TT inflation reaches 5.7 per cent in November

The Central Bank of Trinidad & Tobago announced on Friday that headline inflation inflation rose to 5.7 per cent in November and that it will maintain the overnight Repo rate at 3.00 per cent.

The rate was 3.7 per cent in the previous month. 

In an official statement the bank said on a monthly basis, the general price level rose by 1.2 per cent in November following a decline of 0.1 per cent in October.

"The increase in the headline inflation rate was mainly attributable to higher food prices," the bank said.

It added, "For the first time in six months year-on-year food inflation reached double digits -12.3 per cent in November." 

It attributed the rise to flooding of some agricultural areas in late October and early November, which it said resulted in a shortage of fresh fruits and vegetables. 

The bank noted that core inflation, which excludes the impact of food prices, was relatively well contained for most of 2011.

PM Kamla verbatim at "silk" ceremony in Port of Spain

To be awarded “silk” and be called to the Inner Bar is regarded by many as the crowning achievement of any lawyer. 

Hitherto the preserve of practising advocates, there is now a burgeoning recognition that many lawyers who may not practice their profession in the theatre of the courtroom distinguish themselves in other equally important areas of the law and are deserving of recognition. 

I am happy to see that in our jurisdiction this notion has taken root. That Law in whatever way you practise is worthy of recognition.

Whilst we may bask in the glory of our own individual successes, the recognition now bestowed upon us carries with it the continued and perhaps heightened responsibility to the rule of law and the administration of justice.

The ugly hydra of injustice, mutates with alarming persistence and rears its head far too often and impedes our march to an orderly and civilised society. Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere! 

As leaders now at the Bar we must be ever vigilant and mindful of the challenges ahead - and as charity begins at home - we must mentor, encourage and guide the younger members of our still very noble profession. 

Perhaps as we accept this singular honour today it is opportune for us to renew our dedication and commitment to the rule of law and the administration of justice

Thank you and may god bless you all and may god bless our nation.

Photo story: Formal portrait of the new "silks"

President Max Richards with the new group of Senior Counsels (silks), including PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar and AG Anand Ramlogan

Attorney General Anand Ramlogan told reporters Friday there is nothing unusual about the Prime Minister or the Attorney General being appointed Senior Counsel.

Ramlogan pointed out that previous Attorney Generals including his immedidate predecessor, John Jeremie, were appointed Senior Counsel while in office. He also said it is not the first time a Prime Minister has been appointed Senior Counsel while in office.

"In fact, former Prime Minister ANR Robinson was also appointed Senior Counsel was appointed Senior Counsel while Prime Minister and I believe former Chief Justice Clinton Bernard. So there is precedence for it," he said.

Persad-Bissessar stated that when she served as Attorney General in the 1990's, she ensured the Heads of the Departments in the Attorney General's Ministry were appointed Senior Counsel.

"I did that again this year to give these chief holders. It is important because they will be practicing. They are the leaders of the Government's legal luminaries," she said.

Both the Prime Minister and the Attorney General said they are "humbled and honoured" to be called to the inner bar.

MATT condemns police raid on TV6

Crime Watch host Ian Alleyne mobbed by fans outside TV6 Thursday

The Media Association of Trinidad and Tobago (MATT) on Friday condemned Thursday's police raid on the newsroom of CCN TV6 on Thursday.

Police went to the offices of CCN TV6 Thursday and took away several video recordings and documents relating to an alleged rape of a 13-year-old Morvant schoolgirl that was shown on the station’s Crime Watch programme in October.

Media reports say police stated that they questioned several members of staff including senior newsroom personnel about the broadcast. The tape shows what appears to be two young men assaulting a 13-year-old girl.

In a statement, MATT said the police action can be construed as an attempt to intimidate and harass a media house "which, it seemed, had been co-operating fully with their investigation."

It added, "We are satisfied that, in this instance, the tape of the Crime Watch programme which aired on TV6 would have been handed over to the police if they had simply asked for it. The association believes that sending over two dozen officers to search the station and "lock down" the media house was overkill."

MATT also suggested that the authorisation of search warrants for media premises could be an infringement on the freedom of the press.

"Such incursions into media houses may be used as a pretext for unearthing information about sources or other material that journalists are likely to have in their possession," MATT said.

"Police searches of media premises therefore have the potential to erode public trust in the media, undermine the protection of sources and vaporise the confidentiality which governs their work."

The Police service stated Friday officers followed the proper rules and protocols in executing a search warrant at CCN TV6.

Sergeant Wayne Mystar, Public Information Officer of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) the officers conducted themselves in a professional, courteous and respectful manner in discharging their duties.

"The activity and behaviour which took place outside of the office of CCN and aired on the news media was a far cry from what took place inside the building," he explained.

"During the execution of the warrant, officers held discussions with officials from CCN and there was compliance and cooperation. At no time did the TTPS contact the media as was reported in the press," he added.

Mystar said when the officers left the building after about an hour, they were surprised at the crowd outside.

"The media also reported that more than 25 officers descended upon the office of CCN. On the contrary, 18 officers were detailed to be part of that exercise. They were drawn from specialist areas within the Police Service to facilitate the proper execution of the warrant."

Portia is back; Opposition PNP landslide in general election in Jamaica

Jamaica's Opposition leader Portia Simpson Miller led her People's National Party (PNP) to a landslide victory Thursday to reclaim leadership of the country in a dramatic political comeback.

Election Director Orrette Fisher told international media that based on preliminary results "it appears safe to say" that Simpson Miller's party will return to power.

The unofficial count showed that the PNP won 42 of the seats with the other 21 going to the JLP in the election that all pollsters had said would be too close to call.

In her victory speech on national television, Simpson Miller, 66, told Jamaicans, "We have plenty of work ahead of us."

She added, “I am humbled as I stand before you and I wish to thank the Jamaican people for their love, for their support and for giving the People's National Party and the leader of the party her own mandate.”

She also thankled Holness. “I want to thank the prime minister who called earlier to congratulate me, and he was very gracious,” Simpson Miller, who was first elected to parliament in 1976 and served as prime minister from 2006-07.

She pledged that there will be "growth and development with job creation," adding that there is a possibility of new austerity measures to deal with the huge debt burden, which includes a $1.27 billion bailout agreement with the International Monetary Fund.

"We will hide nothing from you," Simpson Miller promised. "When it is tough and rough we'll let you know. But I can also ensure you, as we move to balance the books, we will be moving to balance people's lives as well."

Ousted Prime Minister Andrew Holness called the defeat "humbling". In his concession speech he said, “It is a time of reflection and introspection for the Jamaica Labour Party. We see it as an opportunity to rebuild and, starting tomorrow, we will be rebuilding.”

He added, “It is apparent that the people of Jamaica still have concerns about the JLP and we will reflect on that.” He also wished the new government well.

"They will face several challenges, but I hope for the benefit of the country they will do a good job.” Karl Samuda, the JLP campaign director, said: "We have done what we could on behalf of the people of Jamaica...There will be another day."

It was a stunning defeat for Holness, 39, the youngest person to lead the country. In 2007, the JLP under his predecessor, Bruce Golding, won the general election with 32 of 60 seats in the House of Representatives; the PNP took the remaining 28.

Holness, the former education minister, took office in October after Golding resigned amidst scandals and lack of public support.

Golding's public image was tarnished after he had a very public and futile battle over a request from the United States to extradite drug kingpin and gang boss, Christopher "Dudus" Coke, who was a known supporter of Golding's party.

The scandal hurt both Golding and the party and Holness was unable to salvage the trust of Jamaicans who felt more comfortable with a more experienced leader in Simpson Miller, who is fondly known as Sister P. The loss on Thursday was historic since it was the first one-term government in Jamaica since independence.

Simpson Miller was first elected to Jamaica's parliament in 1976 and became the island's first female Prime Minister when she took office from 2006 with the resignation of her predecessor, PJ Patterson.

She joins a short list of Caribbean women who have become leaders of their country including Eugenia Charles of Dominica, Guyana's Janet Jagan and Kamla Persad-Bissessar in Trinidad & Tobago whose People's Partnership coalition won a landslide victory in May 2010.

On Friday, Persad-Bissessar extended congratulations to Simpson Miller. "It is good to have another woman at the Caricom table," Persad-Bissessar said.

Opposition leader Keith Rowley also congratulated the new Jamaican leader, saying he looks forward to the good work of the PNP in Jamaica.

Jack, Prakash congratulate Portia on landslide election victory in Jamaica

The chairman of the United National COngress extended congratulations Friday to the newly-elected Prime Minister of Jamaica, Portia Simpson Miller.

In his letter, Jack Warner said:

“I wish to extend congratulations to you and the People’s National Party (PNP) on yesterday’s landslide victory at the national elections and your second election to the office of Prime Minister...

“The overwhelming majority with which you were elected signals the tremendous confidence that the people of Jamaica have reposed in you and your party. 

"What is even more significant is that this confidence comes at a time when many challenges lie ahead, both in domestic and international affairs,” he said. 

Warner also praised the jamaican people for a non-violent campaign.

“The conduct of the Jamaican people during the campaign and during the poll demonstrates your nation’s commitment to the tenets of democracy and reflects the Caribbean’s proud heritage of installing governments that are elected by the people and for the people by peaceful means. 

“It is in this regard that I extend hearty congratulations on behalf of the United National Congress and wish you a most successful term of office,” he said.

Political leader of the Congress of the People (COP) Prakash Ramadhar also congratulated the PNP leader, comparing her victory to that of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar.

“Like Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar, Mrs Simpson-Miller is viewed as a positive agent of change and she now has the responsibility of leading her nation on the road to further progress and development,” he said in a statement.

“Jamaica has indeed turned a new page and the Congress of the People extends best wishes to all the elected Members of Parliament and offers its support to the new administration headed by Prime-Minister elect Mrs Portia Simpson-Miller. We congratulate, as well, the people of Jamaica who exercised their franchise in an orderly expression of democracy.” 

PM Kamla, AG Ramlogan elevated to Senior Counsel (Silk)

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Attorney General Anand Ramlogan are among 14 lawyers who will receive the title of Senior Counsel, the highest level of the local bar.

Persad-Bissessar has written to President Max Richards informing him of the decision to confer the title to the persons on the list.

The list includes:

1. Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Roger Gaspard
2. Former Speaker of the House of Representatives Barry Sinanan
3. Chief Justice Ivor Archie
4. Justice of Appeal Wendell Kangaloo 
5. Surendranath Capildeo
6. Sophia Chote
7. Stephanie Daly
8. Vernon De Lima
9. Christo Gift
10. Dennis Gurley
11. Norma Maynard-Marshall
12. Solicitor General Eleanor J Donaldson-Honeywell
13. Chief Parliamentary Counsel Ian MacIntyre
14. Chairman of the Law Reform Commission Samraj Harripaul

The President will issue the letters of appointment as senior counsels at 11 am Friday.

The list is traditionally prepared by the Attorney General and minister in charge of legal affairs. The Prime Minister gives the final approval, usually in consultation with the Chief Justice and legal bodies such as the Law Association and the Criminal Bar Association.

The requirements for elevation to silk includes:

• professional eminence and distinction which establishes them as leaders of the profession
• sound intellectual ability and a thorough, comprehensive and up-to-date knowledge of law and practice in the fields in which they practice
• outstanding ability as an advocate in the higher courts
• the highest professional standing, having gained the respect of the Bench and the profession in observing the advocate’s duty to the court and to the administration of justice while presenting their client’s case and being formidable, fair and honourable as an opponent
• total professional integrity
• maturity of judgment and balance
• a high quality practice with at least ten years experience and one based on demanding cases which allow the full measure of the above qualities to be demonstrated

Persad-Bissessar is the first attorney to get the title while serving as prime minister since ANR Robinson. Robinson became Prime Minister in 1986.

Ramlogan is not the first AG to give himself silk status. Others who did include: John Jeremie, Ramesh Lawrence Maharaj, Keith Sobion and Selwyn Richardson.

Ramlogan has appeared in more than 40 Privy Council cases, 19 Court of Appeal matters, and 45 High Court cases. He has also appeared before the Caribbean Court of Justice.

Cabinet approves members of Ryan committee on gang-related violence

The Trinidad & Tobago cabinet on Thursday released the names of the members of a special committee, headed by Professor Selwyn Ryan, to look at the causes of gang-related violence in certain communities in the country have been released. 

Attorney General Anand Ramlogan told reporters the members are:

• Dr Indira Rampersad- Vice Chairman 
• Professor Tricia Mohammed
• Dr Lennox Bernard 
• Dr Majorie Thorpe

The committee’s terms of reference includes the identification of certain at risk groups with respect to age, gender, social class, ethnicity, occupation and geography. 

“Due attention are (is) to be given to the young black and Indian males in both urban and rural communities,” Ramlogan said. 

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar had promised during the state of emergency that she would appoint the committee with Ryan as its chairman.

AG Ramlogan disappointed with spike in crime

Attorney General Anand Ramlogan said Thursday he is disappointed with the level of crime in the post-emergency period and suggested that measures by Police Commissioner Dwayne Gibbs have failed.

Ramlogan made the comment in response to questions from reporters with respect to strategies in the aftermath of the state of emergency, which ended on December 5.

"The Commissioner of Police will be the best person to explain what measures were introduced post State of Emergency to prevent this from happening and why those measures have failed and what he intends to do about it," the AG said.

Ramlogan said it was "unusual" that a spike in crime came immediately after the emergency ended. "There should have been some plans to deal with it, anticipate it and that is why perhaps it's a little troubling at this time," said Ramlogan.

He added, "The Government is very concerned...I for one am very anxious to hear from the Commissioner of Police who had the benefit of a year to settle into the job and who we hoped to have brought fresh ideas and new perspective to be able to help us to solve the crime problem," he said.

"The concept of 21st century policing has been bandied about and I am naturally disappointed in the spike of the murder rate post the State of Emergency. We intend to ask certainly for the plans that would lead to the suppression of this spike from the Commissioner of Police," he added.

Ramlogan refused to comment directly on the performance of Gibbs. He said, "It would be improper for me to make any such comment given the fact that the Government is not the constitutional body that is responsible for evaluating the performance of the Commissioner of Police, that is in fact the job of the Police Service Commission to whom that question ought to be posed."

Dookeran says T&T economy stable; hints at better deal for public sector workers in new agreement

Finance Minister Winston Dookeran on Thursday presented an upbeat picture for the national economy in 2012.

Speaking at the post cabinet news conference, Dookeran said is confident about the new year because it has put the economy on the right track despite having to sometimes navigate a tricky path. 

 “We are fortunate that after 18 months in office and having inherited a situation in which it appeared as if the financial situation was about to fall, that we have been able to correct the problem,” he told reporters.

The minister said the Government has had to take creative policy decisions on matters that would have disrupted the economy, such as the CLICO matter. 

He said negotiations will begin soon with public sector unions for the period 2011-2014 and suggested that unions may be in line for more than a five per cent wage offer. 

"We are viewing 2012 with a new sense of confidence that we have put the economy on the right track,” he said, noting that such a view is reinforced by the recent Standard & Poor’s assessment of T&T’s A/A-1 credit rating.

He said the Standard & Poor’s report made three salient points:

• Economic recovery, small as it is, has begun in T&T
• The financial side of the economy is stable
• The Government has navigated the major hurdles, particularly the CLICO fiasco
• Dookeran predicted that there will be economic stability in 2012 as beyond. 

Noting that investment in the private and public sectors is necessary for  economic growth for 2012, the minister disclosed that Government will embark on a programme to encourage investment in the new year. 

He said cabinet approved a proposal for a private/public sector protocol for investment in infrastructure, which involves bringing the private sector into the realm of financing infrastructure. 

In addition he said the World bank's financial arms, the International Financial Corporation, will send a team in January to work out the private/public sector protocol.

Dookeran also revealed that Cabinet has authorised the acceptance of grants funding from the Inter-American Development Bank of US$500,000 to finance the consultancy for the framework for the public offerings programme beginning in 2012.

Jack says he refused "inducements" to support Blatter for FIFA president

Jack Warner said Thursday he refused to endorse Sepp Blatter for the presidency of FIFA in the 2011 campaign. 

The Works and Infrastructure Minister, who is a former FIFA Vice President made the disclosure in a formal statement. 

“Notwithstanding the inducements offered, I, in my capacity as President of Concacaf and the CFU (Caribbean Football Union), refused to endorse Sepp Blatter for the 2011 FIFA presidential election.”

Warner point out that his decision not to support Blatter had negative consequences, some of which he outlined:

• FIFA’s arbitrary withdrawal of TV Rights for the 2014 World Cup
• The revocation of the FIFA World Cup Rights for 2018 and 2022
• Closure of the Caribbean FIFA Development Office situated in Trinidad and Tobago
• The dismissal of the Trinidadian FIFA Referee Development Officers
• Warner stated that a Mexican company known as OTI sold him the FIFA World Cup rights in 1998

He also said “president Blatter sold me, not the CFU, the World Cup TV rights for 2002 and 2006, no doubt in appreciation for the work I did (with bin Hammam) for his re-election (in 2002).”

Warner he again bought the World Cup TV Rights for 2010 and 2014 "using CFU as the vehicle.” He added that he then sold the rights "and the proceeds were once again primarily used to fund football activities in the Caribbean.” 

Warner said in 2011 “in exchange for my support (and the support of the CFU and Concacaf) in the FIFA presidential election, the FIFA again offered me the sale of the World Cup Rights for 2018 and 2022 as a ‘gift’ at a nominal fee.”

Warner said FIFA “also agreed to pay for the re-grassing of the Marvin Lee Stadium...and as well to grant two US$500,000 Goal Projects as a gift to the CONCACAF to do with as we wished.”

The Chaguanas West MP said next week he would explain:

• Why he could not support Sepp Blatter’s re-election
• The FIFA-appointed Normalisation Committee for the conduct of Caribbean football at the illegal and unconstitutional meeting of CFU Presidents
• Why Caribbean football will never be for sale

Trini Davan Maharaj appointed Editor and Executive VP of LA Times

Devan Maharaj

The Los Angeles Times has named Davan Maharaj editor and executive vice president of the paper, with effect from Dec. 23.

Maharaj, 49, is the son of former trade unionist in Trinidad, Sam Maharaj.

He has served as managing editor for news at the Times since May 2008, overseeing foreign, national, metro, sports and business departments.

Maharaj joined the Times in 1989, working as a reporter in Orange County, Los Angeles and East Africa.

His six-part series on East Africa, “Living on Pennies,” with Times photographer Francine Orr, won the 2005 Ernie Pyle Award for human-interest writing.

Maharaj’s investigative report about a probate attorney who inherited stock, land and other “gifts” from clients led to changes in California’s probate law. He also was assistant foreign editor and was named business editor in 2007.

Maharaj, who began his journalism career in Trinidad, has a degree in political science from the University of Tennessee and a master’s degree in law from Yale University.

“I am humbled and honored to lead one of the most talented and resilient newsrooms in the nation,” Maharaj said in a statement.

“We’ve made huge strides in getting our journalism to wide and diverse audiences across Southern California and beyond. We will continue to push forward, especially in the digital and mobile space."

London wants full internal self government for Tobago in 2012

The Chief Secretary of the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) said Thursday the THA is committed to "meaningful and respectful collaboration" with the Central Government to achieve full internal self-government for Tobago.

Orville London made the statement in a New Year’s address.

He said he hopes that 2012 will be the year in which Tobago will achieve that goal.
“The Bills which represent the recommendations and aspirations of Tobagonians have been transmitted to the Cabinet and to the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago," London declared.

“The people of Tobago have given their mandate, and, despite the protestations and antics of those who are prepared to frustrate the will of the people for their own political survival, this administration commits to a meaningful and respectful collaboration with the Central Government in the fulfillment of that mandate.”

London said he is “hopeful” that the government would not renege on its 2010 General Election campaign promises on constitutional reform leading to full internal self-government for Tobago.

London emphasised that the need for increased autonomy must be accompanied by the commitment of all Tobagonians to “the principles of self-reliance, an improved work ethic, and a higher sense of responsibility”.

He said the people of Tobago must realise that the stakes would be much higher in 2012 and they could be involved in battles that would determine the quality of their lives for decades to come.

Police search TV6, take away Crime Watch tapes

Police went to the offices of CCN TV6 Thursday and took away several video recordings and documents relating to an alleged rape of a 13-year-old Morvant schoolgirl that was shown on the station’s Crime Watch programme in October. 

Media reports say police stated that they questioned several members of staff including senior newsroom personnel about the broadcast. The tape shows what appears to be two young men assaulting a 13-year-old girl. 

Police arrested two Morvant teenagers following the broadcasts. Both men currently before a Port-of-Spain Magistrate on criminal charges relating to the incident.

Crime Watch host Ian Alleyne told reporters there is a political move to investigate the show. “I am still on the air and I am alive tonight. They can’t stop me," he said. "It is all about politics."

Jamaicans vote Thursday; poll too close to call

Jamaicans vote on Thursday in general elections with all polls pointing to a statistical dead heat, with a numerical edge to the opposition People's National Party (PNP) led by former Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller, the island's first female leader.

Andrew Holness, the country’s youngest prime minister, is hoping to get his first mandate. He took charge of the governing Jamaica Leader Party (JLP) in October following the resignation of Bruce Golding as Prime Minister and political leader of the party.

Golding had struggled to make a difference but he brought on his own political demise in his struggle with the United States to avoid the extradition to the US of known JLP supporter, crime kingpin Christopher "Dudus" coke.

No one is willing to guess who will win on Thursday. The PNP had 27 seats in the previous election and the governing party had the other 33. There are 150 candidates running for election to the parliament.

Simpson-Miller served as Jamaica prime minister from March 2006 to September 2007, when her party was defeated in the general election that brought Golding and the JLP to office.

Now Golding finds himself in a similar situation, hoping that his age would give him the additional push he needs to get him and his party back in government.

The PNP leader is counting that she could get voters on her side by showing that at 39 Holness is not up to the challenge.

“I don’t know if you would put your children in a car with someone who has just learned to drive,” Simpson Miller told supporters.

Whoever takes charge, will face serious economic problems. Jamaica's debt load stands at more than 120 per cent of gross domestic product, with debt payments gobbling up nearly half of the country's budget and leaving dwindling resources to pay government workers and fund schools and hospitals. And the island's unemployment rate has risen to 12.9 per cent, with an economy that shrank just over 1 per cent last year.

Public service notice: Blanchisseuse/Arima Road closed

The Ministry of Works and Infrastructure wishes to advise the public that the Blanchisseuse/Arima Road has been closed until further notice. 

This closure is as a result of the collapse of the roadway in the vicinity of the 20km mark or what is commonly known as the Hairpin Bend. 

Persons wishing to get to Blanchisseuse are advised to use the alternative route of the North Coast Road. However, please be informed that this roadway also poses some risk due to the inclement weather the country has been experiencing.

Ministry officials have been on the scene since the collapse and are working assiduously to restore the roadway for safe usage by the public. 

The Ministry takes this opportunity to remind citizens to exercise due care and caution when using the nation's roads during this festive season.

-Ministry of Works and Infrastructure

Health Minister says hospitals filthy, wants in-house cleaning staff

Health Minister Dr Fuad Khan is shaking things up at the country's hospitals in the new year.

One of the changes will see staff janitors instead of cleaning contractors. The minister said despite the hiring of scores of contractors for cleaning the conditions at health institutions are well below acceptable standards. 

He said hiring in-house cleaning contractors on a 24-hour basis will make the system more transparent and reliable. 

"The hiring of external contractors would be stopped throughout all the Regional Health Authorities (RHA). It is millions of dollars being spent and the public hospitals are filthy and no work is being done,” Khan said. 

He said once a contract was awarded externally it became very difficult to stop because of clauses within the contract.

Khan said anyone can see cobwebs along the corridors of the Port-of-Spain General. "It has not been dusted and it is stink,” he said. 

He added that the in-house system would be more efficient and cost effective. “I do not want anybody working eight to four. It is cheaper, the workers would be monitored in real time," Khan said.

“There would be no room for excuses. If they are not up to standard, then they would be promptly asked to leave,” he added. 

 

“It seems that no one was monitoring these external cleaning contractors. I don’t know why and I don’t know why they have been allowed to get away without doing their jobs,” the minister declared.

Warner promises $0.5M for south landslips

Jack Warner comforts residents, promises to fix problems

Jack Warner promised on Boxing Day to spend a half a million dollars to fix dozens of landslides in the Princes Town and tableland areas.

The Works and Transport Minister initially visited the areas on Christmas Eve and returned Monday with a team of officials including Minister of Public Utilities Emmanuel George and Minister the MP for the area, Clifton DeCoteau. 

Warner told residents, "I have told the engineer and Director of Drainage to put these repairs down as emergency works so that we can make it passable for vehicles and trucks. We should take five to six days to fix this.”  

He explained that the repairs will be temporary and will last for up to two years.

He said more extensive works would be on his agenda for 2012. The Minister noted that on July 20 he submitted a note to Cabinet to get $404 million to fix landslips throughout the country over a six-year period. 

“I have done a survey so I know all the landslips. People must have patience and we must tell people what we doing,” Warner said. 

DeCoteau said there were several residents at Realize Road and Contention Branch Road whose homes have fallen down. Warner said at least six households would have to be relocated.

AG Ramlogan suggests special court to prosecute Ish and Steve

AG Ramlogan spoke with reporters at a toy distribution event in south Trinidad

Attorney General Anand Ramlogan has dismissed suggestions that he gave businessmen Ish Galbaransingh and Steve Fergusson their freedom by deciding not to appeal a High Court ruling that quashed their extradition to the United States to face several charges.

Romlogan told reporters what is required is a “Dole Chadee-type court” to prosecute them instead of continuing with lengthy court delays.

“We must respect the independence of our own court system and the administration of criminal justice. I don’t think the Government is worried in this matter," he said.  

"It is not that Ish and Steve have escaped. It is just that they have to be brought before a court of law in the quickest possible time.” 

He added: “In fact, it is my hope that the Chief Justice and those stakeholders from the criminal justice system will convene a ‘Dole Chadee-type court’ on an ad hoc basis, having regard to the long meandering in this matter, and let the defendants have their day before a judge and jury. 

"The time has come for that.” Ramlogan said the Government has spent more than $100 million since the businessmen were first charged in 2002."

Ramlogan stated that an appeal would have cost the government even more. "If witnesses didn’t die there would have been fresh legal arguments on the grounds of the extent of pre-trial delay. At the end of it all, justice would not have been served,” Ramlogan said. 

“I think the criminal justice system would have taken a terrible blow and be brought into further disrepute if we had allowed this legal adventure to continue without any end in sight. 

"The longest rope must have an end. The defendants have not been freed. What we have done is to clear the way for them to have a fair trial before a judge and jury in a court of law and let justice take its course, according to law.” 

Ramlogan also dismissed suggestions that his refusal to appeal the matter has damaged diplomatic relations with the United States. 

He said the country continues to share meaningful relations with the US and declared that he is comfortable with his decision.

“My heart is clean, my conscience is clear and my mind is satisfied because I acted in accordance with the law," he said. 

"It cannot make any sense to allow for legal adventures to continue in this matter where we have wasted almost a decade and spent more than $100 million in T&T with not a single day in court."

6 murders drive TT homicide number for 2011 to 342

Trinidad & Tobago's "killing fields" appear to be active again, following the lull during the state of emergency.

Police reported six murders over the Christmas holiday weekend, which brought the year's homicide total to 342. 

The Guardian newspaper identified the victims:

• Angil “Beast” Bhagwandass, 39, of Knaggs Street, Frederick Settlement, Caroni
• Joel Montano, 55, of Patraj Trace, El Socorro South, El Socorro
• Brent Dickson, 33, of Sogren Trace, Picton Road, Laventille
• Defence Force Sgt George Sheldon Froix, 40, of Orchid Gardens, Edingburgh, Chaguanas
• Kern Mitchell, 40, Calvary Hill, Arima
• Sheldon Gillman, 35, Prizgar Lands, Laventille

Police have arrested one suspect in the murder of Bhagwandass, the paper stated.

Jack promises to fix problems in south; appeals for roads authority

Jack Warner visits affected areas on Christmas Eve 

Jack Warner is taking a team of experts to the Princes Town/Moruga area Monday to see the damage done in the area by huge landslips. Then he returns home to celebrate his 45th wedding anniversary with his wife, Maureen.

Warner's touring party includes the MP for the area, Clifton DeCouteau, Housing Minister Dr Roodal Moonilal, Public Utilities Minister Emmanuel George and WASA CEO Ganga Singh.

On Christmas Eve DeCouteau invited the Works and Transport Minister to visit the area to see the sad state of affairs where poor road and drainage has caused at least four homes to collapse. Several more at at risk.

Many of the more than 115 affected residents were in tears as they pleaded with the minister to help them.

They complained about poor drainage, leaking WASA pipelines and shoddy work by contractors.

Warner met at a local school in the community of Lengua with DeCouteau and members of the Realise/Madingo Road Community Council. The council complained that the new government has not served them as expected.

The minister dismissed suggestions that Local Government authorities were to blame. He stated that with the best intentions Local Government could not deal with the matter because they do not have the expertise, equipment and funding to deal with infrastructural problems.

He focused on shoddy work by contractors, which he noted contributed to landslip issues in some cases. He asked residents to inform the authorities when contractors are doing poor work.

Warner said, "Anybody who does shoddy work will not be paid. And those contractors who are bad we must blacklist them and those who are good we must praise them and that will happen in 2012.”

He added, “I have seen homes that have collapsed; not one, not two, but several. I have seen big landslips in the area.”

Warner promised to make arrangements to relocate the people whose homes have collapsed.

The minister said part of the problem is caused by the Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA).

He added: “WASA lines leak and undermine the roads and before they pave the road the leaks shall be fixed. 

“I have asked the people to be our eyes and ears and that anybody who does shoddy work will not be paid unless they do it over,” Warner said.

De Coteau has pointed out that there are over 250 landslips in the Moruga and Tableland area.

Warner has again reiterated the need for a separate roads authority.

"There are roads here that they tell me belong to local government, for me that is nonsense and that is why I went to Cabinet with a Roads Authority note hoping that Cabinet would approve it quickly so that all the roads would come under the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure,” he said.

“There are roads here where Local Government, with the best will in the World, they can’t fix, they don’t have the money, how could they fix these landslips with $9 million when to fix one alone might cost $18 million, so you can’t fix them if you don’t have the money, they have the equipment, they don’t have the expertise, and therefore we are blaming them wrongfully,” he added.

Rapist attacks 5-year-old child in Guyana

Reporduced from the online site Kaieteur News

A five-year-old girl of Betsy Ground, East Canje Berbice, has been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit of the New Amsterdam Hospital in a critical condition after she was abducted out of her bed wrapped in a sheet and taken into the bushes on the bank of the Canje River and brutally raped on Friday.

According to Information the tot’s mother had ventured next door to her mother-in-law’s premises in anticipation of a phone call from the child’s father. The child who is the second of three children was left sleeping at home with her two-year-old brother.

According to investigators the girl and her mother-in-law live next door to each other, not too far from the river dam.

The Incident occurred some time after 23:00 hrs. It is understood that while the mother was over at her mother-in-law the perpetrator entered the house wrapped the sleeping girl in a blanket taken from her sleeping brother and carried her into the bushes on the River dam area, where he committed the dastardly act.

According to a source the mother returned home sometime before midnight. She noticed that her daughter was not in her bed and her son’s blanket was missing. The woman frantically started to search and to call out for her daughter.

She was joined by others as they ventured out into the dark. Their frantic search and call led them into the bushes of the River dam. They were subsequently told by a man that he had heard a child crying. Following the direction given and calling out loudly, the child eventually answered. It however took them some time to pierce the bushes to find where the child was.

When she was found, she was in blood and there were signs that the perpetrator had just escaped. The child collapsed and the police were subsequently informed and escorted the child along with relatives to the New Amsterdam hospital. She was immediately taken to the Intensive care Unit where she is receiving Intravenous drips.

The child when questioned said that ‘Jumbie’ took her into the bush, indicating that the culprit was wearing mask. She however described the clothing the culprit was wearing.

Police later swooped down in the area and arrested about nine suspects including a main suspect. Investigations are continuing.

Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones from JYOTI

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Celebrate Christmas with the music of Canada's Celene Dion

Olivia Newton-John sings Silent Night

PM Kamla's Christmas message urges citizens to celebrate that which 'binds us together'

Fellow citizens, on behalf of the Government and people of Trinidad and Tobago, I bring greetings to our Christian Community on this holy and festive season of Christmas.

Regarded as a time of reflection for many Christians worldwide, as the birth of Jesus is commemorated and celebrated; the season of Christmas invites all of us to look within to our own thoughts and examine our actions as we witness the closing of one year and move with renewed hope into the year to come.

Hope for the realization of dreams and aspirations; hope for a brighter day and better things to come. For many that hope is for a place to call home, a daily meal or to be able to financially support themselves and their families.

To this end my Government will continue its housing and social support programmes to bring relief to our most vulnerable citizens. We will offer that “Bridge of Hope” to enable all our citizens to enjoy a life of dignity, free from want and neglect.

Recently our Nation witnessed the tragic loss of life in the community of Laventille and once again I extend my sincere condolences to all the affected families. I am deeply saddened by this willful act of arson which cut short so many lives. 

In the face of this tragedy, I ask that, now more than ever, we seek to mediate and talk through our differences rather than resort to acts of violence which only leaves in its wake pain and suffering. My prayers go out to the injured and the loved ones of those who died in the fire.

As a Nation, 2011 may be regarded as a challenging year. A year filled with disappointments and triumphs, in which we were all asked to make heavy sacrifices as my Government sought to correct the ills which had plagued our communities for far too long.

I recognize that the State of Emergency and curfew, imposed only after prolonged deliberation and in light of information at hand, was a necessary measure to offset an imminent threat to our beloved country’s stability, reputation and development. 

The results speak for themselves and have created a safer environment for our citizens although there is still much work to be done. I take this opportunity to again thank our combined forces, the Police service and Defence force for their dedication and committment.

I take this opportunity, once again, to commend you, my fellow citizens, for your patience, understanding and overall co-operation which contributed in large part to the success of the State of Emergency.

While there is still much work to be done, and my Government remains committed to the task, to stamp out those negative elements determined to wreck havoc in our communities; there is much for which we must be grateful.

In the international arena, Trinidad and Tobago continued to attract favourable attention. The hosting of the first Caribbean Investment Forum in June and the 3rd China/Caribbean Trade and Economic Co-operation Forum in September effectively positioned Trinidad and Tobago as an excellent destination in which to do business.

Our country’s positive engagement with the emerging economies of Brazil, India and China, in addition to, the strengthening our links with our Caribbean and Latin American neighbours, has put Trinidad and Tobago on the threshold of renewed economic growth from which all our citizens may benefit.

Trinidad and Tobago has also become known as a champion of women’s and children’s rights and I will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that the rights of our women and children, especially our young girls are not infringed.

Particularly at this time we remember our children, those who were taken from us too soon and those still with us whom we must protect, nurture and give every opportunity to realize their full potential.

I give you the assurance that my Government will do all its power to improve and provide adequate health, education and recreational facilities to enable our children to thrive and prosper.

Christmas is a moving reminder that one person, one child, has the ability to make a dramatic difference in the world. 

The birth of Jesus brought together kings and shepherds. Without regard for status, all were united in admiration of the child who had come to change the world. So, too, we must regard our children as precious gifts not only to our families; but also to the Nation and the world and ceaselessly strive to protect them from exploitation and harm.

As we celebrate the Christmas season, let us relinquish the need to focus on our differences during this blessed season, and instead open our hearts and minds to the commonalities which bind us together. 

In the tradition of the season let us remember the less fortunate among us and give selflessly of our time, talents and resources, recognizing that we each have a duty to reduce the suffering of those around us.

Let us also remember in the midst of our festivities, to act responsibly, to refrain from excess and exercise caution in our homes and on the roads.

More importantly, may the Christmas spirit that we now feel not end with the Season, but remain with each of us during the course of the year.

May the light which pierced the darkness that first Christmas night, continue to fill our hearts with peace, hope, joy and love.

It is with a blissful heart that I extend a very Merry Christmas to the Christian community and offer my best wishes for a peaceful and prosperous New Year to the people of Trinidad and Tobago.

UNC chairman calls for an end to hate, greed and selfishness

Brothers and Sisters,

This Christmas let us stop the hate, greed and selfishness that is tearing our country apart and hampering progress.

These evil and divisive forces have manifest themselves in gang violence, drug and gun trafficking, banditry, human exploitation, corruption and other forms of crime. They are driving forces behind the tensions in our race relations, religious harmony and politics.

And where does it get us?

Time spent spreading hatred, greed and selfishness distracts from the true mission of nation building and creating a happy, healthy and productive society; of attending to the real problems and obstacles to progress.

The Birth of the Christ Child reminds us of the potential in every babe and every being. 

One little child changed the whole world. 

And therefore we must consider that it is our duty to create an environment where each child and each person can blossom to his or her potential and thereby contribute to mankind. We must use our time and our energy to fix this country for their sake.

Let us make this Christmas special. Let us spread Good Will to our fellow men. Let us be the proponents of peace, love, kindness and brotherhood.

I wish every citizen a Happy, Holy and Safe Christmas as we look forward to the arrival of the New Year.

Jack Warner | Minister of Works and Infrastructure; MP for Chaguanas West; Chairman of the UNC

Opposition leader urges nation to draw strength from diversity

Around the world and here in our beloved Trinidad and Tobago the Christmas season is celebrated by Christians and non-Christians alike.

The season carries with it an underlying message of peace on earth and goodwill to all. This message fills our hearts with joyous thanksgiving and hope for better things in the future.

In Trinidad and Tobago, we have much for which we can be thankful, not the least of which is peace loving people of varied races, ethnicity and religious persuasions.

Despite these and other cultural differences we continue to enjoy a level of harmony and our people look towards the leaders to chart a course for the nation’s development and a better standard of living for all citizens.

In order to do so all of us who are privileged to serve this nation in whatever capacity must invariably draw strength from our diversity without leaving the perception of inequality, discrimination or any other forms of injustice.

In this regard I urge that we draw inspiration from the exemplary life of Jesus Christ whose birth we celebrate at this time every year. Let us learn to love one another and be of service to our fellow man. 

Let our actions demonstrate adherence to the principles of fairness, transparency and accountability which many believe are greatly lacking in the management of our nation’s business in recent times. I see it as incumbent upon us all, leaders and others alike, to emulate Christ and lead by example, always.

As 2011 draws to a sobering close, I implore each and every citizen to ponder and reflect deeply on the experiences of the past year, drawing strengths from our demonstrated resilience whilst committing to confronting the inevitable challenges which lie ahead.

Let us learn from these experiences and set a course which will give us the best chance of improving the quality of all our lives as we proceed.

On behalf of the Leadership and members of the People’s National Movement we extend the spirit of brotherly love to all our fellow citizens and wish Trinidad and Tobago a safe and merry Christmas as well as a bright and prosperous new year.

May God continue to guide us and richly bless our nation.

Dr. Keith Rowley | PNM Political Leader and Leader of the Opposition

President says peace and goodwill must be TT's mantra every day

Reproduced from NEWSDAY

Peace and goodwill, regarded as the mantra of Christmas season, should be exemplified throughout the year, not just today — Christmas Day — and are sentiments that should become a way of life, says President George Maxwell Richards.

“Peace and goodwill to all men have become words that are often heard during this season, but they convey sentiments that should become the way of life, throughout the year, in every aspect of our interaction with one another,” Richards said in his Christmas message to the nation. 

Failure to exercise peace and goodwill, he said, will mean that persons would have missed the point of the Christmas message “by a long shot, and we can hardly rise to the level of our potential to be a caring and nurturing society”.

Richards argued that the message and joy of Christmas went far beyond happiness, which is often based “on our current circumstances and what we perceive as our future prospects”.

“But will we receive it (joy)?” he asked.

“Some of us will; many will not, because we have to come to that place where we decide to put aside every circumstance that can prevent us from experiencing that peace that is spoken of so much, at this time of year.

“This is a tall order, for tragedy has struck in many quarters for many of us and sadness is overwhelming.”

The President said it was believed that in the Christian faith, a “great Gift” was given to mankind at Christmas.

“If we can accept that, we may, regardless of religious persuasion or even in the absence of it, consider pushing back against every kind of challenge that we face, individually and collectively and make room for that Gift,” he said.

“We may well experience changed perspectives which may even enable us to see beyond ourselves and climb out of our pits, as we consider other possibilities.” Richards said those who are not so challenged might also make room and, if they are willing, resolve to see beyond self.

“Over time, we can develop trust, born out of tangible evidence of human consideration. Then peace will flow,” he said.

For Christmas - Self esteem? - The Peter O'Connor Christmas column

Last Sunday I wrote that we do not have leaders—or heroes—in our society. 

It is Christmas Day, and I do not want to be too critical today of who we are, or what we have allowed ourselves to become. But one of the reasons - perhaps the main reason - why true leaders do not arise from our midst, is because we are all too indifferent about who we are and what we can become? I ask this as a question, rather than deliver it as a statement.

Maybe we can use this day, the “Birthday anniversary” of one of Earth’s great religions, to try to retrieve some of what we once had, or observed, in the past, before we joined the massive commercial sellout of Christmas. 

And we did not create this sellout on our own, but we accepted it, sights, sounds and snowmen, from the United States! And all to the detriment of our own customs, food, music and indeed, faiths.

Everyone “celebrates” Christmas in T&T, just as everyone celebrates, but to a less fervent extent, Divali and Eid el Fitr. But we no longer celebrate the event of some 2011 years ago, in a little village called Bethlehem, where a baby was born in a stable, and people apparently gathered in awe to gaze upon this child, who would be declared to be the Son of God, and who came to save the world. 

Oh, a few people still do observe this anniversary in a serious and contemplative manner. But most, including most Christians, celebrate Christmas in an orgy of gluttony, greed and over indulgence.

The symbols of Christmas, the stable, the parents, the Baby, the Three Wise Men who had followed a bright star to lead them to this event, have all long been replaced with new “branding”. 

The symbol of Christmas is a fat old man with a white beard and a red suit, who is pulled through the sky in a sled powered by flying reindeer. “Santa Claus” comes down our chimneys (some wealthy Trinis even put fake chimneys on their roofs!) and leaves masses of presents under a fake fir tree, decorated with bright balls and baubles.

Our radio stations all play “seasonal music” for weeks leading up to Christmas Day. While a few of the songs have a religious theme (as the event is meant to be), most of the music consists of either “happy chirpy” or mournful reminisces about sleigh rides through the snow, “Jack Frost” nipping at our noses, and the snowman we made and called “farmer Brown”. Our shopping malls and wealthy homes are “decorated” with snow scenes and Santa’s elves in order to make us feel that this is all “Christmas”.

Folks, this is not “our Christmas”. 

Even if, like me, you are not deeply into the religious aspects of the advent and the event, you will remember (except those under 40, I guess?) that we Trinis used to celebrate Christmas as a “Sunshine Thing”. 

We have one of the most beautiful Christmas musical genres worldwide, with our original Parang. And I say “original” because this lilting danceable music is also being corrupted on the altars of gluttony and bad taste.

The traditional greeting “Happy Christmas”, is being replaced locally by the American (Government imposed!) “Happy Holidays”, and the traditional Christmas Tree (where that came from, by the way, I never heard of it back there and then in Bethlehem?) at the White House is now called the “Holiday Tree”! 

And this not necessarily to appease Jews, Muslims, Hindus and Buddhists—who I do not believe object to other religions celebrating their festivals—but by atheists. 

So businesses and people here are now conforming to that, and publishing ads and greeting each other with “Happy Holidays”, instead of “Happy Christmas”. Can anyone in advertising or elsewhere tell me why they are doing this?

So my gift, or at least wish, for all of you this Christmas Morning, is that we all just “take back” to Christmas we celebrated for years. 

Play parang instead of sleigh bells, remove the plastic blow-up snowmen from our lawns, where incongruously we sit in shorts and open shirts, and begin to believe in ourselves again, and in the joy of sharing Christmas like we used to. 

We live in T&T, not in Vermont! Tell your children that the gifts they get are in commemoration of the Gifts the Three Wise Men brought for the baby Jesus, and not from Rudolph.

And if we can appreciate who we are at Christmas, maybe we can begin to find our self esteem as a people, and from there build a society which can eventually put forth the Leaders we so desperately need. Do you think that you can try this?

PNM may have "blood on its hands" in Laventille fire: Moonilal. Fire escapes for 100 HDC buildings

The fire-damaged HDC building in Laventille. People jumped to their deaths from the fifth floor

Housing Minister Dr Roodal Moonilal said Friday the People's National Movement (PNM) may have "blood on its hands" in connection with Tuesday's fire in Trou Macaque, Laventille that left four people dead, including an infant and a toddler.

Moonilal made the staetement to reporters at a Christmas treat in his constituency.
There was no fire escape at the five-storey HDC apartment building and people had to jump out to save their lives. One of the persons who died was a pregnant woman. A teenager and a 46-year old woman died when they jumped from the fifth storey.

Moonilal said the tragedy might have been avoided if the building was equipped with a fire escape. 

"As you know, the fire that took place during the week led to fatalities and it is something that we extend our condolences to the family but we are extremely angry that it had led to this," Moonilal told the media. 

"I am hearing now members of the Opposition speaking about the good work of the HDC in providing new housing units to those persons but we must also remember that it was under the former administration that these buildings were constructed and left in that condition without fire escapes and health and safety facilities. 

"In fact, one person told me that this is akin to manslaughter, and it may well be that the former administration, by having a building like this without fire escapes and so on, may have actually contributed to manslaughter by the death of these persons," Moonilal stated.

Twenty families who were made homeless by the fire have been given temporary shelter at HDC apartments at Oropune Gardens in Piarco.

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar visited the scene of the tragedy Tuesday and handed out keys to the families. She also ordered that all HDC buildings be equipped with all the necessary safety facilities.

Moonilal said the HDC is putting in the necessary infrastructure.

"We have started a programme to install fire alarms and fire extinguishers in several HDC buildings. We have another programme that we will initiate in the New Year to construct fire escapes in over 100 HDC buildings."

Preysal interchange opens; project on time and within budget

File: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar gets help from Works Minister Jack Warner and Couva South MP Rudy Indarsingh at the sod turning for the Preysal interchange project

Works and Infrastructure Minister Jack Warner on Friday opened the first phase of the multi-million-dollar Preysal interchange.

Warner noted that the project, which was handled by Seereram Brothers, was completed on time and within the allocated $29 million budget.

Phase one consists of exits and entrance ramps on the eastern side of the flyover, leading to Couva and Preysal as well as the exit and entrance ramps to and from the southbound lane of the highway. They are similar to the ones at the San Fernando Bypass that allow a free flow of traffic.

Warner said he wanted to open the roadway before Christmas. "We felt we should not allow here to stay closed while we could release the traffic on the highway," he told reporters.

 Warner said he expects that the second phase would be completed in March 2012 at an estimated cost of $38 million. He added that there are plans to build similar interchanges at Munroe Road and Price Plaza, Chaguanas, at an estimated cost of $200 million.

The Preysal project was supervised by the PURE unit of his ministry. Warner thanked the unit for the professionalism in dealing with the project and said he hopes that the unit will become operational again.

PURE has been suspended. The minister said he hopes the funding issues for the unit will be resolved soon so that work on highways and other infrastructure projects could be accelerated during the dry season.

"If we miss the dry season we shall be in trouble in terms of completion of our works and over budgeted," he explained.

Warner said he is looking forward to an exciting 2012.