillip was one of 75 employees onboard during drilling efforts and was the only one unaccounted after the collapse. Though a search effort and later recovery efforts were mounted, his body – or what’s left of it – is yet to be recovered.

At their lower George Street home, a few minutes away from Pete’s, his mother Patricia and sister, Pauline, were busy preparing meals for the service open only to close relatives.

Devout Pentecostals, Pauline, said despite the absence of a body and a subsequent funeral, his nine siblings unanimously decided to hold the prayer meeting.

“We decide we ain’t get to do the funeral and we have to do the one year, at least we can still put him at rest until we could get the last of the remains of the body…of the bones or whatever.”

Patricia fought to speak through her uncontrollable sobs, which, at times, overwhelmed her. She recalled being at her sister’s in New York when she received the call about the accident and took one of the first flights home, spending Christmas in Point Fortin during the rescue and recovery efforts, praying her son would be returned to her.

The anxiety and pain remain with the family as they await positive news. Though the company said it had a fair idea of where Phillip’s remains are, recovery efforts had to be halted due to safety concerns with the collapsing structure’s stability, which first needed to be addressed. This, it said, required specialised equipment sourced from abroad.

Patricia Phillip, the mother of missing rig worker Pete Phillip, speaks to Newsday at her home on George Street, La Romaine on December 22. – Photo by Ayanna Kinsale

A November 12 release from the company said a US-based company arrived to undertake the first phase, entailing stabilisation work and removing hazardous materials. It said recovering Phillip’s remains will commence once the first phase is completed. It did not give a timeline but said approvals were given by the Environmental Management Agency, the Ministry of Works and Transport, the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries and the Occupational Safety and Health Agency.

Phillip’s family, however, was not satisfied with the length of time the recovery effort was taking, with each passing day only increasing their desire for closure.

“I find they just moving too slow. Too, too, too slow because if it was some minister or some kind of thing…it is somebody’s family. They could have moved better than that. They could have tried,” Pauline said.

Phillip’s mother echoed the sentiment, saying: “If was some big man, some big pappy, they would have do something already.”

They’ve also taken umbrage at the way the company has been communicating with Phillip’s mother and siblings. Pauline said the company has been communicating mainly with his wife, Candacy, as she was the next of kin.

“We just have to wait and whatever message we get from them, that is all we can do. We just have to lay back, which is so sad to know.”

However, she commended the way Well Services Ltd has been looking out for Candacy and their five children, including Phillip’s eldest son, 18, from a previous relationship.

“The biggest boy, he still going to school. He have a programme he doing. They help him with that. They would give him passage. Every week he would get whatever. The wife and thing, they fix the house and they standing with them.”

She added: “That was thankful and grateful for.”

Candacy was not at home during Newsday’s visit to George Street nor did she answer phone calls.

Candacy was pregnant at the time of the accident and gave birth to Javon Pete Phillip in February, carrying the name of a father he would never know.

Unable to get the remains before the first anniversary of the accident, they now hope it could be done before Phillip’s January 17 birthday. Well Services Ltd facilitated the family on a boat near the site of the collapse for Phillip’s birthday earlier this year so they could hold a prayer service for him. Candacy was unable to attend due to her pregnancy.

Patricia said Candacy received some of Phillip’s personal effects a few weeks ago. She believes it was recovered from the rig.

 

Morris: US military radar undermining Tobago tourism

TOBAGO House of Assembly (THA) Minority Leader Kelvon Morris says the presence of the US military radar at the ANR Robinson International Airport at Crown Point is undermining tourism on the island.

He made this statement at the unveiling of the PNM’s Big Bold Red Deal for Tobago at the Magdalena Grand Hotel, Tobago on December 21.

Morris, who is also the PNM Darrel Spring/Whim candidate for the THA election on January 12, told party supporters that tourism was already suffering under the incumbent Tobago People’s Party (TPP)

The TPP was created from a breakaway faction of the Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) which won the December 2021 THA election 14-1. Morris was the lone PNM candidate who won a seat in that election. That seat was the newly created Darrel Spring/Whim district.

He said, “Our tourism is in freefall. It has collapsed.”

Morris added that international tourist arrivals to Tobago have fallen from 1,988 last January to around 828 in May.

He observed a jazz festival on the island in April that the THA would bring in huge numbers of tourists, only resulted in 972 visitors coming

Morris said, “For too long our tourism sector has been underperforming.”

He identified airlift challenges, seasonal tourism and insufficient accommodations as some problems which the TPP has not addressed over the last four years.

Morris said one more thing of recent vintage has made the ability of Tobago to attract tourists even more challenging.

“Now you have the issue of the radar so you can only imagine how much more it is impacting.”

Morris said, “My information is you have three cruise ship calls (to Tobago) that have been cancelled.”

He added, “Tourists who have booked flights, weddings etc, they are cancelling by the day and its only going to get worse.”

Morris said, “Tobago’s tourism industry stands at a crossroads.”

THA Chief Secretary and TPP political leader Farley Augustine has said he was never consulted about the radar before it was installed at the airport in November.

Augustine has said he should be a member of the National Security Council (NSC) which is now chaired by Prime Minister Kamla 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.

No official political coalition exists between the UNC and TPP although the latter’s two MPs sit alongside UNC backbenchers in a section of the House of Representatives which is traditionally reserved only for government MPs.

On November 26, Persad-Bissessar said US Marines’ presence in Tobago had to do with a roadway near the Arthur NR Robinson International Airport. On November 27, she said, “The plan there is the runway and a radar.They will help us to improve our surveillance and intelligence we gather…the narco traffickers in our waters and outside our waters.”

This was the first time Persad-Bissessar publicly revealed the existence of the radar.

The radar, built byAmerican aerospace and defense 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.

At a UNC Christmas Supper at the Diplomatic Centre, St Ann’s on December 18, Persad-Bissessar condemned all local critics of the ongoing US military deployment in the Southern Caribbean and the radar. She said the US is the only nation that can protect TT against any external threat.

Persad-Bissessare also warned that criticism of the US and its actions could result in an estimated 350,000 Trinbagonians with US visas, having them revoked.

Man sentenced to 16 years for cop’s murder in Chaguanas

A PORT OF SPAIN MAN was last week sentenced to 16 years in prison for the murder of an off-duty policeman who was shot in a botched robbery at a bar in May 2024.

Ishmael “Smokey” Clarke, 25, also known as Meshack Marcus, of Nelson Street, was charged with the murder of PC Dale Mayers, fondly called Rug Rat.

Clarke pleaded guilty in the Port of Spain High Court before Justice Mauriceia Joseph.

He was also charged with the possession of a gun and ammunition.

Sgt Bridgemohan of the Homicide Bureau of Investigations, Region Three, laid the charges.

On December 16, the judge passed the sentence for the murder, as well as seven years each for the possession of the gun and ammunition. The sentences are to run concurrently, meaning he would serve 16 years with hard labour to cover the three charges.

The off-duty policeman was shot while liming at a bar along the Montrose Main Road, Chaguanas, on May 13, 2024.

Mayers, 52, was last posted at the Arima Police Station and lived at River Road, Arima.

He was also a drag-race enthusiast.

The state contended that while with other patrons, a gunman entered the premises and announced a hold-up.

Police reports said there was an exchange of gunfire, wounding both Mayers and the gunman.

The gunman fled in an SUV while Mayers was rushed to the Chaguanas Health Facility, where he succumbed to his injuries.

Police later arrested Clarke, who was dropped off at the Port of Spain General Hospital seeking treatment for gunshot wounds.

Emile Elias ordered to pay $5m to brothers

THE High Court ordered that more than $5 million be paid out of court-held trust funds to satisfy decades-old costs owed by Emile Elias to his brothers, Joseph and Robert Elias, stemming from long-running probate litigation over their father’s estate.

Justice Robin Mohammed ruled that the Limitation of Personal Actions Ordinance, not the Limitation of Certain Actions Act, governs the dispute, clearing the way for recovery of both principal and accrued interest on costs orders dating back to proceedings that began in 1985.

The judgment creditors, Joseph Elias and Robert Elias, acting as executors and trustees of the estate of Nagib Elias, sought enforcement of taxed costs arising from court actions in 1985 and 1995. Joseph and Robert contended Emile owed $4.9 million in costs, which, they said, he refused to pay.

In 2012, costs were quantified at a combined principal sum of $1,578,482.27. After a $400,000 part payment in 2016, the outstanding principal stood at $1,178,482.26.

The court found that interest continued to accrue and calculated the interest due at $3,892,677.74 as of December 9, with daily interest of $161.43 thereafter. In total, the ordered payout exceeds $5 million.

The enforcement was tied to Emile Elias’ entitlement to a one-fourth share of a trust created under the will of Linda Elias. That share, US$983,505.50, had been paid into court earlier this year pending the outcome of the proceedings.

Justice Mohammed rejected Emile Elias’ limitation defence, holding that the “right of action” arose from the original probate litigation concluded before 1997, and that time for enforcement began when costs were quantified in 2012. The judge also noted that acknowledgements and part payments restarted any limitation period.

Both sides agreed that appointing a receiver was unnecessary because the funds were already held by the court. The judge ordered the principal and interest to be paid to the judgment creditors from the sums in court, with any remaining balance released to the judgment debtor.

The court also awarded costs to the judgment creditors at a discounted rate of 75 per cent, pointing to missed settlement opportunities and the familial nature of the dispute.

“I accept that opportunities for settlement existed prior to the filing of submissions which were not meaningfully taken up, and that the parties are members of the same family, a factor which renders the continuation of contested proceedings particularly undesirable.”

In his ruling, the judge expressed a hope for “total and final settlement” of the litigation that has spanned four decades between the brothers.

“The parties are brothers who have found themselves embattled in proceedings before the courts since 1985. It is this court’s hope that the outcome of these proceedings will bring total and final settlement to a long history of strife.

Joseph and Robert Elias were represented by Deborah Peake, SC, Ravi Heffes-Doon and Samuel Harrison, while Douglas Mendes, SC, Jason Mootoo, SC and Adrian Byrne represented Emile Elias.

New Zealand crush Windies to seal series 2-0

MOUNT MAUNGANUI, New Zealand : Jacob Duffy took 5-42 as New Zealand bowled out the West Indies for 138 on a deteriorating fifth-day pitch to win the third Test by 323 runs on December 22 and take the three-match series 2-0.

Duffy surpassed Richard Hadlee’s New Zealand record of 80 wickets in a calendar year and finished the series with 23 wickets at an average of 15.4 including three five-wicket hauls. He bowled more than 154 overs as the workhorse of the New Zealand attack in the three tests.

“I saw that list at lunchtime and there were some cool names on there, so to be up there on any sort of list with those sort of names was special,” Duffy, who was voted Player of the Series, said of his bowling record.

ABSENT BOWLERS. RUNS APLENTY

New Zealand’s win ended a series in which both teams had to cope with significantly depleted pace attacks and in which a slew of batting records fell.

The West Indies were without Shamar Joseph and Alzarri Joseph. Duffy became New Zealand’s pace spearhead after injuries sidelined Matt Henry, Will O’Rourke, Ben Sears, Kyle Jamieson, Nathan Smith and Blair Tickner.

The third Test was a feast for statisticians. Devon Conway made 227 and Tom Latham 137 in a 323-run opening stand in New Zealand’s first innings of 575-8 declared. Conway then made 100 and Latham 101 in a partnership of 192 in the second innings before New Zealand declared at 306-2, leaving West Indies a target of 462 to win after being bowled out for 420 in the first innings.

Conway was the tenth Test player and first New Zealander to score a double-century and a century in the same match and he and Latham were the first openers to score centuries in both innings of a Test.

Latham and Conway accumulated 515 runs across two innings, a record total for an opening pair. Latham also followed his father, Rod, by featuring in opening partnerships of more than 100 in both innings of a Test.

“I don’t think it’s sunk in yet. It will take some time for me to get my head around what happened in this test match,” Conway said, “but I’m really glad we got the win.”

New Zealand faced some criticism for the lateness of their declarations in both innings on a pitch at Bay Oval which had been relatively docile for the first three days. Cracks had appeared and plates had begun to form by Day 4 and on the last day, the ball had begun to bounce irregularly.

LAST DAY

Still, Brandon King and John Campbell survived 16 overs and scored 43 before stumps on the fourth day, leaving New Zealand needing to take all 10 wickets on the last day to win. Campbell and King then batted through the first hour on December 22 to frustrate the New Zealand bowlers. King reached his half-century from 63 balls.

But both openers were out within five balls — King for 67 and Campbell for a dogged 16 from 105 balls — and that provoked a slump that saw five wickets fall before lunch. Duffy took three of those, two with deliveries that lifted uncomfortably.

Duffy then dismissed Roston Chase after lunch with a ferocious ball that reared to shoulder height from just short of a length, giving Glenn Phillips his third catch of the day.

Shai Hope batted 78 balls for 3 runs and was out lbw, kicking away a full toss on his off stump to give Ajaz Patel his third wicket of the day. Patel had 85 career wickets coming into this Test, which was his first in New Zealand for five years. His first wicket of the match was his first-ever wicket in a Test in New Zealand.

Kemar Roach (4) batted with a hamstring injury and was bowled by a ball from Phillips which turned and took the inside edge.

Anderson Phillip and Tevin Imlach held out for 14 overs until Phillip (10) fell lbw to Rachin Ravindra. Duffy returned to claim his fifth wicket and end the innings after 80.3 overs when he bowled Jayden Seales.

CLOSE SERIES

The West Indies were competitive for long periods in all three tests. In the first Test, after being set 531 to win, Justin Greaves batted 564 minutes for 202 and the West Indies batted 163.3 overs to reach 457-6 and draw the match. That was the highest fourth-innings score since Tests were limited to five days. Kemar Roach batted almost five hours for 58.

Latham made 145 and Rachin Ravindra 176 in New Zealand’s second innings of 466-8 declared.

The second Test, which New Zealand won by nine wickets, was a contrast in which Mitch Hay’s 61 on debut was the highest score for both teams.

The West Indies made 205 and 128 and New Zealand made 278-9 and 57-1, chasing 55 to win in the fifth innings. Duffy took 5-38 as New Zealand bowled the West Indies in 46.2 overs in their second innings to set up the easy run chase. His first was 5-34 in the first innings of the first Test. AP

SUMMARISED SCORES:

NEW ZEALAND 575-8 dec’d.

WEST INDIES 420 in 128.2 overs (Kavem Hodge 123 not out, Brandon King 63, John Campbell 45, Alick Athanaze 45, Justin Greaves 43, Tevin Imlach 27, Anderson Phillip 17, Jayden Seales 15; Jacob Duffy 4-86, Ajaz Patel 3-113, Michael Rae 2-89).

Caricom: Regional unity key to facing challenges

In the wake of rising geopolitical unrest and the devastating impact of category-five hurricane Melissa, Caricom secretary general Dr Carla Barnett has commended member states for their displays of characteristic resilience in 2025.

In her end-of-year message, Barnett said the challenges faced by member states this year exposed their vulnerabilities and, more than ever, highlighted the value of regional unity.

“Hurricane Melissa left death and destruction in its wake in Jamaica and in Haiti. Recovery will take considerable resources and time. In addition, unprecedented geopolitical headwinds threatened export earnings, regional peace, and sovereignty.

“Amid these and other challenges…we pulled together urgently to help address critical needs in the aftermath of the devastating hurricanes, and pivoted creatively to safeguard businesses and livelihoods.”

She also noted the decision by Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and St Vincent and the Grenadines to allow full and free movement among nationals in the implementation of the Caricom Single Market and Economy, a decision she said paves the way for economic activity and community exchange.

“The framework for a comprehensive Caricom Industrial Policy and Strategy is also well advanced, laying the foundation for stronger and more integrated productive capacity, innovation and economic diversification. In agriculture, the continued implementation of the 25 by 2025+ strategy yielded growth in production, although the hurricane and other climate-related events caused significant setbacks for farmers and agricultural communities.

“The rich talent of our artisans and artistes filled us with pride as we celebrated our diverse and vibrant culture during CARIFESTA XV in Barbados in August. And our tradition of democracy was honoured as seven member states and five associate members held peaceful general elections during the year.”

She said as Caricom seeks to equip the region for the future, it will continue to explore the implications of artificial intelligence business and strive to expand physical and digital connectivity to drive economic progress.

“Building resilience against disasters and continuing our programmes to enhance the food and nutrition security of families will also be paramount.

“I salute the people of the region, whose contributions continue to affirm that our greatest asset is an engaged and empowered citizenry.”

She also extended appreciation to the staff of the Caricom secretariat and other institutions, as well as international partners, civil society organisations, the private sector, labour movement and the regional diaspora for their advocacy and engagement.

“As we prepare to embrace a New Year, I have every confidence that the community will continue to respond with clarity and resolve to our challenges.

“The outcomes on trade, regional security, community and foreign policy co-ordination, reparations, governance, human development issues and climate change from this year’s Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government, including those held in Barbados in February, and in Jamaica in July, are clear indications of the strategic focus and commitment to action.”

She invited all stakeholders to move forward together towards a vision of resilience, prosperity and unity.

Inmate awarded $150k for broken leg, faeces 'bath'

A High Court judge ruled that prison officers used excessive force against an inmate after a dispute at the Golden Grove Prison, awarding damages for injuries that included a fractured tibia and fibula.

Justice Carol Gobin found that although Kurt Christopher Bridgelal initiated an assault by throwing the contents of a slop pail, the response by a prison officer. who retaliated by throwing multiple pails containing urine and faeces, used excessive and unreasonable force.

After entering judgment for Bridgelal, Justice Gobin ordered the State to pay general damages of $115,000 and exemplary damages of $35,000. The court also awarded interest from July 4 to December 18.

In his lawsuit, Bridgelal alleged assault, battery and negligence by prison officers while he was a remand prisoner at Golden Grove Prison in Arouca.

According to the evidence accepted by the court, the incident occurred on July 4, 2015, during a prison search and lockdown. After being denied permission to exit his cell to bathe or use a pail, Bridgelal threw the contents of a pail from his cell, some of which landed on a prison officer. The officer retaliated by throwing three pails of urine and faeces at Bridgelal.

The court further found that when Bridgelal was later escorted from his cell, officers used unreasonable force that escalated beyond what was necessary to maintain order. Bridgelal sustained serious injuries during the encounter, including fractures to his right tibia and fibula, and required hospital treatment and prolonged immobilisation in a cast. A trial was held in July, at which the State was found liable for the prison officers’ actions.

The State denied most of the allegations, contending that any force used was reasonable and that Bridgelal’s injuries resulted from a fall while attempting to break free from officers. Justice Gobin rejected that account, concluding that the officers’ conduct amounted to excessive force in the circumstances.

Bridgelal was represented by Amit Mahabir, Bernadette Arneaud, and Joseph Sookoo.

PM slams ‘zone of peace fakery’ but Opposition Leader says: Kamla must respect Caricom

OPPOSITION LEADER Pennelope Beckles has chided Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar for alleged disrespect shown towards Caricom.

Beckles spoke to reporters at the PNM’s children’s Christmas treat at Balisier House, Port of Spain, on December 21.

In a news release on December 20, Persad-Bissessar said Caricom is an “unreliable partner” and a “dysfunctional and self-destructive” organisation.

She made the statement in response to a statement by the Bureau of the Conference of Heads of Government of Caricom, which called for engagement between the US, after US President Donald Trump imposed policies in place to further restrict and limit the entry of people from Haiti, Dominica and Antigua and Barbuda into the US.

Persad-Bissessar on December 21 responded to questions from Newsday, via WhatsApp, alleging Caricom to be pro-Nicolas Maduro and saying her government wanted no part of his allegedly dictatorial regime in Venezuela.

Beckles said the US has always respected TT having an independent voice included TT’s non-participation in the 1983 US invasion of Grenada (where a rebel faction of the government murdered another faction led by the PM Maurice Bishop who had taken power in a bloodless coup in 1979.)

She was flanked by Opposition Senator Dr Amery Browne, a former minister of foreign affairs.

Distancing TT from a recent Caricom complaint of US restrictions on passport holders from Antigua and Barbuda (which offers citizenship by investment), Persad-Bissessar had said each sovereign state was responsible for its foreign and domestic policy. Saying TT was not bound to the political ideologies or foreign, economic and security policies of any other Caricom member, she said, “Member governments are free to make decisions in the best interests of their citizens. Caricom is not a reliable partner at this time.”

Newsday has sought Beckles’ views after the PM’s comments were hotly chided by former PM Dr Keith Rowley and questioned by Antigua and Barbuda PM Gaston Browne but stoutly defended by Minister of Public Utilities Barry Padarath.

Beckles said, “Clearly from the statements of the honourable prime minister, which I deem reckless, we are very concerned. At the end of the day, Caricom has always supported us.”

She said the PM’s recent remarks echoed her remarks in first administration that TT was not an ATM machine for the Caribbean.

Beckles said, “You have to link both. I would hate to think the honourable prime minister does not recognise that TT does not want to be isolated.

“At the end of the day it is not just about narco trafficking. It is about everything – tourism, natural disasters, every single thing you think about.

“It is about music, it is about culture, it is about calypso, it is about pan, it is about chutney, it is every single thing.

“When we think about Caricom we understand the importance of us being stronger as a region.”

Beckles reflected on the experience of herself and Browne as diplomats. “We know that when Caricom speaks we have always been associated with punching above our weight.

“Yes, we are a small country but the sovereignty issue is very important. TT, Guyana, Antigua and Jamaica, at the end of the day at the UN, we all have a vote.”

She invited observations from Browne, who fully endorsed her “very wise words.”

He alleged that Persad-Bissessar has a long history of not showing support to Caricom.

Browne said, “This is the first time this country has had a PM who is overtly against the Caribbean Community.” He alleged the PM had long laid that foundation since the August general election.

“She refused to attend the heads of government meeting.

“She has been attacking the zone of peace consistently and is now referring to Caricom as an unreliable partner and talking about Caricom imploding. The only thing imploding is the PM of TT.”

Browne said exchanges now occurring in the public domain were unprecedented.

“Every PM we have ever had, including Basdeo Panday, have been regionalists.

“When the PM (Persad-Bissessar) speaks in the manner she has chosen to speak in, she is not speaking for our society and the right-thinking people of this country.

“We understand Caricom, we appreciate its value and we were founding members.”

Browne alleged the PM was now attacking Caricom including its bureau which he earlier told Newsday consisted on current, former and incoming chairmen of Caricom.

He chided, “It is a shame and a disgrace and the countries of this region deserve better.”

Beckles interjected, “I want to assure the people of TT that the opposition is very responsible.

“Any impression that is being given that we (opposition) have some particular issue with the US, that position is absolutely false.” She said TT is a democracy, just as the US is a democracy.

“From time to time you would have different views.

“But I want to tell the PM of TT to be very careful telling the people of TT to ‘behave yourselves’. When you start going down that road, clearly that is dictatorship.”

She said TT nationals have the right to have a different view and have always had that right, and the fact the government now held office did not mean they should tell people to behave themselves.

“And that is totally out of order for her to be doing that because it means she does not recognise what democracy means.

“The people of TT, particularly those who voted, are not little children. And they are paying very close attention to what is taking place.”

She said people were watching TT, Caricom, Venezuela and the US. Citizens have the right to ask questions and the PM has a duty of accountability, Beckles said.

“You don’t have the right to tell us to behave ourselves.”

Newsday asked if the government may realise where its bread is buttered and so has the right to prioritise newer and bigger friends (US) over older, smaller friends (Caricom).

Beckles replied, “At the end of the day if you look at it, yes the US is first and foremost our largest trading partner and Caricom is second.”

However she said as small as TT is, it has a vote at the UN like any other country.

“We are very clear the US understands that. They have an embassy here and they have always valued TT highly, as TT has always valued the US.

“If even you go back to Grenada, TT took a particular position. When Grenada was invaded we took a particular position.

“That was not used against us.

“We said we understand the importance of a zone of peace.” TT may vote differently to the US at times at the UN, she related.

“But that does not mean we don’t understand and don’t value the role of the US as it relates to TT.

“Every Trinidadian and Tobagonian has some family in the US.” She said the reason the US Joint Chiefs of Staff visited TT was to have discussion, because they valued TT’s opinion.

“When the honourable PM went to the UN and made her statement and spoke with (US Secretary of State) Marco Rubio, it is because it is all a question of listening to what we have to say.

“We understand the importance of bilateral arrangements and sovereignty.”

Asked about media reports of a possible US military presence in TT, Beckles said she first would seek information before making any comment.

Persad-Bissessar, in reply to questions by Newsday, stoutly vowed to distance her government from that of Maduro.

“Caricom has aligned itself with the Maduro narco government headed by a dictator who has imprisoned or killed thousands of Venezuelans who oppose him.

“TT wants no part of that alignment, we don’t support dictatorship and drug trafficking and we don’t support Caricom is their zone of peace fakery.”

Persad-Bissessar said Gaston Browne and his ambassador to the US Ronald Sanders should worry less about her comments but spend more time explaining to their citizens why their visas were restricted.

“Venezuela has been threatening to invade Guyana for years and since last June they began making similar threats that TT is a part of Venezuela.

“Yet Caricom has chosen to support the Maduro narco government through the fake zone of peace narrative which is clearly designed to get the American military to leave the Caribbean region and therefore enable Maduro to remain as dictator in Venezuela.

“My priority is the best interests of the citizens of TT.”

Beyond the festivities

DONNA PROWELL-RAPHAEL

THE HOLIDAY season carries deep and profound meaning for the diverse and vibrant community served by the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. At its heart lies the story of the Nativity, the birth of Christ, upon which the Christian faith and the celebration of Christmas have been founded for centuries. This story, rich with theological significance, continues to inspire and shape the festivities, customs, and reflections that define this special time of year.

The Christmas story tells of the humble birth of Jesus, biblically prophesied as the Saviour and Messiah, in a simple stable in Bethlehem. This moment, heralded in the Bible as the birth of “Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11), was marked by angels appearing to nearby shepherds to proclaim the arrival of the Saviour and men from distant parts guided by a bright star arriving at the stable bearing gifts honouring the “newborn King.”

While grounded in Christian doctrine, the Christmas story resonates widely, speaking to universal themes of transformation, the triumph of light over darkness, and the enduring promise of peace and goodwill that other sacred and festive celebrations share.

Yet, within the lived realities of the Caribbean diaspora, Christmas is both a joyous celebration and a reminder of persistent social systems that perpetuate economic and social disparities. These inequalities, shaped by historical displacement and layered inequities, starkly contrast with the core messages of Christmas and continue to affect countless lives.

For those living amidst these struggles, the joy and goodwill of the holiday season can feel distant and disconnected from their daily life experiences. Nevertheless, the enduring popularity of Christmas throughout the Caribbean reflects a deep spiritual connection to its core teachings of hope, goodwill, and redemption.

For those affected, embracing the Christmas spirit requires more than just seasonal celebration. There is the need for a thoughtful reassessment of the values the season represents and a shared commitment to living those values every day.

The Equal Opportunity Tribunal occupies a crucial and meaningful role at these crossroads, cognisant of the paradox of joy and struggle between celebration and the ongoing challenges many face. Through the determination of discrimination complaints, the tribunal addresses legal issues that affect equal opportunity, striving to create a more level playing field for all. In doing so, the mandate of the tribunal reinforces the spirit of transformation, triumph, and hope that the Christmas story and similar sacred celebrations inspire.

While the tribunal functions within the legal framework to address these challenges, the broader spirit of the season calls on society as a whole to take collective responsibility. Building on this foundation, the season invites a deeper reflection on how the spirit of Christmas can be more fully realised through collective action.

Beyond tradition, the holiday season challenges society to confront the social realities that test the very values Christmas embodies. Through this engagement, Christmas can be more than just a seasonal festivity, it can become an opportunity to acknowledge past injustices, advance meaningful understanding, and work toward a future grounded in shared values that bridge diverse faiths and communities.

In the spirit of the season, the leadership of the Equal Opportunity Tribunal extends its gratitude to all team members and stakeholders for their support throughout this year. May the new year bring renewed strength, vigour and the resilience needed to transform challenges into opportunities and hope into reality.

Amid the ongoing celebrations, whether through faith, family gatherings, indigenous holiday music and food, “liming or partying,” or other holiday hospitality, lavish or humble, may the true spirit that underpins this season not be forgotten.

As the merriment goes on, and many revel in the melodic rhythms of the season that invite everyone to set their cares aside and free their spirits (no pun intended), it may be irresistible to join in the soca parang chorus that proudly proclaims:

Merry Christmas, happy holidays!

Donna Prowell-Raphael is the chairman of the Equal Opportunity Tribunal

A case of too little, too late

THE EDITOR: The refrain “too little, too late” seems very apt for the debacle in which Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and her administration have found themselves.

Recent utterances that the government is not involved in the blockade of sanctioned oil tankers entering Venezuela ring hollow. The facts will show that the Persad-Bissessar-led government has pursued a series of actions since September that have contributed to the escalation of US military action against Venezuela.

Moreover, the government, through its active support and facilitation of US attacks on vessels in the Caribbean and the Pacific, is complicit in the extrajudicial killings of nearly 100 people. These killings have been condemned by the international community, and our government officials may well find themselves before the International Criminal Court to answer for these crimes.

In addition, our domestic and foreign policy appear to be dictated by the US despite statements by the Prime Minister that her government is pursuing a TT-first policy. By giving approval for the US to use our airspace and the country to facilitate its logistical operations, the government has broken decades of tradition of TT being a non-aligned country in global conflicts.

The government has effectively ceded sovereignty to the US, making TT a US base again. Further, allowing the US to set up a radar system in Tobago with the ability to track and attack incoming missiles has transformed our country from being a neutral state into an active facilitator, if not participant, in the aggression against Venezuela. This has made TT a legitimate target in a US war against Venezuela.

Therefore, Persad-Bissessar’s assertion that the US has “asked for no assistance about blockading in Venezuela” is facetious, duplicitous and gives no comfort to the citizens of TT. It is too little, too late. The facts speak for themselves. Our sovereignty has been bartered and sold. We are already in crisis as the safety of every citizen in TT and the economic foundation of the country have been compromised. Not only are we facing a return to colonialism, but we may well be pulled into a war.

Every citizen needs to take a stand against these developments and demand that the government takes action to restore TT as an independent nation and the Caribbean as a zone of peace.

CECILA MELVILLE

via e-mail