Jyoti Communication

PM hosts media conference Friday with leaders of the People's Partnership

2012-02-03T07:56:00.001-05:00

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar will host a News Conference Friday at the Conference Room at the Parliament, beginning at 2.30.

A release from the officer of the Prime Minister said Persad-Bissessar will be joined by leaders of the Peoples Partnership:

Prakash Ramadhar, Political Leader of the Congress of the People (COP)
Ashworth Jack, Political Leader of the Tobago Organisation of the People (TOP)
Senator David Abdullah, Political Leader of the Movement for Social Justice (MSJ)
Ambassador Makandal Daaga, Political Leader of NJAC

The five leaders met Thursday at the Diplomatic Centre following the regular cabinet meeting.

Ministers on hanging issue: We'll go with cabinet

2012-02-03T07:18:00.003-05:00

Jack Warner's petition is called "A Fisherman's Cry". It aims to raise the issue of the brutal murder of three fishermen at sea.

“Whatever Cabinet agrees to do, that’s what we’re gonna do—that’s what I’m prepared to do."

That's the final word from Multicultural Minister Winston Peters on the issue of capital punishment. He and his cabinet colleagues Bhoe Tewarie and Vernella Alleyne-Toppin share the same sentiments.

They spoke about the hanging issue at the post cabinet media briefing Thursday when reporters asked them if they support Jack Warner’s death penalty petition, which the Chaguanas West MP launched on Wednesday.

Warner has called on all MPs and senators to sign the petition, which calls for the enforcement of the death penalty. Warner decided to launch the campaign - A Fisherman's Cry - in memory of three fishermen from his constituency who were murdered at sea.

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar said on Wednesday the petition is a private initiative by Warner and not government policy.

However at the same time she reiterated the government's determination to reintroduce the hanging bill, which the opposition refused to support last year. The bill was killed because it required opposition support to get the special majority required.

Reporters asked Tewarie, Peters and Allyene-Toppin if they would sign the petition and how they will deal with the contentious issue.

Peters stated: “My personal view has nothing to do with the collective responsibility I have in Cabinet. Whatever my colleagues in Cabinet do, we’ll all have to take responsibility for it.

"...I don’t know how to divorce myself from being a private citizen from a public figure. People forget you have a private life. I’m a public figure and whatever I do I think it has to be done in that context.

Tewarie: “Minister Warner is both a minister and a constituency representative so I suppose to the extent that he is an MP of the people, he’s taken an initiative.

“But any decision we take on the death penalty will be from the point of view of Cabinet and we’ll have to carry collective responsibility on that.

Alleyne-Toppin: “I could express my personal view but it’s not appropriate at this time.

"I concur with my colleagues, we’re responsible to the nation as a Cabinet and Government and we have a position that we’ll agree on when the time is necessary."

COP leader wants referendum on capital punishment

2012-02-03T07:17:00.000-05:00

File: COP Political Leader Prakash ramadhar

The leader of the Congress of the People has called for a Referendum on capital punishment.

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar said Wednesday her government is committed to passing legislation to hang convicted killers. And Chaguanas West MP Jack Warner launched his own campaign Wednesday to gain support for hanging killers.

Read the story: Jack launches "A FISHERMAN's PLEA" campaign for restoration of hangings

Warner's campaign has been endorsed by COP's Deputy Chairman, Vernon de Lima.

In a statement Thursday Prakash Ramadhar said delegates from the country's 41 constituencies called on the leadership at COP's National Assembly on January 14 to make Constitutional Reform an important part of the Government's agenda.

"This resolution was unanimously passed and we are heartened by the promise of our Honourable Prime Minister to ensure that Constitutional Reform will be tackled in 2012," Ramadhar stated.

"Capital Punishment for certain crimes is the law of Trinidad and Tobago. We have always taken the position that the laws of the country must be enforced. This issue is bigger than any individual and must be on the front burner of every patriot. We must have open and frank dialogue and debate on this matter."

Ramadhar added that COP favours the use of the Referendum to decide important national issues.

"If ever there were a need for a Referendum, it would be on this issue of Capital Punishment. Constitutional Reform and the use of the Referendum has been a pillar of the COP's Legislative Agenda from our early days.

"We campaigned on the promise of Constitutional Reform in 2007 and again in 2010. We stand by our pledges. The voice of the people is the voice of God. Let the people decide," he said.

Principal charged with cruelty to children

2012-02-03T07:16:00.000-05:00

Newsday's front page

Maraval school principal Arlene Blackman is scheduled to appear in court Friday to answer two counts of Cruelty to Children.

Police charged Blackman Thursday under the Children’s Act, for allegedly placing the head of two students in a toilet bowl at her school and flushing the toilet.

The Newsday newspaper quoted a parent as saying that police asked his son if Blackman was the person who placed his head in a toilet bowl and flushed it. he asnwered, "Yes".

The paper said the police used the same procedure with the two alleged victims . Last Friday last Blackman wrote etters to parents of children attending her school, assuring that all was well and that she was determined to deal with issues involving male students in the toilet area of the school.

On that same day one parent reported to the Port-of-Spain CID that her son's head was placed in a toilet bowl at the school’s compound and that the toeilet was flushed with the boy's head in the bowl.

Cabinet approves additional $53M for Carnival; CAL says 220,000 visitors expected

2012-02-03T07:12:00.000-05:00

Multicultural Minister Winston Peters told reporters Thursday Cabinet has approved an additional $53 million for Carnival 2012.

Government had originally set aside $43.5 million for the celebrations. The additional funds bring the total to $96.5 million.

Peters also said there would be no $2 million first prize for major Carnival competitions this year.

“There will be no $2 million payment by the Government but if the entities...if they want to find their own money by raising it, they can do that. We are not stopping them,” he said.

The minister, who made the announcement at the post cabinet media briefing, said this year is going to be better that 2011 and he expressed the hope that each year will keep getting better.

Peters also announced that tens of thousands of visitors are expected for Carnival on the national airline.

"We asked Caribbean Airlines to come and make a presentation to us...I too was surprised when Caribbean Airlines said to us that as of now, we are going to be having just with Caribbean Airlines, 220,000 persons coming to Trinidad and Tobago just for Carnival. That is a significant rise in the expectations in terms of visitorship for Carnival," Peters said.

The Minister of Tobago Development also addressed reporters, saying her ministry will provide funds for 11 qualifying Tobago steelbands to be in Trinidadto compete in this weekend's Panorama semifinals.

Vernella Alleyne-Toppin said the Ministry will use money from its budget to cover the expenses for the bands for a 4-day period.

"We are very much in support of you...We have sourced your funds, we are going to make you very comfortable," she said. "I want to say, do the best you can."

Water Taxi running for Carnival

2012-02-03T07:11:00.000-05:00

The Water Taxi Service between San Fernando and Port of Spain will operate on both Carnival days with two sailings in the morning from San Fernando and two return voyages in the evening.

The times for both days are:

Depart San Fernando: 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. on both days

Depart Port of Spain: 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. on both days

The management of the service has advised that boarding will close five minutes before departures of the vessels. It has also stated that it will not allow passengers to carry glass bottles and weapons on board the boats.

Parking will be available in San Fernando. the cost of a non-refundable one-way ticket is $25.

Tewarie giving opposition last chance to rejoin JSC on procurement

2012-02-03T07:07:00.000-05:00

Planning Minister Dr Bhoe Tewarie is giving the Opposition People's National Movement (PNM) one more chance to rejoin the Joint Select Committee (JSC) of Parliament to establish proper procurement legislation for the country.

Tewarie addressed the issue at the post-Cabinet media briefing Thursday.

The minister, who chairs the JSC, said so far he has not received any official correspondence from the Opposition stating its intention to withdraw from the JSC.

Opposition leader Keith Rowley announced at a news conference on Monday that the three PNM members of the JSC will not longer participate. And he reiterated that position on Thursday.

Rowley expressed concern about two issues - a $1-billion 70-acre state development project at Invaders Bay, Port of Spain and a proposed light transit project from Port of spain to Arima.

Twearie told reporters no contracts have been signed yet for the Invaders Bay project. However he said recommendations made to Cabinet have been accepted.

He added that a committee headed by Economic Development Board chairman Dr Thackwray Driver, has been established to deal with negotiations. That committee, he noted, has been meeting with the proposed investors over the last few weeks and they are close to coming to a decision.

Tewarie made it clear that the Invaders Bay project is seeking private sector proposals with private sector funding.

"It is not a procurement issue. It is a call for investors to optimise the land at values that will accrue to the best benefit of the people of Trinidad and Tobago, and it is in that spirit we have put out requests for proposals (RFPs) and gotten proposals," he said.

On the proposed light rail project he said the best person to answer questions would be the Transport Minister, who was not present at the media briefing. However he explained that the project is in its earliest stages with ads merely requesting information from interested private sector parties.

Tewarie said in any case that project will be totally funded with by the private sector with the government merely acting as a facilitator to protect the public interest.

PNM staying away from JSC, urges government to halt award of contracts

2012-02-03T07:05:00.001-05:00

The Opposition People's National Movement (PNM) has ignored calls by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar to reconsider its decision to withdraw its members from the Joint Select Committee on Procurement.

In a media statement Thursday the party insisted that the three PNM members on the committee - Opposition leader Keith Rowley, MP Colm Imbert and Senator Faris Al Rawi - "fully participated and contributed in the JSC Meeting" and asked the Government to present its policy position on forumlating a bill for consideration by Parliament. It said the government has not provided its position.

"In the meantime the Opposition has withdrawn from this stage of the process and it is now for the Government to take a position at Committee and bring a bill to the Parliament," the party declared in its media statement.

It added that it is the government's responsibility to bring legislation to Parliament.

"The Opposition objects to the fact that while the Committee's work has reached the point of a draft Bill the Government still does not identify with a policy position," the PNM said.

It added that while there is no bill the Government is moving "with indecent haste to improperly award a number of huge multi-billion dollar contracts ahead of the enactment of new procurement legislation...We refer specifically to the Invaders Bay Land Development Project and the more recently announced Rapid Rail Project."

The party also called on Government to cease all activity with respect to the award of any major contracts before the Parliament passes new Procurement legislation.

PSC gives Giibs 7 days to report on fiscal management systems

2012-02-03T06:55:00.000-05:00

The Police Service Commission (PSC) met on Thursday and asked Commissioner of Police Dwayne Gibbs to provide a full report on issues related to the "procurement, fiscal management and tendering systems" within the Police Service.

The PSC said it considered recent media reports, the public interest, letters from citizens, including the Leader of the Opposition Dr. Keith Rowley, and comments from the Minister of National Security regarding the light aircraft leased by the Police Service.

In an official statement the PSC said:

"In light of these circumstances and in keeping with its Constitutional mandate of monitoring the efficiency and effectiveness of the discharge of the functions of the Commissioner of Police (CoP) and Deputy Commissioners, the Commission wishes to state that it has decided to request a report within seven (7) days from the CoP in relation to the procurement, fiscal management and tendering systems within the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) generally and specifically in relation to the procurement process employed in relation to this particular light aircraft service acquisition process."

Manning unable to walk without help or speak clearly: Report

2012-02-03T06:39:00.000-05:00

File: Patrick Manning in better times - campaigning for the 2007 general election

A report in the Express newspaper Friday said Patrick Manning in unable to walk without help or speak clearly, citing unnamed medical specialists treating the former Prime Minister at the San Fernando General Hospital.

Manning suffered a stroke two weeks ago at his San Fernando home and was admitted to hospital, where he is being treated by a highly specialised team of doctors.

The Express said doctors reported that Manning is showing signs of improvement and continues to undergo physiotherapy treatment at the hospital.

The paper quoted one medical expert: "He remains in a stable condition and has shown some improvement. He has improved in his leg movement and speech. His treatment continues, especially his physiotherapy which is extremely important at this time."

Manning is eating solid foods and appears to understand what is being said, the Express reported. Visits are still restricted to family members although former Prime Minister Basdeo Panday and his daughter, Mickela, were allowed to visit.

Keith Rowley, the leader of the People's National Movement (PNM) went to see Manning but was told that the former PNM leader was asleep.

A report in a weekly paper stated that Manning's wife, Hazel, refused to speak with Rowley and slammed the door on him.

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar told reporters she would abide by the family's wishes and not visit Manning. She is keeping in touch with Manning's wife to track the progress of her predecessor.

Alimuddin Mohammed joins NFM board

2012-02-02T17:37:00.001-05:00

Businessman Alimuddin Mohammed has joined the board of National Flour Mills (NFM) to fill a vacancy created by the death of Director Mayanti Beharry.

The directors appointed Mohammed at a Board Meeting held on 27 January 2012. He will hold the position until the next Annual Meeting of NFM at which time he will be eligible for election as a Director.

Mohammed is a San Juan based businessman with extensive experience and training in the insurance industry. He is a past president of the San Juan Businessmen Association and is currently its Director of Education & Research.

He also served on the Board of the Tourism Development Company Ltd and the National Commission for Self Help. He is an avid community and social worker who is actively involved in local culture.

National Security Council to discuss light plane deal; Sandy says deal won't be scrapped

2012-02-02T11:10:00.000-05:00

The controversial lease of a light aircraft for police surveillance duty will be discussed Thursday when the National Security Council meets.

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar chairs the council, which includes top security personnel including National Security Minister John Sandy.

Persad-Bissessar asked Sandy earlier this week to get a report on the matter from Commissioner of Police (CoP) Dwayne Gibbs.

Sandy told reporters Wednesday he believes Gibbs was "ill-advised" to pursue leasing the light surveillance aircraft without consulting with him on his plans to do so.

However, he was careful to note that Gibbs can spend up to a million dollars without seeking ministerial authorisation.

"I will not say that he was wrong; he was ill-advised, and I maintain something like that because it is a national security issue; he should have shared it with me or the National Security Council," Sandy said.

Sandy added that he has perused a document on the matter provided by Deputy Commissioner of Police Jack Ewatski and he not not found anything "underhanded" in the deal to lease a light plane for 12 weeks at a cost of just under one million dollars.

He added that the deal had already been signed and will not be scrapped.

Gibbs is attending a conference in the United Kingdom with one of the three deputy commissioners, Stephen Williams. Sandy said when Gibbs returns he would have to explain to him and the National Security Council (NSC) why he did not inform them of the decision to lease the aircraft.

"I am disappointed that we were left out, not so much in the decision making aspect of it. If they were going with that, the least they should have done is alert the minister and alert the NSC," Sandy said.

Health Minister changing rules for ambulances

2012-02-02T10:00:00.000-05:00

The Minister of Health said Wednesday he will change the policy that prevents paramedics from stopping to help people in need to ensure that no one in such a situation will ever again be refused medical care, regardless of the circumstances.

Dr Fuad Khan's move is a followup to his expression of "disgust" over a report that Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) refused to provide assistance to Stacy Simon and her dying son Akhail, last Friday.

The 21-month-old infant's mothers asked the ambulance personnel to take her and the child to the hospital but they refused citing company policy. The child was pronounced dead on arrival at the San Fernando general Hospital.

Following Khan's initial reaction, the Chief executive officer of the South West Regional Health Authority (SWRHA), Anil Gosine, confirmed that the ambulance in question was from the SWRHA and added that the personnel were just following policy.

Khan told reporters he met with the ministry's officials to discuss the issue and indicated that there was no written policy on such a matter.

"The legislation dictates that there are different grades of ambulance. I have directed the executive to bring me some information concerning these grades of ambulances and what they are supposed to contain. I am going to change the policy so that whatever happened will not happen again," the minister pledged.

He said the new policy should be implemented "very soon", adding that all ambulances, whether privately owned, State-owned or contracted, would have to adhere to the policy.

"An ambulance means that you have everything in there to take care of a person in need. You don't know when somebody in need will require certain equipment and certain efficiencies.

"So once you put the word ambulance on your vehicle, it has to have the basic equipment and qualified personnel. If you don't have that then they will have to call it something else."

Gosine said he agrees that change should be made to better serve the public.

PM Kamla opens Ecotourism centre, has high expectations of new TDC board

2012-02-02T09:00:00.000-05:00

The Ecocentre will be a gateway for a unique type of tourism

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar on Wednesday said she has high expectations that the new board of the Tourism Development Company of Trinidad & Tobago (TDC), which was inaugurated on Monday, will advance tourism in the country.

She was speaking in Valencia at the formal opening of Phase 1 of the Ecotourism Visitor Centre, which she said has been built from a dream of developing an excellent tourism produced that is different from the traditional Caribbean paradise of sun, sea and surf.

Persad-Bissessar said the centre is is a symbol of community empowerment, community ownership and national pride.

"Moreover, it is a symbol of government’s unwavering commitment to driving the further development of the tourism industry and the diversification of our national economy," she added. The facility is built around the centrepiece of the turtles and the concept of establishing a Turtle Village.

She praised all the stakeholders, and in particular, Tourism Minister Dr Rupert Griffith, for the "extraordinary feat" of completing the project in seven months.

Griffith announced details of the centre last August, describing the facility as “one step in the many efforts we are making to develop tourism for Trinidad and Tobago.”

He said the park would be done in three phases—the centre which will cost $1.4 million; public education and awareness–$505,000 and training and capacity building–$154,000.

The facility that she opened features the Tourist Centre that is fully stocked with a range of visual aids and interpretative materials on Trinidad and Tobago; a cafeteria; a Craft Shop where local and international visitors can buy historical artifacts, and all types of arts, crafts made by artisans within the community.

"This Centre will play a major role in Trinidad’s tourism industry as it will serve as a strategically located “Gateway to Community Based Eco-Tourism” for the north east and eastern regions of the island," the Prime Minister said.

"Indeed, this project is aligned to this country’s vision to become the premier ecotourism destination in the Caribbean, characterised by a diverse natural and cultural heritage and driven by uniquely differentiated ecotourism product offerings," she added.

Persad-Bissessar said she hopes that the communities in the vicinity of the centre will take full advantage of the new infrastructure.

"I am informed that the Valencia’s visitor facility model will be adopted in other regions of Trinidad and Tobago. Therefore, we will have a quality circuit of new rest stops and visitor centres providing tourist information and much needed income and sustainable jobs.

"I want to especially congratulate the Turtle Village Trust on this splendid initiative. The wide range of projects that you have been able to execute since your inception speaks volume to the special bond that has developed in this partnership between community groups, business and government.

She said this is a time for new hope and new beginnings as Trinidad & Tobago celebrates its Golden Jubilee of independence.

"This is a time when we resolve to put country first so that our children and our children’s children will reap bountiful rewards. Let us resolve to make this great country of ours even stronger.

"Yes, we have achieved remarkable things in our nation’s journey. But I firmly believe that even better days lie ahead. Trinidad and Tobago is a nation that has done great things and will do them again and again.

Together, let us make 2012 a year of which every citizen of Trinidad and Tobago can be proud... A year when our tourism sector will shine its light brightly."

PM urges opposition to reconsider withdrawal from JSC on procurement

2012-02-02T08:55:00.000-05:00

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar said Wednesday Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley should reconsider his decision to withdraw Opposition support on the Joint Select Committee (JSC) on procurement.

Rowley told reporters on Monday that the Opposition would cease working with the JSC, saying in his opinion the Government is not serious about procurement legislation.

He also raised concerns over the award of a $900,772 contract by Commissioner of Police Dwayne Gibbs to what he called a "fly by night" company that was formed in July last year.

Reporters asked the Prime Minister about the matter after she formally opened an Ecotourism centre in Valencia.

"I think they are being really fool hardy in that regard; the country needs proper procurement legislation, it needs the input of all involved, all parliamentarians," Persad-Bissessar said.

While she accused the Opposition of using tactics of distraction, she also said she would ask Rowley to reconsider "because that piece of legislation is most important. Should they fail to work with the Joint Select Committee they will be shirking their duties as parliamentarians."

The JSC comprises Government ministers Bhoendradatt Tewarie (chairman), Dr Tim Gopeesingh, Herbert Volney, Colin Partap, Prakash Ramadhar; Independent Senator James Armstrong. The opposition representatives were Rowley, Colm Imbert and Senator Faris Al Rawi.

Jack launches "A FISHERMAN's PLEA" campaign for restoration of hangings

2012-02-02T08:50:00.000-05:00

Part of the audience present for the launch of the campaign to hang convicted killers

The mother of one of the murdered fishermen pleads for justice. Ann Dookie photo

Jack Warner launched a campaign on Wednesday aimed at getting public support for the restoration of hangings in Trinidad & Tobago.

The Chaguanas West MP decided to revive the campaign following the murder of three fishermen from his constituency - two brothers and their friend. They were killed at sea.

The parents of the murdered men were present along with scores of constituents as Warner launched "A Fisherman's Plea", which he said would be bigger than the Movement for Change that he used to successfully campaign for a change of the leadership of the United National Congress (UNC) and the eventual change of government.

Warner said he will petition all constituents to demand that the death penalty, which is the law in Trinidad & Tobago, be implemented to hang convicted killers.

His plan is to take the campaign throughout the country, beginning on Saturday with the first meeting in Rio Claro, the place of his birth. Blue jerseys and tee-shirts will be distributed to symbolise the sea and the theme of the campaign.

The MP, who is also the Works and Infrastructure Minister, said killers have no regard for the lives of people. He noted that the victims of the killings were innocent, hardworking men trying to earn a living for themselves and their families.

He said killers didn't think of human rights or the suffering of the little ones when they mercilessly killed the fishermen.

Warner said volunteers would go house-to-house to collect signatures in support of the hanging bill.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN THE PETITION ONLINE

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar announced last month that she will bring back a hanging bill to Parliament and seek public support for it.

The bill, which needed a special majority, was defeated last year when the opposition refused to vote for it.

“It is part of the law of Trinidad and Tobago, and therefore the lack of support from the Opposition on the last occasion prevented it from going through and so we will try again because we have to find ways to reduce the crime rate,” she said.

And on January 24, at a rally to celebrate her second anniversary as leader of the UNC she challenged Opposition Leader Keith Rowley to explain why he and his MPs refused to support the legislation while they continue to claim that they support the execution of convicted killers.

She publicly called on Rowley for support. "Let us have your proposals, because we are willing to consider them in the public’s interest. We are committed to implementing the death penalty because it is the law,” she told supporters.

Commenting on Warner's campaign on Wednesday, the Prime Minister said it is his personal venture and not Government policy.

"Mr Warner is on a personal campaign; it is not a policy position taken by the Government to embark on such a campaign, so you may want to ask him more about that issue," Persad-Bissessar told reporters who asked her about the campaign.

However, she said her Government remains committed to continue its thrust to resume hangings in the country.

She has said the Opposition's decision to not support the hanging bill, which they said was flawed, will not stop the Government from pressing forward on the matter.

Andy Johnson tells inquiry Bakr made a miscalculation in coup attempt

2012-02-02T07:55:00.000-05:00

Andy Johnson

Andy Johnson on Wednesday told the Commission of Enquiry into the failed 1990 Jamat al Muslimeen coup the attempt to overthrow the government was miscalculation by Muslimeen leader Yasin Abu Bakr.

The CEO of Government Information Services Limited (GISL) was a journalist at the Express newspaper at the time.

He said Bakr thought he would ride on the high wave of discontent in the country at the time. Johnson was responding to commission chairman Sir David Simmons who asked for Johnson's opinion on what he felt caused the coup d’etat.

Johnson said the general feeling was that the people rose up because of oppressive conditions imposed by the then government.

“People were angry and dispossessed but they did not rise up,” Johnson said. “It was a misadventure, a miscalculation by somebody who hoped to ride on the mass discontent.”

He added, “Abu Bakr made the mistake of feeling he would ride on the high wave of disenchantment. But, by and large, better heads prevailed. The masses didn’t join him in the assault on our democracy,” he added.

Johnson also said he did not believe that government MPs who were not in Parliament when the Muslimeen invaded the Red House on July 29, 1990, had prior knowledge.

Patrick Manning and Basdeo Panday, who were both in Opposition at the time, were not present when the Muslimeen stormed Parliament.

Johnson also said he did not believe that was any plan by the Muslimeen to go on a looting rampage. "I believe when there’s a clear absence of law and order, it’s human nature to do things they wouldn’t ordinarily do," he said.

AG calls on Cox to explain why prisoner were cutting her lawn

2012-02-02T07:30:00.000-05:00

Attorney General Anand Ramlogan told the Senate Wednesday former minister of state in the National Security Ministry, Donna Cox, used prisoners to do landscaping at her private residence.

He was speaking on an opposition motion to take note of the strengths and deficiencies of the T&T Police Service and their impact in the fight against crime.

Ramlogan accused the former government of using the State’s resources as if it belonged to them.

He stated that officials of the Prisons Service complained that they were forced to go to Cox's home to do landscaping. Ramlogan went further and provided the names of the prisoners and the date on which they went to Cox’s residence to do the landscaping:

Tuesday October 5, 2011—The prisoners: Carl Lau, Dexter Burnett, Leon Jackson and Sheldon David
The prisons officer: W Phillip
Approving officer: Prison supervisor Andrews

Ramlogan said the prison record showed the activity as "a community support event."

He demanded an explanation: “Why were prisoners under the guard of prison officers cutting her lawn and the fence in her private residence?”

In her defence, Cox accused Ramlogan on trying to shift the focus away from the the lease of a light plane by the police for nearly one million dollars.

She said citizens are not concerned about who cleaned her lawn but how the government is spending tax money.

Cox added that many other citizens had the benfit of the service that Ramlogan described. “There is a long list of people who were given that service,” Cox insisted. She insisted that she has not done "anything corrupt or unusual.”

Coalition leaders to meet Thursday: report

2012-02-02T07:15:00.000-05:00

The leaders of the People's Partnership are reported to be meeting on Thursday at the Diplomatic Centre to discuss general issues affecting the governing coalition, a report in the Newsday newspaper said.

Newsday said the talks are scheduled to be held after the regular cabinet meeting. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar will attend as head of United National Congress (UNC) political leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar.

Other leaders expected to attend arte Congress of the People (COP) political leader Prakash Ramadhar, Tobago Organisation of the People (TOP) political leader Ashford Jack, Movement for Social Justice political leader designate David Abdullah and the National Joint Action Committee (NJAC)’s Ambassador Makandal Daaga.

The report said there is no specific agenda for the meeting, which will welcome two new leaders - Abdullah and Ramadhar.

Newsday said the leader will deal with the issue of establishing a mechanism to communicate policy matters among the leaders of the coalition. It quoted one unnamed leader as saying, “We are meeting to discuss strategy and the way forward for the new year.”

Persad-Bissessar held an impromptu meeting with Ramadhar, Abdullah, Jack and Daaga at the Diplomatic Centre on January 23.

Belize to hold general election on March 7

2012-02-02T07:00:00.000-05:00

Prime Minister Dean Barrow

The Prime Minister of Belize announced on Tuesday that Parliament will be dissolved on Friday to clear the way for general elections on March 7, 2012.

Dean Barrow made the announcement in a lengthy address to the nation in which he said the vote will be held simultaneously with municipal and city elections.

Barrow told citizens that his ruling United Democratic Party had done well in the four years since taking office in 2008.

“We have accomplished much in this first term. Acting always for the people and with the support of the people, our overall record is a stellar one,” he said during his address.

He said his government maintained consistent economic growth, gave income tax relief to employees on fixed salaries and wrote off almost 15,000 mortgages for deserving families.

Barrow said despite government’s achievements there were those who still continued to assault its policies and efforts.

“We reject that and know they are wrong. But as proof we want a clear reaffirmation now of the mandate for us to continue and expand our mission. We want you to arm us and support us so we can tell the world that there will be no turning back,” he urged.

Barrow appealed to citizens to allow the country’s record for peaceful elections continue. “I appeal to all political parties and candidates to ensure that we maintain that record,” he said.

The Belize National Assembly comprises a House of Representatives and Senate similar to the Trinidad & Tobago legislature. There are 31 seats in the House and 12 Senate seats. Elections are constitutionally due every five years. The 2008 election was on February 7, so the election is coming a year ahead of schedule.

Barrow's party holds 25 of the seats in the legislature that will be dissolved this week. The opposition People's United Party has the other six.

Guest column: We need more humility - by Ira Mathur

2012-02-02T06:00:00.000-05:00

“The image of the Prime Minister bowing to the feet of the President of India was both ridiculous and revealing. The gesture has a specific genealogy: anyone subjected to Bollywood torture—forced to watch the movies— knows what it signifies: an ostentatious display of peasant virtue which is neither humble nor innocent. Anyone not schooled in this sign system would misunderstand this.”—Raymond Ramcharitar, Columnist at the Trinidad Guardian

“If you go there in your personal capacity you can do that but when you represent all the people of Trinidad and Tobago, do not go and kiss anybody’s foot on my behalf. Its the ultimate subservience..superiority, inferiority being demonstrated.”—Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley

I hold both these men in high esteem but I absolutely disagree with both Dr Rowley and Mr Ramcharitar in their assessment of the 30-second gesture of the Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar bending down to touch the feet of the Indian President, Pratibha Patil when she was being awarded the Pravasi Bhariya Samman award.

It was absolutely correct. To do otherwise would have been rude. In fact, the gesture endeared this country to all of India.

And no, I am not a Kamla boot-licker, don’t belong to any political party, no, I do not want a ‘wok’ in the PP Government, and no, it’s not because I was born in India. But let’s go back before we go forward.

Years back, like many students studying abroad, I was very politically active as a student in Canada and the UK.

The world was much more black and white then. There were right and left wing ideologies, there was the cold war, and there was labour, the conservatives and the liberals. There were parties who believed that the state needed to provide a huge safety net for the vulnerable and there was Margaret Thatcher.

There were marches against nuclear weapons and against apartheid. There were the communists, socialists, and capitalists. At least you knew who was who. And what you could expect. And who, by voting for a party, you yourself represented.

Back home, the political debate was not about how we could free ourselves of our colonial wounds, how all our people could realise their full potential through development and education. The ideology of development was absent in the corridors of power.

It’s as if we were suffering from post traumatic stress and locked ourselves into the safety of the politics of protest and race. Your vote was never free. It was tied to the race you happened to be born into. As a journalist you become a kind of a confessional and people everywhere said they felt they belonged to the downtrodden race including the French Creoles (who feel invisible.)

Our brightest stars, the late economists Lloyd Best, Frank Rampersad, William Demas, with UWI, LSE, Oxford and Cambridge degrees, and a deep sense of what it meant to be West Indian, could have led us into development but we were too busy protesting. Massa day was done. Indian would rise one day. Oddly, on the ground, there was peace.

Abroad, the Indian, African and European collectively owned the roti, the steel pan and the magnificent seven flew the same flag at the Oval. Wined with the same gestures for Carnival. Still, no development of fundamental values.

The conversation on every political platform, from every political party, stayed the same, how corrupt they were, and how we needed to get them out. Whoever came into power was going to have to deal with the IMF or the boom, or the slump, and just changed the name of the dependency programme they were going to put in place.

There are four generations of people in this country who have worked in previous incarnations of Cepep and Colour Me Orange. There was no development. Go back.

In 2002, when Winston Dookeran, then governor of the Central Bank, got economist Prof Jeffrey D Sachs to speak at the bank’s lecture series he had already been pronounced by The New York Times “the most important economist in the world”.

“What is globalisation? Simply this,” said Sachs. “The way countries and people are interlinked. HIV/Aids is a far more tragic effect of globalisation than September 11.

“Three million people die of HIV/Aids every year; 9,000 people die every day from it; 25 million are dead; it has affected over 65 million people. It has left Africa isolated, drowning in the cycle of disease and poverty. One-sixth of the world, led by the US, is doing well with globalisation. Everyone else is being left behind.

“The premise that globalisation creates equal opportunity is false because some countries haven’t even had a chance to join the world economy."

Geography, climate and history have already decided which countries have a head start. For example, countries in which slavery was practised, where there has been a wanton devastation of natural resources, are absent in the globalisation process. Brain drain, disease, social instability, geographical isolation, have left a fifth of the crippled world out of the race.”

What of Trinidad? He warned us then that despite our oil and gas, our per capita income (US$8,000) is roughly half that of Barbados (US$15,000) which invests far more in health and education. Development will come not by hanging on to oil prices, but by investing in our people. He thought it “dismal” that 30 per cent of our secondary students dropped out, that only 10 per cent make it to university, compared to US’s 85 per cent, Europe’s 50 per cent.

I looked around the auditorium then at Crowne Plaza and scarcely anyone was listening.

The next day’s news carried more scandal, and with our impotent rage went after another scapegoat which allowed us to bury our heads in the sands while pretending we were dealing with serious stuff. As a people we continue to give our power away to politicians and public figures.

What Sachs didn’t say was that slavery and indentureship destroyed our most important resource. By stripping a people of dignity, separating families, coercing them to change religions, forcing them to neglect their native languages, forget their villages and cities by geographically cutting them off from their ancient histories and oral traditions we were virtually shorn of our humanity.

As it is the neglect of education (400,000 among us are functionally illiterate) has left us without a voice.

Powerless, dependent on hand outs, bereft of the soul of ancient civilisations, or oral traditions that could comfort us, make us self reliant, humanise us, we turned blank, harsh and empty giving us among the highest murder rates on the planet in a non warring country.

That’s why a country like Spain could have up to five million unemployed but is practically murder free because the people still have intact families, a solid sense of their identity, and a broad education where shame is not working as a cleaner, (especially when one is qualified as an engineer) but depending on someone’s handout.

Back to the gesture. We need more. We need more humility. We need more respect for elders. We need to see joy in service. We need to be able to say please, thank you, sorry, after you, keep our word; keep time, without feeling small. It could be a boost to our entire tourism and service industries. Service should make us feel tall, not small.

She was not “kissing” someone’s “foot”. She was bending down, as perhaps millions of Indians were doing all over India, and some in Trinidad (my son, on leaving for university bent down to touch his grandfather's feet and was blessed) not to put herself and her country down, but to show that we have respect and ask for blessings from the most highly revered, non political woman in India today, the President, Pratibha Patil.

The PM was at the time being awarded with the Pravasi award for her achievements in the Indian Diaspora as a “great grand daughter” of India. The tradition is that no one touches anyone’s feet.

The younger person shows respect for the wisdom, love and sacrifice of the older person. The elder immediately holds the bowing younger by the shoulders, and hugs them in a gesture of blessing. There are many similar African and Asian greetings. Indians also put their hands on their hearts when being complemented or thanks. Humility is humanity.

That there is not just grace in humility in that gesture, but economics that allowed the world’s largest democracy to break out of poverty through its ancient values of hard work, humility and sacrifice to become one of the most powerful in the world, then we will understand the true meaning of that gesture.

The real poverty we are battling now is the poverty of the spirit which stands ready to destroy us. We have to regain our humanity from somewhere. Why not here with a Prime Minister’s gesture?

PM Kamla attends opening of Ecotourism centre

2012-02-01T09:00:00.000-05:00

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar will be attending the official opening of the Valencia Ecotourism Visitor Centre on Wednesday 1st February, 2012.

Time:11am

Location: Eastern Main Road, VALENCIA

AG says CoP is virtual CEO of police service; asks Cox who was cutting her lawn

2012-02-01T08:52:00.000-05:00

Attorney General Anand Ramlogan said on Tuesday Commissioner of Police (CoP) Dwayne Gibbs enjoys has autonomy, which is necessary to ensure efficiency in the T&T Police Service (TTPS).

He said the People's Partnership government gave the CoP that authority. "It's like a virtual CEO of the Police Service with executive authority in a way that he did not enjoy before," Ramlogan said.

"He does not have to come running to Brigadier Sandy (Minister of National Security) to sign of on buying a paperclip. That used to happen under the PNM, not the Partnership."

Ramlogan was speaking in the Senate on an opposition Private Motion on "Deficiencies in the Police Service".

He also explained that Gibbs had advised that the Police Service intended to create an Air Support Unit with assets from the Special Anti Crime Unit of Trinidad and Tobago (SAUTT), which Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has shut down.

He said the decision to lease a Zenith CH 750 light sports aircraft on a trial basis is a good one. The matter has become controversial since it was raised in the Parliament by the opposition last Friday. MP Donna Cox claimed that the police service was leasing the light aircraft for 12 weeks at a cost that was seven times more than the price of the plane.

"When they say, well if the amount of money you paying, which is TT$900,000, it could have bought the thing, that's not correct," the AG stated.

"The cost of it, I'm advised, is more in the vicinity of $250,000. Now if they did try out the blimp before buying it, and they realise it can't work in the night and most of the murders taking place in the night, then the country will not have been saddled with the cost of the purchase of the blimp."

Ramlogan also explained why Deputy Commissioner Jack Ewatski was flying planes in Trinidad.

"It's a hobby of his for 12 years. Long before he came to Trinidad and as part of maintaining that pilot's license, for those who are pilots would know, that at his own personal expense, he is paying out his own pocket.

"The man, as he always does as part of his routine to maintain the license, went on a trip and it had nothing to do with the contract they are talking about."

The AG also accused Cox of using the resources of the Prison Service for private landscaping. Cox was a minister in the national security ministry during the Manning PNM administration.

Ramlogan said, "They write it off in the prison records as a community support event. I demand and call on Ms. Cox to tell the nation why it is that prisoners under guard of prison officers were cutting her lawn and fence in her private residence and if that is a community-related event."

Ewatski provides details of Surveillance Aircraft project

2012-02-01T08:50:00.000-05:00

Deputy Commissioner of Police Jack Ewatski on Tuesday issued a statement giving details of the controversial surveillance aircraft project that the opposition raised in Parliament last Friday.

Ewatski said the Air Support Unit of the Trinidad & Tobago Police Service (TTPS) began a pilot project in April 2011 as part of the 21st Century Policing transformation initiative. The goal of the pilot project was to measure the effectiveness of aerial support to TTPS ground operations in the realm of law enforcement aviation, he said.

Ewatski stated that the unit used helicopters from the former SAUTT to conduct regular patrols, often identifying suspicious activities on the ground. The rapid response to reported crimes in progress resulted in the apprehension of 178 suspects, the seizure of firearms, ammunition and narcotics, he said.

"In addition it gave police the ability to provide ground resources with considerable situational awareness which proved extremely valuable during many police operations," he stated.

Ewatski said research was conducted into other forms of aerial support that might provide similar capabilities at reduced operating and maintenance costs. It included contact with the International Law Enforcement Aviation Association as well as aviation experts both locally and foreign.

"What was learned was that several law enforcement agencies were utilizing a relatively new form of aircraft commonly referred to as Light Sport Aircraft.

"The unique characteristics of this type of aircraft, including short take-off and landing, low fuel burn and extreme low stall speeds, on the surface, appear to provide an aircraft option with a significantly less operating and maintenance cost," Ewatski explained.

"In an effort to be fiscally prudent the Service began to explore this option further. Enquires revealed that a newly formed local company, The Trinidad and Tobago Air Support Company Ltd, was in the process of acquiring a number of these type of aircraft in their goal to advance the aviation market in Trinidad and Tobago. Additionally it was learned that technology used in the SAUTT helicopter fleet could be accommodated in these aircraft.

"It was also learned that no other aviation entity in the country had that type of aircraft in their fleet.

"Discussions took place between the TTPS and the Company which resulted in a proposal being considered by the Commissioner of Police to enter into a service provision agreement with the Company for a period of 12 weeks as a pilot project to evaluate the capability of this type of aircraft.

"On December 29, 2011 a contract was signed by the Commissioner of Police, under his authority as the Accounting Officer for the Service, with the Company to provide a minimum of 720 hours of aircraft use for the total sum of $140,440.00 USD," he said.

Ewatski stated further that the contract clearly indicates that this provision of service is for evaluation purposes of this type of aircraft with no commitment of any further business engagement.

"It is planned to carefully evaluate the capability of this type of aircraft as part of an overall strategy to establish the Air Support Unit as a permanent entity within the TTPS at the lowest possible cost," he said.

The canadian national also addressed reports that he participated in in a “test flight” of the Company’s aircraft.

He said, "The facts are that I am a holder of a Canadian aviation private pilot’s licence and have been for 12 years. Flying has been a hobby of mine and my intention was to pursue this hobby while living in Trinidad and Tobago.

"In order to meet currency requirements, on June 12, 2011, I completed a check flight with a certified flight instructor, Mr. Dan Condon, at my personal expense, using a privately owned aircraft which Mr. Condon had authority to use.

"This Cessna single engine aircraft is apparently owned by Mr. Eddie Dallsingh, an individual I have never met.

"On July 3rd, 2011, I again flew in the same aircraft with Mr. Condon to further hone my skills. At that time Mr. Condon was not a director of the Trinidad and Tobago Air Support Company.

"This interaction with Mr. Condon was solely for the above stated purpose and was in no way connected to any actions or decisions regarding the subsequent service provision agreement.

"Any assumptions or suggestions that my interaction with Mr. Condon influenced decisions made by the TTPS in this matter are completely misguided," Ewatski said in the statement that was issued through the public affairs unit of the TTPS.

Police make big drug bust in Valencia; seize ganja and ammo in central

2012-02-01T08:46:00.000-05:00

File: Marijuana plantation

Police in Trinidad & Tobago made a big drug bust Tuesday in the Valencia forest in east Trinidad. They seized and destroyed 98,000 marijuanas plants and 35,000 seedlings.

Officers estimate that the ganja would have had a street value of around $98 million.

The day before lawmen found 700 rounds of 9mm ammunition and 9 kilogrammes of compressed marijuana at an apartment in Endeavour Village, Chaguanas.

They are looking for a suspect who is said to be a well-known to police.

Tewarie, Ramadhar disappointed that PNM won't participate in JSC

2012-02-01T08:40:00.000-05:00

Planning and Development Minister Dr. Bhoe Tewarie is disappointed that the opposition has withdrawn from the Joint Select Committee (JSC) of Parliament that was established to shape procurement legislation.

Opposition Leader Keith Rowley told reporters Monday his party won't participate in the proceedings, calling the JSC a "Government pappy show". Rowley said in his view there are too many questionable practices in the procurement process with respect to a number of projects.

Tewarie said on Tuesday he was surprised to learn of the decision, adding that as far as he is aware, there is no problem with the committee. He urged Rowley to reconsider his decision.

"No matter how unappetizing a situation might be up here, if you have an opportunity to do something to make it better, or to put something in place that will improve the condition of procurement in the country, I think you have a responsibility and obligation to make sure it happens," he told reporters.

The leader of the Congress of the People (COP) also expressed regret and deep concern over Rowley's announcement.

In a statement Prakash Ramadhar said it is important that all stakeholders come together to work on a common platform and do what is best for the country.

"The fact that Dr. Rowley and the PNM could abdicate its responsibility on such a serious matter is sad and extremely disappointing," Ramadhar said. "This was an excellent opportunity for all concerned to work together on the daunting talk of eradicating corruption from our society."

Ramadhar called on Dr. Rowley and the PNM to reconsider their position and return to the table. "Let us show the country that we can work together and at all times put country first," he said.

Jack tells Penal protesters $110 needed to repave road, will do it phases

2012-02-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

Jack Warner met Tuesday with people from penal Rock Road who staged a fiery protest Monday and again on Tuesday to demand urgent repairs to their roads and and drains.

The Works and Infrastructure Minister also met with officials from the Siparia Regional Corporation.

Warner told the protesters that initial estimates suggest that it would cost about $110 million to repave the roadway from Penal Junction to Bass Terre, Moruga. He explained that his ministry does not have that amount of money available so the project would have to be completed in three phases.

He promised as an interim measure to begin patching the worse areas in about three weeks. When that is done, he said, the ministry would begin to build proper drains to prevent further deterioration of the roads.

Earlier in the day Warner opened the newly paved Joyce Road in the Couva North constituency in Central Trinidad.

Newly paved Joyce Road - Photo courtesy Allan Karim

Later he held the 4th Consultation with residents to be displaced by the Golconda to Point Fortin highway. He told them that the state could have used compulsory acquisition but noted that the People's partnership government doesn't treat people that way.

"This government will dialogue with you," he promised. Warner said the intention is that by April most of the relocation will be completed.

Works Minister Jack Warner meets residents to discuss relocation for Point highway - Ann Dookie photo

LIAT shareholders signal continued commitment to the airline

2012-02-01T07:00:00.000-05:00

The principal shareholders in the regional commuter airline, LIAT, met in Barbados Tuesday and pledged their continued support for the airline.agreed

Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines, chaired the meeting which was attended by his counterparts from Barbados, Freundel Stuart and Baldwin Spencer of Antigua and Barbuda.

The three prime ministers met with LIAT's board of directors and management to discuss the way forward for the regional carrier. They late met with representatives of LIAT’s 10 trade unions in an effort to foster communication and dialogue among LIAT’s stakeholders.

At a media conference following the meetings, Gonsalves told reporters the shareholders agreed with the airline’s management on certain steps for effecting the stabilization of the company.

These would involve a range of measures including reductions in the airline’s schedule, enhanced marketing and promotions in a number of markets, improving efficiency within certain departments, and targeted staff reductions aimed keeping costs down. The airline's losses over the past two years reached EC$60 million.

Gonsalves said shareholders noted the continuing challenges that the company faces, including high oil prices, continuing weaknesses in the regional and international economy, intensified competition on LIAT routes, the costs of maintaining an ageing fleet and industrial relations problems.

He said the company has been mandated to put together proposals for possible restructuring of LIAT to be presented to the shareholders for their review.

Gonsalves said shareholder governments would be reviewing the various proposals with the aim of meeting shortly in order to arrive at a recommendation as to the best choices for acquisition of new aircraft for the company.

With respect to talks with the unions, Gonsalves said there is a need to continue the dialogue, adding that LIAT's management and the unions plan to meet next week to address outstanding issues including discussion of the company’s strategic plan and objectives.

Chairman of the LIAT Board of Directors Dr. Jean Holder told the shareholders meeting LIAT will continue to play a lead role in the movement of people throughout the region. He added that the airline is committed to closer cooperation with other regional carriers where the interests of the airline and its shareholders were sufficiently guaranteed.

Stuart told reporters the three main shareholder governments will continue to support LIAT and work with the company’s management to chart a way towards its long term sustainability.

“We have, in our discussions today (Tuesday), laid the foundation for meaningful progress on the issue of LIAT,” Stuart said.

Health feature: Coconut oil cures Alzheimer's disease

2012-02-01T06:00:00.000-05:00

Coconut oil is something we have used in Trinidad & Tobago for as long as we can remember but in the developed world it has always been considered crude.

In fact there has also been misinformation that it causes the build up of cholesterol. What the critcis never told you is that it creates GOOD cholesterol, which is very helpful for anyone who might be prone to heart disease.

Now researchers are finding out that coconut oil is a miracle product that can cure diseases such as Alzheimer's disease.

Here is a report that explains. Please click to view the report:

PM says she did not authorise lease of surveillance aircraft

2012-01-31T10:10:00.000-05:00

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar told reporters on Monday the cabinet did not authorise Police Commissioner Dwayne Gibbs to lease an aircraft to be used for surveillance. She added that the National Security Council, which she chairs, also did not give Gibbs the authorisation.

She explained that Gibbs was within his right to make “certain expenditures” without seeking approval from Cabinet or Parliament.

Persad-Bissessar spoke with the media in Debe following the formal commencement of work on the South Campus of the University of the West Indies (UWI).

PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Tertiary Education Minister Fazal Karim show off a drawing of the new South Campus.

She said she has asked National Security Minister John Sandy to prepare a report on matter. The Opposition said in parliament last Friday the Zenith Air scout surveillance aircraft has been leased for 12 weeks $902,772.

Persad-Bissessar said: “I have absolutely no knowledge of that matter. It was never a matter which came to the Government or to the Cabinet and therefore the best person to answer would be the Commissioner of Police.

"I have asked the Minister of National Security to obtain a report about the matter, so I have no knowledge whatsoever, except what I read in the newspapers and heard in Parliament last Friday.”

She added, “As you know the Commissioner of Police is now much more than an accounting officer and my advice is like any permanent secretary and accounting officer he has the jurisdiction to make certain expenditures without seeking the approval of the National Security Council or of the Cabinet.

“I have asked Minister Sandy to obtain a report and only then can I comment on the matter. I knew nothing, as I say, of it, until the matter came out in Parliament and the papers.”

Persad-Bissessasr also dismissed opposition charges that she has been using a national security helicopter for travelling around the country.

“That is totally not true. The statements are false, mischievous and misleading. The chopper is used by myself and others from time-to-time. I didn’t come here with a chopper, did I?" she asked.

"This was really designed to bring the office into disrepute. The helicopters are there. They have been used, as they have been used in the past, by myself and other Ministers of Government."

She also denied that the government is refurbishing the aircraft to make them luxury helicopters.

"There was no work to upgrade the helicopter in anyway. They (the opposition) mentioned an icebox. I am advised that the icebox was purchased with the chopper when it was bought in 2004. We are now in 2012. These statements are totally false, misleading and very mischievous.”

Sandy expects full report from Gibbs on surveillance plane

2012-01-31T10:05:00.000-05:00

At the request of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, National Security Minister John Sandy has asked Commissioner of Police Dwayne Gibbs for a full account to the public of the procurement process.

Sandy told reporters on Monday, “I am advised that aircraft was acquired on trial basis but I think the Commissioner of Police is best poised to answer that.

“I was told it was based on a 12-week trial basis.” Sandy added. “I suspect very much, based on how that trial period goes they would determine whether they want to acquire it or not.”

Sandy explained that he could not provide media with more information because he did not have details of the transaction, which was not authorised by cabinet or the national security council.

“This was done by the accounting officers of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service through the Commissioner,” he said.

“It’s a public matter. Depending on the nature of the aircraft there may be some elements you may not want to share but definitely, with respect to the procurement aspect, if it is above aboard then by all means,” he added.

Rowley wants probe into lease of aircraft

2012-01-31T10:02:00.000-05:00

Keith Rowley has written the chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC) asking Ramesh Deosaran to investigate the conduct of Police commissioner Dwayne Gibbs and Deputy Commissioner Jack Ewatski in the award of a contract for a surveillance aircraft.

Rowley claimed that the firm providing the service is a "fly by night" company.

The Opposition Leader raised the issue Monday at his regular weekly media briefing at which he showed reporters documents which he claimed was proof that another company provided a lower bid than the company that got the contract. One of the letters was dated October 6, 2010 to Gibbs from Eddie Dallsingh, managing director of Navi-Comm Avionics Ltd.

Dallsingh's letter asked Gibbs to make a presentation to demonstrate that Navi-Comm could help in the fight against crime by providing a light sport aircraft to the police at a cost of US$35 an hour (TT$224).

Rowley said Gibbs sent a reply dated December 31, 2010, Gibbs suggesting that Dallsingh send his proposal the permanent secretary in the Ministry of National Security.

Rowley also produced what he said was a certified copy of notice of change of directors of the Trinidad and Tobago Air Support Co Ltd. showing Daniel Condon, Dirk Barnes and Kevon Stafford listed as the directors. Rowley said the company was formed in July 2011.

Rowley produced what he said was a letter of intent that Gibbs sent to Barnes thanking the company for its interest in providing a "unique" service to the police. The contract was for US$140,400,000 (TT$902,772,000) for a pilot project for 720 hours over a 12-week period.

The contract, Rowley said, was signed by Barnes on Boxing Day and by Gibbs three days later.

"The conduct of officers who should protect the public purse and in fact who should call into question the conduct of other people, their own conduct is now a matter of concern to us," Rowley stated.

"Today I am sending this entire file in my possession to the Police Service Commission, where they will examine the conduct of the Commissioner of Police and the deputy Commissioner of Police in this matter," he added.

"They will then determine whether the conduct is the kind that poses no threat to the people of this country," he added.

Work begins on Debe campus of UWI; PM Kamla pledges to continue to deliver on promises

2012-01-31T10:00:00.000-05:00

(Click on link to watch a video presentation of the proposed Debe campus of UWI)

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar said on Monday the South campus of the University of the West Indies in Debe will boost the government’s thrust in education and create new opportunities for people in the vicinity of the 200 acre campus.

She noted that since her Government took office 20 months ago the focus has been on reaching 60 per cent tertiary enrolment. It now stands at 42 per cent.

“We have continued on the path of transformation of our education sector – from nursery to tertiary - recognizing the need for expanding access to meet the growing demand for sound education not only here at home but all over the world,” she said.

Persad-Bissessar was speaking at an event to mark the formal start of construction of the South campus in Debe.

She said over 53,000 students are currently enrolled in both public and private tertiary level institutions, with many of them getting financial assistance from the expanded GATE Programme. There are another 75,000 in vocational and skills training system and the over 200,000 students in primary and secondary schools, she said.

“The steps we build here today and the foundations we lay are just an example of the increasingly crucial role that we see education can play in improving the lives of people everywhere…

“This University Campus will also continue to play a vital role in defining new boundaries. It must seek to offer a vast research base to develop a fresh new workforce, promote goodwill among its alumni and the ability to objectively look at disparate views, and ensure a deep commitment to local communities,” she said.

The Prime Minister stressed that education is the single best tool to grow out of poverty and noted that the campus is just one component of the expanding infrastructure to which her government is committed.

She said the highway from Golconda to Point Fortin is expected to significantly increase opportunities for creating new market spaces in the south-western peninsula.

“With infrastructure such as port facilities, the close proximity to low cost power, and a cluster development with great opportunities for expansion, the possibilities are limitless, this University Campus must respond to the needs of the community,” she said.

“Improving our infrastructure, such as this campus and the highway project are linked and are intended to not only support investment but cohesively stimulate economic growth, build human capacity and continue to develop opportunities for non-energy sector growth.

“It is also our duty to furnish our students with an attractive and diverse range of programmes that meet local demands and international standards. The time has come for us to orchestrate a paradigm shift that will reduce our nation’s dependency at this time of our Independence,” Persad-Bissessar added.

She also spoke about a Technical Cooperation Agreement for Education with the Government of India, which will promote academic activity in Higher Education in the fields of science and technology, information and communication technologies, technical and vocational education and training and “very importantly – research and innovation.”

She said student and faculty exchanges and the development of new programmes will begin as early as September 2012.

Indian public sector officials are soon expected to visit Trinidad & Tobago to work with ministries and institutions in developing and reviewing policies and implementing areas of strategic need.

“Support will also be given to developing links to over 1500 institutional nodes through the Indian National Knowledge Network. Such connectivity will link us to India’s largest educational databases which will strengthen our intellectual base and knowledge capacity, and support the building of our own a local National Knowledge Network.

“I am also advised that some 250 programmes have been made available to the UTT for use freely by the public through the India’s National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning (NP-TEL).

“Other areas of strategic linkages have been in the areas of renewable energy, petroleum, science, engineering, faculty development, business incubators, laboratory facilities, film and the arts,” Persad-Bissessar said.

She also took note of her critics. “We were chastised when we went to India, to Brazil, when we dedicated this land for the campus, and as it has become the norm of my colleagues in the opposition, they will continue to chastise us in unthinkable ways,” she said.

“Little do they realize the challenges we face today such as in completing projects like our Universities and other Infrastructural works are due to the wanton waste of public funds, from the still unoccupied estates to the extravagant executive offices.

“This Government continues to make do with little - developing infrastructure, building highways, schools and universities, and converting our vision into reality, one project at a time, so that the people of Trinidad and Tobago can have a more prosperous life.

“I say again, this has been our commitment to you and we will continue to deliver on our promise.”

She said in the coming months she plans to unveil the Integrated Campus in Tobago where a number of higher education institutions will co-exist.

Hotelier Rajiv Shandilya is new chairman of Tourist Board

2012-01-31T09:35:00.000-05:00

Tourism Minister Dr Rupert Griffith poses with TDC's new chairman and Deputy chair

Tourism Minister Dr Rupert Griffith formally installed members of a new board for the Tourism Development company (TDC).

The Chief Executive Officer of the Chancellor Hotel and Conference Centre, Rajiv Omah-Maharaj Shandilya is the chairman. The deputy chair is Miss Universe 1977, Janelle Penny Commissiong-Chow.

Other board members are:

Carol Ann Birchwood James

Cheryl Dubay-Tewarie

Clyde H. Adams

Dr Allan Bachan

Dyanand Maharaj

Ferosza Khan-Abdul

Premanand Badalloo

Ryan D’Arcy

Sasha Balkara

Vindra Amar

Tourism Minister, Rupert Griffith said he expects the board to ensure the continuous upgrade and consistent maintenance of the country’s tourism products with accountability and transparency in all transactions.

He said members were carefully selected to include competent individuals who are experienced in the areas of sales and marketing, finance and project management, as well as tourism and hospitality.

“Some of the new board members are also the owners and operators of highly successful award winning businesses. This synergy of skills set is critical to the effective and efficient operations of TDC, and will allow much-needed changes to be made,” he said.

The minister urged the board to forge strong public-private relationships and work closely with the Tobago House of Assembly and other tourism stakeholders.

Griffith offered the board some guidelines. “We must use our creative talents—such as our music and gifted sportsmen and women, artists and world celebrities—to raise our profile internationally and promote Trinidad and Tobago as a tourism destination,” he said.

He also called for more effective use of the country’s overseas missions and six overseas marketing representatives in the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Canada, Scandinavia and India.

Shandilya pledged to uphold the mandate of the board. “We have to ensure that TT is known, no longer want to be a secret, we need to use the instruments the world has provided us especially in terms of ICT,” he said.

The government has developed a 15-Month Tourism Action Plan, which is one of a series of initiatives to revitalise Trinidad and Tobago’s tourism industry. The details of the plan will be revealed in the first quarter of next year.

SWRHA investigating why ambulance refused to help mother and dying baby

2012-01-31T09:08:00.001-05:00

Stacy Simon

The South West Regional Health Authority (SWRHA) said on Monday it is investigating reports that two Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) refused to transport a dying child to the San Fernando General Hospital last Friday.

The boy, 21-month-old Akhail Simon, was pronounced dead on arrival at hospital.

The Chief Executive Officer of the authority Dr. Anil Gosine said, "I would have to do further investigations on our side to see what really happened there. I need to find out what took place."

Stacy Simon reported that an personnel in an ambulance attached to the SWRHA refused to take her and her child to the hospital. She said when she waved the ambulance to a stop in La Romaine there was room to take her and her baby to hospital.

Simon added that a patient on a stretcher and two women were seated in the rear of the ambulance. Gosine told reporters the driver cannot make the decision on who to pick up.

Health Minister Dr Fuad Khan said on Sunday he is "disgusted" about what he called "the inhumane behaviour" of the healthcare technicians who refused to provide assistance to the mother and child.

A report in the Express newspaper Tuesday said Simon's baby was already dead when a doctors at the Gulf View Medical Centre saw the infant. The paper quoted the doctor as saying that he was seeing another patient when the mother and child came to the office without an appointment.

"There were no signs of any activity. The pupils were dilated. Yes, I told her take him to the emergency of the San Fernando Hospital," the Express quoted the doctor as saying, noting the the person asked not to be identified.

The paper said when it asked why the child was referred to the hospital if was dead the doctor offered this explanation:

"Because it becomes a DMO (District Medical Officer) case, where you need to do post-mortem, an autopsy. And that could not be handled in private settings.

"In that sort of situation we usually have to send them to the hospital to get an autopsy, (to find out) what is the cause of death. In a private setting you cannot do that. In private setting usually the District Medical Officer becomes involved. So in private setting you cannot organise that. Let's put it this way."

The doctor also offered an explanation to the paper about why he didn't request an ambulance: "There was a gentleman who brought the baby and I thought he was the one to be carrying the baby across. And he did not object. I automatically thought there was transport. So as soon as I said that they came out of office. Immediately I told them they have to get the baby to the Casualty and they left office immediately."

The paper said Stacy Simon said the doctor did not tell her the child was dead, only that she should take him to the hospital. The Express quoted her as saying, "The doctor used the stethoscope and listened to the baby's chest and heart. He didn't try to do anything, no medicine or anything. He just shook his head to the assistant. He then told us to take the child to Casualty."

Jack to visit protesters in PM's constituency

2012-01-31T09:00:00.000-05:00

Works Minister Jack Warner is expected to visit an area in Penal Rock road that has been blocked off by protesters who want immediate action to repair the roads and deal with flooding and drainage problems.

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar said Monday she will find out the nature of the problem and do whatever is possible to help correct them.

The residents uprooted trees and set tyres ablaze on the roadway at different locations along a stretch of road, blocking commuters from getting through.

A spokesman told media councillors of the Penal/Debe Regional Corporation and the Ministry of Works have refused to attend to the problems. "They don’t care about us. We love the Prime Minister but she doing nothing for us. She fixing everywhere else in the country, but she forsaking her own people,” the spokesman told reporters.

The group insisted that the protests will continue until Persad-Bissessar or Warner visit the area.

Letter: Serious questions remain about national security

2012-01-31T08:44:00.001-05:00

In four months, the People’s Partnership Government would have served two years in office. It has been an eventful two years marked by missteps as well as great successes.

The main problem for the government remains the control over the crime situation. According to the Police, the murders that are taking place are “hits”, targeted assassinations. Be that as it may, it is disconcerting to the population who want firm action on this matter.

It appears that the Police have dropped their hands since the end of the SoE. They continue to flounder with respect to intelligence gathering and as well targeted strategies into areas where the majority of murders are taking place.

One is left to wonder why certain strategies announced prior to the end of the SoE have not been implemented. For example, the precepting of Regimental Police so that when the army is out on “confidence patrols” there can be arrests and searches. Secondly, why has the army not set up camps in “high risk” areas?

The people cannot continue to suffer if there are disputes between the army and the Police over so described territory. The fact is that the Police are woefully inadequate in the drive against crime. By no stretch of the imagination is 37 murders in 30 days acceptable.

In fact it is an indictment on the performance of the Police and the Commissioner who should be given the “pink slip.”

In this country we take too long to make critical decisions and allow Rome to be burnt while we party and procrastinate. The Police remain uninspired by Commissioner Gibbs and in addition there appears a strong resentment against having a foreigner as Commissioner.

In this regard too, Professor Ramesh Deosaran has been tardy in the evaluation of the Commissioner and therefore is indirectly contributing to the chaotic state of affairs.

This is one area that requires reform. The Police Service Commission must do its work with greater speed since that represent the interests of the people of the country. Or is it that Professor Deosaran has suddenly gotten flat footed.

In the midst of this, hard questions must also be asked of the Minister of National Security with whom ultimate responsibility for crime resides. The Prime Minister is duty bound to ascertain from the Minister of National Security as to why the spike in murders and what is being done.

It appears that it is business as usual after the SoE. The real issue seems to be that the Minister is not calling people to account for their performance. So too Professor Deosaran seems to lack the courage to deal with what the public has concluded as poor performance on the part of the Police Commissioner.

Politically, the failure to resolve the negotiations for the wages and salaries of Police Officers has left the Police Officers demoralized and frustrated. To what extent the non-resolution of this wage and salary dispute is a deliberate ploy on the part of Anand Ramessar and his Executive remains to be seen. However, it is becoming manifestly clear that there are no serious attempts by the Police Executive to solve the negotiations.

This leads one to believe that there is a deliberate attempt by the Executive to put the country at risk in terms of security. The government must take note of this and send the matter to the tribunal. The government must not allow the people to live under conditions of insecurity.

Finally since last year, the Ministry of Works built spaces for Police vehicles on the Highway. I have not seen one vehicle placed there for almost one year. The Minister of National Security must account for this.

Arjun M. Persad |Lengua, Barrackpore

Guest column: Reassemble fragments of society - by Ira Mathur

2012-01-31T08:00:00.000-05:00

“Break a vase, and the love that reassembles the fragments is stronger than that love which took its symmetry for granted when it was whole.”
—Derek Walcott

After last week’s column in which I supported the gesture of the PM touching the feet of the Indian president as a symbol of humility and service—values we need to grow every sector in this country, from tourism to finance—I was told in one of the online responses to “go home”, and in another, to “go back to India.”

After more than 17 years of writing a column, it’s easy to read signs of distress. When people lash out, almost 90 per cent of the time it’s because they feel bad about themselves.

I supported the gesture since I felt secure that the Indian President didn’t threaten our sovereignty, and because our society is forgetting what it meant to be human. This is not a subtle point. The daily murder rate, and the shocking number of road fatalities point to this.

The most chilling thought is that the average murderer, whether he bashes a six-year-old child to death, or shoots an 18-year-old dead, or kills innocent people on the road with reckless driving, is sadly, and indelibly a part of the psyche of what makes you and me.

The colonisers stripped us down to our skin. When we were stripped of family, language and country we grew a tough skin. Emptied of empathy we turned brute.

I saw this in Israel/Palestine, during an intifada. I asked soldiers how, after going through the holocaust, could they justify occupying the homeland of the Palistinians. They hugged their gun and said: “Nobody was going to do that to them again.” They kill in the name of the past hurt, unable to get past the memory of the wound.

Our music reflects this rawness and we see it at Carnival. Our soca, chutney is copycat, stunted, devoid of lyricism, simplistic, (often with a “tune” from a nursery rhyme) with poor language and literacy skills.

The aggression is not limited to men toting guns. It’s everyday fare in neglected rural Trinidad, with the highest rates of illiteracy in the country.

I saw this, as I have repeatedly over the years, at a “function” last weekend.

The point of the whole celebratory event is not participatory but a spectator show where the host invites many people to make speeches praising him, and ends up by praising himself.

There were a sprinkling of ministers, glittery religious symbols, and much talk about God, the waiting food and the hungry guests. One minister gave a good speech towards the end.

It’s a pity because by then many people, hungry and bored, had nodded off. He said that God is the same for everyone, but the religion and ritual we use, our world view depends on history, where we were born and how we grew up.

This applies to everything. Our circumstances dictate our behaviour. Before the meal was served the host asked if guests could help assemble the tables “and put the flower arrangements on them.”

(If this doesn’t show lack of socialisation I don’t know what does. You invite people, you make them listen to your greatness for three hours, then you get them to assemble your tables, put on your tablecloths, add a flower arrangement and then sit down. Even a beggar girl, in some remote mountain hilltop in any old country, knows that she needs to serve her guest, to make him or her sit and eat).

As I was leaving I went to thank the host whom I have known for many years—formal and distant relationship—and he said to me: “Gyul, I readin all your articles and tinkin, that bitch real like to travel yes!”

You call a guest who thanks you a bitch. My first reaction was shock. My second was to wish VS Naipaul could have written about this because he would have done it so much better. My third was, I wonder if he was aware, despite all the God talk, of his ancestral culture of India where guests are welcomed, treated like God, where people would rather starve than see someone go away hungry and where one wouldn’t ever dream of insulting someone in your own house.

And finally, I saw for myself just how unsocialised he was. He literally didn’t know better. He was someone his village looked up to. Now the stories of illiteracy, incest, alcoholism made sense. The murders and road deaths throughout the country made sense. The neglect of books, manners, literacy, art, music, a civic sense, curiosity, became a monster with whom we haven’t grappled.

A friend explained with the proverb that “a fish rots from the head down,” meaning when a State fails it is the leadership that is the root cause. We need to start the socialising process, reassemble the fragments in schools, at home, in offices, to create a second skin that is more human, less brute.

Khan promises "harsh action" after ambulance personnel refuse to help woman and dying child

2012-01-30T10:55:00.000-05:00

File

Health Minister Dr Fuad Khan is "disgusted" about what he described as "inhumane behaviour" of emergency medical personnel who refused to help a mother and her 21-month-old baby, citing corporate policy.

In a media statement, the minister promised "harsh decisions".

He was reacting to a report that Stacy Simon tried without success to get the technicians to take her and her dying baby to the San Fernando General Hospital. Baby Akeel Simon, who had Down's Syndrome, was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital.

According to reports on the matter Simon's child, who had three holes in his heart and an enlarged liver, contracted high fever last Friday, the day of her scheduled clinic visit at the hospital.

The car in which the Erin woman and her child were travelling broke down and she managed to get another vehicle that became stuck in heavy traffic. She saw an ambulance approaching and asked for help to get her and the child to the hospital.

However the woman said two persons in the ambulance told her it was against policy to help persons like her on the road.

An angry Khan told the Express newspaper: "What foolish policy are they talking about? It is obvious that no human feelings existed in these EMT's. An ambulance is an ambulance, they are supposed to help," he declared.

Dr Anil Gosine, chief executive officer of the South West Regional Health Authority (SWRHA), agreed with the minister.

However he stated there is an unwritten policy that restricts what the ambulance personnel can do. he said RHA ambulances could only transport patients from one medical facility to another since they are not equipped to treat emergency cases or provide medical treatment on the side of the road.

"Whenever we have to transport someone, then we equip the ambulance. In this case with the mother and her child it could be that the ambulance did not have a medical person on board and did not have the equipment to deal with the case," he said.

"And if something happens to someone during transport it opens us to litigation. But if we need to now handle those situations then there needs to be a policy change," he said.

Media reports on another incident suggest negligence on the part of ambulance personnel.

The reports, which the Express said were corroborated by people at the San fernando General Hospital, stated that when former Prime Minister Patrick Manning suffered a stroke one week ago it was a Fire Service ambulance that took him to the hospital because the driver of the Emergency Health Service (EHS) ambulance belonging to the Global Medical Response of Trinidad and Tobago (GMRTT) could not find Manning's residence at Sumadh Gardens, Vistabella.

The paper said officers from the Mon Repos Fire Station confirmed that an ambulance arrived at Manning's residence at approximately 9.10 p.m. on Monday, and took him to hospital.

It was not us, ambulance company says

2012-01-30T10:36:00.003-05:00

Global Medical Response of Trinidad and Tobago Ltd (GMRTT) issued a media release Sunday it which it denied "the recently reported and erroneous reports that its ambulance service address failed and/or refused to render assistance to a young mother whose critically-ill son needed assistance."

The release stated: "GMRTT first learned of this incident through reports in the media and it wishes to express its regret for such an incident having taken place."

The company said of learning of the report it conducted "a complete and aggressive investigation" to determine if GMRTT personnel were involved in any manner whatsoever.

"The investigation included a search of our sophisticated Computer Aided Dispatch system that creates a traceable archive of all activities of all resources in our service. It was conclusively determined that no such incident occurred involving GMRTT," the release said.

It continued, "Based on the gravity of this incident and our determination to comprehensively deal with the allegations, we further researched all activities of all ambulances, as recorded by our Global Position Satellite (GPS) vehicle tracking system; this system allows our investigators to 'play back' all vehicle movements and to retrace vehicle motions on a digital map.

"Additionally, we queried all staff members who may have been in the proximity of this incident while managing other citizen emergencies. Our investigation firmly concludes that the ambulance seen by Miss Simon was not one operated by GMRTT. The ambulance personnel with whom she spoke were not GMRTT Emergency Medical Technicians," the release said.

"GMRTT assures the national community that we have no policy that would inhibit or prevent GMRTT personnel from rendering assistance to any citizen experiencing any medical emergency.

"Such a notion goes against our core organisational mission and the very purpose of our company and our care providers.

"We wish to state that the reports which have alleged that GMRTT was at fault for this incident is totally untrue and we categorically deny any wrongdoing or involvement in the incident. It is quite possible that Miss Simon dealt with another ambulance service provider and not GMRTT.

"We express sincere condolences to Miss Simon and the family of Akeel Simon and wish to assure the national community of the continued commitment of GMRTT to server each and every member of the national community."

Indian diplomat says T&T must revive Hindi

2012-01-30T09:00:00.001-05:00

Indian High Commissioner to Trinidad & Tobago, Malay Mishra, said on Sunday now is the time to revive the Hindi language in the country.

He was speaking at a function to mark World Hindi Day, which is normally observed on January 10. It was postponed because Misra was out of the country, accompanying Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar on her state visit to India.

Hindi was brought to Trinidad by the ancestors of nearly half of the population of the country. However over the years a lack of interest and a western culture caused it to lose appeal.

The Indian High Commission has been helping re-establish Hindi and offers classes for anyone who wants to learn it.

Noting that India is the ancestral home of many citizens of Trinidad & Tobago, the diplomat noted that it is the language of "your ancestors who came from that land where your grandparents or great grandparents over three or four generations were speaking in Hindi."

He asked, "Why should that not be revived here again ? Why should we not make an effort?"

Mishra said Hindi is not a difficult language to learn. He said if people can learn and understand foreign languages such as Spanish and French, there is no reason why Hindi which, he said, is the language of their culture could not be learnt.

"Please understand that Hindi is not a foreign language for any of you. Hindi is your language. It was an integral part of your culture then and it is an integral part of your culture now.

"Trinidad and Tobago is primarily a diaspora country and the recent State visit of the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago to India has marked a new chapter in our bilateral relations."

Mishra said people in India connected with PM Persad-Bissessar in a way that they may not have were she the head of state of a country like France, the United Kingdom or the United States.

"It is because of the roots of the Prime Minister that found an instant connect with the Indian media. She just swept the Indian media unlike anybody else has ever done before.

"Wherever she went she has been the darling of the media. Today Trinidad and Tobago and Kamla Persad-Bissessar are household names in India and the simple reason was because of this connect," Misra said.

He said the connection would have been even stronger, especially in Persad-Bissessar's ancestral village, if she had been able to speak to the people in Hindi.

Commentary: So what's wrong with a welfare state?

2012-01-30T09:00:00.000-05:00

Some critics of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar are slamming her for "creating a welfare state" with her announcement of water, electricity and transportation subsidies for pensioners and other qualified citizens.

Before we create the impression that "welfare state" is a bad word or something retrograde, let's understand the system.

By definition it is:
"A social system whereby the state assumes primary responsibility for the welfare of its citizens, as in matters of health care, education, employment, and social security."

PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar hands out keys for state housing

In that context Trinidad & Tobago has always been a welfare state and there is nothing fundamentally wrong with it. Canada is also a welfare state.

What is wrong is when we have a citizenry that becomes so dependent on the state that people refuse to be productive.

Trinidad & Tobago has not gone the route of Canada in developing a full welfare state, although in areas such as education it has surpassed Canada. Successive governments going back to Eric Williams have been making efforts to improve the welfare of citizens.

Kamla and the People's Partnership are moving the process ahead and doing it quicker that their predecessor administrations because of their approach to fiscal management. In other words they are finding ways to make their dollars work harder for more people.

So giving free electricity and water to certain people might ostensibly put an additional financial burden on the state and its taxpayers. But that is not necessarily so.

Kamla operates on the premise that managing the state must be done with the same care and accountability as running a home. You look after everybody and spread the resources to ensure that no one is left out.

By the very definition above Trinidad & Tobago is a well developed welfare state, looking after the healthcare, education, employment and social security of its people.

I would argue that it needs to develop the system even further to provide state-managed employment insurance, state pensions and a financial support system for people who need the help. It must go beyond what NIS now offers. And it needs to fine tune some of what it does to make it more effective.

In health for example, Trinidad & Tobago offers free services, but only at the hospitals and health centres. It means a mother with a sick child might have to wait hours to see a doctor at a public institution or pay a hefty fee at a private clinic to see a doctor. Compare that with Canada where the state regulates the fees that doctors charge and pays doctors directly for service provided to anyone.

If you need a doctor you go the clinic and he or she bills the government for it. Doctors are taxed at source and that generates revenue to help pay for the system. In Trinidad & Tobago you have to pay for every visit and I would wager that there are very few doctors who are honest about their revenues in paying taxes.

Further, Canada has a single tiered system, which means that the state pays for doctors' visits, hospital care, and a host of other health services. It is illegal to have a private hospital unless that hospital operates within the rules of the Canada Health Act and the state pays the bills.

In Trinidad & Tobago many doctors undermine the health care system because they encourage patients to use private facilities - and pay thousands - when the public system is just as good. I have had angioplasty in Toronto without paying one penny; my brother in Trinidad paid TT$100,000 for the same service. In principle it should be free in T&T too, but the two-tiered system allows the double standards and exploitation where doctors malign the public system for their own benefit.

Every system is the world will be exploited by some. However, with proper planning and management the welfare state is affordable and creates a better society in which people are treated fairly and equitably.

It works well within a capitalist system too, so the private sector and the corporations need not fear the term "welfare state". In fact, such a system provides welcome support to everyone, even the rich and famous.

There's no need for anyone to apologise for creating support systems for those who need them. That's what Kamla promised and that's what she is doing. God speed to her and her team!

Jai Parasram - 30 January 2012

Rambachan congratulates UNC Youth Arm for vision, hard work

2012-01-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

Everyday, our great party, the United National Congress continues to grow stronger and stronger.

This is due to the hard work that individuals like Nicholas Morris and members of the Youth Arm of the Party continue to carry out. It is my view that all members of the party should continue to support and encourage the youths as by their hard work they are demonstrating that change comes about through vision and action.

UNC National Youth Arm President Nicholas Morris presents a computer to a family in keeping with its Computer Policy to bridge the digital divide and encourage Human Development.

It is clear that they are complementing the work of the government. The work of the youth group deserves high commendation and gives a lie to the belief that youths are not interested in politics and in service to the nation.

I have noted with admiration that the youths of the UNC are walking districts meeting other youths and inspiring them to join in creating the change.

In the words of Nicholas Morris “My vision for the Youth Arm and all who may seek to join is very simple, the Youth Arm must be the body which brings youth of this nation together despite race, religion and backgrounds to use their respective talents to benefit our nation and the beautiful diverse people who call Trinidad and Tobago home.” With such a lofty and focussed vision Mr Morris and the Youth Arm are bound to succeed.

The Youth Arm as well as seeking to build our nation is also demonstrating that they are committed to building the youths themselves as they prepare to be future leaders within our country and even global community.

For the Year 2012 The UNC YOUTH ARM have hit the ground running and have already launched three major projects:

1. Feeding the homeless - On January 7th members of the National Youth Arm launched a program to feed the Homeless individuals of Chaguanas. They plan to make this a monthly project where they will feed the various homeless people throughout our nation and extend it to geriatric homes and orphanages.

2. They launched in collaboration with the Women ‘s Arm a Walkabout which has seen them in the past month walk areas of Chaguanus, San Fernando, Princes Town , Siparia, Oropuche West and Sangre Grande.

3. In January they launched their Councillor’s Appreciation Project, where the National Youth Arm awarded all UNC Local Government Councillors with tokens of appreciation for their hard work. From this they hope to build a working relationship so they can have a closer link with all communities.

4. Membership Drive – They have recorded over 120 new members for 2012 into the National Youth Arm and Party.

In February they will be starting a Youth Talk show on Radio Jagriti to promote the party's leadership, governance and defend as well as promote their hard work entitled "Voice of the Youth". This will be followed by a Magazine Launch in March also entitled "Voice of the Youth"

In February they will also launch their Legal Clinic at Rienzi where the young lawyers of the youth arm will be offering pro bono work to members of the public.

Their projects launched in the past year of 2011 included:

A Student Outreach Program which saw 60 less fortunate children receive school bags and textbooks for the reopening of school 2011
A Computer Program which was aimed at providing poor families with computers. Since it began on October 11th 2011, they have provided 5 families with computers
Creation of a Culture Policy so as to reach out to the diverse groups which exist in our society, such as for Eid when they visited over 15 Mosques and presented gifts to the Imams while the same was done for Divali
Carried out Constituency Tours which served as Youth Consultations including visits to Laventille and Diego Martin
Distributed over 320 toys to poor children for Christmas

This is indeed an impressive set of achievements worthy of congratulations and commendations. The leadership of Mr Morris and the work of the Youth Arm of the UNC make us the members of the UNC proud of them.

Surujrattan Rambachan | Deputy Political Leader, United National Congress

Guest column: Water For All by Steve Alvarez

2012-01-30T06:50:00.000-05:00

I was pleasantly surprised today (Sunday) to read about the possible light rail system above the Priority Bus Route.

Last week I also read that the Prime Minister was contemplating making the pan yards social centres where youth can showcase their talent and much more.

These are ideas that form part of my overall vision for Trinidad & Tobago and I am pleased to see that the Government of Trinidad & Tobago is addresssing the concerns of our citizens. This is wonderful and it gives me hope that many aspects of the crime plan I forwarded will one day be a reality.

Already the computerization of criminal data and motor vehicle information is on the way and should be accessible in police mobile units. Specially forged number plates, taser guns and electronic speed measuring devices may soon follow.

If the trend continues we can look forward to cable cars instead of expensive and environmentally hazardous tunnels. Soon we may very likely see an evacuation plan for the major cities and an economic plan where a number of different innovation initiatives will replace our dependence on oil and gas.

Steel pan factories, large scale farms with livestock, Tilapia and ground provisions, marketing of Carnival and the development of Chacachacare are all possibilities that will ignite the imagination of our citizens and propel Trinidad & Tobago towards developed nation status. It is with this excitement in mind that I add to my many suggestions the solution to our water distribution system.

Trinidad & Tobago has more than enough water to supply all our industries and citizens with water on a daily basis. The problem is we have not done much to increase the storage facilities at the major reservoirs.

I dealt with that aspect in past articles and I maintain that if we were to increase our storage facilities there will be no need for desalination plants. Our major challenge is distribution. The solution is gravity feed.

Trinidad & Tobago is exceedingly lucky as all or our major cities, towns and villages are surrounded by hills and mountains. On a recent hike to the mountains overlooking the Mount St Benedict Monastery, I realised that a strategically placed water storage facility on that mountain can supply water to the entire communities along the east west corridor.

Water distribution via gravity will necessitate building large tanks and or storage facilities on the higher elevations, pumping water to them and allowing gravity to distribute the water. This is not new to Trinidad as the Laventille tanks, the reservoirs at St Paul Street, the tanks at Mount Hope and Picton were all made to facilitate this process. The problem is that we have not aggressively continued with this type of distribution system.

There are many advantages to this type of distribution when compared to pumps. The disadvantages of pumps distribution are many; among them is unequal pressure with higher pressure closer to the pump, cost of mechanical repairs and maintenance, electricity costs and inappropriate location.

With gravity the pressure is equally distributed and it eliminates the need for monitoring of pumps and the manpower associated with water shedding to ensure that areas further away from the pump and on higher elevation access water.

Gravity water distribution is an efficient ancient way of ensuring water is distributed. The Romans built a number of aqueducts and channels to supply water to Rome.

New York City today, gets ninety five (95%) of its water via gravity. Wikipedia (an online encyclopaedia) states the NYC water system has storage capacity of 550 billion US gallons (2.1×109 m3) and provides over 1.2 billion US gallons (4,500,000 m3) per day of drinking water to more than eight million city residents.

Three separate sub-systems, each consisting of reservoirs and aqueducts, bring water from Upstate New York to the city. Water flows by gravity through three tunnels under the city, where water rises again to the surface under natural pressure through a number of shafts.

Over the next three years WASA should embark on a number of strategically places storage systems on the hills and mountains overlooking our communities and use gravity to distribute our water throughout Trinidad & Tobago.

The Vision I have for Trinidad & Tobago is not mine for political gain it is an inspiration from God to share with all of Trinidad & Tobago. It is my humble prayer that together we can all contribute towards building a better Nation for our citizens and the generations that will one day benefit from our endeavors. May God Bless Our Nation.

Steve Alvarez

Letter: Many more pleasant surprises in store for us

2012-01-30T06:35:00.000-05:00

If we can contain our expectations and be patient and supportive, there will be many more pleasant surprises in store for us as each of us contributes his vision and encouragement to a government that has the best interests of the people at heart.

We must accept that the needs of the society cannot all be fulfilled simultaneously and instantly. It takes time and priorities must be properly established. And even after planning takes place, from concept to realization may take years for accomplishment.

One must congratulate this government for the patience it displays in the teeth of unrelenting criticism born of impatience and determined opposition. Its every measure is condemned in an orchestrated manner and even its supporters are beginning to join in the propaganda against it.

At the recent justified celebrations, the PM took time to list the many accomplishments of her PPG and fortunately the masses are appreciative of her work even though the literati and cognoscenti appear to disapprove staunchly.

Few take the time to offer encouragement, far less intelligent solutions to our problems.

I join with Mr. Alvarez in his supportive stance coupled with his positive solutions wisely offered. The government pays attention but cannot respond magically to every proffering.

Many demand that the PPG abandon blaming the former regime even as the critics ascribe inherited failures to the present government. In the main malice inspires the opposition while impatience informs many supporters. History will judge the PPG with a less prejudiced eye.

MFRahman.

Letter: UNC stronger that ever

2012-01-30T05:55:00.000-05:00

The recent celebrations by the United National Congress at Rienzi Complex demonstrate that the UNC as a political party enjoys the favour of its membership, despite what appears at times to be disenchantment from the very members as to the pace of change and the delivery of goods and services to them.

Further, it is abundantly clear that the Political Leader of the UNC enjoys even greater support than the party.

This is due in large measure to the fact that she challenged and defeated Panday and Ramesh and then within four months won the general elections. In addition, her popularity is also due to the manner in which she has kept the partnership together, despite rumblings from the partners from time to time.

When people voted for the Partnership in 2010, they did so clearly with the expectation that they will not be betrayed and that every effort and sacrifice will be made by the leaders and Members of Parliament to ensure that the experience of 1986 did not happen again.

As such, from now to elections in 2015, the people will deal harshly with any member of Parliament or any one of the constituent organizations in the Partnership who attempts to divide the partnership or affect the unity of the government.

In this sense Mrs Bissessar enjoys very wide public support despite the pockets of disenchantment which currently exists, and which in reality is a function of very high expectations.

It almost seems an anomaly that supporters are prepared to support the partnership even as they complain about delivery and change. This makes the Partnership supporters a very empowered group, since that can also choose at any time to switch allegiance if they can find a competitive alternative party.

Incidentally, it is clear that they do not see this alternative in the PNM. In any event the experience they have had with the PNM sets their minds apart from even thinking of the PNM as an alternative.

The leaders of the partnership, particularly the COP and the MSJ will do well to remember that as far as the population is concerned “Kamla” represents their hopes and aspirations and that they are willing to go the distance with her.

The reasons are many but it includes the feeling that they have that “Kamla” is a caring and compassionate leader as well as one who identifies with their pains, cries with them and laughs with them.

As much as it might be maligned, her toy distribution project at XMAS gives her an affinity to the people that no other leader has had. She is a Prime Minister who has touched more hands than any other PM of TT.

Apart from these attributes her popularity continues to thrive due to projects such as the Children’s Life Fund, the provision of cheques to mosques, temples and churches at Eid, Divali and XMAS as well as the hosting of functions at the Diplomatic Center to celebrate all festivals, including the Chinese New Year.

This has caused the people to see her as one who transcends race and religion and strives for equality , fairness and social equity. In reality she has been able to close the gap between what she promises and what she lives. This has also helped to symbolize her leadership as one with integrity.

Finally, it is obvious that she operates from a platform of trust in that she has been sharing the leadership of the Government and has been using consensus for decision making. While this has seemingly slowed the pace of government, it has also brought about deeper conversations between the parties about governance which will always be for the benefit of the country.

At the last celebrations at Rienzi she made an important point, which is that no government has been put under scrutiny as this one and that the moral expectations and standards of performance for this government is the highest for any government ever.

The people are fully aware of these standards they have set and the moral demands they are making. They are doing so because that want success in all dimensions for the party they put into office and transparency in all that it does.

In pressing for and getting these, they feel part of the governance process and are prepared to defend and protect the Partnership. This is why Rienzi was overflowing on January 24th.

Arjun M. Persad | Lengua Road, Barrackpore.

Private sector to fund $1B light rail POS-Arima project, no public funds needed

2012-01-29T10:13:00.003-05:00

Light rail transport in popular in major cities

Transport Minister Devant Maharaj has told local media the government of Trinidad & Tobago is seeking an investment of $1 billion to build and operate a light transit system from Port of Spain to Arima.

The minister told the Express newspaper state funds will not be used for the proposed project. "Government's only obligation to the enterprise is that of a facilitator," he said.

Diego Martin North-East MP Colm Imbert raised the issue on Friday in the House of Representatives, noting the details of the transit proposal were in a print advertisement in which the Transport Ministry invited expressions of interest for "the design, financing, construction, operation and maintenance of a light transit system from Port of Spain to Arima to be constructed approximately 4.2 metres above the Bus Route".

Imbert stated that the one month given for submission of proposals is too short for such a complex project and suggested that the ministry might have breached the Central Tenders Board ordinance.

However in an interview with the Express on Saturday Maharaj said Imbert was "fundamentally wrong". He added that the former Works Minister is "accustomed to PNMsquandermania and assumes that all others (would) follow the same level of reckless spending that is the watermark of the PNM".

The paper said Maharaj explained that the expression of interest was for the first phase for securing the particular project and will be followed up by detailed requests for proposals that will carry the entire process "well beyond two months".

"The Government of Trinidad and Tobago is not purchasing any article of work or any service," Maharaj stressed. He also said this is not a tendering process.

"Imbert's reckless, uninformed statement is fundamentally flawed in the interpretation of the nature, extent and purport of the Central Tenders Board Act," he added.

Maharaj said the public, private, partnership model does not put public funds at risk. If the venture fails, it is the commercial entity that fails, he explained.

In addition, he said government would review the fees charged for use the system to prevent exploitation.

The previous government spent US$75 million for a pre-feasibility study done while Imbert was in charge of the ministry of works and transport.

Everything above board on aircraft contract: Report

2012-01-29T09:55:00.002-05:00

The Managing Director of the Trinidad and Tobago Air Support Company Ltd, told the Express newspaper Saturday his arrangement to supply a light surveillance aircraft for three months to the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service is above board.

Dirk Barnes is a former major in the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force. The Express said Barnes also dismissed suggestions that he, or any of his former associates, had a personal friendship with Police Commissioner Dwayne Gibbs or Deputy Police Commissioner Jack Ewatski.
"I never limed with (Ewatski). I don't call him like that. I know the man and we met when the project was proposed. We have no personal relationship," the paper quoted barnes as saying.

"I would welcome anyone to audit the process as my actions were above board," he added.

Opposition MP Donna Cox said in Parliament Friday that his contract may be as a result of a personal relationship with Ewatski.

She was speaking on a motion calling on Government to cease its "systematic dismantling" of the national security systems and structures and to implement an effective national security system to secure the country's borders to reduce crime.

Cox spoke of a contract using a Zenith CH 750 Air Scout Aircraft for a three-month evaluation period at a cost of TT$902,772 (US$140,400). Cox said anyone could buy the plane on the Internet and assemble it for just under $US20,000.

The Express said Barnes laughed at Cox's claims.

"It is US$21,000 for the kit or the box of parts containing the plane's fuselage, its tail, its wings and landing gear. There is no engine, no seats no avionics, no nothing, just a box of parts. I would love to see someone fly a box of parts," he said.

"Then there is the engine—$20,000 and then there is the avionics which is $17,000 and this is in US dollars. Now we have to paint the aircraft and that's between US$2,500 and US$4,000."

The paper said Barnes also said that it would take a builder about 1,000 hours to assemble the aircraft at a labour rate of between US$55 and US$90 an hour. "So that's $55,000 total to get the thing built," he said.

The Express said it watched the plane builder make routine checks of the aircraft, including a takeoff using about 80 feet of runway.

It said Barnes explained that the Air Scout Aircraft could fly at a slower speed than small aircraft such as a Cessna, which gives it an advantage in surveillance over a small geographical area.

Ewatski issued a release Friday on the matter. "The light aircraft will be equipped with similar technology as in the helicopters and due to its ability to fly at a very slow speed even compared to traditional fixed wing aircraft may be an alternative to helicopters which are much more costly to maintain," he said.

Kublalsingh explains Point highway situation

2012-01-29T09:00:00.000-05:00

Map shows route of new highway. Click on map to see details in new, larger window

Prime Minister Kamla Persad and her Works Minister, Jack Warner, promised last week to deal with problems that have arisen with respect to the $7.2 billion-dollar from Golconda to Point Fortin.

One of the issues is a lobby led by university lecturer Dr Wayne Kublalsingh. The Highway Reroute Movement held a rally earlier this month to lobby the government to change the route of one section of the highway.

While Persad-Bissessar insisted that the highway project will go on, she also said that she would continue discussions with Kublalsingh to see if there is a way to resolve the problem.

In an Internet posting, Kublalsingh has provided some details of the project.

"The Point Fortin to San Fernando Highway system was broken up by planners into different phase:

Pt Fortin to Mon Desir

Mon Desir to St Mary's Junction

St Mary's Junction through Mosquito Creek to La Romain

La Romain to San Fernando

"There is also a segment from Golconda, end of current highway, to Debe.

"The population in the South West Peninsula do not seem to have strong objections to any of these links. The objection is to a link from Debe swinging back to Mon Desir which runs across the Oropuche Basin across a number of rural communities.

"This proposed section will rest atop a 6-8 foot embankment and run for 9.1 miles.

"The Ministry of Works applied for separate CEC's for each of these links. The Mon Desir to Debe link was granted a certificate in April 2010. This certificate was never challenged, although in many respects it is deeply flawed.

"The statutory time for challenge has elapsed.

"We have been mapping an alternative to the Mon Desir to Debe route, a re-route."

Jack launches campaign to get public support for hanging bill

2012-01-29T08:40:00.002-05:00

Jack Warner is launching a nationwide mass campaign Wednesday to lobby citizens to support a bill to hang convicted killers.

The Chaguanas West MP announced his plans Saturday at his constituency office on Caroni Savannah Road constituency where he celebrated his 69th birthday with constituents. Warner turned 69 on Thursday.

Warner has been consistent in his support for hanging killers. The issue returned to his agenda earlier this month when three fishermen from his constituency were murdered at sea.

He said he will devote the campaign to the memory of the men and call it "A Fisherman’s Cry".

Warner said volunteers would go house-to-house to collect signatures in support of the hanging bill.

He promised that the campaign would be bigger than the movement for change, which he used to effect change in the leadership of the United National Congress (UNC) that led to the defeat of the Manning PNM in the 2010 general election.

He said now is the time for MPs to represent the people and not themselves.

Last week Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar announced that she will bring back a hanging bill to Parliament and seek public support for it.

The bill, which needed a special majority, was defeated last year when the opposition refused to vote for it.

“It is part of the law of Trinidad and Tobago, and therefore the lack of support from the Opposition on the last occasion prevented it from going through and so we will try again because we have to find ways to reduce the crime rate,” she said earlier this month.

And last Tuesday at a rally to celebrate her second anniversary as leader of the UNC she challenged Opposition Leader Keith Rowley to explain why he and his MPs refused to support the legislation while they continue to claim that they support the execution of convicted killers.

She publicly called on Rowley for support. "Let us have your proposals, because we are willing to consider them in the public’s interest. We are committed to implementing the death penalty because it is the law,” she told supporters.

Read ANDRE BAGOO's column in NEWSDAY, which provides an excellent background to the debate

Cabinet returns 4 units to national security: Report

2012-01-29T08:21:00.000-05:00

The Trinidad & Tobago cabinet has reversed its decision to remove four units from the jurisdiction of National Security Minister John Sandy, a report in the Guardian newspaper said on Sunday.

The report also said that Rear Admiral Richard Kelshall has been removed as head of the National Security Operations Centre.

It said cabinet made the changes last Thursday in relation to its earlier decision to place the four units under the direct control of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar.

The units are:

The helicopter Unit
The terrorism squad
The Canine Section
The radar equipment used to monitor drug smuggling along

The Guardian cited unnamed Cabinet sources as saying that Kelshall hade made the recommendation to take away the control of the units from national security.

Kelshall was named head of the National Security Operations Centre replacing Lt Col Ricardo Garcia, who was sent to the National Security Training Academy.

Kelshall gave a media interview earlier this month in which he stated that the National Security Minister was told of the decision to remove the units and it “was made with his concurrence.”

Sandy was out of the country at the time the change was announced and on his return he denied knowledge about the decision to remove the units from his direct control, the Guardian said.

It added that Sandy insisted that he is the only person in a position to speak on issues of National Security.

The Guardian quoted the Prime Minister’s National Security adviser Capt Gary Griffith as confirming the reversal of the earlier decision.

“I have been told that the Cabinet rescinded its decision and returned the four units to National Security. As you would remember, this is in keeping with what I had suggested that the day-to-day running of the National Security Operations Centre should remain with the Minister of National Security.

"But this should not be seen in any way as Rear Admiral Kelshall being fired or anything like it. The fact is that these things are in the embryonic stage and we are trying to put the National Security infrastructure in place and so the only substantive position that Rear Admiral Kelshall was appointed was as the Regional Security director and that position remains."

Guest column: One fit to bow, one unfit to lead

2012-01-29T08:00:00.001-05:00

PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar bows to Indian President Pratibha Patil in Jaipur, India

Reproduced from the SUNDAY GUARDIAN
by Denzil Mohammed

Dr Keith Rowley’s tirade about the Prime Minister’s bowing to Indian President Pratibha Patil was disgraceful, unbecoming and disrespectful—not just to Kamla Persad-Bissessar but to the entire nation.

If his aim is to lead this multicultural country, then all credibility for such a position has just been lost.

The Opposition leader and political leader of the People’s National Movement appeared to disparage an entire ethnic group and an entire religious group to score political mileage and rouse his lacklustre support base.

At a political meeting in an Open Bible church, he is quoted in a newspaper as saying the PM’s bowing to the Indian President was “the ultimate subservient of superiority and inferiority being demonstrated.”

Error number one, and I don’t mean the wrong word choice. It takes not a genius to know bowing in the Hindu context is an act of deference, not a massa vs slave act.

It has been done since the beginning of time the world over. I imagine at the end of a scintillating musical performance, the political leader might twirl, or perhaps wine, since bowing may mean he’s subservient to the audience.

In T&T, in Hindu homes and at Hindu prayers, it is done copiously. In India, it is less of a religious act as a cultural act. The PM was in that country, so she chose, as PM, to follow that tradition.

Rowley said: “I take umbrage at my Prime Minister going to anybody’s country and kissing any office holder’s foot.” Error number two. Until her scandalous biography is published, it has yet to be revealed whether the PM has a foot fetish. Somehow, Rowley felt comfortable enough to change “bowing” to “kissing” feet. He said it more than once.

What would Obama do?

He said: “Nobody sent the Prime Minister abroad to represent her religion or her race. She went abroad to represent all the people of T&T and...she must stand there proud representing the people of T&T.

“...we are a proud nation. When India votes at the United Nations, if we vote differently, we cancel out India’s vote. One billion people against one million people. We are equal in the eyes of the world. Size and power are no longer your station.”

Error number three. As I’ve learned time and time again, to my utter surprise, T&T is not the centre of the world. The world knows us less for one million strong and more for Nicki Minaj. Should our international behaviour be based on a self-righteous, nationalistic stance of one’s arrogance and self-importance?

Rowley goes on: “...now we expect, according to her logic, if (US President Barack) Obama ever goes to Kenya he will bend down and kiss the foot of somebody in Kenya because his grandfather came from Kenya.”

Error number four. No, Obama shouldn’t. He is the single most powerful man, the leader of the free world, the man who just opened his mouth and out popped a Nobel Prize.

Yet the greatest man on the planet bowed to the King of Saudi Arabia at the G-20 meeting in 2009. He also bowed to the Emperor of Japan at his palace. It is not a matter of asserting one’s authority, of declaring one’s importance, of belittling the other. It is a matter of respect in this global village in which we live.

Perhaps, in the cramped Open Bible church, such a vista was not visible.

Them vs other

Rowley claimed that a Times of India newspaper story said Persad-Bissessar “went too far to demonstrate her Indian-ness.” I am still searching for that story.

One imagines that, perhaps, Rowley would give a vigorous handshake to Queen Elizabeth if he were to meet her. Or perhaps his wife would not wear a head scarf on a visit to the Middle East. Hillary Clinton did it. Barbara Walters did it when she interviewed the Syrian president last year. Hell, even a princess did it, the late Princess Diana. But Trinis? One million strong!

Finally, and most damningly, Rowley said: “I am not concerned about her religious persuasion... We are very tolerant.”

Error number five. It is a pointed reference of “them vs the other.” It is a suggestion that one is in the middle and the other is on the outskirts “in this country”.

It is a concession that the ones in the middle, well, endure the others. Rowley apparently played upon a well-entrenched scorn for all things Hindu, with which some people grow up and capitalised on a racist and discriminatory predisposition buttressed by political affiliation that some people have towards Hindus and Indo-Trinidadians.

There are more Indo-Trinidadians than Afro-Trinidadians in this country. There are more Hindus than Anglicans, Pentecostals and Muslims combined.

In other words, there are almost more people who would bow than there are who won’t.

And with all the talk about how far we’ve come and how important we are, apparently we still resort to the basest attacks to assert ourselves. In our “rainbow country,” it makes plain that while one was humble enough to bow, the other is clearly unfit to lead.

The above column by Denzil Mohammed was reproduced, unedited, from the SUNDAY GUARDIAN

Related: Commentary: Rowley should not be offended by Kamla's act of humility and respect

Related: No apology for showing respect for elders: PM Kamla

Letter: Why can't we have fair and objective commentaries on PP performance?

2012-01-29T08:00:00.000-05:00

(TnT Mirror photo)

As I continue to read the various commentators in all of the newspapers it is becoming abundantly clear that while they may have valid points to make about the performance of the PP Government, they are very short on suggestions for correcting what they criticize, and further seem to be on a path of discrediting all that the government is doing without objective evidence.

For example, the many references to corruption have not been backed by evidence. As well, the references to mismanagement have not been backed by evidence.

It might be true that the PP Government has been slow in some areas of delivery. However, the commentators have not taken into consideration what the PP Government inherited and as such from where it started to govern. This is no excuse of course for the performance of the PP.

However, in the eyes and words of the commentators little appears to have been done by the government which of course is a far cry from the truth.

It is interesting that once the government changes and it is not a PNM government the cries of corruption, discrimination, unfair treatment, lack of transparency rear their heads.

Is it that the commentators feel more secure under a PNM administration and if so why?

Is it that the commentators most of whom are Afro-Trinidadians are of the firm belief that the East Indians should not have a leading role to play in the politics.

In other words they should be Ministers but not Prime Minister. It happened to Kamaluddin Mohammed and Errol Mahabir. They should not have control over the government.

The Afro-Trini commentators must examine with honesty their feelings about this matter. It would appear to me that the East Indian is far more nationalistic that the Afro in that whether in opposition or government they work in the interest of Trinidad and Tobago.

Then there are East Indian commentators like Indira Sagewan Ali whom it seems feels that she must criticize the current government in order to gain credibility amongst the Afro population.

Ms Sagewan Ali over the last two years has not said one good thing about the government and one may be led to conclude that she has some deep resentment that is playing off against her need to be objective as a commentator and as well as an academic.

It is well known that she was screened for a seat and did not get it and in addition refused the position on the Prices Council.

The only objective commentary is coming from Dr Dhanyeshwar Mahabir who has been living the values of his profession in his comments. Michael Harris continues to place himself on some kind of pedestal and adopts a know it all attitude that smacks of condescension towards the government.

It is of course part of the ‘attitudinal culture” of Tapia wherein they believe that they are superior intellectual beings and scoffs with indignity at whom they perceive to be lesser mortals. No doubt they have never found political space. When last has Michael Harris said something that is nationally uplifting. It is easy to find matters to criticize in this country. How about providing viable solutions?

The negativism of the commentators in the newspapers is also encouraged by the media since it sells their papers.

In addition, under the PP, the ability to make deals and benefit without working has been drastically cut. The PP government’s drive for transparency is not going to be easily accepted by the Opposition and those who are accustomed to freeness, cost overruns and having go giver value for money.

They are not going to be happy with new entrants into the construction industry in what was a cartel under the PNM. The emphasis on fairness and wider geographical distribution of goods and services especially to rural communities is not going to find favour with the old elite. The culture change is challenging the old patterns of behaviour.

This PP Government has been under scrutiny from its first day in office. Like the PM said it is being held to higher standards than any other government in the past.

The reason may have to do with much more than issues of governance and may really have to do more with prejudice and which group is perceived as entitled to political power.

Thankfully the PM has governed with a vision that has at its center equality of treatment and equality of opportunity for all no matter the colour of your skin, your ethnicity nor religious persuasion.

Arjun M Persad | Lengua, Barrackpore.

Time to get back to work - the Peter O'Connor column

2012-01-29T07:50:00.002-05:00

Last week I wrote about the poor work ethic from which we all suffer, although we “suffer” this by choice.

I harbour a hope that some of you might have accepted what I had suggested (many thanks to those who wrote or called to say they agreed with me), but I know you will defer until “after carnival”.

Today, I want to stay on this theme, but to direct my comments to the top: to our government.

Prime Minister, Members of Cabinet, it is time to stop flying, stop feteing, and to get back to work. And it is time to stop dwelling on the sins of the PNM, and get moving with your own agendas.

I know the difficulty you face with Rowley barking at every shadow and demanding corrections to the ills he and his cohorts created and exploited and left for you. But you, as Prime Minister and cabinet ministers have work to do, and you cannot waste your time and ours by taking on the likes of Rowley, Hinds and Al Rawi. I told you, Prime Minister, back in September 2010 that “I have your back” in this regard.

I, and others like me, who care for the country and the truth, will not allow that barking to go “unpelted”.

Rowley, Imbert, Manning (yes Manning too- his unfortunate stroke has not cleansed him of his sins against this country) and company must not be allowed to distract you by shouting, condemning and abusing you for every decision you try to implement. Hopefully, the Attorney General’s suit against Rowley will soon put him back in his kennel, muzzled.

But you have work to do, and you are not doing it. Indeed, for all the wrong reasons you are trying to prevent needed work from being done. On the issues of crime, infrastructure, health, public utilities and basic transparency, you are faltering badly. And no amount of overseas trips or anniversary parties are going to stop crime, fix roads or deliver water.

There are too many areas of critical importance which require more attention than your current celebration—to which you are well entitled, by the way!

But the truly important celebration was when you won—nay swept—the national election. And back then, you did not pause to celebrate and posture! You donned rubber boots and headed out into a bleak and flooded countryside, and you won our admiration and respect for that.

But now you seem to have forgotten that mode of governing, becoming absorbed in the trappings of the office. I know that the role of PR people is to wrap their “subjects” in frills and finery, rather than present them as effective achievers. The reason for this is simple: The frills and finery reflect favourably upon the spin doctors, while the true achievers shine in their own light. And that, I might remind you, is the story of the Emperor’s Clothes.

With so much needing correction and direction, I have to pick one topic at a time, and today I am going to deal with the landslips and collapsing bridges, especially in the Blanchisseuse and the Toco- Matelot regions. This therefore brings Jack Warner into the picture, and of course he is a friend of mine—so let me declare that “conflict of interest” from the start.

Prime Minister, you have the right and the authority to remove Jack Warner as Minister, and you are not required to give any reason for this.

You do not have the right however, to put thousands of citizens lives in jeopardy and gross inconvenience while you have someone (an unknown entity or person to date) chase shadows which you and no one else will define.

The condition of the roads “behind God’s back” in Blanchisseuse and Matelot are a threat to life and limb, as well as being a tremendous and hostile inconvenience to already disadvantaged citizens of the country you govern.

Should a bus or maxi carrying school children slip off one of these roads, what will your advisers tell you to say to us about halting the programme meant to conduct the needed repairs?

Stopping the urgently required maintenance projects to investigate alleged prior irregularities is tantamount to preventing people from bailing a sinking boat because there is a question on the purchase of the calabash (for the “sophisticated”—calabash was what we used to bail our pirogues)

It is time to get back to work, Prime Minister, and there is no one, regardless of other issues, more qualified to lead you back to the people’s issues than Jack.

You really do not need that bunch of sycophant advisors sweeping the floor ahead of your footsteps in India, Australia or China. That is for their egos, not for you, nor for our country’s needs.

Photo story: Happy Birthday, Jack

2012-01-29T06:46:00.000-05:00

Jack Warner gets a helping of birthday cake during a celebration Saturday at his constituency office. The Chaguanas West MP turned 69 on January 26, 2012.

"UMBI" celebrates 100th birthday

2012-01-29T06:00:00.000-05:00

Story and photo reproduced from the GUARDIAN:

Maraval centenarian Umbelina De Silva celebrated her milestone with a special communion mass at her Fairways home, yesterday (saturday).

The matriarch of the de Silva clan was showered with love and affection on her 100th birthday. The mass was conducted by retired priest Tom Willemsen. Joining in the celebration were her eight grandchildren, 17 great grand children and three great great grandchildren.

Her son Randolph De Silva (Jr) painted a portrait of his mother, who was always a housewife. She was born to Joaquim and Isabella De Nobriga, in Georgetown, Guyana.

He said ‘Umbi’s’ longevity was due to her hard work, love, dedication to her family and friends. But most of all it was her complete trust in Almighty God. She never smoked but drank alcohol in moderation.

De Silva played the piano beautifully. In her youth, she displayed her First Class certificates for music. She was married to the late Randolph and had four children Harry and Gerald (deceased) and her only daughter Doreen, now lives in Canada.

Ronnie’s job in the film industry took them to Barbados in 1958. He died there in 1994 at the age of 87. They were married for 66 years.

Sandy says crime down; PNM accuses government of buying 'dolly house plane'

2012-01-28T09:20:00.000-05:00

John Sandy assured legislators on Friday that contrary to what the Opposition wants the country to believe, there has been a reduction in serious crime in Trinidad & Tobago.

The National Security Minister was speaking in an Opposition on the "Dismantling of National Security Systems".

Sandy said made the point that many of the previous government's crime initiatives and strategies had failed, adding that the People's National Movement (PNM) does not have the moral authority to debate crime, given their track record in dealing with issue.

He used statistics to back up his claim. He said with respect to homicides, the number of murders so far this year, although high at 34, is still lower than it was in 2011 when 39 people were killed in the same period. He pointed out in 2010 it was even higher at 41, when the Manning PNM administration was in office.

"At the end of that fiscal year 2002, serious crimes stood at 16,610 with a detection rate of 23.5%. By fiscal year 2009, serious crimes had risen to 20,621, with a detection rate of 14.9%. That represents a 24% increase in serious crimes or an 8 percentage point or 36% decrease in the rate of detection," the minister stated.

Sandy said the country never had any benefit from the $50 million blimp.

"There were some guide ropes alongside the blimp and I am watching men running with that. Men running with those guide ropes to get that blimp airborne. About 20 men required to get that blimp airborne. It cannot become airborne in an emergency, and if the weather is bad, well waste of time," he said.

The Minister said between 2004 and 2006, it cost taxpayers $33 million to maintain and repair the airships, and $1.4 million to operate the blimp monthly. At the same time, he said, serious crime continued to escalate from 16,000 in 2004, to 22,000 in 2009.

"Saddled with this piece of equipment and having regard to the cost factor and its limited success, it was felt that we ought to get rid of it. Nobody wanted it. Nobody wanted to buy the blimp. As a consequence, it had to be sold to its original owner. They were the only people who wanted it," he said.

Former Minister in the National Security Ministry Donna Cox, disputed that. And she said having 'gioven away' the blimp for $50,000 the government is now getting a 'dolly house plane' to replace the airship.

Cox told Parliament the government is leasing a Zenith CH 750 Air-Scout for a 12-week period for US140,000 although the cost of the plane is only US$19,480.

"They talk about the blimp being expensive, yet they chose an inappropriate dolly house aeroplane...Just imagine, this plane could have been bought seven times over. Anybody could buy this on the internet. I could buy it and assemble," Cox said.

She also claimed that there was no tendering for the plane and stated that Deputy Police Commissioner Jack Ewatski was involved in the deal, backing up her charges with what she said was private emails.

Cox produces air services deal letter from CoP Gibbs

2012-01-28T09:15:00.000-05:00

The Express newspaper has published a letter referred to in Parliament by MP Donna Cox with respect to an air services pilot project for the police service.

JYOTI has published the letter below, which is reproduced from the Express:

September 27, 2011

Mr Dirk Barnes
Managing Director
Trinidad and Tobago Air Support Company Limited
73 Valle Drive
Orange Grove
TACARIGUA

Dear Mr Barnes,

Re: Letter of Intent

I wish to express my thanks to your company for your interest to supply your unique services to the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service as a law enforcement aviation pilot project,

As you are aware, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service is in the process of introducing new policing initiatives that will increase interaction and cooperation with the national community with the aim of reducing crime. As part of our 21st Century Policing Initiative we see possible integration of your Sky View Surveillance Support Proposal into our future operations.

The aviation support pilot project by your company appears to be well organized with a high potential of success. In as much, we wish to evaluate the capabilities of this type of aircraft in order to measure the effectives and efficiency of this form of air support. With this in mind I have approved the twelve week pilot project proposal.

I propose that the terms set out below should be incorporated into a contract agreement (the "Contract') namely as follows:

1. Client: The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service "hereafter termed the Police Service", Ministry of National Security of the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago "hereafter termed the Ministry'.

2. Contractor: Trinidad and Tobago Air Support Company Ltd.

3. Deliverables: 720 hours use of Zenith CH 750 Air Scout Aircraft over a twelve week evaluation project period. The Contractor will provide check flights with four selected members of the Police Service for a period not exceeding two weeks.

4. Contract Cost: TT$902,772.00 (US$140,400.00)

5. Contract Period: twelve weeks, start date to be defined in the Contract.

6. Contract Engagement: Upon acceptance of this letter of intent, the Contractor agrees to start the delivery process and facilitate availability of aircraft to the Police Service, upon which a Contract would be signed and a purchase order would be issued. The date of the Contract represents the start date of the Project.

7. Conditions Precedent: The client should pay in full the Contract cost (see Sub-Para 4) immediately on the successful completion of the Contract and expiration of the contract period.

8. Contract Evaluation: The Police Service shall evaluate the pilot project and use this evaluation to determine if a further contractual agreement with the Contractor should be negotiated.

9. Additional Points: This letter of intent sets out the major terms of the agreement that the Client is prepared to formally engage. The letter of intent is in no way a legally binding agreement between the Client and the Contractor but serves to formally express the Police Commissioner's approval to engage the Pilot Project with the Contractor.

You are requested to reply in writing indicating your acceptance of the terms in this letter and I thank you for collaborating with us.

Regards

Dr Dwayne Gibbs
Commissioner of Police(the letter published in the Express did not have a signature)

EWATSKI'S RESPONSE VIA NEWS RELEASE

“The TTPS has entered into an agreement to lease a light aircraft to evaluate the capability of this unique type of fixed-wing aircraft in support of our law enforcement aviation programme which has been in place since April 2011.

“Our air-support unit has been using helicopters from the former SAUTT to support our ground operations. This unit has been instrumental in assisting in the arrest of numerous people.

“The light aircraft will be equipped with similar technology as in the helicopters and due to its ability to fly at a very slow speed even compared to traditional fixed wing aircraft may be an alternative to helicopters which are much more costly to maintain.”

Manning's condition continues to improve; best wishes pouring in from international sources

2012-01-28T09:00:00.000-05:00

An online PNM site reported Friday that former Prime Minister Patrick Manning is continuing to improve daily. "Mr. Manning sat up, spoke, read the newspapers and is in good spirits," the online posting said.

The chairman of the South West Regional Health Suthority (SWRHA) Dr. Lackram Bodoe confirmed that Manning is in stable condition and is recovering well.

"His condition remains stable and he has improved from the time of his admission. I had the benefit of seeing him at admission three days ago and I can say from my visit today (Friday) that he has shown considerable improvement," Bodoe told reporters.

Bodoe spoke with the media after Manning's friend, Dr Ralph Gonzalves, visited Manning at the San Fernando General Hospital.

The Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines arrived in Trinidad Friday morning and went directly to the hospital to see his friend an 'brother'. Bodoe, PNM stalwart, Ms. Joan Yuille Williams, and former Sports Minister, Mr. Gary Hunte met Gonzalves at the hospital.

PM Gonzalves shed a tear for his friend, Patrick Manning

Commenting on his visit, Gonzalves said: "Oh his eyes lit up and he smiled. I wouldn't tell you what we spoke about briefly but the bond is there and there's a lot of joy and he will get better."

He added, "You know I love him. He's my friend since university. We played pan together, did a lot of things together. We worked well in Government, I've remained his friend through all the ups and downs of politics. He's my brother."

The PNM reported Friday that best wishes have been pouring in from other regional Prime Ministers.

The online posting added, "Internationally, we have received well wishes from many countries including the Office of the President of the United States and Foreign Missions for China and Cuba.

"Mr. Manning and his family would like to thank everyone for their words of encouragement, thoughts and prayers."

Guyana launches 'Festival of Colours' to boost tourism

2012-01-28T08:00:00.000-05:00

The government of Guyana has launched a new initiative to boost tourism by about 20 per cent.

Click this link to read more about the Holi Festival in Guyana

It's sponsoring a special package themed "Festival of Colours" from March 2 - 9, 2012 to coincide with the annual Holi/Phagwah festival, which was brought to the country in the 19th century by Indian indentured labourers.

The aim of the project is to get Guyanese living abroad to come home for the week and rediscover 'home'. It's the first of a series of tourism packages aimed at the Guyanese Diaspora.

Minister of Housing and Water Irfaan Ali told local media, “We are targeting overseas based Guyanese directly, to come home to rediscover and enjoy the cultural activities in their home." He added that "there will be a package available for the week-long activities."

The partners in the project include the government, Trinidad & Tobago's national airline, Caribbean Airlines and local hotels. Toegther they will offer a package that includes airfare and hotel accommodation.

Ali said the packaging of activities around the rich Guyanese culture would help boost the country’s tourism industry.

Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority, Indranauth Haralsingh, said they targeted March because of the lull in visitors during that period, which coincides with the week-long Indian festivity.

“An activity of this nature will aid the tourism sector’s objective or surpassing the tourist arrival figure for 2011,” he suggested.

Panday renews call for constitutional reform, elected executive president

2012-01-28T07:25:00.000-05:00

Basdeo Panday told an audience at the the University of West Indies Thursday there is an urgent need for constitutional reform in Trinidad & Toabgo. And he also said there is a need for officers of the United National Congress (UNC) to be removed from the governing process.

Panday spoke at the second in the four-part series; "Conversations with Prime Ministers" at the Daaga Hall auditorium of the University of the West Indies, St Augustine.

"The process by which we approach to reform the constitution is the key to successful constitutional reform," the former Prime Minister said.

"We cannot begin by engaging a group of lawyers to sit down around a table to produce a draft in legal language which is then put before the ordinary people for comment.

"The constitution must be so designed to solve the problems of the society and promote its growth and the happiness of our people, then the exercise in constitutional reform must begin with identifying the problems that the people face from day to day," Panday explained.

Panday also reiterated his preference for an executive president to be elected on the basis of one person, one vote and suggested that there be a single elected chamber in the national Parliament.

Such a system, he said would give representation to a wider cross section of the population, which in turn would deepen and expand democracy.

"Such an expanded Parliament will also enable the establishment of several powerful house committees that can monitor more closely the activities of the government as in the United States where they act as checks and balances on the actions of the government. The present system does not permit this, that is and has been, a serious failing in the present constitution," said Panday.

He also said the present government should speak less and act more.

Panday also spoke about the internal election of the UNC, which he led until he was defeated two years ago by Kamla Persad-Bissessar. Panday is supporting a team called Generation next in the party's internal election on march 24.

He said the UNC needs to be "extricated from the Government" to allow for greater accountability.

"What they (Generation next) want to do is separate the Government from the party so that the party will be in a position to tell the Government what is right and what is wrong." Panday stated.

"How can you do that now when the general secretary of the party is employed in the office of the Prime Minister? Panday asked. He said no government ministers except the prime minister should be an officer of the party.

"At the present moment most of the ministers are also members of the executive of the party...(so) the party cannot have an independent view and be at arms width so they could speak to the government.The party cannot speak for the government because the government is the party," said Panday.

Commentary: Rowley must start leading instead of just being a rabble rouser

2012-01-28T07:19:00.000-05:00

"rural |ˈroŏrəl| adjective - in, relating to, or characteristic of the countryside rather than the town: remote rural areas."

Keith Rowley in friendly territory at a PNM convention

Keith Rowley continues to amaze me. For a politician who has been around as long as Rowley you would expect that he would put his experience in government and opposition to good use and come up with creative, winning plans to get his party back in government some day.

However, it seems every time the Opposition Leader makes an "important pronouncement" he either confuses the issue further or makes no sense.

His latest idea of dismantling the Ministry of the People and Social Development, which Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar created on assuming office, is a good example of going in the wrong direction.

Rowley promised supporters this week that if the People’s National Movement (PNM) forms the next government of Trinidad and Tobago he would establish a Ministry of Rural Development. (He also said he is confident the party will win the next election. I have to disappoint Dr Rowley, but under his leadership and with his style that is not going to happen!)

The Opposition Leader told a rural gathering of PNM supporters this week that "logistically" rural communities are always left behind.

“In order to ensure that rural communities are not left behind as we progress as a nation there will be in the Cabinet of Trinidad and Tobago a Minister of Rural Development whose responsibility will be to co-ordinate what the nation has to offer to ensure that rural communities get their fair share and they get it in a timely manner,” he told the gathering. “We will have no Ministry of the People,” he declared.

Well first of all, under the present government the Cabinet makes sure that it coordinates what the nation has and it makes sure through all its ministries and agencies that rural communities get their fair share and they get it in a timely manner. Tell us something that we don't know, Dr. Rowley.

And also ask yourself first why rural communities are "logistically" left behind, as you claim. That is PNM logic and PNM policy.

Times have changed since the PNM left office. The philosophical thrust of the current People's Partnership government is to focus on rural neglect and other areas of underdevelopment. In fact Kamla and her team have been making every effort to reach into rural Trinidad & Tobago to deliver services with the same urgency as in the towns and cities. It's called NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT.

Development is taking place at a pace that Rowley and the PNM cannot comprehend. And all of it within or below cost. The Kamla government is exploring new areas and going where no government has ever gone before.

For the PNM, rural Trinidad & Tobago has always been the place to go to mamaguy people for votes every five years and then disappear until the next election.

If I understand Rowley right he is suggesting that the poor, dispossessed and destitute only live in rural area so he would create a Rural Development Ministry just to look after their needs. Every ministry in the government is responsible for the welfare of the entire nation - for schools, utilities, roads, amenities.

But in the PNM playbook, rural equals non-traditional PNM constituencies so rural always equalled "neglect". This government - that is the Kamla led government - has dismantled that idea and its whole development thrust includes the rural communities. No one is left behind!

I have heard the PNM complain that the government is only developing UNC and COP areas, which adds credence to the point I am making.

A new road with proper box drains in Papourie Road, Barrackpore became an issue of "biased development" for the PNM. When PM 1 went there, it was the first time a prime minister of T&T had gone so far south. The truth is that the PNM had shamefully neglected ALL the rural areas, which is why Rowley can say unashamedly that "logistically rural communities are always left behind".

Works and Infrastructure, Local Government, Public Utilities, Finance, Trade and Investment, National Security, Education, Tertiary Education, Agriculture, People Ministry, Gender and Youth affairs and the others are all focusing on DEVELOPMENT across the country, regardless of rural or urban classification; for the curent government of Trinidad & Tobago development means a holistic approach to nation building.

It has discarded the PNM style of building white elephants to show off to the world in favour of educating itself on the needs of the people and then developing programmes and projects to help where help is most needed.

You see, for Kamla, hunger and poverty are not reserved for rural communities. Which community in Trinidad & Tobago has been more neglected (by the PNM) than Laventille and its environs? And they certainly don't fit the definition of rural.

The structure of government, even under the PNM, was designed for developing the whole country. However under Patrick Manning and Keith Rowley development meant doing favours for friends and supporters.

Patrick Manning created whole communities of unemployed when in one spiteful political decision he closed an industry that had sustained the nation and kept a community of nearly a quarter million alive and vibrant. And to compound the spite he refused to give the former sugar workers their entitlements and allowed the billion-dollar assets of the company to be plundered.

He had hoped to destroy the base of the opposition but underestimated the resilience of the people. And Rowley is making the same mistake, based on his personal bias and the discriminatory behaviour of his party.

Unless the PNM remakes itself as a truly national party that recognises and accepts the diversity of Trinidad & Tobago and develops a genuine development plan for the entire nation regardless of where people live, it will remain in the political wilderness for the next 40 years. The party is a relic of rum and roti politics of the past and Rowley is not making it any better.

It is time for Rowley to start leading instead of being just a rabble rouser. (Rabble-rouser - noun : a person who speaks with the intention of inflaming the emotions of a crowd of people, typically for political reasons.)

Jai Parasram | 27 January 2012

Kamla thanks UNC for making party 'stronger than ever"

2012-01-28T07:15:00.000-05:00

"To the tens of thousands of people who gathered to celebrate the 2nd anniversary in the important change of leadership in the party and nation, I offer my heartfelt gratitude.

"The theme, "Stronger than Ever", was well demonstrated through the high level of organisation and outpouring of support as we once again united across all boundaries for the good of the country.

"The event rekindled hope and belief in the vision which so many overwhelmingly voted for just a few years ago. It was also an opportunity for all of us to reflect and recommit to the enduring values that will lead this beloved nation of ours towards the realisation of a better quality of life for everyone. Thank You!"

The Honourable Mrs Kamla Persad Bissessar

Political Leader, United National Congress;
Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

Regional governments must address LIAT's problems - Guest column by Sir Ronald Sanders

2012-01-28T06:55:00.000-05:00

The column below by Sir Ronald Sanders has been reproduced from the online site, CARIBBEAN 360:

The three main shareholder governments in LIAT – the airline that is vital to movement of tourists and local alike in the Caribbean – are scheduled to meet on January 31 to consider options for the airline which lost US$14.8 million last year.

If LIAT collapses, travel within the region will be severely affected. This will result in a loss of revenues to governments in myriad ways including the hefty landing fees LIAT pays. It will also affect hotels, taxis, retail outlets and restaurants. Business people and persons travelling for social purposes will also be affected.

Those who argue that the Trinidad and Tobago government owned Caribbean Airlines (CAL) and the low-fare airline, REDjet, will be able to take up the slack, underestimate just how much of a workhorse LIAT is, and the extent of the service that it provides including to uneconomic routes, even though it has now shed some of them.

While George Nicholas, the Chairman of CAL, announced late last year that CAL “would gradually cover the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) countries with several flights a day”, that is yet to happen and indeed may never happen with the scheduled frequency of LIAT’s present flights.

The principal reason for LIAT’s poor financial performance is the age of its fleet of planes, many of which it is leasing; the high cost of their maintenance because of their age; and the down-time and delays the airline endures because of break-downs.

If new airplanes can be brought into the operation, there could be considerable cost reduction, decreasing significantly, if not eliminating, the airline’s operational losses, and allowing LIAT to continue providing a crucial service to the region.

While the governments of Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados and St Vincent & the Grenadines are LIAT’s main shareholders, with Barbados being the largest of them, eight other governments of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) are also shareholders owning 1.11 % of the shares.

As shareholders, however small, and as members of CARICOM to which regional transportation is highly important both for the movement of goods and people, and the strengthening of the spirit of “community”, these governments too should be concerned about LIAT’s prospects.

In these circumstances it is difficult to understand why CARICOM governments have not together addressed the difficulties of LIAT, in the context of regional transportation in an attempt to resolve them.

Regional airline experts have long suggested that a structured co-operative relationship between LIAT and CAL would be beneficial to both airlines which could share the costs of a number of common activities, and with LIAT acting as a feeder for CAL’s long-haul flights from several Caribbean ports. This still appears to be a sensible option.

As far as is publicly known, there has not been an attempt by the Boards of CAL and LIAT to try to forge a working relationship in the last 2 years largely because of an indifferent posture by CAL, nor has there been an effort by CARICOM governments to talk through the issue based on technical studies of which there are many.

Instead, the region is witnessing an increasing expansion of CAL’s flights into territories traditionally serviced by LIAT. CAL is doing so with the significant unfair advantage of fuel subsidised by the Trinidad and Tobago government and new aircraft with far less maintenance costs.

While CAL’s subsidised flights will hurt LIAT if the latter airline cannot reduce its operational costs, CAL will not be able to service LIAT’s present routes fully in the future and may even, for financial reasons, abandon some of them especially if, as the CAL Chairman has said, CAL decides to give up the huge fuel subsidy it now receives from the Trinidad and Tobago government that makes up much, if not almost all, of CAL’s declared profits.

Recently, there has been a suggestion that two of LIAT’s existing small shareholder governments – St Lucia and Dominica – might again become larger shareholder in the airline.

Were they to do so, they would each have to find US$1.8 million, difficult to do in the present circumstances of their economies. Even if they were to do so, it would not overcome the difficulties that confront LIAT and would not contribute to its longer-term stability, though it would demonstrate both commitment to, and confidence in, the airline.

One possibility, which LIAT might consider, is the formation of a new company by interested Caribbean governments to purchase appropriate new aircraft from Brazil, Canada or France and leasing these new planes to LIAT.

The new government-owned company would be able to acquire aircraft at concessionary prices, and, in turn, lease the aircraft to LIAT. LIAT would then retire its leases on its oldest aircraft.

Overall these measures would reduce LIAT’s maintenance costs significantly and shorten the down time of its aircraft and its flight delays. It would be beneficial if other governments join the St Lucia and Dominica governments in establishing the new Caribbean company to negotiate and purchase the new planes that LIAT would lease.

Caribbean governments have collectively spent US$45 million subsidising flights by carriers into the region. None of it was spent on LIAT. Additionally Caribbean governments have collectively expended a great deal of time and money trying to get the British government to reduce the Air Passenger Duty applied to flights into the Caribbean. Yet none of this money and effort is spent on solving a distinct Caribbean transportation problem.

The ideal approach to addressing the LIAT issue would be a full CARICOM Heads of Government meeting that includes the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago. Importantly, it should not be a meeting in which the government of Trinidad and Tobago would be expected to shell-out money for LIAT.

It should be aimed at requiring a co-operative and structured relationship between CAL and LIAT, and an end to CAL’s fuel subsidy on the routes with which it competes unfairly with LIAT.

The prospect of a collapsed LIAT is not good for tourism, business or community of the Caribbean people. It is time for regional action

Feature: T&T Consul General in Florida offers support for ailing national

2012-01-28T06:00:00.000-05:00

L to R Seeta Boochoon, Dr Anil Ramnanan, Consul General , Meera Ramsook and Rajesh Ramsook

Dr. Anil Ramnanan & patient Seenath Polo Ramdeen

Consul General of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Anil Ramnanan, is keeping a check on Seenath Polo Ramdeen of San Fernando, Trinidad, who is a patient at the Ryder Trauma Center at Jackson Memorial Hospital.

Ramdeen sustained a fractured neck in November 2011, which resulted in a severe spinal cord injury. Ramdeen was injured in an air boating accident on the Oropouche River.

Doctors in Trinidad were able to keep Ramdeen stabilized. However, his condition was too severe so they advised that the he would receive better care in Miami, at the Ryder Trauma Center

Ramdeen arrived in Miami on 3 January, 2012 and was in immediate contact with Ramnanan.

Ramnanan has visited Ramdeen in hospital and offered continuous support to to both the patients and his family, who have accompanied Ramdeen to Miami.

Ramnanan has said that his responsibility is to continually seek the interest of nationals. He extends his charity to non-nationals as well.

Last Christmas Ramnanan travelled to Palm Beach County to distribute Christmas presents to sick children at the Palms West Hospital as part of his efforts in connecting with the wider community.

The day Rowley Bowed - (from NEWSDAY)

2012-01-27T21:42:00.000-05:00

The day Rowley bowed
By NALINEE SEELAL Friday, January 27 2012 (reproduced from NEWSDAY)

PRIME Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s gesture of bowing and touching the feet of India’s President Pratibha Devisingh during a recent 14-day State visit to India, has generated much discussion in local society.

Leading the loudest howl of condemnation for the act, which is a common gesture of respect and humility in the Hindu religion, of which Persad-Bissessar is a follower, is Opposition People’s National Movement (PNM) leader Dr Keith Rowley.

At a PNM public meeting days after the Prime Minister returned home, Rowley castigated Persad-Bissessar by saying, “I am a citizen of Trinidad and Tobago and I take umbrage at my Prime Minister going to anybody’s country and ‘kissing’ any office-holder’s foot! Nobody sent the Prime Minister abroad to represent her religion or her race.”

Persad-Bissessar countered by saying she had nothing to apologise for as her gesture was one of showing respect to her elder as is the norm in the Hindu religion and that if Rowley is serious in his aspiration to become Prime Minister, he ought to show respect to all races and religions.

However, this photo, taken at a mosque at Victoria Village in San Fernando during Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations last year, Dr Rowley himself is seen bowing during prayers as is the norm in Islam. No one, not the Prime Minister nor any other person, castigated Rowley — who is not a Muslim follower — for bowing during that Eid celebration.

Manning doing well; family praises dedication of medical team

2012-01-27T09:30:00.000-05:00

Patrick Manning is sitting up, eating solids and speaking.

That's the latest update on the condition of the former Prime Minister and MP for San Fernando East, who is recovering at the San Fernando General Hospital from a stoke he suffered on Monday evening.

Doctors moved Manning out of the Intensive care Unit Wednesday.

Manning's wife, Hazel, and his sister, Dr Petronella Manning-Alleyne, gave reporters at update.

Dr Manning-Alleyne said, "He sat up on his own, he spoke, he asked to go home. The doctors had to convince him he should not go home and he asked them to give him a sense of what was happening to him and his development."

She added that his doctors explain that his condition is improving and that if he continues to recover along that line "he should be up and ready to walk, talk and do what he normally does" in three to six months.

She also said he advised her brother to take care of himself before worrying about national issues.

Mrs Manning told the media it has a difficult time for the family. And she thanked everyone who have called and expressed concern and support, including President Max Richards, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, other government leaders and Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley.

The former Education Minister also praised Dr Kanta Ramcharan and the medical team that has been looking after Manning. She said the doctors had been visiting him almost every hour. She singled out one nurse who stayed on the job for 16 hours to ensure her husband was okay.

In a related development, Manning long time friend Ralph Gonzalves arrives in Trinidad Friday to visit Manning.

The Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines has been friends with Manning since their university days in Jamaica.

"All I want him to do is see my eyes and I see his," Gonzalves told the Guardian newspaper. He added, “We keep in touch all the time. He is my real brother. We go way back. I want him to come up and spend some time with me.”

Gonzalves said he wants to give some moral support to Manning’s wife, Hazel, and his sons.

Grenada's Prime Minister Tillman Thomas told the paper the people of Grenada are praying for Manning.

PM, ministers to meet to fix problems with Point highway project

2012-01-27T09:00:00.000-05:00

PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar with Works Minister Jack Warner and Oropouche East MP Roodal Moonilal

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has summoned a meeting of the members of parliament whose constituencies are in the route of the $7.2 billion highway from Golconda to Point Fortin.

The meeting is to discuss controversies that have developed since the highway construction began in the last quarter of last year.

“The meeting is to discuss the concerns that have been raised and to surmount the challenges that we have,” Persad-Bissessar said. “We need to give consideration to the people’s concerns.

“Of course there will be challenges every time we have a major construction project. If we don’t push it and micro-manage it, it will take forever and we really have no intention (of stalling) because we will not be here forever.”

The Prime Minister said the government must address all the challenges. “We need to get the planning and implementation done with respect to the highway,” she said. “There are some challenges so we need to strategise how best to get the job done.”

Works and Infrastructure Warner promised to look into some of the complaints. One issue is the demand from people in a residential area known as Siberian Drive who want $2 million each for their homes.

There is also an anti-highway mobilisation movement led by University of the West Indies lecturer, Dr Wayne Kublalsingh. And sub-contractors have said they are not being paid by the main contractor.

Both the Prime Minister and Warner have promised to resolve all the problems. Persad-Bissessar said the highway must continue because of the immense benefits it will bring.

She promised to continue discussions with Kublalsingh. In the meantime, she said, construction would continue in areas where there are no issues with the route of the highway.

Persad-Bissessar also announced that on Monday contractors will begin clearing the 200 acre site for the Debe campus of the University of the West Indies. She said the project will have great benefits and convert Debe into a bustling town.

Fast ferry T&T/Eastern caribbean service coming in 2012

2012-01-27T08:50:00.000-05:00

A private Barbados-based company is interested in investing US$20 million to develop a fast ferry service linking Trinidad & Tobago with the Eastern Caribbean.

Transport Devant Maharaj said Thursday cabinet has selected Fast Caribbean Limited for the service, which has been endorsed buy Caricom governments.

Maharaj told reporters at the post cabinet news conference five companies first indicated their interest in providing the service.

However only two of them, Ostal and Fast Caribbean Limited, responded to the Request for Proposals in December 2011.

He said Fast Caribbean Limited was recommended following an evaluation of the proposals for the service, which is expected to begin will begin this year.

"Cabinet has approved that a negotiation team begin discussions with Fast Caribbean Limited with a view of implementing this fast ferry service throughout the Eastern Caribbean from Trinidad and Tobago," he said.

"The team is to comprised of the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Transport, the CEO of TITT, Port Authority of Trinidad and Tobago, Ms. Nyree Alfonso, a representative of the Ministry of Finance and a representative of the Ministry of the Attorney General," he added.

The fast ferry will first serve Grenada, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Lucia and Barbados and operate from its base in Port of Spain.

"Fast Caribbean Limited will charter from owners Montrose Global and INCAT a 112 metre wave-piercing catamaran similar to those operating the Trinidad and Tobago route.

"Their strategic partner will be Bay Ferries which also operates in Trinidad with the inter-island ferry. The service will cater for both foot passengers, vehicles of all types, and cargo," the minister said. He added that the company plans to allow Trinidad & Tobago citizens buy shares in the company.

Communication Minister Suruj Rambachan said the service will encourage intra island travel and open up opportunities for domestic and intra regional tourism, including student exchanges. He said the service may include a new type of tourism with families travelling on the ferry and taking their vehicles along.

Trade Minister Stephen Cadiz told reporters it would also provide trade opportunities between Trinidad & Tobago and the region. He noted that many shipping lines do not serve the smaller islands so the service could provide an opportunity for transhipment of cargo from the islands through T&T.

T&T respects media freedom, has never boycotted media: Rambachan

2012-01-27T08:45:00.000-05:00

File: Excerpt from a speech on Jan. 25, 2010 at the inauguration of Kamla Persad-Bissessar as Political Leader of the United National Congress (UNC)

Communications Minister Dr Surujrattan Rambachan on Thursday defended the Trinidad & Tobago government on the issue of media freedom, noting that the Kamla Persad-Bissessar administration respects the right to freedom of the media and has always made that clear.

As recently as Tuesday at the celebration of the United National Congress (UNC) marking the second anniversary of Perasd-Bissessar's election as leader of the party, the Prime Minister mentioned press freedom as part of her overall vision for Trinidad & Tobago.

She said: "And remember always that we in the UNC have a clear vision of what our country must be …

"It is a vision where the media must be free to report and probe as a fourth estate of governance, to be the guardians of democracy to generate debate and discussion on matters of national interest on which citizens can act…".

Rambachan told reporters at the post cabinet media briefing that the People's Partnership government is under more intense media scrutiny than any past administration. He said the government has never interfered with the rights of reporters.

He was responding to a question from a reporter concerning the 2011-12 report of the journalism watchdog, Reporters Without Borders, which downgraded Trinidad & Tobago on the press freedom index.

The summary of its report stated: "There was a surprise of a different kind in Trinidad and Tobago (50th, down 20 places) as a result of a scandal involving spying on journalists, as well as moves to boycott radio and television stations and procedural abuses."

It did not provide any specific details on the allegations of boycott of radio and TV stations or explain what it meant by procedural abuses.

Rambachan said he would prefer to read the full report before commenting on the conclusions. However he stated that it is important for objectivity in this matter. He stated that the government has never boycotted any radio or television station, so he was at a loss to understand why the report arrived at that conclusion.

The issue of the "trinidadgate", which was not raised at the media briefing, had to do with the spying scandal on journalists by the previous administration, which the Prime Minister exposed in Parliament.

Reporters Without Borders acknowledged that the current government has taken action in the matter.

It's trinidadgate report stated:

"Journalists whose communications have been illegally monitored include Dale Enoch of Radio I 95 FM,Sasha Mohammed of TV6, Shelly Dass of CNC TV, Francis Joseph and Ken Ali of Newsday,Camini Marajh of the Trinidad Express daily and Inshan Ishmael of IBN TV.

“The present government has taken real measures to strictly curtail the use of such practices and put them under judicial supervision,” Reporters Without Borders said.

It suggested that "an investigation – if necessary, by a special parliamentary commission – must be carried out in order to shed light on this incredible misuse of the intelligence services and, in particular, to determine the degree to which the information gathered may have hurt journalists and their sources.”

The Trinidad & Tobago government has already taken action to deal with the problem and the Prime Minister has restated her pledge to protect the rights of journalists and media in the country.

In December 2010 one news executive suggested that the government's hiring of journalists to work in the state information services was a form of attack on media freedom.

Dominic Kalipersad stated: "I note the State agencies that are luring staff from TV6. If this is an attempt to weaken TV6 because of our strength, I want to say TV6 will always remain strong. Is this the type of press freedom that the Prime Minister is talking about?"

Persad-Bissessar responded by stating that must not be seen as a press freedom issue.

"Indeed it's the exercise of rights, constitutional rights to seek a job where you feel you can perform and where you have obtained a job. It's freedom of movement and freedom to be employed, I don't see it as an attack on press freedom if one person leaves a job to take up another, I really don't see it that way," she told the Trinidad Express.

T&T cabinet approves development of Corporate Social Responsibility plan

2012-01-27T08:40:00.000-05:00

Trinidad & Tobago is developing a National Corporate Social Responsibility Policy.

Trade Minister Stephen Cadiz made the announcement to reporters Thursday at the post cabinet news briefing. Cadiz said the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is putting $2 million into the project; Government will contribute $140,000.

Cadiz said internationally-based companies have sought to implement Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) into their business models to boost competitiveness and incorporate sustainability into their core operations.

He said CSR is premised on the idea of businesses committing to give back to society and utilising CSR to attract foreign investment. He said development of such a project will cause international businesses to look at Trinidad and Tobago in a different light.

"For international businesses, when they see that you have an established CSR policy, they look at you in a different light,"Cadiz said.

"So we are actually raising the profile of Trinidad and Tobago business to meet international standards. When we were in India recently, many of the companies we spoke to, which are the large corporations in India, they asked about this, what is your position on Corporate Social Responsibility."

The minister said UNDP will provide consultants and also be responsible for managing the project. The CSR office will be at the Ministry of Trade and Industry.

Kamla's vision for T&T

2012-01-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

Kamla Persad-Bissessar Verbatim - Tuesday 24 Jan. 2012 - Rienzi Complex, Couva:

Our party is bigger than any individual; YOU demonstrated two years ago that you understood that and you made the correct judgment in changing your leadership.

Two months from today you will face the same challenge – to choose wisely so that OUR PARTY WILL REMAIN STRONG, UNITED AND IN GOVERNMENT … TO CONTINUE TO SERVE YOU.

Ask questions and demand answers.

And remember always that we in the UNC have a clear vision of what our country must be … it must be that proverbial village that nurtures and raises every child…

It is a vision that extends beyond the home and into the community…

It is a vision where we give more than we receive.

The greatest charity is to be each other’s keeper, to stand together to help one another.

My vision is one that sees our people celebrating that which brings us together, not what sets us apart … a vision of a new society that we fashion with discipline and where we open our doors to one another and welcome the best human values.

It is a vision of a new society with respect for each other and the preservation of human dignity…

It is a vision of a country where the poorest have the same opportunity as the most affluent, where we treat the differently abled with respect, where we care for the elderly with dignity for their contribution through their toil be it in field and factory or anywhere else …

It is the vision of a society where every family has a home, where no one goes hungry, where the entire community raises every child as its own, where every woman and every child and every elderly person is respected, where everyone who wants a job can acquire one, where people are rewarded and acknowledged in accordance with their respective contributions…

My vision for our nation is one where our government is guided by the highest moral values and ethics, where government is accountable to the people …

It is a vision where the media must be free to report and probe as a fourth estate of governance, to be the guardians of democracy to generate debate and discussion on matters of national interest on which citizens can act…

It is a vision of continuing service to you the people …

As a mother and grandmother I know the value of love and compassion … and as I leave you tonight, I pledge to embrace everyone in unity, so that we will live as one family, under God, enjoying and sharing the bounty of our land.

We must never again engage in divisiveness …we must always celebrate our diversity and our rich heritage.

Let us live together, dream dreams together and build a nation of equals where each of us would be free and free from fear.

This is my vision for you in the UNC and our country. And I promise you I will not fail you.

And so I ask you once more to put God in front and let us walk behind … and let us live the way the Almighty meant it to be – one family, dedicated to our mother Trinidad and Tobago.

Activist in PM's constituency dies in traffic accident

2012-01-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

Community activist Khairoon Rahamut was crushed to death Thursday by a water truck.

Media reports said Rahamut, who was a close friend of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, died when the truck rolled over her head as she was returning home from the Prime Minister's constituency office in Siparia.

Rahamut was one of the founders of the Siparia Women’s Arm. The Prime Minister is deeply saddened by Rahamut's death and is in deep mourning.

“I have lost a dear friend and a sister. I will miss her dearly. She was my friend for over 25 years...when I was nobody,” Persad-Bissessar said.

“This is so sad, I was just talking to my son about her. She was my friend, my sister for over 25 years. Her entire family has been a source of strength to me and not just at the political level but a real friend to me,” she added.

Investigators say Rahamut, who suffered from Cardiac disease, collapsed while crossing the road in front of the truck at Penal Junction. The reports say she was unable to get up before the truck rolled over her.

Staff at Persad-Bissessar's office closed shop for the day on learning of Rahamut's death.

Senator Danny Maharaj described the deceased woman as one of the longest-standing members of the constituency office, who was devoted to community work.

Maternity leave to be extended to 14 weeks: McLeod

2012-01-27T05:55:00.000-05:00

Government will soon increase maternity leave by one week, giving news 14 weeks of paid leave.

Labour Minister Errol McLeod told reporters the legislation on that will go before Parliament in a week. He also said the government is looking into five days of paternity leave.

“It’s all a work in progress. I look forward to bringing to Parliament one of these days, provisions that would encourage the males in our society,” McLeod added.

The extension of the maternity leave is a promise made in the election manifesto. it requires an amendment to the National Insurance legislation.

The minister said the cost of the additional week will depend on the wage or salary of the respective person accessing the benefit. He said Government held consultations with all stakeholder partners, who have agreed with the measure.

No glass bottles for Carnival in POS

2012-01-27T00:12:00.000-05:00

Leave glass bottles at home or in the trunk of your car: Lee Sing

The mayor of Port of Spain is warning that people who carry drinks in glass bottles during the Carnival celebrations would face a fine of $1,000 and risk being thrown in jail for three months.

Louis Lee Sing said he has held discussions with key stakeholders in the glass bottle beverage industry and they have decided that they will not sell beverages in glass containers in Port of Spain on both Carnival days.

"What we are doing is a worldwide approach to crowd control," Lee Sing told the Express newspaper.

"Where you have large crowds gathered, you never sell drinks in glass bottles. When you go to international football games, and what have you, you could drink as much as you want but you are getting it in a plastic cup," he added.

Lee Sing said individuals entering the city for Carnival should treat it as a big cooler fete and refrain from bringing any glass bottles.

"If the person comes into the city with a trunk-full of drinks and they keep it in their trunk we have no quarrel with that. But if they open the trunk and distribute the bottles in a band, that is what we have a problem with because those very bottles could end up being instruments of death and destruction and injury.

"A lot of people use the Savannah as a picnic ground during the Carnival. They come with their drinks in their trunk. If they have glass bottles in their trunk and they open it in their trunk and pour the drink into a plastic cup and distribute it to a friend in a passing band, I have absolutely no problem with that. But you cannot serve drinks on the road in glass bottles."

Lee Sing it was a broken bottle which was used during the only killing during last year's carnival.

Volunteer program for youth in the works

2012-01-27T00:03:00.002-05:00

Government is collaborating with groups in civil society to establish a National Youth Volunteerism Program to encourage young people to be more caring and less individualistic.

Gender Affairs, Youth and Child Development Minister Verna St Rose-Greaves disclosed this at Thursday's post cabinet news conference at the Diplomatic Centre in St Ann’s.

The minister said the program would have a significant and positive impact on young people, while encouraging them to participate in national development and national decision-making.

There will be no financial benefit for participants, she noted. St Rose-Greaves explained that the program would involve students from primary, secondary, tertiary institutions and youth camps.

Photo gallery: India celebrates 63rd Republic Day

2012-01-26T10:00:00.000-05:00

India celebrated its 63rd Republic Day Thursday with a grand parade in the capital, New Delhi, displaying the country's military might and rich cultural diversity amid unity.

Republic Day commemorates the date on which the Constitution of India came into force replacing the Government of India Act 1935 as the governing document of the country.

This year’s parade highlighted the nation’s achievements in various fields, the military prowess, scintillating display of air power as also country’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.

Click for a specially arranged rendition of India's National Anthem

Story and pictures from Bellevision.com

Manning out of intensive care; recovery will be slow

2012-01-26T09:00:00.000-05:00

Health Minister Dr Fuad Khan consults with Manning's medical team

Former Prime Minister Patrick Manning is out of the intensive care unit and is in stable condition.

Family members and healthcare officials say they are confident Manning will leave hospital soon. However Health Minister Dr. Fuad Khan is not so sure. He told reporters Wednesday the recovery may take some time.

Manning has been moved to a High Dependency Ward at the San Fernando General Hospital.

Khan, who visited Manning briefly, said he had advised the Chairman of the SWRHA, Dr. Lackram Bodoe, to restrict visitors to ensure that Manning got the critical care he needed in the first 24 hours of suffering a stroke.

“He has gone through a lot. What is happening is he is able to at least smile,” Khan said.

Khan said Manning’s brain suffered an assault because of the stroke. However he confirmed that the CT scan showed no major areas of concern for doctors. “It is now resolving, based on the medication he is getting, so the swelling is decreasing and the pressure is under control,” the minister told reporters.

“You will find the neurons will start to function at this time, so you will get success as we go on slowly,” he explained.

Manning's medical team includes Dr Kanta Ramcharan, neurologist and specialist consultant in internal medicine; Dr Neil Bhagwandass, specialist in internal medicine who was on call when Manning went to the emergency department; and Dr Parvind Ramoutar, a cardiologist and internal medicine consultant.

Khan said strict visitors’ access remains in effect, with only close relatives being allowed at his bedside. This is to “allow the patient to recover, rest and allow the injections and treatment to kick in,” he explained.

Khan said he expects about 80 per cent recovery in the next three to four months. “He has started to swallow, which is an extremely good sign," he said.

The minister gave the assurance that Manning will be getting the best possible care at the hospital. “Whatever Mr Manning wants, Dr Bodoe and the SWRHA will be giving to him,” he said.

The hospital has put strict security measures in place to ensure protection of the former prime minister. An official at Manning's San Fernando East constituency office appealed to visitors to respect the wishes of the doctors.

Don't visit my father to score cheap political points: Brian Manning

2012-01-26T08:55:00.000-05:00

Brian Manning said Wednesday some politicians are trying to see his ailining father to score "cheap political points".

The son of former prime minister Patrick Manning made the comments at a media briefing at his father’s office on Coffee Street, San Fernando.

Manning was highly critical of politicans who “maligned” his father during his political career yet come to see his “demise” to run to the media to make statements. “Some politicans playing games,” he said.

One of Manning's arch-rivals, former prime minister Basdeo Panday visited Manning at the San Fernando General Hospital Tuesday with his politicians daughter, Mickela, who wished "uncle Manning" a speedy recovery. Local Government Minister Chandresh Sharma has also visited Manning.

Manning said former minister of Commmunity Development Joan Yuille-Williams is the only authorised person to speak on the family’s behalf. He promised daily updates on his father’s condition.

The younger Manning also praised Health Minister Dr Faud Khan who visited the former PM at the High Dependency Ward.

“I would like to publicly thank him for everything he has done to make my father’s stay there as comfortable as possible and the family’s stay as comfortable as possible,” he said. “Dr Faud Khan, you are doing an excellent job.”

Manning stated that his father is doing “extremely well,” excplaining that he has regained some mobility on his right side and is speaking some words.

He condemned the "media circus" that has been created since his father fell ill and was taken to hospital Monday night. “It becomes extremely challenging and I think we can all understand that everyone has a right to privacy, even our public figures and not just privacy, a right to some peace and quiet," he said.

PM Kamla keeping in touch with Hazel Manning; asks nation to pray for former PM

2012-01-26T08:50:00.000-05:00

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar will not visit Patrick Manning at the San Fernando General Hospital because he respects the instructions given by doctors attending to San Fernando East MP Patrick Manning, where Manning is recovering from a stroke. Visits are restricted to Manning's immediate family.

Persad-Bissessar said she will keep in contact with Manning's wife, Hazel. "I spoke with Mrs Manning and she has been advised by his doctors that visitors are restricted to immediate family. He needs to rest to ensure a speedy recovery," she said.

Persad-Bissessar called on the nation to continue praying for Manning's recovery and promised her Government would assist in any way possible. "I have instructed my Health Minister to visit Mr Manning and assist in whatever way possible. But we will be guided by his family," she told reporters.

A bulletin issued by Manning's San Fernando East Constituency office at 7.18 p.m. yesterday stated that Manning's condition had improved. "Mr Manning's medical team has reported that he is doing well, recuperating nicely, receiving physiotherapy and is in a stable condition. Visitation is still restricted to his immediate family and security has been heightened.

"Mr Manning and his family would like to thank everyone for their words of encouragement, thoughts and prayers. We believe in a true and living God who is never changing and by his stripes we are healed. We claim immaculate healing and divine protection over the Honourable Patrick Manning at this time," the release added.

PM and ministers meet to discuss challenges affecting south highway project

2012-01-26T08:22:00.000-05:00

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar met in Debe Wednesday night key ministers involved in the construction of the highway from Golconda to Point Fortin to discuss out several challenges facing the $7.5 billion project.

The meeting at the Oropouche East constituency office of Dr Roodal Moonilal involved Moonilal, Minister of Works and Infrastructure Jack Warner, Minister in the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure Stacy Roopnarine, Minister of Local Government Chandresh Sharma and Minister of Food Production Vasant Bharath.

"We need to get on with the planning and implementation of this project, but we also have to respect the residents' opinions. We are meeting with the key ministers involved to plan a way forward," she told reporters.

Warner said among residents have complained about the level of vibration from the construction work being done on the site.

"Some residents complained about the vibration and asked to be relocated. They are giving the price and value of their home, so we have to discuss this and ensure that everyone is happy," he said.

Warner met residents earlier this month to address their concerns. He assured them that money is available to complete the project and promised them that they would get land and money, including compensation for their inconvenience of being relocated.

PM renews pledge of service, says recall legislation coming

2012-01-26T06:51:00.000-05:00

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar renewed her pledge of service to her party and the country Tuesday night at a rally at the Rienzi Complex to mark the second anniversary of her leadership of the Ubnited National Congress (UNC).

JYOTI has published an excerpt from Persad-Bissessar's speech in which she also promised greater democracy within her party and said legislation to recall MPs and to establish term limited that she promised in the election campaign will soon be a reality.

The speech is taken from the PM's Facebook.

Edited exceprts:

The all embracing philosophy of our party, the United National Congress, has facilitated a living, breathing inclusive movement that has redefined politics that now governs this country," she said.

My heart is filled with pride and gratitude. As Prime Minister it is You who have led me to this point. It is You who continue to inspire me. It is You who tell me when we go wrong or cheer me on when we do what is right. And I will never, never lose touch with You. Vox Populii Vox Dei. The voice of the people is the voice of God," she added.

Our party is an open and democratic one; we can talk and argue and solve problems; no one man or woman dictates to us. The days of maximum leadership are over. You made that change happen in one swoop in 2010.

You removed a dictatorial government which had no regard for anyone but themselves and their close friends … and, you changed the leadership of our party so that we became electable and could begin the campaign of redeeming Trinidad and Tobago.

So let not your hearts be troubled. OUR PARTY IS IN GOOD HANDS. And so is our government!

We are making progress because we listen before we act. And we create programs to help everyone, particularly those at the bottom of the economic and social ladder.

None of this would have been possible without you, our dedicated and loyal members of the UNC.

You gave me a mandate and I have been keeping my promises to you. Building unity and healing deep wounds is a daily and a continuous process that doesn’t happen with the speed that some of us want to see.

It is sometimes a tedious process; it requires dedication and commitment.

But more than all, it requires a determination to listen, and to compromise so that we gradually change opinions, slowly erode old barriers and quietly build new structures.

That’s what we set out to do two years ago when you handed me the mandate to lead our party.

That is the pledge we made to you. That is our promise to you.

When I asked you two years ago to give me an opportunity to serve you as the leader of our great party I told you that I would give you a government that would be people centred, that I would have as a principal plank of our development, POVERTY ERADICATION, and that I would make our country safer.

One hungry child is too many; one homeless family is one too many; one unemployed person is unacceptable and one murder will always be one too many.

So, my sisters and brothers, trust me when I tell you it is a work in progress…

We know there is still much work to be done and we will not be deterred, we will not shirk our responsibility to you; we will continue to put our shoulder to the wheel for there is always room for improvement.

Yes we have made quantum leaps.

We are moving forward and with your continued support and your continued faith and help, we shall overcome all the hurdles.

We shall overcome; We will continue to RISE and become the great nation we can be.

Our party will remain one that will stand up for the poor and dispossessed; we will never let anyone trample your rights.

We are an all inclusive party.

The BIG TENT OF THE UNC has room for all of us; for in our father’s house there are many mansions.

So I urge you to open your arms and embrace ALL who want to be a part of our political family.

There are no outsiders in the UNC; there are no Johnny-come-lately’s; there are no “THEM” and “US” in our party.

And hear me clearly, my sisters and brothers.. THIS IS OUR PARTY; WE CHOOSE OUR LEADERS THROUGH DEMOCRACTIC MEANS. WE DID THAT TWO YEARS AGO AND WE WILL DO IT AGAIN ON MARCH 24.

The United National Congress belongs to YOU; no leader owns this party … and under my watch I assure you that YOU will remain in charge of our party.

YOU own this party, not the leader or any member of NATEX – our national executive.

And our membership includes everyone who shares our values of justice, equality and freedom.

There is no need for anyone to feel left out.

We represent the diversity of country as no other party does...We are building a better party and a better nation...

Today I represent not only those of us who are members of our party; I represent every citizen of Trinidad & Tobago – including those who live outside of our shores.

And the nation we are building is for all of us and for generations to come.

That is the commitment I made to you when I asked you to support me and give me the honour to lead our party.

I want you to recall what I told you then …

"I am your servant. I accept the assignment you now place in my hands. And I pledge that I will never let you down."

That’s what I told you on January 24, 2010. And tonight I renew that pledge to you.

And I call on everyone again to unite as one family – because that is what we are, one family – and let us continue the crucial task of making our party the strongest that it can be.

It’s a long road ahead but with your trust and your belief in our party we will rise and overcome all the obstacles.

The flame that you kindled two years ago has provided light and guidance to our nation when it was at its darkest hour.

Today the Rising sun is shining brightly again...and you must take credit for that because you were determined to dispense with the past and work together to build a fairer, more prosperous Trinidad and Tobago where all of us can live in harmony.

No matter what our backgrounds, this is our home. We are one nation with one destiny.

Not one member of our party, not one citizen will be left behind. Together we will continue to rise – every man, woman and child. But we will do it the right way.

The colour of your skin, the texture of your hair and the ways in which you worship will not matter; what will matter is the content of your character and your determination to live and work together, to celebrate our diversity and be equal participants in our free and democratic society.

So tonight I make a pledge to you that will bring you even closer to the party leadership.

We are doing all we can to serve every member of our party equally and fairly and we are prepared to do more.

So here is my pledge to you.

As your leader, I promise that I will ask our National Executive to set up as part of the party’s governance an office of an OMBUSDSMAN.

That office would be staffed to receive your complaints about any matter relating to the party, its officers or its representatives.

And the office will investigate those complaints and report back to the executive.

I PROMISE YOU THAT WE WILL ACT TO PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS AND TO MAKE SURE THAT WE CORRECT WHATEVER IS WRONG.

At the national level we will go one step further.

We promised you in the election campaign two years ago that we would introduce legislation in the Parliament to give you the right to recall your representative.

I want to report to you tonight that that legislation is coming to Parliament in this session.

If your representative is not working you would have the right to demand that she or he is called to account.

YOU CAN FIRE YOUR REPRESENTATIVE.

That is how far we are going to protect democracy and YOUR rights as a citizen and as a member of our party.

We will also have legislation on term limits and on a fixed date for elections as promised; we keep our promises.

Before I leave office you can be assured that no Prime Minister will ever be allowed to serve more than two terms. No more here for life leadership!

I want you to carry home the message I bring you tonight … Tell it to everyone. When you changed your leader two years ago a new day dawned … a new day and a new way forward for everyone.

Tell everyone that there is a change that is sweeping across this land that will benefit each and every citizen.

NO ONE WILL DIVIDE US WITH LIES AND FALSE PROPAGANDA!

YOUR LEADER will never let you down … the people’s partnership will not let you down … the UNC will never desert you and the UNC will remain YOUR PARTY.

NEWSDAY congratulates Kamla on 2nd anniverary as UNC leader

2012-01-26T06:00:00.000-05:00

WE congratulate Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar on her second anniversary as UNC political leader, even as next May her People’s Partnership (PP) Government will also mark its second year in office, or its midterm.

While the Opposition has a role to constantly question the Government’s performance and to stand ready to provide an alternative government, nonetheless we must caution about how easy it is to throw around “mauvais langue” in a small society such as TT, when one is not in the hot seat of having to make things happen.

However, one must never forget the huge debt that the nation owes Mrs Persad-Bissessar and her team in having the courage to halt the runaway train that was the former PNM administration.

Crime, profligacy in mega-projects and threats to constitutional rights (such as the attempted subsuming of the powers of Head of State by the Head of Government, plus subsequent revelations about the phone- tapping of prominent citizens) were all the order of the day under the former regime.

Mrs Persad-Bissessar had the strength and the personal courage to take on and beat the very founder of the UNC, Basdeo Panday, to become UNC leader and then Opposition Leader, and then beat the then-ruling PNM under Patrick Manning.

It is an epic story, of the courage of a woman. In the last general election, not only was the PP able to attract traditional floating voters but also a large swathe of the population that never votes, much to the credit of Persad-Bissessar.

She is also to be congratulated for her role in quickly getting together the leaders of the five entities making up the PP — the UNC, COP, NJAC, TOP and MSJ — and just as importantly, in keeping the whole team together.

This is no mean feat. In fact whether the PP Government survives and whether it wins a second term in office will likely depend just as much on the dynamics between the five PP parties, as upon the issues of the day that the Government is trying to tackle, such as the perennial crime issue or the near-global fears of stalled economic growth.

From day one, the PP’s cohesion has been monitored by the PNM and correctly so, as without accountability a government becomes a runaway train.

It was said of the former ONR (and to an extent the former NAR) that if the PNM could not beat them on “the issues”, then the PNM would try to turn their political opponents into an issue, as done in George Chambers’ dubbing the ONR to be “a wicked and nefarious group of men”. This may be why Mrs Persad-Bissessar has spent so much time on crafting the image of the PP Government and herself.

While some may say a woman is weak and docile, and while others may subscribe to a gender neutrality view of the workplace and political arena, we think much of Persad-Bissessar’s success is actually due to her having brought her attributes of womanhood to bear to her job.

When dealing with people as Prime Minister, she shows a remarkable degree of compassion, immediacy and adaptability to the other person’s plight. We expect that Persad-Bissessar will live long in the minds of those who have met her as being a role model — both for those persons aspiring to leadership roles, and for young women and girls in TT and the world.

She is a woman who has become a leader without losing her femininity — as wife, mother and grandmother — but on the contrary has unabashedly allowed herself to be guided in her job by her very “womanness”.

We think that behind all the razzmatazz of her hectic schedule, she genuinely has a heart for the disadvantaged.

We recall that she left her own inauguration ceremony to don boots to visit flood-hit communities and to pledge relief. She showed how easy and relatively cheap it was to set up a “Life Fund” to help sick children and relieve the minds of their parents facing million-dollar medical bills.

Her provision of laptops for SEA pupils is to be highly lauded as a measure of her enlightenment. Persad-Bissessar has personified kindness and gentleness towards individuals while a respected leader, and has certainly stopped the slide of TT into areas of abuse of constitutional rights under the former regime.

But the story of Kamla Persad-Bissessar continues and we have to wait to see how it will end. Will she be able to withstand the non-stop onslaught from Opposition in and out of her Government?

Only time will tell, but so far she has shown strength in the face of vicious attacks that we predict will only gain momentum in the days and months ahead.

(REPRODUCED from NEWSDAY)

Photo gallery: UNC anniversary celebration - 24 Jan. 2012

2012-01-25T16:40:00.003-05:00

PM Kamla announces free water, electricity for pensioners and underprivileged

2012-01-25T11:09:00.000-05:00

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar announced on Tuesday night that her government plans to provide free water and electricity to the less privileged and poor in Trinidad & Tobago.

She was speaking in her capacity as Political Leader of the United National Congress (UNC) at a rally at the Rienzi Complex to mark her second anniversary as leader of the party.

"We are in discussions with the Minister of Public Utilities on giving further support to our less fortunate and elderly population and persons who are disabled and those in receipt of public assistance," Persad-Bissessar said.

"I propose to increase our current subsidy on water and electricity to 100% for old age pensioners and the poor and low income persons on social assistance who currently fall under the utilities assistance program (UAP)."

The plan means all the people who fall within those groups will no longer have to pay for the two utilities.

Persad-Bissessar also listed her government's principal achievements during the past 20 months in office and promised to continue to deliver what the people want and need.

AGRICULTURE

Construction of over 350 water ponds
More than 300 kilometers of access roads
Developed and staffed a praedial larceny squad
Provided leases for thousands of acres of agricultural land to farmers
Provided initiatives for greenhouse projects
Refurbishing fishing depots throughout this country

EDUCATION

29 Early Childcare centres completed, 24 under construction and another 85 to begin construction
Repaired and refurbished more than 586 schools
Completed the construction of more than 11 primary schools
Refurbish and open the Biche High School
39,000 laptop computers for first form secondary school students
GATE program widened, national scholarships increased
Transparency in the award of scholarships
Launched seven Workforce Assessment Centres to certify workers who previously did not have had any qualifications
Open COSTAATT campus in Sangre Grande to serve 800 students
Sod turning for a new University Campus in Penal/Debe. (Work on construction to begin within the next month
Staged the Sci-TechKnoFest where some 35,000 visitors participated
Will host India’s largest Travelling Science Exhibit at the Divali Nagar Site in Chaguanas, May 2012

EDUCATION IN TOBAGO

Opened the Tobago Technology Center in Canaan Bon Accord, the largest skills training centre in Tobago
Launched through the University of Trinidad and Tobago the Bachelors of Education in Tobago at the Technology Centre
Opened the Bethel Empowerment Centre in Bethel Tobago providing computer training to the community for the first time
Launched the YTEPP Mobile Computer Training Unit dedicated to servicing communities in Tobago with the support of a USAID grant in the sum of US$90,000
Will train Nigerian Students in areas such as Welding and Industrial Maintenance

PEOPLE

Increased food cards, housing grant, housing articles grant, domestic help grant, funeral grant, pharmaceutical grant, house rent grant, school supplies grant, housing assistance grant, special child grant, medical equipment grant

Direct Impact 50,000 persons interacted with througout TT

URP 200 Mothers of Children employed in URP Social

$11,5 million centre for the differently abled this year

Social intervention in the east west corridor and in at risk communities

Introduction of the first of its kind in the world ''Temporary Food Card"

Subsidies through the Utilities Assistance Programme for lower income persons

Increased old age pensions

Public Transport to every corner of Trinidad and Tobago from Cedros to Biche, from Moruga to Carenage

Free transport for anyone over 60

HOUSING

4,100 housing starts last year, 6,000 expected in 2012
6,900 houses to be delivered by the end of 2012, hundreds more already delivered and handed over to deserving citizens
Transparency in the allocation of homes
Provision of homes to victims of difficult circumstances
More than 600 Certificates of Comfort giving security of tenure for the first time
Infrastructural upgrades on existing HDC housing sites

HEALTH

Expanding the range of medical treatment available in Trinidad and Tobago
Glaucoma filtration surgery using the latest Ex-Press Glaucoma Filtration Device
Conducted the first joint replacement surgery
Enhancing health centres to widen the reach of medical services
Opened a Cardiology Unit at the San Fernando General Hospital.
Revised standard operating procedures for obstetric and midwifery
Commenced XRay and Ultrasound services at the Siparia District Health facility
Commissioned eye theatres at San Fernando General
Upgraded dental labs at the Dental Hospital
Varying stages of the development of the construction of five hospitals300 bed hospital facility at Chancery Lane in San Fernando to open in 2012.
District Health offices medicines packaged for chronic deseases for elderly
Special Programs in 2012 at health centres to help the elderly to end waiting for medicines
Pilot project “Medicine at your door step” coming for sick and infirm out-patients

ECONOMY/FINANCE

Developed repayment opportunities for depositors and investors of CLICO and HCU: CLICO - $1 billion paid out to depositors $75,000 and under, some depositors over $75,000, to trade union and credit union depositors representing more than 10,000 persons.
With respect to the HCU notifications sent to 16,000 depositors, more to go out on a daily basis for full payment to all with deposits of under $75,000
Low inflation, low food prices
Restore international confidence in the economy
Positive responses to business opportunities in T&T from international investors.
Economic recovery starts in 2012, all the financial statistics in the right direction

ENERGY ACHIEVEMENTS

Started work on the Galeota Port which had been delayed for three (3) years under the PNM
Cabinet considering a US$5.7 billion investment in a Petrochemical complex which will represent the largest investment in the history of Trinidad & Tobago
15 exploration wells for Oil & Gas drilled in Trinidad & Tobago in 2012 (PNM did 1 in 2009 and 2 in 2010)
Cabinet approved conversion of PTSC fleet to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)
Major inroads in dismantling the illegal bunkering of diesel, savings of $94M in subsidy
The National Gas Company (NGC) signed a MOU for development natural gas industry in Tanzania
Opportunities for T&Tobago companies coming out of mission to India

CHILDREN

Children’s Life Fund ensures no child will suffer because could not afford the cost of medical treatment

Construction of a Children’s Hospital in Central Trinidad

NIPDEC to complete Project management and construction at several Children’s Homes and Institutions

Plans for Healing Institute to support the mental and spiritually welfare of citizens

Development of Respite Centres for persons who work as caregivers

TRADE AND INVESTMENT

Hired international marketing companies to market this country to investors and visitors
Trade facilitation offices worldwide offering information about services and opportunities in T&T
Completed major refurbishment of the Vanguard Hotel now called the Magdelena Hotel in Tobago to inject new lifeblood into the Tobago economy
TTBizLink to revolutionalise business by bring information, linkages, legislation, procedures etc all within the touch of a finger