Manning promises ˜righteous' Government


SEAN DOUGLAS Sunday, April 9 2006(T&T Newsday)


PRIME MINISTER Patrick Manning said Trinidad and Tobago's well-being will be determined by its leader's virtue. He said so while addressing the congregation of Woodbrook Pentecostal Church during a function at Cascadia Hotel on Friday night in honour of the 41st year of ministry by its pastor, Apostle Turnel Nelson and his wife Rev Joycelyn Nelson.

Manning began by saying that TT's economy doubled from a gross domestic product (GDP) of $55 billion in 2001 to the current GDP of $101 billion, and projected a GDP of $112 billion next year. He said unemployment fell from 20 percent in 1991 to 6.7 percent, and would likely fall to zero.

He admitted, however, that the country faces some challenges, "Not just crime. Crime is just a manifestation of a deeper underlying problem. The problem in my respectful view is essentially a breakdown in family life." The audience murmured its agreement.

Manning said the country had seen many different things being tried. "There's been one thing we haven't tried. I will share with you a secret this evening: ˜Righteous leader, prosperous nation'."

The congregation clapped.

"If that had not been tried before, let me advise you it is being tried now."

The Prime Minister said his spiritual grounding took place on 31 December 1987 at Woodbrook Pentecostal Church with Pastor Nelson officiating. He said that was when he and his wife, Education Minister Hazel Manning became born-again Christians.

Later in the evening Bahamian televangelist Dr Myles Munroe echoed Manning by saying that it was insufficient to have just "good government." What was crucial was "good, righteous government."

Munroe later told Sunday Newsday the original Greek word for "prosperity" referred not just to money but also included the idea of peace.

Former president Arthur NR Robinson, UNC political leader Winston Dookeran, Minister of Trade Ken Valley and Port-of-Spain South MP Eric Williams attended the service.

quote:

He said unemployment fell from 20 percent in 1991 to 6.7 percent, and would likely fall to zero.

If unemployment reached 0 you might be interested in some Guyanese workers.

What?? I guess Manning counted kidnappers as empolyers and kidnappies as employees to come up with those numbers.

quote:

Originally posted by Asif Mohamed:
What?? I guess Manning counted kidnappers as empolyers and kidnappies as employees to come up with those numbers.

Do I hear the pangs of ENVY in your stupid words bai?

quote:

Originally posted by Eric's_Revenge:

quote:

Originally posted by Asif Mohamed:
What?? I guess Manning counted kidnappers as empolyers and kidnappies as employees to come up with those numbers.

Do I hear the pangs of ENVY in your stupid words bai?

The man blame crime to the breakdown of family life? You know he fudging the numbers.

Bai go and get a life, and learn to SPELL.

Atherly catches truck driver littering

Phoolo Danny-Maharaj South Bureau


Tuesday, April 11th 2006 (T&T Express)


piture
San Fernando Mayor Ian Atherly warns a truck driver against illegal dumping at Lady Hailes Avenue, San Fernando, yesterday.



SAN Fernando Mayor Ian Atherly yesterday caught a truck driver "red-handed" littering Lady Hailes Avenue, opposite the PTSC compound.

Atherly, who was passing in his car stopped to find out from the driver of the truck if he had permission to dump the load at the site. The driver said he did not have any permission.

Atherly called in the police -who gave the truck driver 24 hours to take up the seven loads of dirt that he had dumped on the site. The dirt was taken up from work done on St James Street at the weekend, Atherly said.

He said: "We never gave anybody any permission to dump dirt or any garbage in the city and he must remove it or he will be charged."

The Mayor called on citizens to have pride in their city and report anyone seen dumping and littering the city with any kind of garbage.

This is last sunday's TV guide lineup for those who believe that T&T has a "Burnham" type gov't.



Showing on 2006-04-02 Sunday

Channels: 6 tv IE TV Gayelle CNC3 IBN NCC


6 TV IE TV (Private Channel)


05:56 am Sign On (anthem & Prayer)
06:00 am Fresh Fire
06:30 am Faith Alive
07:00 am A Time Of Victory
07:30 am Key Of David
08:00 am Curepe Pentecostal Tv6 Cartoon Express
08:30 am Back To The Future
09:00 am Astro Boy
09:30 am The Batman
10:00 am Jackie Chan Adventures
10:30 am Music Box
11:00 am Sitare
11:30 am Mtv India: Made In India
12:00 pm Caribworld Home Shopping
12:30 pm Infovision Feature
13:00 pm World Cup 2002 Revisited: Germany Vs Paraguay (rpt)
15:00 pm Motor Sports
15:30 pm Gillette 2006 Fifa World Cup
16:00 pm World Athletics Show
16:30 pm Caribworld Home Shopping
17:00 pm Sancoche
17:30 pm Caribbean Flavours
18:00 pm Judging Amy
19:00 pm Tv6 Weekend News
19:30 pm Infovision Feature
19:45 pm Royal Palm Estate
20:15 pm The Tv6 Sunday Movie: Blood Work
22:15 pm The Guardian
23:00 pm Winning Ways
23:30 pm Blue Murder
12:20 pm Bbc World

06:00 am : Religious Program
07:00 am : Religious – Time Of Deliverance
07:45 am .00: Tell The Children
09:30 am : Indian Movie
12:30 pm : 20/20 Sports Nite (repeat)
14:00 pm : Sai Baba Program (repeat)
15:00 pm : Vibes
17:30 pm : Mother Nature
18:30 pm : Ietv Weekend News
19:00 pm : Best Of One On One
19:30 pm : Ietv Theatre
20:00 pm : Caribbean Treasures – A New Reality Tv Show
20:30 pm : Spotlight
21:00 pm : Voa Transmission


Gayelle CNC3 (Private Channel)


08:15 am : Obituaries
08:30 am : Ema Hands On 1,2
09:00 am : Caribbean Carousel
09:30 am : Women West Indies
10:00 am : Taal
11:00 am : Down South
11:30 am : Tin Pan Jam
12:00 pm : Caribbean Eye
12:30 pm : Macajuel Time
15:00 pm : Government Programme
16:00 pm : Snacks
16:30 pm : Ema Public Speaking #1,2
17:00 pm : Trini Style
18:00 pm : Model Search
19:00 pm : Weekend News
19:30 pm : Spalk
20:30 pm : Stay Home
21:30 pm : Tls 60
22:30 pm : Carre
23:30 pm : On Guard

05:58 am Sign On
06:00 am Joyce Meyer ˜enjoying Everyday Life'
06:30 am Religious Special - Voice Of Deliverance
07:00 am Religious Special - Encounter The Glory
08:00 am Religious Special - Time Of Deliverance
08:30 am Religious Special - Sacred Name Telecast
09:00 am Tq
10:00 am Y2q
12:00 pm Healthy Living
12:30 pm Heartland Highway
13:00 pm Technology Today
13:30 pm Space Tech
14:00 pm Mothers Nature
14:30 pm Heartland Highway
15:15 pm Cnc3 Prime Sport
16:30 pm The Week In Sports
17:00 pm Sports Plus
18:00 pm Frontiers Of Medicine
18:30 pm The Dr Is In
19:00 pm Cnc Weekend News
19:30 pm The Week In Review
20:00 pm Football 2006
20:30 pm Total Football
21:30 pm Icc Cricket World
22:00 pm Business Forum
23:00 pm Fashion Tv Midnight 95.1fm Overnight With Programme Schedule Rundown


IBN NCC 4 & 16 (Not to sure about this one)


08:00 am : Intro/ Surah Rahman
08:30 am : Transfer With Maulana: Maulana Akhalwaya
09:30 am : Creative Craft: Sis Nadia
10:30 am : Growing Up In Islam: Br Haroon
11:00 am : Who's Who/: Br Imran
12:00 pm : The Miracle In The Cell: Harun Yahya
12:30 pm : Zuhr Adhan & Quran
13:00 pm : Cultural Xpression: Bro Mtima Solwazi
14:00 pm : Hijab An Act Of Faith: Adam's World Series
14:30 pm : Interior Design: Sis Shemih
15:00 pm : The Purpose Of Life Pt 3: Sh Khalid Yasin
16:45 pm : Asr Adhan
17:00 pm : The Real Super Heroes: Sis Wafaa
17:30 pm : Technology In Nature: Harun Yahya
18:15 pm : Maghrib Adhan
18:30 pm : Finding Courage: Sister Sakina
19:30 pm : Pathway To Islam
19:45 pm : Isha Adhan
20:00 pm : Ahlu Sunnah Wal Jamaah: Maulana Nasir
21:00 pm : Surah Rahman

05:59 am Sign On
06:00 am Iro Prayers
07:00 am Choirs
08:00 am Special
09:00 am Mastana Bahar
10:30 am Indian Variety
11:00 am Special
13:00 pm Government Programme
13:30 pm Sports
15:00 pm Cultural Special
16:00 pm Carnival Highlights
18:00 pm Mother Nature
18:30 pm Cross Country
19:00 pm Cmc News
19:30 pm Government Programme
19:45 pm Tobago Spotlight
20:30 pm Special Sign Off

quote:

Originally posted by Eric's_Revenge:
This is last sunday's TV guide lineup for those who believe that T&T has a "Burnham" type gov't.

What do you mean by Burnhan type govt? Under Burnham lots of indo music was played on the radio. The very first show on the radio in the mornings was indian.

T&T oil, fish now safe from Bajans



By Gail Alexander


T&T's victory yesterday over Barbados in the maritime boundary dispute has not only ended threats to the exploitation of T&T's oil and gas resources, but also threats to the livelihood of local fisherfolk, Attorney General John Jeremie has said.

Jeremie made a statement in the Senate yesterday on the decision in T&T's favour, which was made by the Arbitration Tribunal at the International Dispute Resolution Centre in the Hague, Netherlands.

The news was met with vigourous, desk-thumping approval by senators.

The dispute has been ongoing since Barbados initiated proceedings in February of 2004 against T&T, concerning its maritime boundary and a fishing dispute as well.

According to Barbados' pleadings in the issue, the matter related to the delimitation of a single maritime boundary between the exclusive economic zones and the continental shelves belonging to the two countries.

Jeremie, who led T&T's legal team in the matter, said the tribunal at the Hague rejected "each and every claim made by Barbados on all counts."

He said T&T first tried to resolve the issue by seeking negotiations with Barbados, then subsequently recruited a legal team of leading experts in boundary delimitation to deal with the court proceedings.

Jeremie added: "While we were always confident of the outcome of these deliberations, the mere referral of this dispute was a significant threat"”not just to the exploitation of our oil and gas resources, but to the livelihood of our fisherfolk"”specially in Tobago"”and threatened to compromise the very integrity of our treasured unitary state."

The dispute had implications for T&T's boundaries, especially off Tobago's waters, as well as the country's boundaries with neighbouring Grenada, Guyana, St Vincent and Venezuela.

Jeremie said: "It not only threatened the integrity of the unitary state of T&T, but also our exploitation of our economic rights."

He said letters had been written by the government of Barbados to international energy companies interested in exploring what our Caricom neighbour considered a "disputed area."

The matter, he added, "has now been conclusively laid to rest."

The ruling not only confirms the legitimacy of T&T's original position, but has also extended its maritime boundary by shifting the median line demarcating the exclusive economic zones of T&T and Barbados, the AG said.

"It allows us what many in the region had complained to be a Salida al Atlantico given by T&T Government to Venezuela. The tribunal accepted our argument and ruled in our favour, giving access to the Atlantic. It ensures the preservation of the integrity of our archipelagic resources," Jeremie added.

Jeremie commended his Barbadian counterpart, AG and deputy Prime Minister Mia Mottley "for the dignity and spirit of camaraderie which attended the hearings into the matter," he said.

He also added: "In the case of my brothers and sisters in Barbados, I apologise for some of the robust arguments which I made in the heat of our arbitration hearing. While in legal proceedings it is commonly a case for one party to claim victory and the other to claim some sort of victory...I think that we have both won something."

Jeremie said both countries have agreed to abide fully by the findings of the tribunal and to cooperate in implementing its findings.

"We look forward to the deepening and strengthening of the relationship between T&T and Barbados, which continues to be at the heart of the regional integration movement," Jeremie said.

Yesterday afternoon, Barbados AG Mottley was said to be in a Cabinet session. However Allan Jones, permanent secretary in the office of Barbados Prime Minister Owen Arthur, said the Government had received news of the Tribunal's ruling. He suggested further comment be sought from Mottley post-Cabinet.



THE RULING

The Tribunal rejected the attempt by the Barbados Government to secure all of the area south of the median line which they regarded as their traditional fishing ground"”that is, the area just off the coast of Tobago.

The Tribunal agreed to T&T's request to extend our maritime boundary to the continental shelf beyond the 200-mile exclusive economic zone. This was an unprecedented ruling for an international maritime tribunal. It has never occurred before.

The ruling agreed with T&T's position that the fishing agreement should be negotiated between both countries and had no place for resolution before the Arbitral Tribunal.



©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

GLORY BOUND

Coach Beenhakker picks 24 for Germany

Ian Prescott


Thursday, April 13th 2006 (T&T Express)


THERE were few real surprises when the historic first team to represent Trinidad and Tobago at the FIFA World Cup Finals was named yesterday by Dutch national coach Leo Beenhakker.

At a press conference held at the San Fernando Room, Crowne Plaza Hotel, Beenhakker announced a 24-man squad, which included most of the players who were in the squad that won 1-0 in Bahrain six months ago to secure this country's first ever trip to football's grand stage.

However, the Dutchman will drop one player before submitting his final 23-man squad to FIFA on May 15.

The lone omission from the historic squad which qualified in Bahrain is Kansas City Wizards striker Scott Sealy, who is on a standby list. Veteran former captain Anthony Rougier is the one surprise in the squad but Dundee winger Collin Samuel has been predictably included following a good showing in Trinidad and Tobago's 2-0 victory over Iceland in London last month.

Beenhakker explained that he had named the team early to put arrangements in place for a pre-World Cup tour which includes camps in Manchester, England and Austria. After playing Peru on May 10, the Soca Warriors leave four days later for a one-week camp in Manchester, England. They then head for another camp in Austria where they play international warm-up matches against Wales, Slovenia and the Czech Republic. Beenhakker also felt it important to ease the anxiety on his players by declaring their standing in his team.

"The players, at this moment, have to know what the situation is as regards to 34, had been out of the national team ever since he was dropped by former coach Bertille St Clair following a rather ordinary performance against the United States in the opening game of the final round of CONCACAF qualifying. But given another chance to impress at a January camp in Fort Lauderdale, Rougier obviously made an impression. Beenhakker had a final look at the utility player on Saturday when he played for United Petrotrin in a T&T Pro League game at the Ato Boldon Stadium, Couva.

Beenhakker explained that from looking at past footage he came to realise that there were no players in his squad with Rougier's characteristics. With that, a he informed the player that to have a possibility of being selected he needed to be physically fit. Beenhakker now feels Rougier has done enough fitness-wise, over the last few months to be included in the squad.

Apart from Rougier, Beenhakker's squad contains all 23 players who travelled to Bahrain for the qualifier, except for young Sealy. In making his final selection, Beenhakker said he first had to protect the players who actually got Trinidad and Tobago to the World Cup Finals. He then had to reach a balance, by selecting players with various talents. Cornell Glen, for instance, was selected because his speed makes him a dangerous weapon on the counter-attack. Beenhakker also noted that Glen could be used on either flank.

Having also looked at several players with Trinidad and Tobago parentage, the Dutchman felt that none was exceptionally better that the players he already had. England-born Fulham goalkeeper Anthony Warner and striker Ricky Shakes have therefore been placed on a standby list of players who will be called upon in case of injury.

T&T'S WORLD CUP SQUAD


Thursday, April 13th 2006 (T&T Express)


GOALKEEPERS (3) - Kelvin Jack (Dundee) , Shaka Hislop (West Ham United), Clayton Ince (Coventry City).


[COLOR:GREEN]DEFENDERS (7) - Cyd Gray (CL Financial San Juan Jabloteh), Marvin Andrews (Glasgow Rangers), Brent Sancho (Gillingham), Ian Cox (Gilligham), Atiba Charles (W Connection), Dennis Lawrence (Wrexham), Avery John (New England Revolution). [/COLOR]


MIDFIELDERS (6) - Silvio Spann (Unattached), Chris Birchall (Port Vale), Aurtis Whitley (CL Financial San Juan Jabloteh), Anthony Rougier (Petrotrin), Anthony Wolfe (Jabloteh), Densil Theobald (Falkirk).


FORWARDS (8) - Carlos Edwards (Luton Town), Dwight Yorke (Sydney FC), Russell Latapy (Falkirk), Stern John (Coventry), Kenwyne Jones (Southampon), Collin Samuel (Dundee United), Jason Scotland (St Johnstone), Cornell Glen La Galaxy).


PLAYERS ON STANDBY - Anthony Warner (Fulham), Nigel Henry (Kiruana FF), Ricky Shakes (Swindon Town), Hector Sam (Port Vale), Scott Sealy (Kansas City Wizards), Anton Pierre (Defene Force), Brent Rahim (CL Financial San Juan Jabloteh)


TECHNICAL STAFF:

Head Coach-Leo Beenhakker

Assistant Coach-Wim Rijsbergen

Assistant Coach-Anton Corneal

Goalkeeping Coach-Michael Maurice

Scout-Mario Been

Football Manager-Hans Hagelstein


EQUIPMENT STAFF

Equipment Manager-Ikin Williams

Assistant Equipment Manager-Esmond O'Brien


MEDICAL STAFF

Team Doctor-Terrence Babwah

Sports Therapist-Zeph Nicholas

Physical Trainer-Wayne Lawson

Physiotherapist-Oba Gulston


MANAGEMENT STAFF

General Manager-Bruce Aanensen

George Joseph-Assistant Manager


SUPPORT SERVICE:

FIFA Liason Officer-Mark Bos

Media Officer-Shaun Fuentes Fifa

Media Officer-Rob de Leede

Chef-Cecil Wint

TTFF Security Officer-John Sandy

FIFA Security Officer-Gunther Groth

Ten-year-old Akil comes home

...liver transplant operation a success

Juliean Neaves


Thursday, April 13th 2006 (T&T Express)





AFTER spending seven months in an Argentina hospital, liver transplant recipient Akil Wilson has returned home to Trinidad and Tobago.

The ten-year-old from Mahaica was all smiles and full of playful energy at the VIP lounge of the Piarco International Airport yesterday.

He was joined by Health Minister John Rahael whose ministry donated $30,000 toward his operation and was now providing after-care drugs for him.

Rahael told members of the media that Akil had made history by being the first Trinidadian to receive a liver transplant in Argentina.

He said the hospital, Universitario Austral, specialises in transplantation and in the past ten years have done more than 6,000 kidney transplants and more than 2,000 liver transplants.

Rahael said the ministry planned to invite doctors and technical people from the hospital so they can assess local infrastructure and equipment and determine what is required to provide transplant services locally.

He expressed hope that the Argentine team could come to Trinidad and Tobago and do a number of transplants for both local and Caricom citizens.

He noted that the Ministry, through Argentine ambassador Jose Vignolo, has been in contact with hospital officials in an attempt "to strengthen the link that Akil has been able to open for us" and provide care for other locals.

Akil was diagnosed with cirrhosis and portal hypertension of the liver more than eight months ago.

His family located the Argentina hospital which agreed to delay the receipt of payments and begin treatment.

He successfully received the liver transplant from his cousin Giselle Bartholomew in December.

When asked about his stay in the South American country Akil lamented that he did not see much of Argentina due to his condition but said he was happy to be home.

His mother, Sharon Wilson, thanked God that her son was alive and doing well. She also thanked Bartholomew for her "unselfish and brave" act and noted that "Akil may still have been on a waiting list".

Rahael chimed that this country has not "come to terms" with people acting as organ donors and noted that over the next few months Government will be launching a sensitisation campaign about living and cadaveric organ donors.

Akil's family still has large medical bills to be paid.

Donations can be made to the Akil Wilson Medical Fund accessible at any branch of Republic Bank under account number 440155890201.

T&T striker's jersey hot in Scotland


Sunday, April 16th 2006 (T&T Express)


picture
Jason Scotland



SCOTLAND may not be at this year's World Cup finals, but a shirt carrying the country's name has already become the must-have fashion item for Scottish fans.

The official jersey of the Trinidad and Tobago striker Jason Scotland, who plays for St Johnstone, is in so much demand that the maker, Adidas, is sending extra deliveries north of the Border.

The shirt has been adopted as the "streetwear" of choice for members of the Tartan Army.

Trinidad and Tobago holds a special place in the hearts of Scotland supporters. As well as sharing frequent underdog status, the Caribbean team is facing the Auld Enemy, England, during the World Cup and has five squad members who play for Scottish clubs.

Retailers are expecting the collectable shirts, which will sell for about £30, to be among the most popular of the season.

John Kaylor, chairman of the Perthshire branch of the Tartan Army, praised the sale of the shirts.

He said: "I am a St Johnstone supporter and I shall be singing, 'I'd walk a thousand miles' if (Jason) Scotland scores a goal in the World Cup. There is no doubt that is who everyone in the Tartan Army will be supporting. A lot of people have got the older shirts with 'Scotland' written on the back, and there are already loads of bidders on eBay. They will all be Scotland supporters buying them, there is nothing surer.

"These football shirts will be very common this summer. Jason Scotland will be proud, no doubt."

Tahlia Hughes, the manager of Sport World in the St James Centre, Edinburgh, said: "I have already had 50 inquiries from people about the Trinidad and Tobago shirt. It's mainly because they are playing England and the shirt is nicer than the other ones in the group. I think it will be our top seller this season."

A manager at Sports World in Dundee said: "We are definitely expecting the Trinidad and Tobago Scotland shirt to be our most popular one of the season."

At Footlocker in Argyle Street, Glasgow, the manageress said: "I have had about 20 to 30 people asking for these particular shirts."

A spokesman for Adidas said he was aware of Trinidad and Tobago's expected cult status with the Tartan Army. He said: "We do expect a high level of interest in Trinidad and Tobago merchandise in Scotland as we do from any team that's playing England, really. "

Owen Coyle, the St Johnstone manager, said: "It would be nice if Scotland was actually playing in the World Cup, but I suppose in a way this is one means of saying Scotland is in the World Cup."

As for Jason Scotland himself, he said: "It's great just to be in the team, but to have Scotland's support as well makes it special. It would be extra special if we beat England I think the fans at my club would be pleased."

US Naval Force to visit TT


Monday, April 17 2006 (T&T newsday)


A UNITED STATES Naval strike group led by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS George Washington will visit Trinidad and Tobago sometime within the next two months as part of an operation in the Caribbean dubbed "Partnership of the Americas" which is geared towards demonstrating US military commitment towards the region.

According to a statement from the US Southern Command (SouthCom) in Miami, the deployment of the Washington's group over the next two months will allow the US to touch base with its regional allies and work with them in addressing threats such as drug and human trafficking. Apart from the 1,100 foot long Nimitz class aircraft carrier, the group also consists of a cruiser, destroyer, frigate, a 30-plane air wing and 6,500 troops.

The George Washington was commissioned on July 4, 1992 and served as the historic site of the 1996 joint military commission of leaders of former warring factions in Bosnia and Herzgovnia. The carrier has also played important roles in enforcing no fly zones in Bosnia and Herzegovina and southern Iraq respectively as part of Operations Joint Endeavour and Southern Watch during the period 1996 to 1998.

The George Washington made its first port of call in the Caribbean as part of Operation Partnership of the Americas on April 14. This visit will be followed by stops in Honduras, Nicaragua, Jamaica, TT, Aruba, Curacao and St Kitts.

Contacted yesterday, National Security Minister Martin Joseph told Newsday he was aware that the Washington's group would be in the Caribbean over the next two months. Joseph said he had received word from SouthCom about the carrier group's deployment to the region and this was not the first time that the US had undertaken such exercises in the Caribbean.

He also said that this will not be the first time that foreign naval vessels have visited TT. The aircraft carrier, USS Independence, briefly visited TT in 1990.

Who cares if the US naval force visits Trinidad.. They would be there to terrorize Venezuela.. But is venezuela easily terrorized By the US. The answer is "NO".

Stamps for Pope John Paul's visit to TT


Tuesday, April 18 2006 (T&T Newsday)


picture

TTPOST has issued a series of stamps to commemorate the pastoral visit by Pope John Paul II in 1985.

Five souvenir stamps, a souvenir sheet and a First Day Cover are available to the public at TTPost outlets across the country. They were launched on April 10.

In a media release, Communications Manager Nataki Kerr said, "It was a momentous occasion for the country to have the head of the Catholic Church here, to celebrate mass and participate in our cultural activities."

She said the issue was part of TTPost's effort to celebrate and highlight the various aspects of the culture of TT.

The images on the stamps were from Noel Norton photographs and are titled "Pope Paul II 1920-2005."

Government signs US$1.5B ethylene deal



picture
Albert Chao, left, president and chief executive of Westlake Chemical Corporation presents a gift to Dr Lenny Saith, Minister of Energy and Energy Industries at the signing of an MOU between both parties yesterday. Photo: Shirley Bahadur



The Government of T&T and Westlake Chemical Corporation of USA signed a US$1.5 billion MOU for an ethylene complex in Point Lisas.

Construction of the plant is scheduled to begin next year. The plant is expected to take about 100 hectares and generate about 5,000 jobs at the height of construction. It is due to be completed in 2010.

Dr Lenny Saith, Minister of Energy said the billion dollar integrated complex will comprise an ethylene cracker complex and a polyethylene plant complex.

Saith said this would open opportunities for small and medium enterprises with the project providing Government with an equity stake of up to 30 per cent.

"Fabricators can utilise polyethylene to produce plastics, flexible packaging and polyester. Additionally, the ethylene can be used to produce PVC or styrene. PVC in turn can be used to produce products such as construction material, pipe, windows and doors. Styrene, of course, is used in the production of tires and latexes for paint and coatings," he said.

"Further, this project, once on stream would help to ensure the optimal utilisation of our hydrocarbon resources by diversifying the sources of national income while creating development opportunities for the welfare and prosperity of the nation."

Saith said the Government anticipated a further 3,000-6,000 jobs with the creation of downstream industries in plastics.

He explained that the project would be developed over three phases, with phase one of the project requiring an input of 37,500 barrels per day of ethane for the production of 570,000 metric tons per year of ethylene plus derivatives.

Frank Look Kin, president of the National Gas Company said that the plant would utilise gas from NGC's stream.

Albert Chao, president and chief executive of Westlake Chemical Corporation said the company had extensive experience on a global basis with over 14 plants in North America and China.


©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Enill: High oil prices good for TT


Clint Chan Tack Wednesday, April 19 2006 (T&T Newsday)


JUNIOR FINANCE Minister Conrad Enill said yesterday's record high international oil prices are good news for Trinidad and Tobago as the Government will have additional funds for national development.

And he assures there will be no increase in domestic petroleum prices and citizens' purchasing power will be protected.

International oil prices reached US$72 per barrel yesterday, with analysts stating that these are the highest levels in recent times. In an interview at the Eric Williams Financial Complex yesterday, Enill said this scenario means there will be more money in the State's coffers for development.

Recalling that the 2005/2006 Budget was based on a comparative oil price of US$35 per barrel, the minister said the Government had decided that 60 percent of all energy revenues would be placed into the Revenue Stabilisation Fund while the remaining 40 percent would be placed into capital intensive projects.

Enill said while the Government could decide to increase its expenditure, no decision will be taken until the mid-year financial review is completed in May. However, he added that the Government may choose not to increase its current levels of expenditure.

Explaining that the downside to high oil prices was global inflation in the international market on all goods and services with an energy component, Enill said TT was fortunate, since the Government continued to subsidise all petroleum products. He explained that because of this, there will be no increases in domestic petroleum prices and additional financial resources will be used to keep citizens' cost of living down.

Using food as an example, Enill revealed that he met yesterday with officials at the Ministry of Agriculture and was informed that they had identified certain local food commodities whose prices had been dramatically reduced over the last year. However Enill stressed that he was not advising the population to swing one way or another in choosing to purchase local or foreign goods.

THA offers land owner $$ for Jazz Festival access


BY KRISTY RAMNARINE


The Tobago House of Assembly (THA) has offered Thornhill Carrington $42,500 for the use of his land as an access route to Plymouth.

This comes after Carrington threatened to file an injunction to stop the Plymouth Jazz Festival, which is scheduled to begin tomorrow and run until April 23.

Alvin Pascal, the THA's legal advisor, said the money is to cover a month's rental for part of Carrington's land, from October 2005 to present.

The THA has built an alternative route on Carrington's land, because of ongoing repair work on the Plymouth bridge, which is located at the entrance to the community.

Pascal said the issue has nothing to do with the Jazz Festival and Carrington is using it as leverage to solicit money.

"In 2004, after the THA decided to fix the Plymouth bridge, documents were sent to villagers in the area by the THA, saying which land was going to be used as the alternative route," he said in an interview yesterday.

The THA representative said that no toll fee or contingency fee would be paid, because it is a public road.

"That road is used by everyone in Plymouth. It is the main access into the community.

"Part of Mr Carrington's land was used. It was forested land, with no houses on it."

Carrington's lawyer, Martin George, filed the writ in the Tobago High Court last September, against the THA for illegal use of his land.

However, George has said that the offer made is only part of the matter.

"The major aspect which is the toll fee and the monthly contingency fee for damage has not been dealt with," he said yesterday in a interview.

"What we are suggesting is that there must be compensation to Mr Carrington, for vehicles and pedestrians passing through his property.

"We made certain suggestions to the THA, but a figure has not been arrived at."

The Plymouth Jazz Festival will get going tomorrow with performances the Roy Cape band, Maximus Dan, Shurwayne Winchester and Traffik, together with American human beat-box Doug E Fresh.

US singing stars Stevie Wonder, Toni Braxton, Patti La Belle, Natalie Cole and Johnny Gill, as well as calypsonians Calypso Rose and Destra are expected to be featured on Saturday night.

The festival will end Sunday with performances by Sting, Vanessa Williams, Najee, Barrington Levy, Machel Montano and H2O Phlo.

Top US music producer/ rapper Sean "Diddy" Coombs is reported to be the host of the show and actor Chris Tucker is also scheduled to participate.



©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Useless Skyship

Useless Skyship

POLICE officers said that now the trial run for the Skyship 600 has ended, they are recommending that it be sent back because it has proven to be useless in the fight against crime over the past three months.

"The airship has proven to be a costly failure both to the Police Service and taxpayers," said one officer.

Government has so far paid (US) $300,000 (TT $1.8 million) to upkeep the airship.

Since the Skyship took to the skies in January, the murder rate has reached a record high of 102 in the first three months.

"Over the past weeks the airship, which was normally seen hovering over Port of Spain and environs during the day, had extended its flights into the night but has not been effective in any surveillance," TnT Mirror was told.

The airship has not been able to give us any assistance in tracking down criminals or helping to reduce crime.

"As far as we are concerned, the Skyship 600, which was assigned to the Special Anti-crime Unit of Trinidad and Tobago (SAUTT) is a ˜joy-ride' for the soldiers who operate it."

He said there are no police officers from SAUTT aboard the airship when it is flying -- only soldiers attached to the elite unit.
The first sky dragon, which cost the government $25 million, has been "grounded" because of mechanical problems

quote:

Originally posted by shamsher:
OIL SAVED ERIC

And Panday ain't in charge to give it away to Betty Bharat.

To quote a popular TV show......"No soup for YOU"!

Video clips


from T&T's soca warriors site.

Video clips


Music & Video from T&T's carnival.

Video clips


Tourism Videos and film clips.

Jamaican PM arrives tomorrow


Sunday, April 23 2006 (T&T Newsday)


JAMAICAN Prime Minister Portia Simpson-Miller will arrive at Piarco International Airport tomorrow evening for a three-day official visit.

Up to late yesterday, Prime Minister Patrick Manning and Minister of Foreign Affairs Knowlson Gift were in a meeting at the PM's Whitehall office to work out Simpson-Miller's itinerary.

Simpson-Miller is Jamaica's first female prime minister, and only the third female Caricom Head of Government, after the late Dame Eugenia Charles who was the prime minister of Dominica and Janet Jagan who was president of Guyana.

Last week, Manning extended an invitation to Simpson-Miller to pay an official visit to this country at her earliest convenience.

Simpson-Miller made the announcement that she would be visiting Trinidad last Wednesday during a meeting with Caricom secretary-general Edwin Carrington, at Jamaica House.

It would be the Simpson Miller's first visit overseas since she was sworn in on March 30.

Bible prophecy expert advises:

Live like today is the last day


SUZANNE SHEPPARD Sunday, April 23 2006 (T&T Newsday)


picture
Bible prophecy expert Hal Lindsey (right) speaks with Attorney General John Jeremie just before the start of the conference at the Centre of Excellenc...Live like today is the last day



WORLD RENOWNed Bible prophecy expert Hal Lindsey advised the large crowd at a conference at the Centre of Excellence, Macoya, to plan their lives "as if today is the last day we've got."

Lindsey, 76, who spoke on Friday night at the conference, "Discerning The Times "” Our World Now "” Through The Eyes of Prophecy," said current world events are fulfillment of a prophecy given by Jesus Christ just before his crucifixion more than 2000 years ago. He described them as "signs of the end of the age."

He based his discourse on Matthew 24 in the New Testa-ment where several signs of the end were described, among them religious deception, war and rumours of war, famines, earthquakes and plagues.

Lindsey told the gathering that the novel The Da Vinci Code and the recent claim that a Gospel of Judas had been discovered, were among the religious deceptions that many in the world were "swallowing ... left, right and centre." He pointed out that there was much more historical documentation for the authenticity of the New Testament than for many of the claims being made in an effort to discredit the Bible.

On the issue of war and rumours of war, Lindsey said more people were killed as a result of warfare in the 20th century than in all preceding centuries put together.

Referring to the other prophecies made in Matthew 24, the respected evangelist and Biblical scholar, revealed that since 1923 there have been 23 huge, killer earthquakes, five of which occurred in the 53 years between 1923 and 1976, while there were 18 between 1976 and 2006.

"In just over 15 years the vast majority of killer quakes have occurred," Lindsey said.

On the issue of famines, Lindsey said the population of the world is now at seven billion and the stress on the planet means that "millions of people go to bed hungry and will die."

"In 1975, we entered the age of famines. There is always famine somewhere in the world."

He said these and other world events, which are occurring at "an ever accelerating pace," are merely "the beginning of birth pangs" leading to the end of the age.

"This is the most exciting time to be alive," Lindsey declared. "Something extraordinary is happening in the world."

Earlier in his address, Lindsey said he had met with Prime Minister Patrick Manning who had "very openly confessed his faith in Jesus Christ." He said Manning had asked him all kinds of questions about Bible prophecy. He remarked that he never thought he would meet a prime minister who would talk about Bible prophecy in such depth.

"When a nation is led by a man who fears God, that nation is blessed," he said.

The first session of the conference was attended by former president Arthur NR Robinson and Attorney General John Jeremie who, in a brief address, told the hundreds of born-again Christians in attendance that he was speaking to them "as a member of your fellowship."

Litterbugs beware...


SUNDAY NEWSDAY REPORTER Sunday, April 23 2006 (T&T Newsday)



YOU HAVE probably seen them in their green uniforms walking the streets of Port-of-Spain and other urban centres throughout Trinidad. Litter Prevention Wardens have been on the beat for the past seven months, trying to improve on the appearance of the city and other commercial areas.

"There is a culture of littering in Trinidad," Sandra Timothy, administrative officer at the City Corporation told Sunday Newsday.

"Since the litter wardens system was implemented there has been a visible improvement." Egbert Williams, supervisor of the Litter Prevention Wardens and Marvin Fairbarn, tactical officer and team leader, agree that the wardens are making a difference. "We deal with possibly over 100 people a day," Williams explained. "We are not here to just charge, we are also here to educate the people, making sure they understand that littering is an offense."

Fairban added that for the most part their interactions with the public are positive.

The wardens enforce litter laws, first by issuing a fixed penalty notice to offenders who are ordered to pay a $50 fine within ten days.

If the fine is not paid after 21 days, offenders are summoned to court where they are ordered to pay a fine of $1000. For corporate offenders the fine is $2000.

At present there are 11 Litter Prevention Wardens in Port-of-Spain who start work at 8.30 am. Throughout the day they deal with pedestrians, vendors and business people, warning them to be careful of where and how they dump rubbish. Now that the wardens are regularly on the beat, many of the street vendors operating on George, Prince, Charlotte and Park Streets have cleaned up their acts and are now placing their garbage in boxes and bags instead of carelessly tossing them out on the streets.

The litter wardens say they take their job very seriously, carrying out regular mobile patrols in Belmont, St James, Sea Lots and Woodbrook.

They also organise special surveillance projects at nights, carrying out intense investigations to find offenders.

Armed with gloves and face masks, the wardens dig deep into garbage bags, searching for any evidence that would provide a link to a business or company.

So far the wardens have issued 33 tickets and have taken 15 cases to court, eight of which have been successfully prosecuted.

At present there are six litter cases pending in court.

Oil still oozing from 140-year-old well

Residents distressed

Louis B Homer South Bureau


Monday, April 24th 2006 (T&T Express)


picture
Anne Jones shows crude oil oozing near to her home at Victoria Street, San Fernando.



Visitors to Ruby Branker's home have to clean their shoes with kerosene when they leave.

Her neighbour Anne Jones moves about her yard with some trepidation, as do the members of some 10 other households in the area.

Branker, Jones and the others live virtually on an abandoned oil well in the heart of San Fernando.

The well is believed to be of some historic significance. It is said to be the first oil well drilled in Trinidad, way back in 1866. When it proved to be an uneconomical venture drilling operations were stopped.

Today the area on which it is located is known as Victoria Street, a bustling thoroughfare, just a stone's throw away from High Street.

But for those living near the well site life can be pretty sticky because it is still oozing oil.

"There is the constant smell of tar, oil continues to flow freely in small quantities in the drains and if you are asthmatic then you would have real problems," said Jones who has been living on the street for the past 48 years.

"I have been here all my life and over the years the quantity of oil from the ground keeps increasing, who knows one day it could begin gushing in the air and we would have to run for cover," she said.

Jones said that there was once a mas camp on the site and it had to be moved to another place because of the foul smell and other inconveniences the site caused.

Branker said the condition of the road in front of her house and the emissions from the well were a cause of embarrassment to her family.

"Visitors to our home have to remove their shoes before entering the house and their shoes have to be cleaned with kerosene after the visit," she said .

Branker said CEPEP (Community Environmental Protection and Enhancement Programme) workers tried to clean the drains and areas affected by the oil spill without success.

"They were able to remove some of the tar and while they were cleaning the drains the tar continued to flow," she said.

Branker recalled that a restaurant close to the site was closed because of complaints by customers about the smell of oil. "The oil used to come through the carpet and when the patrons could no longer endure the inconvenience, the owner closed the restaurant," Jones said.

Jones said the situation was worse when the sun is hot, because "it oozes more oil and when it is raining the oil mixes with water and create an awful smell."

For several years the site has been vacant and has been used by some people as a garbage dump.

Jones said a man came on the site recently claiming to be the owner of the land and he told the residents he will be using it as a car park .

Mayor Ian Atherly wants the site to be included in the list of historical places and plans to have a monument erected on it indicating that it was the site of the first oil well drilled in Trinidad.

"I propose to approach one of the oil companies to put up a monument on the site. People must recognise the importance of landmarks and our history," he said.

George Higgins, in his book A history of Trinidad Oil stated that the first oil well was drilled in San Fernando.

CAP ON RENT

Laws to reinin landlords

Darren Bahaw


Monday, April 24th 2006 (T&T Express)


THOUSANDS of tenants who are forced to dig deep in their pockets every month to meet escalating rent might find a glimmer of hope as Government seeks to re-introduce legislation to control haphazard increases by landlords.

Chairman of the People's National Movement, Ambassador Plenipotentiary John Donaldson announced the Government's intention yesterday during a media briefing at the close of the party's General Council meeting, at Balisier House, Tranquillity Street, Port of Spain.

Two Sundays ago the Sunday Express in an exclusive story, highlighted the plight of tenants who are called upon to fork out substantial sums to obtain sub-standard accommodation and the high demand for housing, particularly along the East/West corridor.

Donaldson said the issue of exorbitant rental rates and the frequency with which these rents were being increased had been raised by one of the party members during the meeting and aroused lively discussion.

"The course and scope of discussions transpired that the legislation which had been in place to control the increase in rental premises had lapsed (before Parliament). And it was discovered that it lapsed because such legislation requires a special majority in Parliament. That majority is not available to the Government for reasons which we all know. And so it is that, hopefully, the Government will return to Parliament once more and on this occasion, hopefully again, the required majority will be available," he said.

But an official of the Rent Assessment Board, who was quoted in last weekend's article, admitted that landlords were taking advantage of the demand for housing.

The official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said that "the Rent Act, which is supposed to monitor these things, expired in February 2002 and hasn't been renewed since...the landlords are having a field day."

"It's waiting in Parliament," he continued, "but government is saying that it needs a two-thirds majority to pass it and the Opposition is saying that that isn't necessary. They're playing football with the issue."

Donaldson said that while issue of escalating food prices had not been specifically discussed at the meeting it had been raised in the context of the inability of some tenants to meet both high food prices and escalating rents.

"So although it was not the issue raised it was all part and parcel of the question of our people being able to meet the increasing cost of living," he added.

Donaldson said the consensus was that for Government to return to Parliament with its rent restriction legislation so that legislative measures for the control of rents of the control of haphazard increases in rental accommodation could not be established.

and looking at cellphone ban

Darren Bahaw


Monday, April 24th 2006 (T&T Express)


A ban on the use of cell phones while driving could be on the way, PNM party chairman John Donaldson indicated yesterday.

He said the suggestion was made for the legislation to limit or prohibit the use of cellular telephone by drivers came at the party's general council meeting held at Balisier House, Port of Spain.

He did not elaborate but said another area of concern which caused debate at the meeting was the commission of serious criminal offences by juveniles.

"There was some discussion of whether or not the practices that take place in other jurisdictions where for certain types of crimes, certain young people can be brought before the adult jurisdiction of those courts for trial," Donaldson said, adding that he was "sure that it will be taken further at some point in time".

Jamaican PM says "TT wealth is its human resource"


Lara Pickford-Gordon Wednesday, April 26 2006 (T&T Newsday)



JAMAICAN Prime Minister Portia Simpson-Miller yesterday said TT's true wealth was not in the abundant energy reserves but in the energy of its human resource. "You my dear children are the true wealth of this nation," Simpson-Miller told scores of youngsters at Jean Pierre Complex at a rally organised by the Ministry of Education in the Jamaican PM's honour.

She told them to remember that true wealth was in their heads and they must guard and nurture their minds. Simpson-Miller said the history of the Caribbean was one of survival and triumph and this history should be taught in homes and schools across the region.

She said the children represented the future and also reflected the energy, dynamism, and promise which were very much part of the ethos of the region.

Simpson-Miller said they were part of a region which produced some of the most gifted people in the world. She listed several popular TT and Jamaican nationals including Audrey Jeffers, Brian Lara, Bob Marley and Asafa Powell.

In her address, Simpson-Miller told the children she loved them and was touched by their sincere welcome. She provided several tips for them to fulfill their potential and outlined the "four D's for success" - desire, drive, determination and detail.

Simpson-Miller said desire must be supported by drive, and determination was indispensable to success. Using her own experience to illustrate, Simpson-Miller said she has been in politics a long time and competed against men.

"I am here standing before you as a hope and inspiration of a number of children in Jamaica as their leader and PM." She advised the children that they too could rise and become TT's Education Minister or Prime Minister.

In her address, Education Minister Hazel Manning said her Ministry was committed to partnering with Jamaica and other Caribbean neighbours to improve the education system. She disclosed that the Education Ministry and National Training Agency (NTA) were collaborating with the Jamaican NTA "to share plans and understand the systems used in the development of instructional packages as well as the assessments for Levels One and Two at training institutions and schools."

The Jamaican PM arrived at the Complex shortly before noon to loud cheers. She walked around the perimeter of the stands to greet the eager children who rushed to shake her hand or take her photograph with their cell phones.

Special coins for Soca Warriors


Wednesday, April 26 2006 (T&T Newsday)


THE CENTRAL Bank of Trinidad and Tobago is celebrating the qualification of the Soca Warriors for the upcoming World Cup Finals in Germany with a special set of commemorative coins.

The coins which came in values of $10 and $100 were revealed to the public at a launch at the Central Bank in Port-of-Spain on Monday. The $10 coin is silver plated and costs $100 while the $100 coin is gold plated and are worth $520 each.

The coins have been sanctioned by the world governing body for football (FIFA) and will also be on sale to the world.

The coins will go on sale from May 1 at the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation (TTFF), the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago and the FIFA office in Zurich Switzerland.

The FIFA office will be used to sell the coins internationally.

Part proceeds of the sale of the coins will be donated towards the Soca Warriors for their campaign in the World Cup Finals.

Hasely Crawford moved to tears by Jamaica PM

Richard Charan


Thursday, April 27th 2006 (T&T Express)


Trinidad and Tobago's first and only Olympic gold medallist, Hasely Crawford, was moved to tears yesterday when he was singled out for praise by Jamaican Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller during her visit to the National Gas Company (NGC) at Pt Lisas.

Crawford, who is the NGC's head of community affairs, was called out of the audience by the visiting Prime Minister, who said he was the man she wanted to meet and greet personally.

Crawford was kissed on the cheek and embraced by Simpson Miller, who described the Olympian as "a beacon of light not only to your country, but the region and by extension the world".

The emotional moment came during a function held to showcase the country's economic might to the new Jamaica PM, who is on a three-day visit to Trinidad.

A slide-show was used to explain the energy and construction sectors, and the National Energy Corporation's future energy-related developments.

Simpson Miller also got an overview of the University of Trinidad and Tobago, and the Evolving TecKnologies and Enterprise Development Limited (eTecK), and the work being done by UDECOTT (Urban Development Corporation of Trinidad and Tobago).

Simpson Miller was presented by the NGC's Chairman Keith Awong, with a painting showing a portion of the company's 56-inch cross country pipeline which transports natural gas from Trinidad's east coast gas fields.

20,000 houses for new town



Many faces of Wallerfield: In the early days Wallerfield was the site of a US airbase. Following the departure the Americans, it became a centre for drag racing and other activities. The area also attracted squatters, especially at Jacob's Hill. The Government now plans to build a new town with 20,000 new homes to be constructed in several phases.



The Government has dusted off plans to build a new town in the Wallerfield area and Housing Development Corporation chief executive Noel Garcia is boasting that it will be the first new town in this country in the last 150 years.

The town, which is to be constructed on five square miles of state lands in Wallerfield, will be located on the old air base where drag racing used to take place.

Arima will be on the western border of the new town while Sangre Grande will occupy its eastern border.

No name has been chosen for the new town as yet. This is one of several details that still needs to be worked out before the Government goes public with its plans, said Garcia.

Among the details still to be worked out by the HDC is how would the massive billion dollar undertaking be financed.

He said the full details of the plans will be announced in July and "we hope to start construction early in 2007."

The centrepiece of the new town will be 20,000 new homes which will be constructed in several phases.

Garcia said the plan is that 2,000 houses will be built by the HDC in the first phase as the State moves to provide housing for the staff and faculty of University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT), the tertiary level institution in Wallerfield headed by retired UWI engineering professor Ken Julien.

In the first phase, there will also be housing for workers at the E-Teck technology park in Tamana.

"The proposal is that 30,000 people would find employment in the Tamana tech park and at the UTT," said Garcia, adding, "So there are really two reasons to have this new town in Wallerfield, the university and technology park."

He pointed to the fact that towns have developed around universities at Oxford, Cambridge and in Boston where Harvard and MIT are located.

The way T&T has developed, people live in dormitory communities and work in the towns, Gracia said.

"But when the new town in Wallerfield is built, for the first time in years people will be able to live where they work... It's visionary in concept and revolutionary in its planning," the housing executive said.

While the State was committed to doing the first phase, Garcia said he was hopeful that private developers will be able to undertake the 18,000 additional houses that the new town will need.

Reflecting on the contention that has affected some of the Government's other plans to build houses, Garcia said he envisaged that the relocation of residents would be minimal as the area comprised "virgin land."

The area is well served by a road network as the Eastern Main Road and the Churchill/Roosevelt Highway run near to the proposed town.

The Government proposes to construct an extension of the Churchill Roosevelt Highway from O'Meara Industrial Estate to Wallerfield.

The highway extension is meant to provide proper highway access to the new UTT and the technology park under construction at Wallerfield.

Garcia said Wallerfield is one of four new towns that the Government proposes to build in the future. The others are at La Brea, Couva and Princes Town.

About Wallerfield

Wallerfield was the site of an old US airbase and is located between Arima and Sangre Grande, and to the north of Cumuto.

It was originally planned as a transit point for troops and armour on the way to the war in Europe and North Africa. There was just one squadron of B17s at Wallerfield until February 1942.

By 1943 the Americans had established 226 military bases, large and small, in Trinidad, together with airfields, a total of 17 operating runways.

When the Americans left Wallerfield in 1948, almost nothing was done to the area.

Following the departure of the Americans, Wallerfield became the centre of the motor-racing fraternity in Trinidad and for many years, drag racing and other activities were held there.

Last year, the Government sought to have the motor-racing activities at Wallerfield relocated to make way for UTT and the Tamana tech park.

In 2004, an agency of the Ministry of Housing moved against squatters at Jacob's Hill in Wallerfield to facilitate the start of construction of the main UTT campus.

Those squatters were relocated to KP lands in Valencia.

Plans not new

Plans for a township in the east were first outlined nearly 20 years ago by John Humphrey, then Minister of Housing in the NAR administration.

Humphrey argued that if another township was developed in the East that was as attractive as Port-of-Spain, many businessmen and professionals living in the east and beyond, could work and enjoy a social life there.

Port-of-Spain is the main centre for most businesses, attracting an influx of commuters daily. He pointed out that other major cities have activities 24 hours a day but, in Port-of-Spain, after a certain hour most business places close and the city virtually shuts down, with large numbers of people leaving the Port-of-Spain area, trying to beat traffic.

Proposals and plans for the new township were put on the drawing board. International aircraft companies were contacted and many businessmen had shown interest in the proposals. However, soon after his departure from the NAR, the plan was put on a back burner.

The plan was again revived after the UNC won the November 1995 elections. In January of the following year, Humphrey, now Minister of Housing and Settlements in the UNC-NAR government, made a ground tour of the Wallerfield area along with the Ministers of Works, Public Utilities and National Security.

"Smart Park" was the name given to the government's Wallerfield development project.

The UNC's Minister of Works and Transport Sadiq Baksh told a meeting of the eastern division of the T&T Chamber of Commerce in March of 1996 that the Government was looking at establishing an export-oriented Free Trade Zone for light manufacturing together with an agro-processing zone both of which will be serviced by a designated runway and support facilities in the short term and "a fully integrated township" in the long term.

Petro-Canada to start drilling off NW Tobago

Earl Manmohan Scarborough


Saturday, April 29th 2006 (T&T Express)


Petro-Canada, the Canadian energy giant, will begin drilling for oil and natural gas off the northwest coast of Tobago later this year.

Drilling of the first well will begin in December in a water depth of approximately 490 metres in Block 22, northwest of Charlotteville.

Drilling will be to a depth of between 2,000 and 3,000 metres under the seabed.

The second well will be drilled in water 1,050 metres deep commencing in 2008 in the same Block 22. Each drilling programme is for one year.

The Canadian company will also begin drilling in Blocks 1a and 1b in the Gulf of Paria east of San Fernando in September 2007 in a water depth of 20 metres.

Petro-Canada whose local office is located at Queen's Park West in Port of Spain has advertised for Expressions of Interest (EOI) in several areas of operations in preparation for the offshore drilling programme.

The company received a licence from the Energy Ministry in July last year to drill for oil and gas in a 3,100 square kilometres area known as Block 22 off the northwest of Tobago.

Starting in November last year, the company carried out a three-month seismic survey ten kilometres north of Charlotteville and off San Fernando.

The survey was done by a seismic vessel, Geo Diamond and "every precaution was taken to minimise the inconvenience of fishermen in the area. Then company officials said it would take another six months to process the data before the first drilling rig was positioned.

Petro-Canada's Senior Coordinator Geomatrics Martin Redford said in November that Block 22 had the potential to have hydrocarbons and the first rig would be installed by the end of this year to explore for natural gas.

He said his company had every reason to believe that there were large deposits of hydrocarbons in this area under the seabed.

Petro-Canada applied to the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) for a Certificate of Environmental Clearance (CEC) earlier this year to allow it to carry out the drilling operations. Since then the EMA has issued to Petro-Canada a draft Terms of Reference for the conduct of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

Petro-Canada boasts of earnings from operations of US$1.9 billion and a cash flow of US$3.7 billion in 2004.

Block 22 is located 30 kilometres northeast of Block NCMA where a consortium of state-owned Petrotrin, British Gas, Petro-Canada and ENI operate two platforms in the Hibiscus Field under the management of British Gas.

Gas from these platforms is pumped by a 110 km undersea pipeline to the Atlantic LNG plant at Point Fortin.

It is also near the Orchid Field where drilling was abandoned 25 years ago by Derminex and Veva.

US praises T&T cops for work on Ballram case


The US government says it is "actively seeking the extradition of the individuals allegedly involved" in the kidnapping and murder of US war veteran Ballram "Balo" Maharaj in Trinidad last year, according to the US Embassy.

It has also congratulated the officers involved in the case for their good work.

The statement comes in the wake of indictments handed down on Wednesday by a US Grand Jury of Colombia for the extradition of five of the 11 people already arrested by T&T police in the matter.

A 12th person is being sought for questioning.

Subsequent to the US ruling, five provisional warrants were read to two soldiers and three civilians in the Port-of-Spain Magistrates Court on Thursday.

Lance Cpl Ricardo De Four and army Sgt Leon Nurse, together with Zion Clarke, Kevin De Merieux and David Suchit were on Thursday read the warrants in the Eighth Court by Chief Magistrate Sherman Mc Nicolls.

The US Embassy release also offered commendations and the US' gratitude to the local Anti-Kidanapping Squad, as well as the Homicide Bureau.

"We take this opportunity to acknowledge the professionalism of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad and the Homicide Bureau and thank them for their hard work and dedication. They deserve credit for a competent investigation," the release said.

Maharaj 62, was on vacation, staying at his relatives' home at Chandy Lane in El Socorro, when he was abducted from the Samaan Tree Bar in Aranguez.

A $3-million ransom was reportedly demanded.

His body was discovered on January 8, dismembered and placed in a plastic barrel and styrofoam cooler in two graves in a forested area in Grand Curacaye, Santa Cruz.




©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

UK cops on the beat in 2 weeks


Wednesday, May 3 2006 (T&T Newday)


THE United Kingdom officers hired by Government on contract to assist in anti-crime initiatives have started an orientation programme organised by the Special Anti-Crime Unit (SAUTT), aimed at getting them familiar with the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service.

Newsday learnt that 25 of the 39 officers are already in the country and the others are expected to arrive by the end of the week. A SAUTT source told Newsday that the public can expect to seek some of the UK cops out on the beat in two weeks. They have been undergoing exposure to how the police service operates and have also been taken on tours and visits to several parts of the country.

Some of the officers are expected to wear the uniform of the officers of the TT Police Service, and will be introduced into the service as Special Reserve Police Officers.

This means that the UK officers will be precepted and have the authority to investigate and arrest and do the work that police officers normally do in any jurisdiction.

Precepted officers are licensed to carry firearms.

Sources revealed that some of the officers will be assigned to the Homicide Bureau to assist in cold case investigations.

Others will work with SAUTT, the Anti-Kidnapping Squad, while some will wear police uniform and assist in foot and mobile patrols. They are expected to be given three year contracts.

All the arriving officers are between the ages 39 to 59.

How is Laventille these days Eric, those boys still taking care of you, I heard that's Trinidad Buxton.

Govt to build 7,000 houses in Caroni


picture



BY ASHA JAVEED (T&T Guardian)


More than 7,000 housing units will replace the sugarcane fields of the now defunct Caroni (1975) Limited.

This as the Government forges ahead with its massive housing projects.

The houses will be constructed by the Estate Management and Business Development Company Limited (EMDB)"”a state company set up to manage the affairs of the defunct company and according to Prime Minister Patrick Manning, "charged with developing lots in the shortest possible time."

A task which the company has already embarked upon, with several projects expected to be completed during the course of the year.

At a tour of the different sites yesterday, it was evident that progress had been made in several of the projects which began in 2005, and some were just starting.

Manning was accompanied on the tour by Agriculture Minister Jarrette Narine and junior Finance Minister Conrad Enill, under whose portfolio EMBD falls.

Manning noted that his visit was long overdue and that he was waiting for EMBD to "put its house in order."

He said these houses were intended for the former workers of Caroni and the construction has provided jobs for former sugar labourers.

He observed that the developments were gated communities and with utilities which included an underground electricity supply, fire hydrants, community centres and recreational activities.

Enill said that while EMBD is a special purpose vehicle to deliver on Government projects it is, therefore, staffed and funded as a project management company.

No figure was given on the cost of all or any of the developments.

He explained that EMDB was set up the same way Udecott was set up for urban development.

"We try to identify the particular problems we have in a certain area and come up with a mechanism to deliver because the public service that we have now, is not a delivery organisation, it is an administration.

"And, therefore, if you want to get a team of engineers within the public service you can't get that done. But through an organisation like this you can go out and tender, do a RFP, you can get proposals, you can evaluate it and you then you can make a decision and then you can spend your money properly, which is what EMDB did," explained Enill.


Felicity- 140 acres - 730 lots

Factory Side Road- 43.5 acres - 255 lots

Orange Field Site- 29 acres -160 lots

Roopsingh Road Site- 99 acres -545 lots

Waterloo Site - 4 acres - 30 lots

McBean Site-18 acres- 105 lots

Sonny Ladoo Site- 36 acres - 226 lots

Calcutta Site-12 acres - 75 lots

Exchange Site- 85 acres - 465 lots

Esperanza Site- 10 acres - 45 lots




©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Eric's_Revenge,

SWIFT JUSTICE

Special 24-hour tourist court coming


Friday, April 28th 2006 (Tobago News)


A Special Court will be established at the end of next month to deal on a 24-hour basis with crimes against visitors. It will be technically driven and the objective being to "send a clear signal to offenders that justice is swift and certain in Tobago".

In addition, tele-conferencing would be introduced as part of the country's laws of evidence to give the judicial process the global reach by having a victim go to a court in his or her country, take an oath and give evidence in a trial in Tobago via this mechanism.

This will remove the need to have a visitor and or victim return to the island to give evidence and face the offender in the same physical space. The THA spends large sums of money every year to bring back witnesses and victims to give evidence and for trauma treatment.

A three-member mission headed by PRDI coordinator Anslem Richards provided assurance of this new development in the judicial system to officials of the British Foreign Office in London three weeks ago. It included Tourism Division Research & Development Officer Sandra Hendrickson and hotelier Carlos Dillon.

Dealing with law enforcement, the team told the British Government officials there had been a change in the head of the Tobago Police Division and 19 of the 39 Scotland Yard officers (Bobbies) recruited by this country's government at an annual cost of £5 million will be working directly and indirectly with the island's police and other security agencies to return safety and security to Tobago.

Importantly, Richard's mission noted that this move would enhance the electronic surveillance capabilities at the ports of entry by providing real time analysis of passenger flows to and from Trinidad & Tobago.

The team also expounded on the establishment of a Department of Public Safety whose focus would be on creating a support institution for the law enforcement agencies in Tobago. The main objective of this department will be the provision of public safety support services to the citizens and visitors to the island. The major service areas include marine patrol & rescue services and beach patrols on foot and bicycle at the island's beaches and historical sites.

Richards said the British officials were convinced of the efforts of the THA and by extension the government in controlling crime in the island and would be moving to downgrade the February 17 advisory to its citizens about the crime situation here. He added that some of the initiatives his team outlined to the officials would be included in the updated advisory.

Manning: No excess spending

Louis B Homer South Bureau


Sunday, April 30th 2006 (T&T Express)



Prime Minister Patrick Manning stated at Point Fortin Chamber of Industry and Commerce awards function that there will be no excess spending by government in spite of huge investments in oil and gas taking place in the country.

Speaking last Friday at the award function of the Point Fortin Chamber of Industry and Commerce, Manning said "I would assure you that there will be no excess spending by this government."

Manning said there are too many examples of government's who have found themselves in good financial positions and have put them to wrong use. "In Trinidad and Tobago that will not be so." said Manning.

Manning's comments came as he delivered the feature address at the awards function of Point Fortin chamber of Industry and commerce held last Friday at Petrotrin Trinmar Clifton Hill Club, Point Fortin.

In his address Manning announced that a second refinery will be built at Pointe a Pierre and four major plants at Pointe a Pierre will be upgraded.

Manning said " We have a vision for a second refinery at Pointe a Pierre which will be the premium refinery in the region."

Speaking about the industrialisation of the South Western Peninsula Manning said " Our decision to concentrate on the construction of plants in the south western peninsula is that in the event of pollution it would be easy to control."

Manning called on the Point Fortin chamber to state its position on on the proposed aluminum smelter plant to be built at Cap de Ville. " If the Point Fortin chamber endorses the aluminium smelter plant in Cap de Ville it should say so." said Manning.

Several organisations have been protesting the construction of the plant in the area claiming that these plants are hazardous to the health of the citizens.

Manning said " Our decision to concentrate these plants on the south west peninsula is that in the event of pollution it would be easy to control."

Manning in his address said that in addition to the industrial development of the south western peninsula, " A total of US $650 million will be spent to upgrade four plants at Pointe a Pierre, ".

In addition to the Pointe a Pierre upgrade Manning said an ethylene plant would be built at La Brea and by 2006 there should be six major plants under construction. He said the total investments in these industrial development projects should be " about US $ 7.3 billion and the following year a further US$ 11 billion."

In defence of government's plan to import labour from China Manning said " the demand for labour is about 19,000 workers which are not now available in Trinidad, but training of locals has begun. The Prime Minister said " We will not be able to provide all the labour so we would have to import."

As for the construction of the new highway from San Fernando to Point Fortin, Manning said, " construction of an upgraded road system from Golconda to Fyzabad and to the south trunk road to Fyzabad, it was decided that construction will take place at both ends simultaneously."

T&T to benefit from Alutrint (T&T Guardian)



Between US$500 and US$700 million is expected to be invested in the Alutrint project at the Union and Tamana industrial estates, officials of the majority state-owned aluminium smelter project said last week.

Alutrint is a joint venture between wholly state-owned National Energy Corporation (NEC) and Sural, a Venezuelan aluminium concern.

NEC will own 60 per cent of Alutrint's equity, while Sural will own 40 per cent with the possibility of the Jamaican government taking an equity position in the company. The project proposes to import alumina from Jamaica and not bauxite as had been previously reported.

The officials, Renda Butler, from Sural, and Phillip Julien disclosed that it is expected that the Alutrint project will be financed by 70 per cent debt and 30 per cent equity.

At the higher US$700 million level of investment, it means Alutrint will be looking for project financing of about US$490 million and that the Government is expected to invest about US$125 million.

Butler and Julien said that Alutrint is working on signing the final project agreement by the middle of this year with construction at Union Industrial Estate in La Brea expected to start immediately afterward.

Unlike the Alcoa project, Alutrint is in negotiations to purchase its power from an independent producer. Negotiations are going on with PowerGen for the 51 per cent state-owned company to construct and operate a 300-megawatt power generation plant on the industrial estate. Alutrint will take 240 megawatts of the electricity produced by the power plant with the balance going into the local electricity grid.

"We will be buying electricity and not gas," said Butler.

Julien said the company "has no interest" in getting involved in electricity generation.

Asked how the project would deal with a commercial disagreement with the power producer, Butler said, "We will negotiate a 30-year power purchase agreement which will cover all of these issues. For example, there will be two electricity power lines."

The power purchase agreement will be take-or-pay. While Julien and Butler steadfastly refused to disclose the controversial price of gas being used to produce the electricity for the plant, they did allow that energy costs account for between 40 and 45 per cent of most smelters.

The officials said they have put the payment of corporate taxes in their feasibility studies.

"We included paying the full corporate income tax in our feasibility studies," said Butler.

It is expected that the Chinese EPC contractors will bring labour with them, but Alutrint was unwilling to give a precise figure.

Questioned on why the project opted for Chinese technology, Julien said the Chinese had been developing and implementing their version of aluminium smelting technology over decades.

When Alutrint did its due diligence, officials found out that the Chinese technology was "up there with and, in some cases, better than the Western smelting technology."

Butler added, "Their technology is equivalent to anybody else's in the world; the one we are going to use."

Asked whether they would choose the Chinese technology over that provided by Alcoa or Alcan, Julien said, "For this project, an independent project, absolutely yes."

Julien explained that some of the aluminium giants "almost don't answer the phone" when small, independent smelter projects come calling.

"So, if you were to try and call Pechiney to tell them that we are trying to build a 125,000 tonne project, they will tell you, ˜Hey, take a number. We have people building one million tonne smelters in the Middle East."

Not only is the Chinese technology as good as Western technology, Julien said, it's also available.

The cost of the technology is very affordable, he said, adding that it was comparable to buying a high-end car with the same engine as a medium-end car.

Pointing to the concrete downstream proposals in the Alutrint project, Julien said, "One of the biggest values that the Alutrint project brings to T&T is the tremendous amount of value that it will add to the economy."

He said while T&T has been doing very well in monetising its natural gas reserves, most of it stops at the primary stage: natural gas to LNG; gas to ammonia; gas to methanol.

The current projects add a great deal to the Government's coffers, but don't actually add value to the gas, Julien said.

"To me, this is the most compelling thing about Alutrint. We are not only converting it to aluminium, which is a valuable commodity, we are taking it down the road so that the gas is going to be converted into car components," said the Alutrint project manager.

Also, because it is proposed that Alutrint will produce downstream aluminium products, the project will result in more jobs than an LNG plant, for example, he said.

At Union Estate, it is expected that approximately 800 new, permanent, direct jobs will be created. In the smelter facility, there will be an estimated 500 jobs and it is expected that 150 workers will be employed in both the rod mill and a cable and wire facility.

The smelter is expected to produce 125,000 tonnes per annum. Of that, 5,000 tonnes will be set aside for local, independent downstream entrepreneurs. Some 60,000 tonnes will be directed to the rod mill and 60,000 to the cable and wire facility.

As well as the Union Estate facility, Alutrint proposes to build two plants at the new Tamana Industrial Estate in Wallerfield.

One will be will be a wheel rim facility at which 225 workers will be employed and the other will be a facility for other car components which will employ 100 workers.

"That's direct jobs but the facilities will also generate indirect jobs at a rate of two to four times the direct jobs," said Butler. These indirect jobs will come partly because Alutrint intends to outsource some services such as information technology, security and all machine service shops that are expected to spring up.



"”Anthony Wilson

Soca city Germany !


T&T's football team home away from home in the fatherland.

Picture


T&T currency is valid for use in the city of rotenburg.

US Embassy gives top bomb-disposal equipment to T&T

Gyasi Gonzales


Saturday, May 6th 2006 (T&T Express)


Local authorities are now better equipped to deal with a bomb disposal/disarmament scenario following the donation of some of the highest rated "explosive counter measures equipment" by the United States Embassy.

After the four Port of Spain bombings last year embassy officials saw a need for local fire and police officers to be better equipped when responding to bomb scares or the real thing.

A request was made to the US government which responded by allowing three fire and three police officers to be trained at the Louisiana State Police Training Academy at Baton Rouge, Louisiana, in the use of bomb disposal equipment. The training ran from October to December last year.

The embassy yesterday followed up by donating some of the most "state of the art" bomb disrupters, bomb suits, X-ray equipment and various bomb-related tools which it believes would now enhance Trinidad and Tobago's "ordinance disposal capabilities".

The Saturday Express understands that in dealing with the bombings last year local authorities operated with "some degree of risk", according to one senior officer who didn't want to be named. He said that Trinidad and Tobago at the time already had bomb-disposal equipment as well as the bomb-disposal suits. The suits donated yesterday carried a EOD 8 rating. The highest rating is EOD 9.

New company offers cable, phone and Internet services


GARY CARDINEZ Wednesday, May 17 2006 (T&T Newday)


A new telecom company (brand) was launched at MovieTowne on Monday evening before representatives of MTV, Turner Broadcasting, Disney, IBN, IETV, Gayelle, CNC 3TV and others.

Columbus Communications Inc launched Flow, a three-in-one company the brand that umbrellas all of its services. Flow will provide customers with cable, Internet and telephone services.

Brendan Paddick, president and CEO of Columbus said at the launch: "I have been visiting Trinidad and Tobago since 1993, it has been six years now we have been seeking to provide broadband Internet services.

"We like Trinidad, the environment is great, political stability, foreign investment, the GDP growth is good, the government's Vision 2020, the telecommunications market is opening up and it's English-speaking. We also love the weather."

Paddick says that Columbus (Caricom) started in 2004 and has assets of $4 billion. The company has upgraded Jamaica with a $1.6 million investment and in Trinidad and Tobago the figure is $750 million. He also promised that his company will invest $1 billion in this country in the future.

John Reid, president and chief operating officer of Flow says Trinidadians are passionate about their cable and they want a first world network with first world service and it is because of this they will invest in TT.

Flow is changing the corporate culture with the power of technology by the evolution of this brand; they are changing from analog to digital an exercise that will take some time. But 75 percent of their customers will be digital in 36 months' time. Phase one of the digital conversion will start in June 2006.

According to Reid, a Flow Care Foundation will be set up with the first donation of $1 million and the foundation will be run by Trinidadian directors.

Several networks who could not send representatives to the launch delivered messages of congratulations to Flow's management.

These included Discovery Communications, BET Jazz, Tempo and Larry King of CNN.

World Cup fans


Joan Rampersad Tuesday, May 16 2006 (T&TNewsday)


As Trinidadians and Tobagonians prepare for the "Futball-Welt-meisterschaft," the Football World Cup in Germany in June, the German Embassy has been pretty active since the Soca Warriors qualified for the finals last November.

With just three weeks to the opening ceremony scheduled for June 7, activities at the embassy have heightened and there has been a steady trek of nationals seeking visas for Germany so they can be in the European country to support the Soca Warriors, and as well, be part of a historical occasion.

Third secretary at the embassy, Patrick Dzierzon stated this period has been the busiest for the embassy ever since it set-up base in Trinidad in 1963.

"The embassy has issued 1,811 visas so far in 2006, out of those were 1,250 visas for the World Cup. In the same period in 2005, the embassy had issued only 490 visas," said Dzierzon adding that the hectic period began in the last few weeks with more than a hundred applications being processed every day. Dzierzon also said the embassy, on Marli Street, Port-of-Spain expects these numbers to continue to be high until the kick-off to the tournament and, so far, no application for a visa for the World Cup has been refused.

"The embassy is excited about Trinidad and Tobago having qualified for the World Cup in Germany and the huge interest that Germany has gained in this country through this event. "A time to make friends," the official motto of this World Cup should be taken literally. " The Germans are looking forward to welcoming friends from all over the world and we hope that the Soca Warriors and their supporters will contribute hugely to this colourful festival on and off the pitch," he said.

T&T, England a security risk


German police fear T&T match is among 21 which may be targeted by terroristsT&T's match against England has been listed by German anti-terror police as one of 21 World Cup matches which are high-risk targets for Islamic terrorist groups, The Times newspaper reported yesterday.

The match is carded for June 15 in Nuremberg and will be skippered by Dwight Yorke, and his Soca Warriors' final Group B fixture.

The security situation in Nuremberg may be eased if"”as German diplomats are hinting"”Iran President Ahmadinejad does not appear for the Iran-Mexico fixture on June 11. This was expected to be the most volatile encounter of the competition.

Neo-Nazis are planning to march in support of Ahmadinejad, who has denied the Holocaust. Iranian exiles are also preparing to protest against him, and England fans will be in town for the match with T&T.

The anti-terror cops feel, however, the main danger is not expected to come inside the stadiums where the games are being played, but in busy city centres where thousands of fans will gather to watch matches on giant television screens, the paper said.

If the nightmare scenario is a terrorist attack on such a crowded, "soft" target, increasingly nervous German authorities are also assessing the likely threat posed by hooligans and neo-Nazis.

Uwe-Karsten Heye, a former government spokesman, sparked an uproar on Thursday by warning black fans not to visit towns in Brandenburg, around Berlin, during the tournament. He was forced to retract his words by local politicians.

A leaked analysis by the German Federal Criminal Agency (BKA), the equivalent of Scotland Yard, indicates that terrorism has now become the main concern.

The BKA says that all teams from nations involved in the Iraq war should be considered vulnerable: the US, England, Spain, Poland and Australia.

Udo Nagel, the interior minister of Hamburg, has ordered marksmen to be deployed on rooftops and constant aerial observation around the US team hotel.

He said: "We have decided to impose a no-fly zone around the stadium in a radius of three nautical miles and, in some instances, we will be ready to expand this zone to 30 nautical miles."

But the BKA analysis"”published in Stern magazine"”indicates that the public viewing areas are at greatest risk.

The stadiums are being monitored through identity checks on ticket-holders and by a massive process of positive vetting: 250,000 World Cup employees, from sausage-sellers to firefighters, are being checked.

Access to the 300 public viewing areas scattered around Germany will be much easier.

Every weekend the counter-terrorist units and the emergency services stage dress rehearsals. The results have been chaotic in Berlin; police will be hopelessly overstretched.



Matches under threat

June 10- England v Paraguay, Frankfurt

June 11- Mexico v Iran, Nuremberg

June 12- USA v C/Republic, Gelsenkirchen

June 15- England v T&T, Nuremberg

June 17- Portugal v Iran, Frankfurt

June 17- Italy v USA, Kaiserslautern

June 18- Brazil v Australia, Nuremberg

June 19- S Arabia v Ukraine, Hamburg

June 20- Sweden v England, Cologne

June 21- Iran v Angola, Leipzig

June 22- Ghana v USA, Nuremberg

June 23- S/Arabia v Spain, Kaiserslautern

Plus the opening game and the final




©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Warriors proclaimed ˜well-balanced'


Friday, May 19 2006 (Newsday)


TRINIDAD and Tobago's Soca Warriors footballers have been proclaimed a well-balanced and mixed outfit by the British media.

It was a point made by team coach Leo Beenhakker when asked about Chris Birchall being the first white player to score for the country in 60 years.

"It doesn't matter at all. It has nothing to do with if my players are red, white, black or yellow," Beenhakker said at the team's hotel in Manchester yesterday.

"It's the same and I don't base my selections on race or colour. Chris has been a good addition to the team and just like the rest of my players, once he can fit in and make the right kind of contribution then it's good for all of us," said the Dutchman.

He also said there was no difference in his job leading the Netherlands in Italy 1990 and Trinidad and Tobago in 2006.

"The place makes no difference whether it's with a big club or a small country. I love it everyday until now. It's football," he said.

"The football in Trinidad and Tobago is based on a Caribbean and Central American style. With some days especially in our first days there, it was a little bit mixed up because there were guys playing all over.

"But we worked on it and we made important decisions. Actual football is more than ever a passing game with heavy patience and taking time to win the ball. It (TT style) is now a mixture of the talent and skills of the players and my idea of how to actually play the game," Beenhakker added. Following an eleven against eleven session on the pitch, team chef Cecil Wint had the players smiling yesterday evening treating them to a well-balanced supper which also included stew chicken and ox-tail pelau.

First TTT play


Saturday, May 20 2006 (T&T Newsday)


Mr Sonny Rawlins, the general manager of Trinidad and Tobago Television "” TTT, in one of his rare appearances on TV, forty years ago on Monday May 23, 1966 to be specific, made an historic announcement to the viewing public.

"Tonight, ladies and gentlemen, in a few minutes from now, you will see a play by a local writer, performed by local actors with all the technical work by our staff right here at our local station. This is no mean achievement for a television house that is not yet four years old. The experts will tell you that when you can produce a play live, you have arrived.

"We have to thank our programme director, Mr Barry Gordon, the director of our play "” Farouk Muhammad and the writer, Freddie Kissoon. Please sit back, relax and enjoy the first play on TTT "” Zingay." His speech went something like that.

Farouk Muhammad was the main man in master control in Television House giving directions to camera men, "Camera 1: "” Dolly in on ˜Doris'; Camera 2: Stand by for a wide angle shot to cover all characters; Sound: follow ˜Millie' with the boom mike; Camera 1: Close-up of the door, ˜Man Man' is about to enter." And so, it went on for the half an hour programme.

I was sitting next to Farouk. My job was more or less finished at that point in time. The Strolling Players had rehearsed the play over and over again under my direction three times a week for months. When we arrived in the studio, the TV director became the man calling the shots "” deciding what the viewers would see.

In those days, television was in black and white. We had only one boom mike which was kept about 14 inches over the actor's head as he moved along. As the play was televisied live, it meant that the actors had to be word perfect and if anything went wrong, they simply had to cover up the best they could and press on. There was no question of coming out of character and relaxing for a few minutes to check the script or fix something on the costume etcetera. Even if part of the set had fallen, the players had to pretend it was part of the play.

Several months before, I had written a letter to Mr Gordon suggesting that it was about time, TTT televise a local play. He called me to his office to discuss the project. He wanted to be quite sure that the actors would know their lines and moves and everything would go smoothly without hitches. We had one dress rehearsal in the studio before the actual performance.

For that memorable occasion, Joan Telemaque played the mother "” "Doris;" Cynthia Cambridge "”the Barbadian neighbour "” "Millie"; Wayne Richards "” the boy "Sonny"; Peter O'Neill "” the father ˜Paul' and Nigel Waithe "” the obeah man "Man-Man." The last character was my role for five years but I passed it on to Nigel because for television Farouk wanted me to tell him what was the actor's next move. Also I had to apply make-up to the players and check out facial expressions on the monitor. No one has the power of bilocation so I had to give up my role.

As I sat in master control, my mind flashed back to when I wrote Zingay. My maternal grandmother used to relate all those old folklore stories about soucouyant, La diablesse, mama G'leau, Papa Bois, douens, loupe garous, phantom and many more. I thought I would make up a story of a boy who was phantom and many more. I thought I would make up a story of a boy who was supposedly bitten by a soucouyant. The idea grew like a seed planted in fertile soil. I wrote and re-wrote until I was fully satisfied that I had given my best.

"Zingay" has been performed all over Trinidad, Tobago, Guyana, Grenada, St Vincent, St Lucia, Antigua, Anguilla, Jamaica, New York, Hamilton, Toronto, Montreal, Winnipeg, London, Nigeria and Holland.

Mr Dexter Lyndersay was the moving force behind the performances in Ibadan and Calabar in Nigeria where he taught at the University of Ibadan for a number of years. He arranged to have the play televisied to millions on Nigerian television. Dexter also staged it at Laren in the Netherlands "” Holland.

Several drama groups have presented "Zingay," notably The Siparia Village Council which won the Prime Minister's Best Village Trophy under the leadership of Andrew Worrell. He told me that when the Prime Minister Dr Eric Williams saw the play, he laughed until he cried. Here is a verse from William Shakespeare's "Hamlet" to give us pause:- "There is a divinity that shapes our ends, rough hew them how we may."

Park to be built in Sean Luke's honour


By Leah Mathura-Dookhoo (T&T Guardian)


The Government, in collaboration with the Sports Company of T&T, has announced plans to construct a play park in memory of Sean Luke, who was brutally murdered in March.

The park will be constructed on a piece of land in Orange Valley, not far from where the six-year-old lived. It is about 200 feet from where his nude, decomposing body was discovered two months ago.

Local Government Minister Rennie Dumas said it is hoped that the park would be used by families to strengthen the community in which they live.

He made the statements during a public lecture hosted by San Fernando mayor Ian Atherly and officials of the Couva/ Tabaquite/ Talparo Regional Corporation on Saturday night at Orange Valley Government School in Couva.

Initiated by Atherly, the lecture, which includes clinical psychologists, lawyers and medical practitioners, seeks to deal with the issues of the child's horrific death and a way forward for villagers and the wider public.

Dumas said while the Government worked in tandem with citizens to enhance their lives outside the home, adults, guardians and parents needed to do the same thing within the confines of their quarters.

Atherly disclosed that while visiting Sean's mother Pauline Lum Fai last month, the two spoke at length about the construction of a park for the children of the community.

Atherly said Lum Fai felt this would provide children with a safe and controlled environment.

He told the large gathering that after writing to several government ministers on the matter, he received positive feedback.

"Work has since started at the administrative level...Work on the site itself will begin in due course," he said.

Days after the child's murder, councillor for the area, Allan Seepersad, had called for the area in which six-year-old's body was found to be turned into a memorial park.

Nanram Maharaj, principal of Waterloo Hindu School where Sean attended, said his staff had been liaising with a Canadian company to construct a play park for the infants' department at his institution.

He added that although they held a successful march against crime a week after Luke was buried, teachers and pupils were now looking forward to constructing a fountain on the school's compound in memory of the young boy. The fountain will be called the Shrine of Peace.

San Fernando West MP Diane Seukeran, who also addressed the gathering, said she believed that Luke's destiny in life was to wake up the nation from the evil around us.

The lecture is the first in a series that will focus on the growing incidence of emotional and physical abuse on the nation's children.

The next lecture, Atherly said, would be held in Marabella, where four-year-old Amy Emily Annamunthodo lived.

The little girl was beaten, buggered and raped on Monday night and died before reaching the San Fernando General Hospital.

The child's mother, Anita Annamunthodo, 18, has appeared in court on charges of wilful neglect. Emily's stepfather Marlon King, 40, has been charged with her murder.



©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Warriors star in Esquire magazine



T&T's Soca Warriors, on the verge of playing in their first ever World Cup, have been featured in the latest edition of Esquire magazine.

In an eight-page pull-out, skipper Dwight Yorke and his teammates are photographed in suits showing off their ball-juggling skills.

Following initial set-ups by T&T Football Federation international relations consultant Mike Berry, Yorke, Chris Birchall, Jason Scotland, Kenwyne Jones, Brent Sancho, Dennis Lawrence and standby Hector Sam were all featured in the magazine's June issue.

With England's Joe Cole on the cover, the Soca Warriors also grabbed a sub-heading "T&T"”meet the minnows taking on the three lions."

The players were all outfitted in designer wear.

With their profiles also printed on the pages, among the questions put forward to Lawrence by Esquire was how would he celebrate if T&T defeated England.

"Just the same as if we beat Mexico or anyone else," he said.

"The England game is not the only game we're interested in winning...We want to win all the games we play."

This is not the only promotional activity in which the Soca Warriors will be involved.

The BBC and the Daily Record will also feature some of the players doing World Cup diaries, while Scottish drink Irn-Bru has Jason Scotland involved in an advertising campaign.

E-Bay and Italian-based company Panini SPA have also signed deals to use the Soca Warriors as part of their World Cup promotions.

Berry said this was just part of what the team was picking up after booking their tickets to Germany.

"It's not just Esquire, but you realise that a lot of publications are interested in the guys and it's a whole different type of opportunity for them," he said

"Obviously, the main focus is to get ready for the World Cup and play your hearts out, which is what the team is aiming for with all the preparations across here.

"But at the same time there are numerous bonuses for those involved within the set-up."




©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Atherly warns drag racers


By Yvonne Webb (T&T Guardian)


Now that he has go rid of the vendors from the streets of San Fernando, Mayor Ian Atherly is now training his guns on illegal drag racers in the city.

As he opened a legalised vending area at Cross Crossing for 19 displaced Gulf View burger vendors on Thursday evening, Atherly told police to get cracking and stop the illegal drag racing which is taking place right under their nose at that same venue two days a week.

He called on the police to be more vigilant, reminding them that "it is illegal to drag race on any street on T&T whether there are people on it or not."

The mayor said more than 3,000 people gather around the Cross Crossing Intersection on Wednesdays and Saturdays to witness this activity.

He says while he loves drag racing, he is extremely sensitive about the nature of the sport in an area not designated for it.

"It is an extremely dangerous practice to be involved in this activity where there are no controls," he said.

"In a controlled environment I support it fully, but on the streets of San Fernando, making donuts (circles in middle of intersection) I cannot condone that."

Atherly added, "It is not safe for other road users who do not know what to expect and come suddenly upon them, people can loose it very easily."

Understanding that San Fernando is starved for entertainment, Atherly said he intends to pursue vigorously an alternative site for the sport.

"I cannot make any further pronouncement on it, but we have to find somewhere suitable for drag racing to take place," he said.



©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

PNM General Council:


SASCHA WILSON Monday, May 22 2006 (T&T Newsday)


In cases where allegations of child abuse are suspected the State should move to intervene, the PNM's General Council said at a meeting yesterday.

The meeting was held at the PNM's Constituency Office, Coffee Street, San Fernando.

Party vice chairman, John Donaldson said child abuse was not unique to Trinidad and Tobago or the Caribbean, noting that people used the Internet to get around those laws.

In an attempt to protect children from abuse, Donaldson said Manning told the members that Government intends to review the role of social workers in various communities in Trinidad and Tobago.

In expressing concern about the prevalance of child abuse in the country, Donaldson said members lamented the absence of male teachers.

Donaldson said members also addressed the question of corporal punishment and treating young people as adults in certain criminal offences. Asked whether they spoke about proclaiming the Children's Authority Act, Donaldson said no, but added that Government would be addressing that issue.

He said Anthony Roberts, Minister of Social Services as well as other ministers were trying their best to come up with ways to deal with the problem of child abuse.

Donaldson made reference to Government's appointment of retired judge, Monica Barnes, to head a committee to investigate the way the social services handled four-year-old Emily Anamanthodo's case. She was raped and tortured and her step-father, Marlon King, has been charged with her murder.

Donaldson said, Prime Minister Patrick Manning in his address, also spoke about the number of political parties on the local horizon, some of which, he said, have began to merge.

In reference to local government elections, which are constitutionally due in July, Donaldson said, " Manning told us that the bell will be rung."


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Our black Pearl

Keith smith


Thursday, May 25th 2006 (T&T Express)


"In August 1957 over 2,000 people arrived at Kennedy Airport to witness history in the making. The plane that had just landed was immediately cordoned off. Both crowd and press jostled for a better position; an excited buzz filled the air.

"Out of the plane bewildered passengers filed one by one and quietly crept down the stairs as if intruding on someone else's party. The dignitaries were next to descend and were ignored as necks craned to get a better view of the real "celebrity''. Then there she was; Pearl Marshall-Beard, the first black flight attendant ever to land on American soil, came into view.''

So wrote my ailing friend and colleague, David Chase, in an article all of ten years ago. I hope he is well enough to read this even if he may not be as yet alert enough to remember. Pearl, herself, explained:

"I was the first black person, literally in the world, except for certain parts of Africa, to fly as a flight attendant with an airline. Even Air India didn't employ dark Indians- they were all fair-skinned and blue-eyed.''

The airline that employed Marshall was BWIA, then a subsidiary of BOAC. "Around that time BOAC needed to, should I use the word, colourise their staff,'' Marshall reminisced for David with a wry smile.

She had been working for Radio Trinidad when she was approached by the late Sir Hugh Wooding, then chairman of the boards of Radio Trinidad and BWIA.

"When,'' David continued, "Sir Hugh approached Marshall, black consciousness and the question of segregation had become a matter of heated public debate in America. It was a time of great social upheaval and change within the black community and America as a whole. In 1956 Martin Luther King and Malcolm X were emerging as the key black civil rights leaders and events were taking place at a rapid pace.

"In 1956, Juanita Lucy Autherine became the first Afro-American ever admitted to a white public school or university. In less than a week she was suspended because her presence incited violence from a white mob. This was not just an isolated incident; similar scenes were being witnessed all over America. In 1957, President Eisenhower had to order the deployment of US troops to Little Rock, Arkansas, to keep public order during school desegregation''.

No wonder Marshall's arrival in America, performing a coveted white girl's job, created such a stir. Again, Pearl picks up the tale:

"My being hired was important to the Afro-Americans because they were struggling for racial equality. It may sound conceited but I was sort of a messiah for the Black American and my coming to New York was very opportune for them. At the time Pan Am was in the midst of a bitter court battle. They had refused to hire a black girl, who, might I add, was extremely fair, as a flight attendant. They offered a multitude of reasons why she could not be employed but she stood firm and took them to court.''

In an interview in the Express in 1987, Marshall was to add, "My situation, I think, strengthened her case and I believe she eventually won out.''

David, in his turn, was to note that "Marshall's own initiation into BWIA was less sensational but comparatively just as traumatic, facing racial prejudice on her own turf...

"She had an interview and was offered the job. But the local flight attendants had other ideas and refused to train her because of the colour of her skin. 'They didn't want to accept me because I was black; they were a bunch of bigots,''' Marshall told David with "a venom'' that he found "alien to her normally serene, easy-going nature.''

"'They refused to train me and nearly lost their jobs because of it. Until my arrival, BWIA had been their private domain. They were from all over the Caribbean, Trinidad, Jamaica, Barbados and some from Canada and the UK as well but they were all Caucasian. But it was the local so-called whites, the French Creoles that were kicking up the fuss.'''

"Eventually,'' wrote David, "one of the girls from Barbados, Pauline Fitzgerald, intervened and said she would train Marshall, one on one''.

She began training in 1956 and shortly after began flying to other Caribbean countries. Marshall remembers:

"When passengers boarded the plane, the fact that there was a black flight attendant on board was completely new to them, you could see them take a step back, a lot of them were very aloof but I had been sent to do a job. I wanted to do it to the best of my ability and take care of all my passengers. I was always respectful and polite. I never crossed the line. I was always taught not to be rude; I hate rudeness in anyone.''

It was this strength of character which made Marshall an obvious choice for Sir Hugh. "I had the kind of personality that was needed, I wasn't just simply a token black for the airline to parade out.''

In 1957, the airline deemed Marshall ready for the flight to New York. As the plane taxied to a halt, she was asked to remain inside the craft until everyone, including the other flight attendants disembarked; Sir Hugh waited with her. She was unsure of the reception she was about to receive and when the time came she stepped out into the sunlight and nervously faced the crowd. They were ecstatic. People were clapping, cheering, reaching out to shake her hand and congratulate her. She breathed a sigh of relief.

The reaction she got knocked her for six. "I didn't know what to expect, I didn't fully realise what an achievement it was to be the first black flight attendant in the USA.'' She was a newsworthy event. "All the black publications were there and other newspapers and what seemed like a hundred microphones were pushed in my face. There was no hostility, only curiosity, people were generally interested.''

Magazine and radio interviews followed, and in the press conference the next day she told avid reporters that "I grew up in a country where we go to school with whites, we have white friends; segregation doesn't exist. But I made it quite clear that I was chosen because I had certain qualities needed for an introduction as the first black person in an international airline service.''

I have never seen Pearl Marshall-Beard anywhere without acknowledging her and going up to pay my respects. Never.

Culture contingent released


Joan Rampersad Saturday, May 27 2006



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The long awaited final list of artistes to form part of the national cultural contingent to perform in Germany, during the World Cup finals 2006 next month was finally released yesterday by the Culture Ministry.

Among the artistes are Calypso Queen of the World, Calypso Rose Mc Cartha Lewis, 2006 National Calypso Monarch, Luta (Morel Peters), 2006 Soca Monarch and Road March winner, Shurwayne Winchester and 2006 National Panorama Champions, Phase II Pan Groove.

Single pan band Playboyz, which has accompanied the Soca Warriors throughout its campaign to Germany has been omitted in favour of the Trinidad and Tobago Regiment pan-round-de-neck band.

Culture Minister Joan Yuille-Williams reasoned that the type of flooring where the band has to perform more suited the army band because they have to carry their intstruments during their entire parade performances.

The contingent leaves for Dortmond, Germany on Monday June 5, with a hectic schedule ahead of them. On the eve of the first match of the Soca Warriors, Trinidad and Tobago will host a four-hour show at what is called a "Fanfest."

Each German city where World Cup games are being played, has been mandated by football governing body FIFA, to hold a "Fanfest," where giant screens showing every game "live" will act as the focal point for entertainment and activity for fans living in, or visiting those cities.

TT's cultural night starts one hour after the Germany vs Costa Rica match starting at 8.30 pm and ends at 12.30 am.

Apart from performing at the fanfests in Dortmund, Nuremberg and Kaiserslautern, the cultural contingent will also be taking part in street parades in each city featuring traditional Carnival characters, and modern mas costumes, to the accompaniment of the pan-round-the-neck steelband music from the TT Regiment Steel Orchestra.

German schoolchildren will also be part of the TT team when they carry the one hundred other TT Carnival costumes that are being taken to Germany. The Roy Cape All Stars and Phase II Pan Groove will be stationed at the start and finish points of the one-mile parade routes. Other singers bound for Germany are Neil "Iwer George, Stalin (Leroy Calliste), Superior (Andrew Marcano), Kees Dieffanthaller, Rikki Jai (Samraj Jaimungal) and Skatie (Carlos James). They will all perform at the fanfests before, half-time and after games during their stay in Germany. And to further market TT a booth titled "Soca Caravan" will be stationed at fanfests in the three cities where Soca Warriors will be playing, for the purpose of highlighting tourism, sports, culture, trade and investment opportunities in TT.

The rest of the cultural contingent comprises the Eagle Boys Tassa Group, four African drummers, 25 dancers taken from all over TT, eight traditional mas characters including pierrot grenade Felix Edingborough, contemporary mas kings and queen like Earl Thompson, Lionel Jagessar and Anra Bobb, and six moko jumbies to complete the 129-member contingent. In the event that the National Football Team goes on to the second round of competition, Williams said that the chartered BWIA plane will be asked to pick up the artistes at a later date.

US$83m to come from Ansa McAl



Ansa McAl chairman Norman Sabga, second from left, signs the final project agreement for the First UAN complex at Union industrial estate in La Brea. At left is Energy Minister Lenny Saith. Signing documents is Frank Look Kin, president of the National Gas Company, while Prakash Saith, president of the National Energy Corporation, reviews his documents.


Photo: Brian Ng Fatt


BY ASHA JAVEED (T&T Guardian)


It took more than five years of negotiations for local corporate giant Ansa McAl, along with its two US-based partners"”Terra Industries and CF Industries Holdings Inc"”to arrive at Tuesday's signing of the project agreement which signals the imminent start of construction for the petrochemical complex in La Brea.

First UAN, as the fertiliser complex which it intends to build will be called, should start production by the first quarter of 2009.

Norman Sabga, Ansa McAl chairman and a director of First UAN said now that an agreement has been reached with T&T Government, the National Energy Corporation and the National Gas Company, it can raise the required capital to complete the US$830 million dollar complex"”30 per cent of which will be funded by equity and 70 per cent by debt borrowed from the international market.

This means, in effect, that Ansa McAl, the parent company of Trinidad Publishing Company, the publishers of the Guardian newspapers, will contribute US$83 million to the project.

In total, it is expected that US$747 million in project financing and equity contributions will be raised from foreign financial institutions and the US equity partners.

The fact that foreign companies are willing to invest US$747 million in T&T is a vote of confidence in the economy, said Sabga, speaking to reporters at Tuesday's simple signing ceremony at Energy Minister Lenny Saith's National Library offices.

Sabga said, "We do have the ability to raise what is necessary and the group does generate significant amount of cash,"referring to his company's US$83 million equity investment. This "milestone investment" will be sourced by a combination of retained profits and loans, he said.

Sabga said First UAN signed a gas supply contract with NGC in December 2004 to be supplied with 75 million cubic feet a day.

"If we didn't think the gas price was effective, we wouldn't have made the decision," said Sabga, explaining that the gas price would be linked to the world market price of the company's product.

First UAN comprises five chemical plants"”one plant each will produce urea, ammonia and nitrate while the other two will use those chemicals to make urea ammonium nitrate, or UAN, a chemical used to fertilise crops and flowers.

Saith explained that while the price of natural gas in T&T was competitive, he preferred not to use the word "cheap" because Venezuelan gas was cheaper.

Saith said the price that T&T sells gas to investors interested in monetising the commodity takes into account how many jobs will be created in the country and the effect it would have on downstream industries.

Best value

He said the Government sought to give the best value and "can't sell at a price which does not make it viable."

And the benefits given to the companies"”such as VAT and custom duties exemption"”was consistent with the viability of the project, said Saith.

The project will not benefit from income tax relief, as the government had taken a policy decision recently on the issue of fiscal incentives. The State will also benefit from lease and port payments as well as fees for the supply of electricity and water as well as the taxes paid by the workers in the complex.

The National Energy Corporation will provide all the necessary facilities- it has already allocated 26 hectares of land at the Union Industrial Estate and will facilitate water and electricity for the complex. The NEC would act as a "transport corridor" said Saith, as the development of a port would facilitate import and export during the construction of the project and aid in trade when completed.

"What drives the economics of this business is the price of gas which is available in Trinidad versus the price of gas in the open market, the stability of the country, the ability to raise the finance and the ability to manage these projects with local talent in the market," said Sabga.

But while the project would benefit from attractive gas prices, he observed that the cost of construction had increased significantly most notably the price of steel.

Construction, set to begin in September, will employ about 2,000 workers with 125 permanent jobs being created when completed in 34 months.

Sabga explained that most of the equipment for the complex would be imported from Europe and with the euro being a volatile currency, its value at the time the equipment is purchased would have an impact on the final price of the project.

And while he acknowledged that Ansa usually sought the controlling interest in their business ventures, the size of the project made First UAN different.

"We have just had another investment in a clay roof factory where we have a 50 per cent ownership. So whereas in much smaller investments we would like to have the majority interest, the sheer size of the project meant that we needed to share the risk with other partners," said Sabga.

Saith stressed that the plants in the complex would operate to internationally-accepted health and environmental standards and he commended Ansa McAl for its initiative to invest in the energy sector as it was one of several local entities making substantial investments.

NEW NATIONAL AWARD

PM appoints committee to change Trinity Cross title

Richard Lord


Saturday, June 3rd 2006


A new national award replacing the Trinity Cross is expected to be in place by August 31.

Prime Minister Patrick Manning yesterday bowed to the wishes of the Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha and other non-Christians who have demanded that the country's highest award, perceived to be a Christian symbol, be replaced.

"Mr Speaker, the Government is determined to conduct the exercise of National Awards this year on the basis of new and more acceptable arrangements," Manning said in the House of Representative.

Manning said Cabinet has appointed a Committee to be chaired by Prof Bridget Brereton of the University of the West Indies to "review all aspects of the nation's highest award and also to examine such other national symbols and observances which may be considered discriminatory and make appropriate recommendations to Government."

Other members of the committee are designer Gillian Bishop; political analyst Prof Selwyn Ryan; lawyer and businessman Devanand Ramlal, business leader Gregory Aboud; head of the Arthur Lok Jack Institute of Business Dr Rolph Balgobin; Anselm Richards of the Tobago House of Assembly and Sandra Marchack, head of the Public Service and Permanent Secretary to the Prime Minister.

Manning said the Committee "will report its findings on the matter of the Trinity Cross by the middle of July this year and on its larger mandate by the end of September 2006."

Following announcement of the names, Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar was heard shouting that the committee did not have any Muslim members on it.

In a statement in the House of Representatives yesterday-one day after the matter was discussed in Cabinet-Manning said that the "anomaly" of the Trinity Cross will be removed. He said this was being done in the wake of a recent High Court ruling which found that the symbol was "indirectly discriminatory against non-Christians."

Maha Sabha General Secretary Sat Maharaj had taken the matter to court and yesterday Persad-Bissessar presented a petition in Parliament on behalf of Maharaj asking that the Trinity Cross be replaced as the country's highest award with the Order of Trinidad and Tobago.

But minutes later Manning assured: "We shall do it. At the same time, we must not lose this excellent opportunity to examine any other similar situation which has been allowed to persist to the discomfort of any section of the national family."

Manning added: "We have reached a defining moment in the history of our country. I am convinced we are on the way to the greater enlightenment and refinement of our civilisation. In the final analysis it will lead us to a better understanding of life and improve our capacity to benefit the dynamic diversity of Trinidad and Tobago."

Manning said the decision was taken to set the example that not even the Government was above the law and to ensure that there was spiritual harmony in the country.

AIDS deaths down by 60%

Anna-Lisa Paul


Saturday, June 3rd 2006


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John Rahael...spoke at UN.



The AIDS mortality rate for Trinidad and Tobago is down by 60 per cent, while the incidence of AIDS and HIV cases is down 48 per cent and 16 per cent respectively, from peak levels.

These figures were revealed by Health Minister John Rahael as he addressed a high level meeting on HIV/AIDS at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, yesterday.

Rahael boasted that government's decision in 2002 to offer free anti-retroviral treatment for those in need had been largely responsible for this decline. Other factors include greater mobilisation of financial, technical and human resources, improved facilitation and coordination across all sectors, and strong public and private partnerships.

Stating that the country was a small island with a population of 1.3 million people, Rahael said since 1983, approximately 15,000 HIV cases had been detected on both islands. He admitted that across the Caribbean region, the first two decades of the epidemic had been marked by increasing mortality and morbidity due to AIDS.

Describing the National AIDS Coordinating Committee (NACC) as "a truly multi-sectoral body with strong representation from civil society, persons living with HIV, youth groups, and faith based organisations", Rahael said both the private and public sectors had thrown their support behind the committee.

The NACC was established in 2004 under the auspices of the Office of the Prime Minister, to manage the ministry's five year HIV/AIDS strategic plan for the nation.

Rahael said government had recognised that there is a need for a sustained and comprehensive response to HIV/AIDS if the country was to realise its economic and social prospects.

Claiming that Trinidad and Tobago was facing special challenges in its fight against the disease, Rahael reiterated government's commitment saying that stronger efforts were being made to combat stigma and discrimination against the infected, further expansion of treatment access in all districts, attention on improved sexual and reproductive health of citizens, and inclusion of infected persons in the response.

Rahael said the ministry was engaging the services of its national icons to instigate positive behavioural changes in its fight against the epidemic which is still a "clear and present danger".

Small country, big passions


PM pitches a civilised way forward for plural Trinidad and Tobago



Sunday, June 4th 2006


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Prime Minister Patrick Manning during his address in Parliament, Port of Spain, on Friday.



Prime Minister Patrick Manning, treating with the question of whether Trinidad and Tobago should retain the Trinity Cross as Trinidad and Tobago's highest national award in the wake of a High Court ruling that it discriminated against non-Christians, delivered in Parliament on Friday what some political observers has described as a landmark address on the challenge of managing diversity-ethnic, religious, cultural-in what, after all is, avowedly a secular State. It is against this background that we publish the Prime Minister's speech in its entirety:



'Throughout human history, the management of diversity has always been a great challenge for government and society. Racial and religious differences have been at the root of many of the most horrendous conflicts of human civilisation. This did not happen only in the distant past. It transpired with some of its worst consequences as recently as during the century just ended.

And it could happen again. Ethnic conflicts continue to simmer today in various global flashpoints; and some thinkers increasingly proffer the view that a clash of civilisations is at the heart of the new wave of international terrorism that we are now experiencing. It is clear that notwithstanding tremendous material, scientific and intellectual progress, human society has not completely eliminated those prejudices that stem from differences in culture, colour, race, religion and place of origin.

Since Independence, almost fifty years ago, Trinidad and Tobago has continued to be a shining example to the world, of unity in diversity. This is to the eternal credit of our people whose innate rationality and deep commitment to harmony have been of foundational importance in the building and sustenance of our nation. It has been paramount in resisting all attempts to create fissures in the society. Consequently, divisive demagoguery of all kinds has so far failed in this country. The people have not been as combustible as some would have liked.

We are therefore able to eventually make the right decision when difficult choices arise as a consequence of our plurality. We have one such choice now before us. Do we keep the Trinity Cross as the nation's highest award or do we not?

As you know, Mr Speaker, this is not a sudden development. For some time, arguments have emanated passionately on this issue, from various vocal and influential sides of our multi-religious spectrum. It is most noteworthy, however, that on a matter which can generate much emotionalism, never have we reached the point where there arose any cause for alarm.

This is a tribute to our country. We are a nation of great cultural and religious diversity. Our constitution affirms our belief in God as the creator of all and as a guiding principle for the conduct of national affairs. Religious beliefs and practices are a most integral part of the lives of the vast majority of our citizens.

We have, with justification, been described as a very religious people. In fact, it is part of the folklore that because citizens of one religion or the other are in fervent prayer at different times of the year, ours is a nation in constant worship of God and thus able to sustain the Grace of the Almighty through thick and thin for the benefit of all our people. Our good fortune has even produced the saying that 'God is a Trini'.

This is not being frivolous Mr Speaker. The point I am making is that passions run high in this country where the matters of prayer, religion, worship and moral values are concerned. In the final analysis, the issue is not limited to the appropriateness of the Trinity Cross as our nation's highest award. It goes deeper than that. Among other issues, it points to the role that religion should or should not have in the conduct of our national life. Large questions, Honourable Members. Managing diversity is no ordinary matter.

You can see, therefore, Mr Speaker, that as a result of our social and cultural milieu, there is, understandably, considerable difficulty in arriving at decisions or embarking on action that could offend the religious or cultural sensibilities of any group, however, large or small, in our plural society.

This is the challenge that any Government faces. The history consequently shows that the country's political directorate previously examined the issue of the Trinity Cross and with clearly good intentions. During the Administration of those opposite, for example, a committee was established, headed by a former Chief Justice, to make recommendations on the way forward. The committee completed its assignment, but no further action was taken.

This is not a criticism. We, who are also engaged in the political management of diversity, recognise that whatever decision is taken in such a situation could cause disenchantment on one side or the other. You run the risk of inflaming passions. You need to tread sensitively, carefully, almost tentatively. Religious beliefs are very close to the heart. No Government wants to alienate any section of the population, however large or small, through any decision it takes on a matter like this. It is not in the national interest. Our observers and analysts should therefore not be too short-sighted in their armchair assault on perceived political decay.

However, Mr Speaker, we must state that, as we on this side first observed the unfolding of the drama and then became directly involved in it, one fact always remained supreme and unassailable in our minds; and it is this. Triidad and Tobago is a secular democracy.

But M Speaker, as our Constitution declares, ours is a society founded on the recognition of a supreme being. This country, therefore accepts the existence of Almighty God. It is well known that there are several religious interpretations of this very concept of the one God. It must therefore follow that a religious interpretation of the concept of Almighty God cannot be the basis on which the society advances. This would be too divisive and could lead eventually to the fragmentation of the society and even anarchy. Yet, at the same time, the Constitution guarantees that each individual is free to pursue the religious interpretation of his or her choice.

We must ensure that we do not endanger the future of this diverse society nor replicate the traumas of unmanaged plurality that have been experienced elsewhere. This beautiful, harmonious Trinidad and Tobago would then be no more. I am sure that no right-thinking citizen of this country would want that eventuality.

The Government has a responsibility yo ensure that no such dire prospect is ever on the national horizon. And so I must point to the other unassailable fact by which this country is governed. This is the rule of law. This is the foundation of the order and organisation through which we continue to build this country. Without it there would be utter chaos; our freedoms would vanish, included our cherished freedom of worship; and we would be faced with the most devastating consequences to our stability and security from which it would be most difficult, if not impossible, to recover.

No one, including the Government, is above the law. This Administration must therefore adhere to the rule of law. One of our main responsibilities is to set the example.

The Court has now ruled that the continued existence of the Trinity Cross as the nation's highest award is, indirectly, discriminatory against non-Christians. My Administration therefore has an obligation to comply with the ruling and remove this anomaly from our national life.

We shall do it. At the same time, Mr Speaker, we must not lose this excellent opportunity to examine any other similar situation which has been allowed to persist to the discomfort of any section of the national family.

I therefore wish to announce that the Cabinet has agreed to establish a committee to review all aspects of the nation's highest award and also to examine such other national symbols and observances which may be considered discriminatory and make appropriate recommendations to Government. The Committee will

be chaired by Professor Bridget Brereton of the University of the West Indies, and its membership will comprise Ms Gillian Bishop, designer; university professor emeritus Dr Selwyn Ryan; lawyer and businessman M Devanand Ramlal; business leader Mr Gregory Aboud; Dr Rolph Balgobin, Head of the Arthur Lock Jack Institute of Business; Mr Anselm Richards, Head of Policy Research and Development of the Tobago House of Assembly and Mrs Sandra Marchack, Permanent Secretary to the Prime Minister and Head of the Public Service who will be Secretary and member of the Committee.

In undertaking its assignment, the Committee is expected to take into account the work of any other Committee on related matters. The Committee will report its findings on the matter of the Trinity Cross by the middle of July this year; and on its larger mandate by the end of September 2006. Mr Speaker, the government is determined to conduct the exercise of National Awards this year on the basis of new and more acceptable arrangements.

Mr Speaker, we have reached a defining moment in the history of our country. I am convinced we are on the way to the greater enlightenment and refinement of our civilisation. We are opening the national mind even further and putting to the test the understanding of our history and our much vaunted appreciation of variety. In the final analysis, it will lead us to a better understanding of life and improve our capacity to benefit from the dynamic diversity of Trinidad and Tobago. Let us therefore go forward on this course of strengthening national harmony.

Warriors head for Germany


Sunday, June 4 2006 (T&T Newsday)


"Little TT" to welcome our heroes.


TRINIDAD and Tobago's footballers will keep their heads up and enter Germany with pride and big ambitions despite a 3-0 defeat to Czech Republic yesterday.

This was the message from captain Dwight Yorke after his team conceded three first half goals in their final warm-up international before their opening 2006 World Cup fixture against Sweden.

The Soca Warriors will depart Prague early today and will pass through Frankfurt on the way to making an official arrival as a World Cup team in Bremen at around 10 am (4 am TT time). The team will then journey by bus and escorted by Mayor Detlef Eichinger for about 40 minutes to Rotenburg.

A big welcome is expected for the team in Rotenburg which will check in at the Landhaus Wachtelhof Hotel.

With Rotenburg virtually transformed into a "Little TT", the mayor will then host an official welcome reception later in the evening at the City Square.

Looking back at what was a third consecutive defeat for his team, Yorke said it was only obvious to be disappointed but once again he felt the team had no cause for major alarms.

"Obviously it was a disappointing result for us but this is not going to take away too much from us because we have three bigger matches to play in Germany and we will go there tomorrow with all the ambition," Yorke said shortly after the match in Prague.

He said the match was a worthwhile exercise a week before his team faces Sweden in the opening Group "B" match of the World Cup Finals in Dortmund.

"I think that is right. The manager said he was the one that prepared the matches and this is one he wanted us to have. This is exactly it and one thing we can take from this is that in the first half we were taught a football lesson." And Yorke said England and Sweden should not start counting their goals.

"If we think for a moment that England and Sweden are going to beat us 5-0 then we might as well not turn up. What we have to ensure is when we go to play on June 10, 15 and 20 is that we can give a good account of ourselves," Yorke added. In spite of the loss, Beenhakker was not disturbed.


"I was very happy with the match and I will explain why. My players are not used to this way of football, this way in Europe. It's much more faster and physical. So it was my choice to have very tough matches for them versus Slovenia and the Czechs "” one of the best teams in the world actually. "So we knew it would be very difficult but I prefer to have the problems now and at least they have the experience as to what they can expect in the World Cup and I prefer they are surprised now instead of next week after the Sweden match," he said. "The problem is not how good the opponent is.

The problem is how good we are and how many mistakes we make and that is the big battle with this team.

"The question is whether we are good enough to go with the opponents on this level and I can assure you we have learnt enough. Whether it's good enough well we will find out," he said. Beenhakker doesn't think today's scoreline should mean that TT should forget all about causing an upset or two at the Finals. "We always have a chance. You never know who to put your money on. Football always has surprises and that's the beautiful thing about it," he said.

And finally, when asked whether he heard about the England 6-0 win over Jamaica, Beenhakker added: "Oh! But come on. This is Jamaica we are talking about against England. England are preparing for the big stage and that result is not in any relation to us and how we will prepare for our matches and how we will play in the World Cup."

Following the 3-0 loss, there were no major injury worries with midfielder Densill Theobald nursing a knock to the ankle but he will be able to train as early as next week while Cyd Gray suffered slight damage to a finger tissue.



Team picture

Monday 5th June, 2006


Manning: Governing T&T requires caution


BY CAROL MATROO


Even as he explained the genesis of the land's highest honour, the Trinity Cross, Prime Minister Patrick Manning is urging the people not to look upon the change of the name as an attack on Christianity.

He said in a country as diverse as T&T, it was easy to blunder, but stressed that the decision to change the name was not one to attack the Christian faith.

He said when Christopher Columbus discovered T&T, he claimed this country in the name of "God Almighty, King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella."

He conceded, however, that Columbus was Catholic, a religion that was rooted in this country's history, as was the Trinity Cross.

Other denominational groups, the Islamic Relief Centre and the Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha, had been clamouring for a name change of the Trinity Cross, saying it was discriminatory against non-Christians.

Last week, Judge Peter Jamadhar made a ruling in San Fernando High Court in favour of renaming the Trinity Cross.

Addressing hundreds of supporters at PNM's golden jubilee"”50 years as a political party at the Eddie Hart grounds in Tacarigua, yesterday, Manning described the PNM as "an all-embracing party."

He said it was his duty to make the country's highest award all-encompassing.

Manning had full support from his followers, as they waved flags and danced to a medley of chutney, soca and dancehall music.

The PM also said the Government was reforming this country's constitution, and that there were issues that would arise as T&T moved forward.

"We have to be cautious as to how we govern T&T."

Manning said the Government would set up a draft constitution in the interim.

"The PNM is demonstrating unity, while the others are demonstrating disunity and disharmony."


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©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

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Monday 5th June, 2006



Warriors feel at home in Germany



ROTENBURG"”The town square was filled with sand, tropical trees and flags from T&T.

The players from the smallest country ever to make the World Cup were made to feel right at home as they arrived at their German base yesterday.

The small town of Rotenburg got a little Caribbean flavour at a pep rally welcoming the T&T soccer team.

"It's great to have this kind of support," Soca Warriors forward Russell Latapy said. "But it's time to get ready to play."

Two German kids built a sand castle with a T&T flag on top, others sang and danced along to a fight song for the Soca Warriors and there was even rum straight from T&T being sold alongside German beer.

"They really did a great job making us feel at home," said Brent Perryman, 30, who came to Germany with six friends to cheer on his team. "It seems that lots of people are adopting us because we're such a small country."

Standing a few metres away from Perryman was Gunter Heeke, who made the 200-kilometres drive from Rheine to the pep rally for the team from the island twin-nation of just more than one million people.

Heeke and 20 of his friends, including many team-mates on his local soccer team, bought tickets for T&T's opener on June 10 against Sweden.

They had T&T T-shirts with their own nicknames on the back and were ready to pull hard for the team they knew little about.

"We figured that T&T wouldn't have a lot of fans here so we decided to support them," Heeke said. "It's something different and kind of fun."

Rotenburg Mayor Detlef Eichinger greeted the team at the airport in nearby Bremen and headlined the pep rally.

Team captain Dwight Yorke, the former Manchester United player, got the biggest welcome as German fans chanted "Dwight! Dwight! Dwight!" repeatedly.

Yorke and Latapy, the last active members from the team that nearly qualified for the 1990 World Cup, came out of retirement from international competition last year to help their country qualify.

"It's always been my dream to play at the top level," Latapy said. "It feels great to finally be here."



©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Monday 5th June, 2006

Beyond the call of duty


BY CORDIELLE STREET



Paying it forward mixed with a little Caribbean warmth, Walter and Judith-Ann Celestine Murray have been opening their southern United States home to members of the T&T Defence Force for the past 20 years.

Benefiting from their selflessness were homesick soldiers lucky enough to fall into the arms of the Murrays while stationed at Fort Benning, Georgia.

With enough home-cooked food to feed an army and enough Trini rum to drown any sorrows, Trinidadians (Judith-Ann by birth, Walter by heritage), the Murrays have been that "home away from home" for many soldiers.

Brigadier Peter Joseph can attest to their unending generosity having been one of the first guests in the Murray home while a lieutenant attending an infantry training course in 1986.

"Most of the time when they get here, there aren't any family members attending the camp with them so we are the only support they have," explained Judith-Ann in a phone interview last week.

"We just open our hearts and our home to anyone coming up," she simply added.

Sparking these two decades of what Judith-Ann laughingly summed up as a "love to lime" was the happily-married couple's first experience at Ft Benning.

Walter, a native Arubian with a Tacarigua-born mother, and Judith-Ann were married in 1983 and stationed at Ft Benning.

Walter, a retired Sergeant First Class in the US army, was also an airborne paratrooper and a trainer/instructor on the Bradley Fighting Vehicle.

"We know what it is to be away from home without the support," said Judith-Ann.

Settling in at the largest US army base meant mixing and mingling with other officers and families, often identifying fellow countrymen through flags flying proudly atop their vehicles.

"That is where the networking began," said Judith-Ann.

Walter explained that his initial offer to T&T officers came through casual conversation.

"I give you my number and if you don't react in 24 hours then you are not interested," said Walter.

His offer of: "A little Carib beer, a little Trini rum... my wife will cook some pelau or a little souse" was never refused.

After hosting approximately ten T&T Defence Force officers and their families in addition to officers who attended Ft Benning, for training, they also supported the T&T Defence Force rifle team during the UIT World Cup ˜94 and the Olympics in 1996.

"People always need someone that they know that they can count on," reasoned Walter.

Even their son Richard pitches in.

"I think he has adjusted to that and being our son everyone has accepted him as little Richard and now he is 21, some of them play soccer with him, they have gone to his games," said Judith-Ann.

The Murrays are now official hosts, recognised by the US army and also co-ordinate other families that are interested in hosting.

"It is hard when you are away from home and you go to classes and then to your room to eat and that is all you know," said Judith-Ann, who is also president of the Golden K of Columbus, an organisation that is "helping to change children and therefore the world one at a time."

Walter believes their generosity is following the simple edict of "do unto others as you will have them do unto you."




©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Six days left to history


JOAN RAMPERSAD Monday, June 5 2006(T&T Newsday)


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Members of the TT Soca Warrirors prepare to board the teams bus shortly after they arrive at Bremen in Northern Germany yesterday ahead of Trinis ready for Warriors' battle



WITH just five more days left before the Trinidad and Tobago Soca Warriors make history at the World Cup Football Finals in Germany, nothing is holding back local football enthusiasts from witnessing this glorious moment, with a great deal of pride and pleasure.

Not even the 3-0 drubbing the Warriors suffered at the hands of the World No 2 ranked Czech Republic in the final warm-up match last Saturday.

While the national cultural contingent will be leaving for Germany this evening, other travelling fans are anxiously awaiting for Wednesday and Thursday when some 3,000-odd locals are expected to pack Piarco International Airport to lend on-the-spot support for the local team.

For those who are not able to make the overseas trip, a number of viewing specials have been planned at some popular sports bars and clubs around the city.

Trotters Sports Bar will be offering all-inclusive viewing of the games on June 10 and 15 for $600 each day and $400, for the June 20 game. After game music will be supplied by DJ George Gonzales.

At Rafters, 2x10 foot projection screens await patrons plus Direct TV and internal satellite to allow for the viewing of several games simultaneously.

For the England/TT game, buffet and drinks can be had for $275. On other match days June 10 and 20, there will be drink specials and food happy hours. The Harvard Club offers viewing of all TT games on big screens and patrons can get into the act with a betting pool, using the World Cup odds.

Advance bookings will be required for lunches by calling 628-7597.

And at the ever-popular Smokey and Bunty, there will be a big television set outside the establishment with drinks specials on match days.

Also, depending on the outcome of the games, there will be live entertainment by a rhythm section or a steelband side.

At the Courtyard Marriott, there will be poolside BBQ parties but apart from these public places and a number of others offering these World Cup specials, many friends and families have planned their own house "limes" as they take in the football action on game days.

For nationals who are going to Germany, they can choose which event suits them as there are a number of activities planned in Germany to coincide with the games.


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Jack plays fairy godfather


June 1 2006 (T&T Newsday)


FIFA vice-president Jack Warner has made a World Cup dream come true for two teenage England football fans.

Matthew Arding, 17, and Stefan Shepherd, 16, will be in Nuremberg, Germany on June 15 to watch David Beckham and teammates in action against Trinidad and Tobago thanks to Warner's intervention.

Both boys contacted the Bournemouth based charity, Round Table Children's Wish, who make wishes come true for children with life-threatening illnesses, requesting to see England play in the World Cup.

RTCW officials had no luck acquiring tickets when they contacted the English FA and were running out of hope.

But their prayers were answered when they got in touch with Mike Berry, who acts as the international relations consultant for the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation.

Berry swiftly made the boys' plight known to Warner who immediately arranged for four tickets to be made available to Matthew, Stefan and their dads.

Stefan, who lives in Nottingham, was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis when he was two months old and underwent a liver transplant when he was ten.

On hearing the news that he was going to Germany, Stefan said, "I am very excited. I have not seen England play before and I am looking forward to seeing my favourite player, Frank Lampard."

His father Ian added, "This is like winning the lottery and I can't thank Mr Warner enough for giving Stefan this one-in-a-million chance to see England play in the World Cup Finals.

"We're both Nottingham Forest fans and will be looking forward to seeing Trinidad striker Stern John again because he once played for Forest but we will be supporting England."

Matthew, who lives in Southampton, was diagnosed with Bilateral Retinoblastoma in both eyes, which is an inherited form of eye cancer that appears in the retina. He has lost one eye and has only partial sight in the other.

He said: "I didn't know anything like this was going to happen. When my family told me yesterday I thought it was a wind up.

"I am very grateful for what Mr Warner and the Round Table Children's Wish have done because I've never had the chance to see England play before." Paul Arding, father of young Matthew also expressed gratitude for the offer.

"Matthew was beaming like a Cheshire cat when we told him the news. We are both really looking forward to the match."

Stuart King, General Secretary of RTCW also praised Warner for his kindness particularly as he was aware of all the other demands for tickets around these times.

"We so very much appreciate what Mr Warner has done for making these wishes comes true for Stefan and Matthew.

Without his help these boys would never have got to the World Cup Finals."

The RTCW has been in operation for over 16 years and has now made nearly 1000 wishes come true for children with life-threatening illnesses.

Warner is also assisting in ensuring that similar causes are assisted in TT as the country prepares to extend all their support to the Soca Warriors in Germany.

SCOTS supporting Soca Warriors


(T&T Newsday)


SCOTLAND, the arch-rivals of England in football, are backing Trinidad and Tobago's Soca Warriors in next month's World Cup in Germany.

A quarter of the Trinidad and Tobago squad play for Scottish club teams, including Jason Scotland who scored the second goal in the 3-2 win over Austrian club champions Vienna on Tuesday in Graz.

BBC Scotland Channel 4 has done a series of light-hearted advertisements to be aired on television with the theme: "Against All Odds Scotland is going to the World Cup!"

The visual shows an empty bus coming to a stop and a lone passenger boarding. He is Jason Scotland, the Soca Warrior striker, and he is wearing a red Soca Warrior T-shirt, the back of which reads: "Scotland."

The advertisement is accompanied by a song "Tartan Army and T&T."

Jason Scotland formerly played for the Scottish team Dundee and now plays for St Johnstone and as a member of the TT team heading to the World Cup Finals. Scotland has become a celebrity in Dundee with many Scots supporting the Soca Warriors, who are regarded in Europe as the underdogs.

He has become the face of Irn-Bru, a popular Scottish soft drink, formerly known as the Iron-Brew. "I happen to love Irn-Bru," Scotland said, "and have arranged for a batch to be sent over for my teammates."

The leader of Scotland's National Party, Alex Salmond yesterday pledged his support for Trinidad and Tobago at the World Cup Finals in Germany. Six Scotland-based players are in the 24-man Caribbean nation's squad for the finals. But Salmond, in true political fashion, denied that his new-found allegiance had anything to do with Trinidad and Tobago facing England. He said: "I'm for TT, but for years I was the only practising Anglophile in Scottish politics.

"I don't support teams against England, but I think Trinidad and Tobago have some interesting Scottish players playing for them," he said. "That is the nearest we are getting to the World Cup."

Also on the side of the Soca Warriors according to the Daily Record, Scotland's number one daily for sport, is Scotland's First Minister, Jack Mc Connell who said he won't be supporting the "Auld Enemy" in Germany next month, but is joining thousands of his compatriots in cheering on TT.

"Scotland, my team obviously is not there and that's disappointing. There are people who think that as First Minister I should automatically support England instead. But football is not about politics, so I will not be."

His comments provoked fury south of the border with Tartan Army hate figure, Jimmy Hill, slamming Mc Connell but being more cagey about which team he would back.

"I will instinctively support the underdog."

Mc Connell's unneighbourly snub puts him at odds with UK Chancellor Gordon Brown who is backing England all the way.

Attempts have been made even to draw in British Prime Minister Tony Blair. This met with a stiff upper lip from the Prime Minister's official spokesman. "That's entirely a matter for Mc Connell," was the response from Downing Street.

The Warriors team members who play in Scotland are Russell Latapy of Falkirk, Marvin Andrews of Rangers, Colin Samuel and Kelvin Jack of Dundee United and Jason Scotland of St Johnstone who ironically was refused a work permit by the British Home Office when Dundee United wanted to renew his contract.

Turnbull Hutton, a director and former chairman of Raith Rovers Football Club in Brown's Fife constituency said: "By the time the World Cup kicks off, the vast majority of football fans in Scotland will be digging out a TT flag not the Union Jack." There are already Jason Scotland posters around Scotland promoting local glaziers Sidey, said the Perthshire Advertiser, but now "Come on Scotland" billboards will be springing up throughout central Scotland sharing Irn-Bru's humorous take on the World Cup.

BBC Scotland recently carried an indepth interview with TT's High Commissioner to the UK, Glenda Morean.

Scotland will be going to the World Cup Finals even if the Scots aren't.

Oilbird to take off

Production begins next month

Louis B Homer South Bureau



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The EOG Resources Trinidad Limited Oilbird Platform, which was launched at the La Brea Industrial Estate on Friday.



Before the end of next month the largest and heaviest offshore platform fabricated in Trinidad will begin producing natural gas some 30 miles off the southeast coast of Trinidad.

The platform called "The Oilbird" was launched last Friday at the La Brea Industrial Estate (LABIDCO) in the presence of Natural Gas Export Task Force chairman Professor Ken Julien, who has been involved in the development of the energy industry for the past five decades.

The structure is a conventional drilling and processing steel platform consisting of six deck legs, three levels totalling 28,000 square feet of floor space. Total weight of the platform along with on board processing equipment is more than 2,900 tons-believed to be twice as heavy as any platform previously built in Trinidad.

The company responsible for constructing the multi-million dollar Oilbird platform is Trinidad Offshore Fabrication Company, a joint venture between Weldfab, a Trinidadian construction company, and Chef Morrison, a Louisiana- based fabricator.

In his address at the launching, Julien said: "The construction of the platform has been prompted by the recent introduction of local content in the energy industry."

He added: "Government's stated policy is to ensure that in all downstream investments a high percentage of local content must be made by the investing company"

The platform is owned by EOG Resources Limited. Petrotrin and the National Gas Company of Trinidad and Tobago both have interests in the investment.

EOG Resources Trinidad Limited managing director Lindell Looger, said the Oilbird was first drilled in 1977 by Texaco and for over 20 years "was at best the fourth in a list of four projects to be undertaken on the South East Consortium Block."

Warriors' first day in Germany


Tuesday, June 6 2006 (T&T Newsday)


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Dwight Yorke (L) gestures upon the arrival, TT wins many new friends

The first day in Deutschland was undoubtedly beyond anything ever experienced by a TT athlete or team in a foreign country as the red carpet was rolled out for the team to make its way off the Lufthansa flight which arrived in Bremen from Frankfurt shortly around 10 am (4am TT time). Little kids dressed in white and with miniature TT flags lined the carpet as the players and staff members made their way onto the official team bus which carried the slogan "” Here come the Soca Warriors "” the fighting spirit of the Caribbean. Even at the stop off for the connecting flight in Frankfurt, the team was privately escorted to the security check point away from all other regular travellers.

On the 30-minute bus drive from Bremen, the Mayor of Rotenburg Detlef Eichinger accompanied the team but as the bus made its way into actual Rotenburg, out of nowhere were scenes of fans, both young and old waving TT flags, punching the air and blowing kisses. And on every other building the TT flag was hanging prompting team members on board the bus to excitedly say "But they even have more flags up here than we have at home."

The arrival appeared planned as the two escort police vehicles stopped about 400 metres away from the hotel and the contingent had to walk the remaining distance to the sounds of steel drums from a German band with hundreds of curious onlookers, none without flags, applauding and trying to get a touch of the "Soca Warriors".

Beenhakker would have had the experience of a World Cup with the Dutch national team but he surely would not have gone through the kind of overwhelming welcome given to Yorke's team here.

Mayor Eichinger also hosted the team for a short time at the city hall where the members were requested to sign the city's golden book and received gifts of ancient weapons used in war such as spears and arrows.

At the same time, there will be no worries over security as any TT contingent leaving the hotel will have police escort. At Sunday's training session there were no less than 12 security officers and seven police officers and for sessions open to the public there will be some 30 security officers at the training pitch. At the hotel at all times will be ten security officers along with FIFA security officer Gunther Grath and ex-brigadier John Sandy.

The security escorts had to do their bit to hold off some rushing fans who were anxious to get hold of some of the players, in particular Chris Birchall who was chased by adoring fans. It was all in good light as the officers too had to laugh as they got the fans out the way. " Now I don't know what they would do if David Beckham was here," Birchall joked.

Yorke could not hold back the emotion of what he said is part fruit for the country for its World Cup qualification.

"Of course it's overwhelming for all of us. They came out in their numbers. The city certainly feels like a West Indian party because of the number of flags and soca music and steel drums and everything that you can think of that we have back home. These people have really gone out of their way," Yorke told TTFF Media.

It was a definite boost in light of three successive defeats.

"It's a pretty upbeat situation that we are in. Let's not get ahead of ourselves because the fact is that we played against the world number two team and they taught us a lesson on the first half. Once we got used to it, we were three goals down but you have to give credit to the guys for the second half performance. The good thing is that we learn from these kind of games.

"The country obviously will benefit a lot from it and the amount of publicity that is surrounding the team and the players is amazing. Of course it's an experience that we all have never been in before and we are here to experience something historical. Hopefully that may continue for the years ahead. This is a special moment for us and I think we all should just sit back and enjoy it but obviously don't get caught up in it too much but try and see what we can achieve here as a team as well," Yorke ended after finishing dinner with his teammates at the luxurious Landhaus hotel.

The team had one session yesterday morning following which FIFA officials visited the hotel to handle the official team accreditation for the World Cup. Then in the evening period the Warriors travelled to Hamburg to face German Third Division side FC St Pauli in a specially arranged training match done by team sponsors eBay.

The game that was planned in aim of boosting the team's profile here for the World Cup attracted massive interest as they played to a live viewing audience of an estimated ten million German fans since the game was aired by one of the country's biggest networks ZDF and another 20,000 fans at the ground. It has been evident during the previous camps, particularly in Austria and Prague and now in Rotenburg that TT has won many new friends.


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Soca Warriors' whip St Pauli in tune-up


Tuesday, June 6 2006


HAMBURG: Trinidad and Tobago coach Leo Beenhakker dismissed claims that his side were tired ahead of their opening World Cup game after they ground out a 2-1 win against German Third Division side St Pauli yestrerday.

The World Cup debutants took the lead after 14 minutes through Kenwyne Jones to give the travelling support amongst the 20,000 sell-out crowd something to cheer about.

The drums began to beat even louder when Jason Scotland doubled the "Soca Warriors" lead later in the first half.

The German team pulled back a goal through a penalty early in the second half.

"Soca Warriors" defender David Charles was sent off late in the game to compound an uncomfortable evening.

The Trinidad and Tobago footballers who open their Group B account against Sweden on Saturday, have played five games in the past 13 days.

"I don't think we have played or prepared any different to any other team here," Beenhakker told reporters when asked about his busy schedule.

"You have to give players a chance to get as fit as possible and to see them perform as much as possible."

Asked about the red card, Beenhakker said: "I didn't really see any problem, but these things happen."

The Dutchman remained upbeat about his team's performance, especially after Saturday's 3-0 defeat to fellow finalists, the Czech Republic.

"This was a tough game and the type of game we expected and wanted," he said.

"It's good that we got the win after Saturday, especially since most of the players that played will probably not start against Sweden," Beenhakker said.

But for a good display from Trinidad goalkeeper, Clayton Ince, the home side could have given Beenhakker even more to ponder and went close to spoiling the Caribbean-style party.

Seven new ports for TT


Wednesday, June 7 2006 (T&T Newsday)


A bustling financial centre able to rival that of New York City will be created on the Port-of-Spain waterfront as Government moves to establish Trinidad and Tobago as the international financial centre of the Caribbean.

And seven new sea ports, including a fishing port at Moruga, an oil service port at Guayaguayare and the new Port of Port-of-Spain at its new location, have also been identified as part of the Manning Administration's development plans, Prime Minister, Patrick Manning, disclosed at the second anniversary celebrations of Trinidad Offshore Contractors (TOFCO), and completion of EOG Resources' Oilbird Platform at the La Brea Industrial Estate, yesterday morning. He said given the continued expansion of the downstream energy industry, seven new ports were being "contemplated" for construction by early next year.

The new ports are expected to handle increased traffic generated from the Point Lisas Estate expansion, the Union Industrial Estate, the Cap-de-Ville Estate and the Oropouche Offshore Bank. Manning said a meeting of the Energy Committee also discussed the proposed polyprothene plant at Union Estate, and the placement of a US$65 million hydride plant and ethelene industry. "The Govern-ment views these plants as nodes of social development and will place these plants to those parts of the country which are economically depressed," he said.

Manning observed that two committees, one under the chairmanship of Professor Kenneth S Julien and a Ministerial Committee headed by the Prime Minister, had been mandated to identify the new sites for every industrial estate, housing and other development projects. "This Government is about the development of the people and nothing more," he said. Manning also observed since the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States, new regulations governing the movement of goods and services had made banking in the New York increasingly difficult.

He said this situation, coupled with TT's increasing importance to the US market, provided an opportunity for Trinidad's emergence as a new financial centre.

Questioned by reporters afterwards, Manning declined to elaborate on either the proposed ports or the financial services centre except to say that more details would be presented at a Prime Ministerial breakfast meeting at Paria Suites on July 7, 2006.

Asked about a possible replacement for the Trinity Cross, Manning reiterated that letters of appointment would soon be given to the committee mandated to come up with a replacement for the nation's highest award. Meanwhile, in his welcoming statements, National Energy Corporation, (NEC), chairman, Prakash Saith, said detailed engineering studies had been undertaken by independent consultants to prove the suitability of the Union, Cap-de-Ville and Oropouche Offshore Bank as ˜suitable" industrial sites.

TOFCO is a joint venture company between Chet Morrison, (Louisiana), and Welfab (Trinidad) Limited.


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Manning congratulates the Soca Warriors


Sunday, June 11th 2006 (T&T Express)


Prime Minister Patrick Manning has congratulated the Soca Warriors on its dramatic debut on the "grand world stage of football".

"It was an epic football match which was completed with a depleted Soca Warriors team who played with determination, grit and passion," Manning said in a statement yesterday.

He added: "Overall it was a dream start for our team who displayed extraordinary courage against all odds.

"With thanks to Almighty God the team came out without any injury."

Manning said the Soca Warriors had earned the respect of the whole world and was able once again to get the support of all nationals both at home and abroad.

He added that our supporters at the stadium distinguished themselves and our National Flag "fluttered proudly before the cameras".

"We all look forward to the next match," he stated.

Soca, a big truck, revellers jamming

Hayden Mills


Sunday, June 11th 2006 (T&T Express)


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Patrons celebrate the end result between Trinidad and Tobago and Sweden at Club Zen in Port of Spain yesterday.



"THEY are having a party on the road."

Willemjin Veenhoven, a reporter from Holland, was spellbound by the reaction in Trinidad and Tobago of the national team holding Sweden to a 0-0 draw in our first FIFA World Cup match in Dortmund, Germany, yesterday.

She could not have described it better, as she looked on with two friends at the frenzy that was happening in St James. She told the Sunday Express she came to cover the country since we qualified.

Holland (the Netherlands) has played at the World Cup several times, is in Group C this year, is arguably one of the great teams, and took home the golden football globe in 1974.

"It is like you won the World Cup already and won a second, third fourth, and fifth one," Veenhoven said.

Asked what the Dutch would have done if they won their first match in the first round or drew it against one of the good teams with a man sent off the field on a red card, she shrugged her shoulders and said: "I don't know, have a beer, or maybe two."

But on the St James main road near the hot liming spots of Club Zone Restaurant and Bar and Smokey and Bunty Restaurant and Bar, and on Ariapita Avenue, Woodbrook, outside Crobar, all hell broke loose with the fiery red and bacchanal that was everywhere.

People were drunk and celebrating. Those sober were high off the mood of the draw and celebrating.

Soca was sung. A big truck blasted music as revellers jammed behind it. At times chutney moved the crowd. Women were wining. Cars were honking. Flags were waving. And people were talking and reliving the experience that was Trinidad's first World Cup game.

It was Carnival again with everybody wearing the same colour costume-red. There was an uncanny moment at the Avenue where the crowd, uninvited, stood at attention and sang the national anthem.

Wayne Roberts, 46, from San Juan, said the Warriors did so well and were sending a strong message to the world that Trinidad coming real strong in the World Cup.

Eight-year-old Michael Joseph, who was in the crowd with his five-year-old brother, Emmanuel and their parents said he prayed for our team the night before. He expected 5 - nil in our favour, but was satisfied with the draw.

Eduardo Ali, 32, from Port of Spain, said this was really an "utopic" experience for the country and he singled out Carlos Edwards and Shaka Hislop for their "special skills and tenacity".

The international community never thought Trinidad and Tobago would make it so far, said Bernard Tappin, 55, from St Ann's, and he was proud that we put up a great fight against a good European football team.

As for England on Thursday, Suzanne Roget, 47, from Woodbrook, believes we are beating them. "Anything is possible," she said in her excitement.