Sahadeo: Govt not out to divest NFM


Roxanne Stapleton


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


WHILE THERE will be "no fire sale of National Flour Mills (NFM) assets, expressions of interest" are coming from the private sector for the formation of strategic alliances with the state enterprise.

Making the revelations Tuesday at the commissioning of NFM's new $94 million flour mill, Minister in the Ministry of Finance, Christine Sahadeo pressed further, laying out a buffet of NFM's goods.

"NFM is an attractive proposition, the company has more than $500 million in tangible assets... NFM's facilities are located on the waterfront, decidedly some of the most valuable real estate in the country, it owns and operates the largest bulk storage and elevator facilities in the Caribbean, it currently operates a state-of-the-art feed mill and joining it is the new flour mill which we are commissioning today," Sahadeo said.

"Individually, these assets are formidable. NFM is a prime target for acquisition by the private sector, but be advised, this is not an advertisement to attract the highest bidder."

Any divestment of the state's shareholding in NFM, Sahadeo said, will be guided by tenets which include that the partnership "must be beneficial to the country, to the shareholders, to the employees and ultimately, it must be beneficial to the company".

The new facility is designed to mill 400 metric tonnes per day at a minimum extraction of 76 per cent and while the previous mill was manned by 27 staffers, this new outfit will only need seven workers to oversee operations.

Of the new mill, Trade and Industry Minister, Ken Valley said that the cost effectiveness of its operations should redound to consumers.

More Trini doctors as 17 foreigners head home

Louis B Homer South Bureau


Saturday, August 5th 2006 (T&T Express)


Seventeen foreign doctors attached to the South West Regional Health Authority are to return to their homelands and their positions are to be filled by Trinidadians.

Last week, some 25 interns working at the San Fernando General Hospital were interviewed to fill positions of house officers.

Imtiaz Ahamad, chairman of the SWRHA, which is responsible for the hospital and public health facilities in South Trinidad, said: "The region is committed to employ locals wherever possible."

The foreign doctors, who are from India and Africa, were recruited by the region at a time when there was a shortage of doctors at the nation's health institutions.

On completion of their current two-year contracts, a short-term contract for three months will be offered to the foreign doctors to give them enough time to settle their commitments in Trinidad, it was learned.

One of the doctors, who is from Nigeria, said that the non-renewal of his contract for at least one year, would create problems for him.

"I borrowed money to purchase a car and furniture for my apartment, now I am faced with problems in settling my loan while I am preparing to return to my country."

Last week, all Cuban doctors and the majority of nurses from that country returned to their homeland at the request of the Fidel Castro government. *

This has left a major void at the Intensive Care Units and operating theatres of several State-run hospitals.

The only foreign doctors left in the country are those employed under the United Nations Development Programme.

Doctors recruited in the UN voluntary programme were told by the UN representative in Trinidad that their contracts would be renewed for another three years.

The UN doctors are posted throughout Trinidad and Tobago.



* A Cuban nurse defected to Miami after arriving in T&T.

Saturday 5th August, 2006

Government to float state companies


By Curtis Williams (T&T Guardian)



Trade and Industry Minister Ken Valley has hinted that Government may place some of its state companies on the stock exchange to boost a sluggish market.

Speaking on the CNC3 Business Forum Valley acknowledged that the local stock market appeared to be dormant and that there were limited opportunities for investments.

He said: "Prices are either stagnant or declining. At the same time, interest rates are rising and the issue is whether we will now see funds going into deposits which would then, of course, suggest higher levels of liquidity in the system and in this environment, I think there is need to have more shares coming onto the market, and that perhaps Government needs to look at bringing some of its state companies onto the market as quickly as possible. Otherwise, we may have more portfolio investments leaving, in terms of investments, outside the country."

Valley said without options to invest in the stock market, people would then invest in real estate, leading to the price of property continuing to rise.

He said last year the stock exchange went through a correction after the Central Bank intervened and said with the levels of liquidity in the system and the number of investment opportunities available there was definitely a "mismatch."

Valley said Government had a policy position of widening and deepening the stock exchange.

He said: "Government sees an obligation to build the capital market. There are about 30 shares on the market and there is a policy position to double the number of stocks on the market in a specific period. I think you are right. Powergen may qualify to be taken to the market as early as possible.




©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Saturday 5th August, 2006

Government wants ex-Caroni workers to grow food


By Leah Mathura-Dookhoo


As the nation deals with the daily increase in food prices, Trade and Industry Minister Kenneth Valley said yesterday that the Government has developed a plan to get former sugar workers involved in producing basic food items.

Cabinet, he said, has agreed to distribute two acres of land each to those wishing to start on the farming and fishing industry.

However, he said the Government would only assist those pursuing the cultivation of seven crops, including pumpkin, cassava, sweet potatoes and the rearing of tilapia.

The minister made the statement during a Couva/Point Lisas Chamber meeting at the office of the Point Lisas Industrial Port Development Corporation (Plipdeco) House.

During discussions, president of the chamber Ashmeer Mohammed called on the Government to adopt its development plan as the area develops into the industrial hub of the country.

Plipdeco's Rawle Badaloo also called on the minister to examine the traffic congestion employees and residents endured in the small town, saying it was time for a multi-lane highway.

Badaloo said the port would spend US$200 million in its expansion drive within the next 18 months.

Meanwhile, chief executive officer of the Couva/Tabaquite/Talparo Regional Corporation, Pamela Doon, said her council was looking to the Government for financial assistance in constructing a new market for the people of the area.



©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Saturday 5th August, 2006

More land ready for ex-Caroni workers


By Leah Mathura-Dookhoo (Trinidad Guardian)


Fourteen sites throughout central Trinidad have been prepared for the distribution of plots to former Caroni workers, and the Estate Management and Business Development Company (EMBDC) is promising eight more will be ready for occupancy by mid-2007.

This, according to chairman of the company Uthara Rao, who said that the EMBDC had been mandated by government to distribute 28,000 acres of land under VSEP to former Caroni workers for residential purposes.

To date, Rao said 14 of 22 sites had been 100 per cent completed and developed near primary and secondary schools, supermarkets and community centres.

He added that roads had been paved, underground electricity had been installed, as well as pipe-borne water.

Rao said that 17 sites had also been identified for agricultural purposes, while four were being prepared for commercial development.

Rao said Government's food importation bill would be reduced significantly once fertile lands were sown in the not-too-distant future by the former workers.

He said since the EMBDC continued to develop lands more than 1,800 persons had been employed.

"No site is being developed without the proper regulatory permission," he said. "We are not just building and then having a post mortem to get approval.

"We are up front."




©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

TT stars head to LA


JOAN RAMPERSAD Saturday, August 5 2006



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Dancer Shridevi Bissoondial gives a sneak preview of her routine for the World Championships of the Performing Arts. picture



Minister of Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs, Joan Yuille-Williams, presented airline tickets to 16 young artistes who are to take part in the World Championships for the Performing Arts, in Los Angeles, California from today until August 13.

"You are the future stars of Trinidad and Tobago," she told them before the presentation, at the ministry's La Fantasie, St Ann's offices.

The artistes are part of a larger contingent that will represent Trinidad and Tobago to compete in various disciplines that include dance, singing, drama and music. However, because of their inability to raise the necessary funds to cover all their expenses, they applied to the Culture Minister for assistance.

Yuille-Williams agreed to help seeing the opportunity to encourage the development of their talents. She just couldn't disappoint them, she said.

The contingent will be among 153 other countries in LA and will be accompanied by two officials from the ministry, Merle Garcia-Alexander and Edgar Zefferine, director of the Community Development Fund.

"We are really looking forward to building a culture and entertainment industry. We are now looking at patenting and really trying to protect artistes as much as possible."

Upon the group's return, Yuille-Williams plans to review their performances in LA to consider their selection for Carifesta which takes place in TT next month.

208 steelpan students graduate


Sunday, August 6 2006(T&T Newsday)


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Level one student Camillia Jones (centre) receives her certificate from coordinator Michelle Amoroso.


Two hundred and eight students yesterday graduated from a pan scholarship programme sponsored by a commercial bank.

Republic Bank hosted its Pan Minors Music Scholarship programme graduation ceremony at Crowne Plaza Hotel.

Hilton Highland, Master of Ceremonies invited participants and guests to celebrate hard work and achievement. "For three weeks these passionate, tremendously talented children showed such dedication.

As parents we should be proud of our children," he said. He added, "This programme has proven to be a tremendous success."

Nigel Baptiste, executive director of Republic Bank, said that he was very honoured to spend some time with the graduates. "This shows that real commitment and discipline can guide you in many individual decisions and the only way to succeed is to stay the course," he said. He encouraged parents and guardians to continue supporting their children. "Our young people need our help," he said.

Michelle Amoroso, coordinator of the programme, pointed out that Republic Bank expanded the programme by introducing another Centre at Preysal High School together with the University of the West Indies and Tobago, which allowed 208 students to participate this year.



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Kids' Army: Children at the Chaguaramas Military and Aerospace Museum camp, Chaguaramas, hitch a ride on a military police jeep yesterday. Apart from the fun they had playing on the jeep, aircraft and boats, the children learnt important lessons about Trinidad and Tobago's military and aviation history.

ARIMA CELEBRATES WITH MILITARY PARADE


Monday, August 7 2006 (T&T Newsday)


Arima's 118th Anniversary Celebrations as a Borough which is being observed this month, continued yesterday with a Church service at the Bethel Pentecostal church followed by a military parade through the streets of the town. The parade ended outside the Arima Town Hall, Sorzano Street where new Mayor Adrian Cabralis took the salute.

Included in the parade were detachments from the Police Service, Trinidad and Tobago Regiment, Fire Services, Prisons Service, Coast Guard, Municipal Police, Cadets Path Finders, Girl Guides, and Red Cross.

The celebrations will include a Carnival parade next Saturday and will climax on August 31 with fireworks at the Arima Velodrome.

Thursday 3rd August, 2006

Workers running short

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Pizza Boys employees serve the first set of meals at the food group's new food mall in Pointe-a-Pierre.


GUARDIAN FILE PHOTO

BY SANDRA CHOUTHI

National Canners Ltd could increase its production by as much as 50 per cent if it were not for a shortage of labour in T&T, said its joint managing director Jeremy Matouk.

"I can't meet demand, locally or abroad. I could expand production in my company by a cool 50 per cent and sell everything," Matouk said. "I could take on 50-60 people tomorrow morning.

"In my particular company's circumstances, exports to Canada and the US are booming. There's a much increased demand for our products and we are having a hell of a struggle to meet that demand."

National Canners is a food processing company, specialising in sauces, condiments, beans and vegetables.

Matouk said he knows of some manufacturers who were once able to operate at peak efficiency with three shifts on their production lines, but now they have difficulty manning one shift.

"Those with two shifts are now barely able to get one, and those with three shifts are lucky if they get two," Matouk said.

He outlined the scenario with workers: they work four days a week, but don't show up for the fifth. The effect is that a production line has to be shut down. Workers from another line have to be rerouted to run the plant, which reduces daily output.

According to the 2005 Review of the Economy, the community social and personal services sectors attracted the most labour.

That category accounted for 31 per cent of the employed labour force. It was followed by wholesale/retail trade, restaurants and hotels with 18 per cent and construction with 17 per cent.

Manufacturing not connected to the petrochemical sector accounted for just nine per cent.

Asked to describe the extent of the problem, Matouk said: "It's bad, very bad. We can't raise our output."

"That's a very common problem," Matouk said.

He said some business people have had to increase wages by as much as 20 per cent to retain their employees, adding it's difficult to attract new workers by paying them minimum wage.

"People with good skills will get hunted. You have to come up with inventive ways to keep people," Matouk said.

Matouk, who said his company, which has been in operation since 1967, has only advertised for specialised positions, but now finds itself resorting to repeating ads in newspapers.

He said aside from not getting sufficient workers to run his manufacturing plant, those that do show an interest in being employed "don't have suitable work attitudes," a situation he described as a "malaise in the country."

Matouk, who described the difficulty in sourcing reliable, skilled labour as artificial, said the problem won't be that bad were it not for government's "make-work programmes."

He said some employees have left full-time work in favour of the makework programmes.

"They don't have to work all day. Many of them do that to get some income and then they will look for part-time work. The problem is that it is causing wages to increase without productivity increasing," Matouk said.

Matouk said including people employed in make-work programmes in employment statistics is "intellectually dishonest."

He said while make-work programmes were laudable for those people who lacked skills, he understood that government-initiated training programmes were "largely under subscribed."

He said while some workers were receiving a "free lunch," businesses were suffering.

Paul Quesnel, a director at Kiss Baking Company Ltd and also president of the T&T Manufacturers' Association, described the labour shortage as "severe."

Quesnel said Kiss presently needs a minimum of 30 workers across the board.

"We are looking for people. We advertise. We have people walk off the streets," Quesnel said. "We headhunt wherever necessary. We have lost people to other organisations."

Quesnel said an employee who fails to report for work means that another worker has to be shifted around to operate a shift, which may mean the company having to pay double and triple time.

"At the same time, you are now working an employee who has already done a day's work and he's tired and you're not getting the best out of him," Quesnel said.

"You're paying him more and working a tired person longer hours, which is not good. People have their business to do at home and their families to see about."

Quesnel said business people across the board have in the last year been forced to "sweeten the pot in various ways" to attract and retain workers.

"People are offering attendance bonuses. If you come to work every day, you get an extra something," Quesnel said.

"That is causing the cost of doing business to escalate. The cost of producing what you produce goes up and when you have to sell it, you become less competitive," Quesnel said.

Fast food business under pressure

Joe Esau, chairman of Prestige Holdings, which includes the KFC fast food chain, said even though the group is facing a 25 per cent increase in wage costs, attracting workers in the restaurant industry is increasingly difficult.

"The biggest challenge today is not only hiring new people, but keeping the ones we have," Esau said.

Esau shares Matouk's view that government's public work programmes were hiring people away from the service industry.

"We've pushed wages up 25 per cent over the last year. We also have the challenge of overtime. When you're working with a short staff, you also have the reality of overtime, which pushes the wage bill," Esau said.

Esau said newly-hired employees are paid $10 an hour, $1 above the minimum wage, and this figure goes up with incentives.

He said Prestige Holdings has had to lower the entry level for employees from five O'Levels to three.

"We're now making significant compromises because we can't get the amount and the quality we want. All our restaurants are short-staffed," Esau said.

He said the need for employees at its KFC restaurants is worst along the East/West corridor, but the situation in the north is not much better.

"At the time when the private sector should be humming with activity, government is competing with the private sector for labour," Esau said.

"All the high labour employers are suffering significant challenges with respect to hiring and retention."

Prestige Holdings cited its labour challenge in its published unaudited results for the first six months of 2006.

In that report, Esau described the shortage as a "challenge to our business."

"We continue to use creative approaches to reduce this imbalance and mitigate its effect on our performance," Esau stated in the report.



©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

HOLD STRAIN

Central Bank Governor: Old-fashioned ways to fight inflation

Driselle Ramjohn


Wednesday, August 9th 2006 (T&T Express)




INCREASING wages is a recipe for disaster in the fight against escalating inflation.

Instead, Central Bank governor Ewart Williams has proposed several "old fashioned" ways of combating inflation.

High on the list is holding back on increasing the wages of employees in the country.

Williams was speaking at yesterday's launch of the Bank's pamphlet on inflation at the Central Bank tower in Port of Spain.

"The only way to address our inflation problem is the old fashioned way, through increasing supply-particularly agricultural output, through tight monetary policies, through greater fiscal restraint and through wage discipline.

"There are no shortcuts," said Williams.

He said that everybody in society must participate in controlling inflation, even workers who must understand that wage increases would create further inflationary pressures and push prices up.

"There is no doubt that one thing that could perpetuate the present inflationary momentum is a sharp increase in wages because you are going to have a wage price spiral," Williams said.

He cautioned that "it would be very unfortunate if workers base their wage demands on the actual increase or past increase in food prices," despite the 22 per cent jump in food prices last year, which is one of the major drivers of inflation.

To aid in the control of inflation and spiralling food prices, Williams suggested that the public could increase agricultural production by the development of home food gardens or that NGOs could assist in motivating communities to "plant the land".

He added that the Central Bank must demonstrate that it has a handle on inflation to ensure that trade unions and workers do not demand higher wages to cope with increasing prices.

"There is a recognition that Government expenditure plays an important part in inflation. The evidence is clear that we are running close to full capacity. There are sectors that can't get labour.

"If you look at the roads, there are transportation bottlenecks, at some of the public utilities the pressure of demand is being reflected through the productive structure," Williams said.

"But one has to be reasonable in the sense that any government in any country that finds itself with windfall revenues, in the context of a situation where there are still needs to be met-needs in infrastructure, needs in education, and in transportation-there is a tendency and an understandable tendency to meet these needs. It is legitimate."

Commenting on the Central Bank governor's statements, National Trade Union Centre (NATUC) president Robert Giuseppi, told the Express yesterday:

"The Central Bank governor should be careful when making such statements when there are thousands of workers who are being grossly underpaid. Just imagine inflation coming in to that and the Central Bank is advising a ceiling on wages".

"He is assuming that the vast majority of people are getting a fair wage and we know that the vast majority of people are not getting a fair wage," he said.

Paul Quesnel, president of the Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers' Association, told the Express that wage increases were necessary for the basic survival of many people in the society.

"Unfortunately, the reality is that the cost of living has increased dramatically in the country. This is being driven by and large by the government's development drive which is driving inflation and costs are going up across the board," Quesnel said.

"The fact is that people have to be able to eat in order to survive. To do that they need to have a salary which will afford them the ability to buy food items," he added.

Japan to invest in T&T

...seeking closer ties

Anna Ramdass


Saturday, August 12th 2006(T&T Express)


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Japan's Social Affairs Minister Kuniko Inoguchi yesterday made a commitment to invest some of her country's resources into Trinidad and Tobago.

Inoguchi made the comment after meeting with Prime Minister Patrick Manning and Foreign Affairs Minister Knowlson Gift for the first ministerial visit of the Japanese government to this country.

She presented an official letter to Manning from the government of Japan and then had a long discussion with Gift on possible ways in which Japan and Trinidad and Tobago could strengthen ties.

At a press conference at Knowsley House, Port of Spain, following her discussions with Gift, Inoguchi said that Japan was interested in building relations with this country and would invest not only in the energy sector but in other areas which would help to build communities.

She said Japan had an interest in lending support to non-governmental organisations (NGOs) as well as the fisheries and agricultural industry.

The energy sector was high on the agenda and Inoguchi said that Japan was a resource pool by itself and was willing to lend technical assistance to this country.

She said it was Japan's hope to have a good relations with respect to trade and it was her government's desire to tap into the resources of the Caribbean.

Inoguchi said her government saw Trinidad and Tobago as politically stable and she added that this was a great advantage to any global investor.

However, she again stressed that it was important for any country to diversify, as there was a need for balanced export.

"I hope that Japan will invest further in Trinidad and Tobago," said Inoguchi, adding that it was also important to have sustainable and cohesive communities.

She said the idea of sending English teachers from this country to Japan also came up in her talks with Gift and added that this would help Japan better compete in the global market.

"The visit can be perceived as a sign of friendship and commitment," said Inoguchi.

When questioned on Government's intent to limit the age of foreign used vehicles imported from Japan, Inoguchi said: "It is the sovereign right of your nation."

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

British Cops Get Top Local Posts


SEAN DOUGLAS Saturday, August 12 2006(T&T Newsday)



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TWO retired police officers from Britain's Scotland Yard, who were brought in by government to assist the local police in tackling the crime situation, were yesterday formally appointed to the very senior rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP).


The officers "” former Scotland Yard Commander Ian Delbarre and retired detective Chief Inspector Dave King "” specialise in dealing with domestic violence particularly child abuse and organised crime specifically drug-trafficking, respectively.

Both men are now ACPs in the Special Reserve Police (SRP) attached to the Special Anti-crime Unit of Trinidad and Tobago (SAUTT). Newsday exclusively reported on the appointments in yesterday's edition.

Sgt Noel Chase of the Police Second Division Social Welfare Association yesterday said the association would have to discuss these appointments internally before making a public pronouncement.

A statement from the Ministry of National Security yesterday said Commissioner of Police (CoP) Trevor Paul, appointed 27 British police officers including the two ACPs, as SRP officers. The contingent also includes three female officers, one of whom was appointed SRP sergeant and the others SRP corporals.

Government originally said 39 British officers were being contracted. Yesterday's statement by the ministry said the appointments were made to let UK officers function within the law enforcement community of Trinidad and Tobago.

"These (appointments) were made solely for administrative purposes and do not affect the organisational structure of the local police force," the release added.

In SAUTT, Delbarre will be deputy Director of Strategic Coordination and Operations, while King will serve as deputy Director of Investigations. In all, the 27 British officers comprise two ACPs, one senior superintendent, three superintendents, one inspector, five sergeants and 15 corporals.

The statement added: "Remuneration for the officers was approved by Cabinet and does not include allowances or expenditure in support of spouses or dependents."

King was up to last year, head of the counter-narcotics arm of Britain's National Crime Squad, which the BBC website said makes high quality investigations into the very top level of criminality.

The squad tackled organised crime in areas such as "major international drug trafficking, money-laundering, arms smuggling, counterfeit currency, kidnapping and extortion, people smuggling, and high tech crime."

Commander Ian Debarre specialises in domestic violence. A Times newspaper reported Delbarre's move to Trinidad and Tobago in a June 14 story entitled, "Trinidad signs British police to tackle soaring crime rate."

The story stated: "Delbarre has left the Metropolitan Police (the Met) after 35 years to head a team of British officers drawn from the Met, West Midlands, Wiltshire, Leicestershire and Dorset to train local (TT) officers in fields like intelligence tactics and crime scene management."

The Times said Delbarre investigated the infamous murder of eight-year-old Ivory Coast-born abuse victim Victoria Climbie in Tottenham, North London in 2000, whose two killers unprecedentedly later testified at a formal inquiry into the failure of the social services to protect the child.

The Association of London Government website carried a story "Reducing violent crime" which reported that Delbarre is an expert on "rape, domestic violence, hate crime, dangerous offences and missing persons."

In 2005 he headed the Met's Project Umbra which sought to hold to account perpetrators of acts of domestic violence including forced marriages and "honour-based violence."

There are some things here that the Guyana Govt can find useful.

Prisoners on the promenade


Sunday, August 13 2006(T&T Newsday)



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Prisoner Rohini Jones as she counsels children on the Brian Lara Promenade yesterday.


Several prison inmates, accompanied by prison officers yesterday were on the Brian Lara Promenade for a prison outreach session.

The event was just one aspect of a recently re-designed prisoner reform programme which is open to any prisoner who wishes to be involved. According to one female prison officer, the programme is very successful at the nation's prisons and the Youth Training Centre (YTC).

When asked about the security aspect of having the prisoners walking among civilians on the promenade, she replied, "We are here to help them live relatively normal lives and this is one of the best ways to do it. Some of them here are going to be released soon but are concerned for those who will come after them as well as the public perception of prisoners."

Prisoner Rohini Jones explained, "Doing this programme was good for me because at first, I was in shock to interact with people but now it is good to see that people understand that we are just like everyone else."

Jones, who is set to be released in four months after being imprisoned for the past three years and nine months, was speaking to children when Sunday Newsday visited the event.

"I talk to children very forcefully because these rappers make it out like being in jail gives you rank but inside there, only the officers have rank and though most help us out, the others make life in there really hard," lamented Jones.

The outreach programme is set to continue with other similar visits around the country.

Long John opens in MovieTowne


Sunday, August 13 2006(T&T Newsday)


The recently opened Long John Silver's Restaurant is drawing large crowds at MovieTowne.

The restaurant which is named after the fictional pirate Long John Silver from the Robert Louis Stevenson book "Treasure Island" specialises in seafood dishes.

Among the many food items at the popular US based fast-food chain are shrimp poppers which are dipped in Long John Silver's signature batter, salads and grilled chicken, all accompanied by various sauces.

In addition to this is "accra bites", an indigenous twist on the "hush puppies" which are sold in the US. The restaurant also features a jukebox where customers can choose from a wide selection of music and a bell by the exit to ring if you got good food and service where when rung you are sure to get an interesting surprise.

"We are the talk of the town with our fast service because of the latest system that we use which allows us to get the customer's orders prepared quickly," said Kurtis Rudd, Prestige Holdings Marketing Manager.

According to Rudd, research and design testing carried out before the launch of the franchise on the local market led to several changes such as adding spices and other elements to fit the "spicy" Trinidadian palette. "The feedback that we have been getting on our very seasoned foods is very good," he said.

Sunday 13th August, 2006

Model prisoners win friends on Promenade (Trinidad Guardian)


By Peter Balroop

The dates June 12, 1987, and August 7, 2011, tripped with ease off Michael Hayghue's tongue yesterday.

The period represented the real time the 52-year-old entered prison and when he would leave.

But yesterday, Hayghue, who was sentenced to serve the lengthy jail term with hard labour for armed robbery and possession of arms and ammunition, was on the Brian Lara Promenade in Port-of-Spain chatting with passers-by.

He wasn't in handcuffs, and no police officers were visible.

Hayghue, who tried twice, unsuccessfully, to escape from Carrera island prison, had all the fervour of a religious believer trying to convert to his faith, those to whom he spoke.

And really, that was Hayghue's mission.

He is one of four model prisoners the T&T Prisons Service has called on to assist in an ongoing public education project to let people know what rehabilitation measures are being undertaken behind prison walls.

Through the project, according to Prisons Service communications specialist Sharon Ramsaran, it was hoped that the national community would be made aware of the efforts being made to encourage prisoners to respect the law and so avoid having to serve jail terms again.

The four prisoners, two men and two women, are the stars of a T&T Prisons booth that offers information about the prisons' rehabilitation programme.

Yesterday's stint on the Brian Lara Promenade was the fourth location in which the booth had been set up in the programme, which started on August 4 and will continue until September 8.

Shoppers at Long Circular Mall and residents in Tunapuna and Arima have also had a chance to meet and chat with the model prisoners and access information on the prisons from helpful officers manning the booth.

Hayghue, who is known in the calypso world as King Fires, told the Sunday Guardian the Prisons Service had come up with a brilliant idea.

"This is what they need to do: expose the good that is taking place in the prisons; how people go in there illiterate and come out with a trade."

Hayghue, who hails from the deep south, said he had come to terms with prison life with the support of his brothers, sisters and mother.

"My family keeps in close contact with me and give me the strength and support to keep my head up. Thank God.

"A lot of prisoners fall by the wayside because they do not get aid from their families," he explained.

Nekoro Swann is 19, young, bronzed and handsome, and many observers on the Promenade yesterday must have thought he was a prisons officer out of uniform. But Swann is smack in the middle of serving a three-year prison term for larceny.

He, too, trots out the dates: he went in on July 29, 2004, and is due for release on July 28, 2007.

Off the backfoot, Swann advises all and sundry to stay out of jail.

"The best advice I can give the youths is they can't run for long. I ran and was still caught, and now have to do the time."

He said prison life was at times uplifting; other times depressing. But it was up to inmates to determine the mood.

Swann said he and his colleagues were getting a measure of opposition from some prisoners for their willingness to come forward and enlighten the public about prison life, but that they would live with it.

The booth is scheduled to be set up in Chaguanas, San Fernando, St James, Point Fortin, San Juan, City Gate and Tobago.




©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Tears of joy at Golden Grove



NALINEE SEELAL Saturday, May 13 2006 (T&T Newsday)


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A MOTHERS TEARS: Overcome with emotion, Doreen Durity cries as she hugs her overjoyed six-year-old son Dinesh, with elder son Wesley at her side


FEMALE prisoners incarcerated at the Women's Prison in Golden Grove, Arouca received an early gift for Mother's Day in the form of a specially arranged family day which allowed the imprisoned mothers time to relax and mingle with their children "” some of whom they had not seen in years.

Emotions ran high and some mothers, imprisoned for serious crimes, broke down in tears at the sight of their children walking through the gates of the prison towards them. Mothers hugged and kissed their children, some mere babies, while prison guards stood some distance away, allowing the prisoners uninterrupted time with their children.

Some of the inmates who delivered their babies in prison and who were separated from their newborns soon after birth, appeared at a loss for words as they held their child for the first time since the delivery process.

Some children presented Mother's Day cards to their mothers and clung tightly to them, seemingly sensing that this would be the only chance for a long time, to feel the touch of their mothers.

The scene brought tears to the eyes of some of the prison officers and specially invited guests.

The occasion was made possible through the efforts of the Women's Prison and Soroptomists International.

Prisons Commissioner John Rougier, who addressed the gathering, told Newsday it was a "red letter day" since the occasion came at a time close to Mother's Day when mothers all over the world will be honoured by their loved ones. "We could not forget these women who are mothers," Rougier told Newsday. He noted that mothers make meaningful contributions and shape the type of society that exists.

According to the commissioner, it is the intention of the prison authorities to create an atmosphere where children can continue to visit their parents "” both male and female "” on Saturdays and Sundays. High Court judge Justice Monica Barnes who also addressed the inmates said she was one of the many who became emotional, when she saw mothers being reunited with their children. Doreen Durity, a mother of two, charged with the kidnapping of murdered US war veteran Balram "Balo" Maharaj, ran towards her sons Dinesh, six, and Wesley, 12, as they entered a tent where she was seated.

She said that her regret was not being able to be with her children. The two boys also cried as they hugged their mother.

Day at the sea for 40 convicts



Tuesday, November 29 2005 (T&T Newsday)


Forty men serving life sentences at the Maximum Security Prison, Arouca, got their first glimpse in 25 or more years of the world outside when they were taken on an outing to Carrera Island beach last Thursday.

The excursion was part of the prison's rehabilitation programme and included men who have been in jail for periods ranging from 25 to 30 years.

At Carrera Beach they were allowed to swim, play football, cricket and basketball and to enjoy a home-cooked lunch of rice, stewed pigeon peas, baked chicken, salad and dessert.

The bus travelled along the Priority Bus Route to Port-of- Spain and then to Carenage where a boat transported the inmates across the sea to "down the islands."

Many of the sites along the way from Arouca were totally unfamiliar to the men. They could barely recognize the way Tunapuna had changed in the years since their incarceration.

Their excitement grew when they reached Port-of-Spain and saw the Financial Twin Towers for the first time. They stared in awe at the changing landscape of the city.

When the bus arrived in Carenage, some of the men started to cry on seeing the sea for the first time in many years.

Junior Minister in the Ministry of National Security, Fitzgerald Hinds, who spent the day with the men yesterday, related the experience to 66 newly promoted officers.

"It was the first time that the prisoners were allowed out of the prison on an outing to play games and have a sea bath," Hinds said, adding that it was part of the rehabilitation process now taking place behind prison walls.

Security measures were put in place, he said, describing how amazing it was to see the men's reaction.

"For getting the bus ride, they were really happy and even more elated for getting a sea bath.

One prisoner said it was the first time in 27 years that he had been able to have a sea bath," Hinds said.

Hinds added, "Young people who make statements that they are not afraid of jail should take note and realise the importance of freedom. It was a touching experience."

At Carrera Beach the prisoners enjoyed themselves under the watchful eyes of heavily-armed prison and coast guard officers. Some of them cried, others were simply happy for the one day of freedom while others used the opportunity to openly repent for the crimes they had committed.

The group included a man who has already served 30 years of his sentence and is believed to be the oldest serving prisoner.

Prisons Commissioner John Rougier was thanked by the prisoners for the opportunity given to them and they asked him to give them permission to urge young people away from a life of crime.

Hinds told Newsday that he hopes to document the life story of the prisoners by means of video or live interviews so that young people could understand what it is like to lose one's freedom.

According to Hinds, changes are taking place at the prisons, which would no longer be a place where people are simply kept behind bars as punishment for their crimes, but also a place where one could acquire skills, education, training and other positive things.

On Thursday, the football match comprised a team of prisoners at Carrera playing against the visitors from Arouca.

Both teams were allowed to wear special uniforms and the match was refereed by trained prisoners.

The Carrera team won.

The visiting prisoners left Carrera at 3.30 pm to return to the Maximum Security in Arouca, their one day of happy freedom remains with them as the heavy gates closed behind them.

How was todays march from Cedros to Port of Spain?

Home for a happy holiday

Rhea-Simone Auguste

Sunday, August 13th 2006


picture
Wildlife photographer and ornithologist Winston Nanan, left, explains the wonders of the Caroni Bird Sanctuary.


It is one of the top-rated tourist destinations in the Caribbean with a rich history, lush tropical rain forests, incredible nature centres, great cuisine and friendly people. To many tourists it is paradise on earth but to us, it is quite simply, home.

Members of the media were invited to attend two tours to learn more about the Ministry of Tourism and the TDC's 2006 Tourism Park at the Centre of Excellence, Macoya; the theme of which is "The Seven Wonders of Trinidad and Tobago." The first tour took place on Friday, August 11, and focused on "The Three Natural Wonders of Trinidad". First on the itinerary was a visit to Cleaver Woods followed by a trip to the Asa Wright Nature Centre and then finally to the Caroni Bird Sanctuary.

The bus drove off surrounded by traffic and the sounds of the hustle and bustle on the restless streets of the city and headed toward the Eastern Royal Borough of Arima. Between destinations, Pouchet, Broadbridge and Hoating gave in-depth information and encouraged dialogue through entertaining conversations on the industrial and natural aspects of Trinidad.

Sights of busy city life were soon replaced by long stretches of greenery as we entered the cool, shady arboretum at Cleaver Woods. After a brief wait, Cristo Adonis, the Shaman of the Santa Rosa "Carib" Community came to give us a tour and a bit of history on the indigenous people of Trinidad and Tobago. Before leading us to the artifact laden tirite-thatched hut, Adonis explained "although many text books speak of Caribs as a fierce and warlike people, it is really a negative European stereotype. We are now trying to re-educate people on our heritage and prefer to be known as Karina."

Once inside the tirite-thatched hut, Adonis gave an in-depth explanation of many of the Karina customs and tools. He pointed to a table covered with several crudely fashioned utensils like a water boli and calabash gourds. On the wall is a wooden sieve or manzanare which was used to prepare cassava or manioc. Adonis continued the tour by showing the group items like a sugar can juicer, a dove trap, a bow and arrow and a moored canoe before moving the tour to the outdoors. Once outside, Adonis explained the possible uses of many of the trees and plants in Cleaver Woods.

"The roots of the Roucou plant is good for diabetes," Adonis noted confidently before pointing to another plant. He continued, "The ground stems of the Ryania plant is sometimes used in the making of insecticide, the Ryania has its own built-in insecticide."

Following Adonis' tour, the group headed seven miles north of Arima to the Asa Wright Nature Centre. Located at 1,200 feet in the mountains of the Northern Range. The bus passed huge rubber trees and hills blanketed with flourishing christophene vines before arriving at the Centre.

The "Not-for-Profit" Centre was established in 1967 by a group of naturalists and birdwatchers to "protect part of the Arima Valley in a natural state and to create a conservation and study area for the protection of wildlife and for the enjoyment of all." It was one of the first nature centres to be established in the Caribbean and comprises of nearly 1,500 acres of mainly forested land in the Arima and Aripo Valleys of the Northern Range.

After a sumptuous lunch of steamed vegetables, mixed rice and barbecue fish with a moist slice of lightly frosted cake for dessert at the centre's top-notch dining facility, we were guided around the facility.

Crested Oropendola flew overhead leaving us with mere glimpses of their bright yellow tails while hummingbirds like the Blue Crowned Motmot whizzed pass us to get to bird-feeders containing bread and bananas.

Last on the itinerary was a trip to the Caroni Bird Sanctuary, which is one of Trinidad's most promoted and most popular eco-attraction. The largest mangrove wetland in Trinidad and Tobago, it is the home and roosting ground of flocks of Scarlet Ibis. Our guide for the tour of the Sanctuary was wildlife photographer and ornithologist-Winston Nanan. We passed through a maze of waterways in the mangrove swamp, swiftly gliding over the brackish waters before catching a glimpse of diminutive Aratas crabs as they frenetically moved along the branches of the trees in the mangrove.

Nanan then drew our attention to a Cook's Tree Boa that was nestled comfortably on two branches of another tree. The Cook's Tree Boa, as Nanan explained, "is a constrictor that feeds on tiny animals and birds and attains a length of maybe seven feet." As we proceeded west along the Blue River toward the Gulf of Paria and into the lagoon area, we were periodically treated to the sight of returning Scarlet Ibis. Despite threats from pollution and hunting, the Ibis continues to return to our shores and they are a vision in flaming red.

We were not lucky to see the Ibis in all its glory as Nanan explained that guides often avoid the Ibis' nesting areas at this time to avoid disturbing the birds but the few we spotted were magnificent. As the day's excursion came to a close, the waters of the swamp caught the orange glow of the sunset and gleamed like pure gold thus giving us a fitting beautiful end to an unforgettable day.

Tuesday 15th August, 2006

TCB awards top Ytepp tutor, trainee



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Winning trainee Glennis Williams, left, and Nichol Jeffrey Heraldo, top tutor, smile as they receive TCB hampers and certificates.


TCB has named two Ytepp graduates as outstanding hair tutor and trainee. The winning pair received their awards on August 5 at the Ytepp Tobago graduation ceremony at the Mason Hall Government Secondary School, Tobago.

Nichol Jeffey Heraldo and Glennis Williams emerged as top tutor and trainee, respectively, in the TCB/Oscar Francois Ltd Co-operate Partner Competition 2006.

In an ongoing corporate sponsorship initiative between Oscar Francois and Ytepp, the competition was launched to foster a growing relationship between hair brands such as TCB and budding hair technicians at Ytepp.

Six Ytepp participants from north and south T&T competed in an all-day session on July 5 at the Oscar Francois office in Port-of-Spain.

Three tutors were judged on their ability to effectively demonstrate various relaxer and styling techniques in a classroom setting, while three trainees were judged on the speed, uniqueness and execution of their styling methods.

All the participants used the TCB range of relaxer and styling products during their demonstrations.

The winning tutor receives a trip to the Premier Hair Show in Orlando, Florida, while the top trainee gets to attend a hair/beauty school of her choice in Trinidad.



©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

GCE results available online for principals


Tuesday, August 15th 2006 (T&T Express)


The Ministry of Education has announced that the results of the 2006 Cambridge General Certificate of Education Advanced Level Examination are now available to principals online.

However, principals will not be able to access the results unless they contact the examination section of the ministry to collect the special individual code, which will allow them to access the electronic copies of the examination results.

Ministry officials told the Express that the results should be officially released sometime this week, but no date has yet been set.

Principals have been asked to contact officers of the ministry's examination section at 622-1365, 622-7357, 628-8555, or 628-2567.

$100m roof tile company opens


Wednesday, August 9th 2006 (T&T Express)



The largest roof tile manufacturer in the Caribbean opened in Longdenville, Chaguanas, yesterday-a $100 million venture between the local Ansa McAL Group of Companies and Boral USA.

Speaking at the launch of Caribbean Roof Tile Company Limited, Trade Minister Ken Valley said the Government's development policies encourage such partnerships.

"As Trinidad and Tobago engages the world, joint venture arrangements with foreign players will more and more become an appropriate strategy. This is why the Government seeks to include members of the business community as it undertakes investment missions abroad. Encouraging our local entrepreneurs to grow their firms through strategic partnerships with established foreign companies is a major developmental initiative of this Government," said Valley.

Boral Limited is Australia's largest building and construction materials supplier and has operations in the US and Asia.

In October 2004, the Ansa McAL Group and Boral USA signed a 50/50, TT$100 million joint venture to build a clay roof tile company in Trinidad. Construction began in March 2005. Today, the company is capable of producing around 15 million clay tiles and employing up to 90 people. Eighty per cent of the tiles are to be exported to the US, where another AnsaMc AL-Boral company will handle marketing and distribution.

Valley said the new company is proof that the Government is creating an environment for non-energy sector development.

"While energy resources are the largest source of revenue at present, essentially these are finite. Thus, Government has been aggressively targeting investment in the non-energy sector in order to build a sustainable and diversified economy that will support our nation into the long term," Valley said.

NGC ramps up C'bean pipeline project


Thursday, August 10 2006 (T&T Newsday)


The National Gas Company (NGC) has acquired a participating interest in the export gas pipeline to be installed from Trinidad and Tobago to the Eastern Caribbean islands.

This includes Barbados, St Lucia, Dominica, Martinique and Guadeloupe.

This announcement was made by Trevor Boopsingh, Chairman of the Board of the Eastern Caribbean Gas Pipeline Company Limited (ECGPC). As he welcomed NGC as a new partner in the project on behalf of ECGPC's shareholders, Boopsingh said he looked forward to benefitting from their (NGC) experience, knowledge and relationships.

NGC President, Frank Look Kin, said, "This acquisition is an example of an opportunity that makes commercial and strategic sense from NGC as we continue to broaden our involvement in the regional natural gas transportation sector."

ECGPC is developing the Eastern Caribbean gas pipeline, a $US 550 million project, to deliver natural gas, primarily for electric power generation.

Other shareholders in the ECGPC are Guardian Holdings Limited, Trinidad and Tobago Unit Trust Corporation and Intra-Caribbean Gas Pipeline Company Limited.

˜Mastana' final tomorrow


SEETA PERSAD Tuesday, August 15 2006(T&T Newsday)


Having completed 12 preliminary shows and eight semi-finals the producers of Mastana Bahar are now preparing to stage their grand final programme.

Among the ten finalists who will be vying for the top prize of $50,000 (Sponsored by the Ministry of Culture), are Ashmanny Ramlochan and Shaheed Ali, Savita Singh, Sneha Rao Adidam, Annie Dookie, Rajiv Koolanjan, Neval Chatelal, Ravi Jagroop, Kishanna Bhimull, Parasram Colai, and Narendra Maharaj.

The final programme takes place at the Gulf City Shopping Complex, La Romaine tomorrow at 5.30 pm.

Dancers Ashmanny and Shaheed became the tenth finalist when they took the first place at last week's show. Shiva Mohammed came in second position and Kamla Ramharrack placed third. The fourth position went to Soorindra Saroop. In the Miss Naturally Fair competition, Reshma Ramsaran and Radhika Rampaul were the new faces added to the final line up of beauties in this contest.

The programme is also varied with finalists in songs, music and dance. Mohammed noted that all ten contestants are under the age of 25, thus demonstrating that young people are showing a keen interest in culture.

Other prizes for the grand final include: A "People Choice" prize of a ticket to Fort Lauderdale from Amral's Travel Span, the second prize is $25,000 from Super Industrial Supplies, a third prize of $15,000 worth in jewelry from Rajiv Jewellers, a fourth place prize of $10,000 donated by Solo; fifth prize is $9,000 from Elvis Marketing Limited, sixth prize is $8,000 from Kaliedoscope seventh prize -$7,000 Mega Insurance, eighth prize if $6,800 donated By Xtra Foods Ltd, ninth prize from Happi Product is valued $6,500 and tenth prize is $6,000 CW Interiors.

Wednesday 16th August, 2006

Hi-tech speed limit signs go up at the Savannah



BY JUHEL BROWNE (Trinidad Guardian)


Four new electronic signs that can measure and display the exact speed of any vehicle that passes them have been placed around the Queen's Park Savannah as part of a new road safety initiative by bpTT and the Ministry of Works and Transport.

The signs, which have been placed about 20 feet above the ground on poles along the Savannah walkway, are part of a two-year pilot project meant to encourage drivers to drive within the speed limit.

Above the electronic signs are signs showing the speed limit for the Savannah which is 50 km.

The electronic signs display the speed of passing vehicles.

Works and Transport Ministry corporate communications manager Douglas Brunton said yesterday that a fifth sign is planned, but not for the Savannah.

"There has been no concrete decision as to where the fifth one is going to go," Brenton said.

He noted, however, that even if the signs show that drivers are breaking the speed limit around the Savannah, they will not be used to penalise the offenders.

"There is no punitive measure attached to these things at all," Brunton said in an interview yesterday.

"There is no record keeping capacity on it other than averages."

Although the signs will not result in any penalties for those who break the speed limit around the Savannah, Brunton says the awareness they bring is already showing positive results.

"As people start to see the signs work, people began slowing down coming toward the signs," he said.

Brunton said the Savannah was chosen as the first location for the pilot project because most people are unaware of the speed limit for the large "roundabout" where many drivers tend to speed.

"It is in the city so the speed limit around the Savannah is 50 km," he said.

WHERE THE SIGNS ARE

"¢ Close to the entrance to the GPS Grand Stand.

"¢ Across from Queen's Royal College (QRC).

"¢ Close to Belmont Circular Road.

"¢ On the bend close to Holy Name Convent.

Douglas Brunton, corporate communications manager, Works and Transport Ministry.



©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Wednesday 16th August, 2006

Manning's son shuns politics


picture
Prime Minister Patrick Manning re-launches the PNM Web site while the chairman of the Web site committee, his son Brian, and chairman of the the public relations committee, Ambassador Plenipotentiary Jerry Narace, look on. The launch took place at the PNM's headquarters, Balisier House, on Victoria Avenue, Port-of-Spain, yesterday.

Photo: Brian Ng Fatt



BY CAROL MATROO

Brian Manning, son of Prime Minister Patrick Manning, says he has no desire to follow in his father's footsteps as a politician.

"I assure you 100 per cent that I will not be seeking a position in office," the younger Manning said after yesterday's re-launch of the PNM's Web site at Balisier House, Victoria Avenue, Port-of-Spain.

Asked why he chose not to enter the political arena, (Brian) Manning said: "I don't think that is the best way to contribute to T&T. I am a businessman. I am not a politician."

The 31-year-old Manning, who is chairman of the PNM Web site committee, previously worked as a business analyst at the Inter-American Development Bank in the United States and as a business development analyst at Neal and Massy.

He said he was currently working on several projects of his own but declined to divulge any more information.

Making his maiden contribution during a formal PNM function, he said the Web site was now redesigned and geared towards information dissemination consistent with ideals of a modern society.

The contents of the Web site include the history of the PNM, the Vision 2020 Plan, the party's most recent manifesto and the party's constitution.

During his speech, the PM did not forget to include the achievements of the PNM in recent times.

He said that during the past 50 years, no other political party was able to make a contribution to this country like the PNM had.

He also boasted about his Government's ambitious housing programme.

"The PNM's housing programme is the most ambitious in the Caribbean, and some may even go so far as to say in the world," the PM boasted.

The PM said it was not a question of houses before stadiums, but his Government would provide both.

He said Government had fulfilled its quota of 10,000 houses built for the year with 8,000 in the public sector and 2,000 in the private sector.

The four main objectives of the PNM Web site:

To bring the general public closer to the decision makers by providing a space for discussion on fundamental issues affecting their lives.

To foster greater citizen participation and inclusion in the party governance process within the structure of the party.

To disseminate official information on the policies and activities of the PNM.

To keep citizens and other interested parties informed on the development plans for T&T.

PNM Web site address: www.pnm.org.tt



©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

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

Manning turns 60


Wednesday, August 16 2006(T&T Newsday)


Prime Minister, Patrick Manning, turns 60 tomorrow but, so far, nothing special has been planned for the occasion, his son, Brian, of the PNM's public relations committee said.

"There was a small party over the weekend at the Prime Minister's residence where the birthdays of both my parents were celebrated. Family and friends were present," Brian Manning said.

"But you never know what could happen between now and the 17 August," he added.

Manning was born on August 17, 1946 at San Fernando. He married Hazel Ann Marie Kinsale and had two sons.

Manning began working as a refinery operator with Texaco Trinidad in 1965 and served in several different ministerial portfolios until he became Opposition Leader in 1986. This is his second term as Prime Minister.

No politics for PM's son

Anna Ramdass


Wednesday, August 16th 2006 (T&T Express)


picture
Prime Minister Patrick Manning, right, shares a light moment with his son Brian at yesterday's re-launch of the PNM's website www.pnm.org.tt at Balisier House, Tranquility Street, Port of Spain.



Prime Minister Patrick Manning's son says he does not want to follow in his father's footsteps with respect to politics, but assures he will serve the people by helping the PNM in his own way.

Brian Manning, 31, the elder of Manning's two sons, said his contribution to the PNM would be through helping the party get the message to the people via its website, www.pnm.org.tt, which was officially re-launched yesterday at Balisier House in Port of Spain.

"I am almost completely certain that I will not be running for any political office," the younger Manning told reporters.

"My passion is more in business and not in politics."

Manning made it clear that there was no nepotism involved, adding that his services to the PNM were voluntary and that he also had no ties in Government projects.

Manning, a former business and development analyst at Neal and Massy Energy, was one of the key people responsible for the modern and quite attractive newly-launched PNM website.

He said he puts his mind to whatever he does and wanted to do an excellent job on the current site.

"Whether it be for the PNM or anybody, I would ensure that the job is well done," he added.

When questioned as to whether or not his father had ever tried to convince him to enter the world of politics, Manning responded, "Not at all, he never tried to push me in that direction. He always gave us the freedom of pursuing what we desire."

Manning also wanted to clear the air on any rumours that he and his brother, David, were studying in Germany.

"I never attended any school in Germany ... and as far as I know, tertiary education in Germany is free," he said.

He added that his brother, David, did try to study the German language to pursue education there and he asserted that there were no scholarships of any sort.

Manning said through the PNM website, the people could get closer to the party and also be able to have a space where they could raise fundamental issues affecting their lives.

He boasted that the website was rich in content, filled with party highlights, documents and records of seminal events and proposals.

A copy of the party's Vision 2020 plan, as well as the party's manifesto, constitution, et cetera, are also available on the site.

"We have no doubt whatsoever that the information which is now available will be of tremendous importance to people of all walks of life, and, hopefully, will add significant value to those whose patriotic interests are aroused from the greatness of the PNM which continues to prevail," Manning said.

Reality TV for Rising Stars


Thursday, August 17 2006


picture
Thumbs up: (From left) Stephen Brewer, chief executive officer, Digicel, Knycky Cordner, host of Digicel Rising Stars and Mike Hogan, executive produc...Either we invest in and develop local talent or we keep importing the junk that is being fed to us from abroad.



This was the sentiment expressed by Mike Hogan, executive producer of Digicel's new reality series, Digicel Rising Stars, at its launch yesterday at Zen nightclub, Keate Street, Port-of-Spain.

He lamented that there was not enough "home produced programming" and too much reliance on North America and Europe for entertainment. He said he hopes that this new reality series, which has already become a fixture in other Caribbean islands, will be used as a tool to explore and expose the immense talent that resides in Trinidad and Tobago.

Digicel Rising Stars was launched in Jamaica in 2004 and was that country's first ever live televised talent search. Jamaica's 2005 final show had a viewing audience of 1.6 million, one of the largest television audiences in Jamaica's history. In 2005, the series also spread to the islands of Barbados, St Vincent, St Lucia and Grenada.

The talent search is open to anyone over the age of 18, who is not currently signed to a management or recording contract and is a citizen or resident of Trinidad and Tobago. At the auditions, participants may either perform individually or in a group of up to six.

Contestants will be competing for the first prize of $100,000, a trophy and a management contract with Question Mark Entertainment. The runner up will receive $60,000 and the second runner up $40,000.

There are five auditions this season: August 26 and 27 in Arima; September 2 and 3 in Chaguanas; September 9 and 10 in San Fernando; September 16 and 17 in Port-of-Spain and September 23 and 24 in Tobago. Exact locations and other details will be announced at a later date.

The first day spent at each location will be an open call for anyone interested in participating. Individuals who have captured the attention of the preliminary judges will be asked to return on the second day for a call back audition. Ten people will be chosen from among those who audition on the second day at each venue. Participants who are unsuccessful at one location may try again at another location.

The second phase of the competition will be determined by members of the public who will be given the opportunity to vote for their favourite performers via voice and text messaging, using their Digicel phones. The two individuals who have received the most votes from each venue plus three contestants who have been selected by the celebrity judges will go on to perform live at the Zen nightclub.

There will be a total of 15 shows which will be aired on the Caribbean New Media Group (CNMG) television station beginning on September 2. The final show will be broadcasted live on December 3.

Thursday 17th August, 2006

Saith: Smelter would use only 2% of T&T's daily gas production



Lenny Saith


By Curtis Williams(Trinidad Guardian)


The two proposed aluminium smelters would use less than two per cent of the country's natural gas production, according to Energy Minister Dr Lenny Saith.

Speaking yesterday with the Guardian shortly after addressing the British Caribbean Chamber of Commerce, Saith said he was seeking to clear the misinformation surrounding the planned construction of the two smelters and in particular the Alcoa plant in Chatam.

The Energy Minister pointed out that daily natural gas production was already nearing four billion cubic feet per day (bcf/d) and by the time the smelters are built it is expected to cross 4 bcf/d.

"When you take into account what the country's daily natural gas production would be and you compare that to 150 million cubic feet per day that will be used to generate electricity for the smelters then you can see the smelters will be using little gas," Saith said.

The Minister said while Alcoa will be paying a relatively low price for the gas it was important that gas prices be looked at in the context of what it does for the country.

Saith said it was clear on the surface that the State will get more money from T&T's natural converted into LNG than used to make aluminium.

But the minister argued that one had to look at what a metals industry will mean for the country.

"When you look at the situation it is clear that with a metals industry you get taxes, employment and many other things which may eventually work out to be more than you get from LNG and you use less gas." Saith told the Guardian.

He said it was unfortunate that UNC activist Ramesh Lawrence Maharaj was able to get away with suggesting that the smelter would be built to assist in killing Muslims in the Middle East.

Saith said it is that type of wild statements which have to stop.

More than that he said with the alumina coming from Jamaica, the project will help a fellow Caricom state in its balance of payments position and reduce the trade deficit between Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago.




©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Sunday 27th August, 2006


Govt files suit for Desalcott ˜racket $$'


By Curtis Williams (Trinidad Guardian)


The Government has started legal proceedings against Desalcott, seeking to recover money it claims is owed to the State as a result of the corruption in the Desalcott contract.

Attorneys representing the Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) wrote to Desalcott on Wednesday, seeking a declaration that the 20-year water sale agreement between the utility and Desalcott should be deemed "null, void and of no effect," because it was procured by or on behalf of Desalcott by corrupt means.

The letter seeks the "recovery of all corrupt payments" made in connection with the water sale agreement.

And it seeks damages for fraud and/or deceit and/or conspiracy, as well as all of the profits from the desalination project since its inception in 2001.

In the letter"”from a prominent Port-of-Spain firm of attorneys"”the utility is also seeking an order that it be permitted "full use of all the plant, machinery and any other equipment or materials located on the said lands which are needed for the purpose of producing water."

The desalination plant, at Point Lisas Industrial Estate, was built at an estimated cost of US$150 million, and started operations in 2001, after serious construction delays.

The plant produces 136,000 cubic metres of potable water (30 million imperial gallons) a day, much of which is sold at a premium rate to customers on the Point Lisas estate.

While sources refused to speculate about the size of WASA's claim, the plant alone is worth $800 million, and generates revenues in excess of US$36 million ($226 million) a year.

The case by WASA against Desalcott has international implications, because it names two foreign nationals, Joseph Ben Dak and Daniel Hoffman, and it involves General Electric (GE), the huge American multinational, which is a 40 per cent shareholder in Desalcott.

In February, 2005, a unit of GE, GE Infrastructure, completed the acquisition of Ionic Inc, the company which had initiated the project with contractor Hafeez Karamath, who owns 60 per cent of Desalcott.

WASA's action, which is on the letterhead of a prominent Port-of-Spain law firm, is in the form of a pre-action protocol letter which is part of the new civil proceedings rules issued by Chief Justice Satnarine Sharma last November.

"This letter is being sent to you (Desalcott), in an effort to avoid litigation in accordance with the recommended pre-action protocols set out in the practice direction issued by the Chief Justice on November 15, 2005."

The law firm said it had WASA's firm instructions to pursue proceedings to obtain relief, should Desalcott not respond to the letter by September 20.

At issue are allegations that a water sale agreement between WASA and Desalcott, which was made under the then Panday administration, was corruptly brokered.

It was in March that forensic investigator Bob Lindquist presented a thousand-page report to the DPP on his findings

In the letter, WASA's attorneys said they were seeking "A declaration that an agreement in writing, dated August 25,1999, as amended by an agreement in writing dated June 21, 2000, by and between WASA and Desalcott (the water sale agreement) is null, void and of no effect, and/or is not binding and enforceable as against WASA, it having been procured by or on behalf of Desalcott by corrupt means."

This is not the first legal battle between WASA and Desalcott. The desalination company recently took WASA to international arbitration over the utility's decision not to pay higher rates for the water it buys from Desalcott.



©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Sunday 27th August, 2006

New hub coming for rapid rail


By Curtis Williams


The Government will construct a new transit hub for the rapid rail system according to Works and Transport Minister Colm Imbert.

Speaking with the Guardian one week before the deadline for bids for the construction of the rail, Imbert revealed that the central rail station would be located on Wrightson Road near to the old post office.

Imbert said the idea was to ensure that there was no mixing between the rail and the other forms of public transportation.

"With land space being a problem, the idea is to build a train station where the port is. In other words close to the old post office and from there people can either walk to City Gate or we can provide shuttles for them. But I feel it will not be wise to jam the central train station in the same place as the bus station," Imbert told the Guardian.

This would mean that while the train will be coming back to Port-of-Spain it will not be housed in its traditional location at the old PTSC compound.

The Minister said the Government remained on schedule to award a contract for the construction of the first leg of the rapid rail by the end of the year.

The first leg will be constructed between Curepe and Port-of-Spain.

Imbert said between the end of August and the award of the contract, a decision will be made on whether the rail will run parallel to the highway or if it will run above the Priority Bus Route.

He agreed the construction of a rail system will require significant resources at a time when there is already record construction in the country but said it can be done.

He told the Guardian: "Look at the pace that the water front project is going at. The foreign contractors have clearly found a way to mix foreign and local resources and manage the construction in such a way that the work is done quickly. I think with a large foreign contractor likely to be selected to construct the rail, it can certainly be done."

Imbert said the Government hopes to have the first rapid rail operating between Curepe and Port-of-Spain by the second quarter of 2009.



©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

TT leads LNG supplies to US


HERMAN ROOP DASS Thursday, August 31 2006 (T&T Newsday)


TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO is now the largest supplier of Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) to the United States of America. This was disclosed last week by Energy Minister Dr Lenny Saith when he delivered the feature address at the launch of the Natural Gas Institute of the Americas, at the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) at Brechin Castle in Couva.

He said that Government was particularly pleased about the successful development of the hydrocarbon resources in TT and noted that "it is critical to creating sustainable economic growth and ensuring a high standard of living for the citizenry."

Dr Saith said that the launch of the Natural Gas Institute "is significant in light of our country's international standing as a leading world Liquefied Natural Gas Producer and the largest supplier of LNG to the United States of America."

He said that TT "holds the chair of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum "” 15 of the world's most influential natural gas producing and exporting countries working together to promote stability and sustainability within the industry."

"The pivotal role played by TT in this Forum for the 2005/2006 term, allowed our country to participate in the global energy arena at the level of the strategy formulation and on the conduct of technical studies which ultimaely guides the future development of the global gas industry," he said.

The Minister said that "Government has expressed interest in the development of seven value-added eneregy related projects representing more than $8 billion US in direct investment."

These are "” two Aluminium Smelters, 1 Polypropylene Complex, 1 Iron and Steel Complex, 1 Fertiliser Production Complex, 1 Melamine and UAN Complex, and 1 Maleic Anhydride Plant.

Dr.Saith was strong in his views when he said that "the entry of industries new to TT also means the introduction of innovative technologies and expertise to the domestic landscape and it is within this context that the Natural Gas Institute of the Americas assumes greatest significance as it provides the platform for a quantum leap from simply being end-users of energy technology to the elite realm of inventors and innovators."

The Minister noted "that at present the country's first Gas to Liquids Plant proposed for Pointe-a-Pierre, will be a joint venture agreement between World GTL and Petrotrin costing an estimated US$101 million. He said that the project was currently awaiting a CEC Clearance from the Environmental Management Authority to begin construction.

He said that the project will be a 2200 barrels/day plant using 18.4 million standard cubic per day of natural gas porducing mainly Diesel and Naphta.

The minister suggested other potential areas for research and development that would support the Government's energy agenda and these included the technologies that would facilitate -(a) deeper drilling on land and in deep waters, and (b) Gas wells producing at higher than normal rates.

Saith stressed that the Government was committed "to supporting the expressed goals of the University of Trinidad and Tobago and the Natural Gas Institute of the Americas as we recognise the need for a bank of skilled, local energy professionals who can guide enegy development at the strategic decision-making level."

"To this end we have ensured that all production sharing contracts offered by the Government of TT include training and research and development contributions as well as tertiary scholarships for nationals in energy-related programmes.

This Research and Development Facility was established by the UTT and the University of Texas.

Roti, pizza on menu

School feeding makeover

Ariti Jankie South Bureau


Wednesday, September 6th 2006(T&T Express)


Roti is among a number of dishes to be served for the first time in the school feeding programme.

Paratha with bodi, potato in sada roti and chicken teriyaki in an Asian wrap are among the items on the new smart menu for schoolchildren.

The menu makeover by the National Schools Dietary Services Ltd (NSDSL) also includes pizza and mini-submarine sandwiches. They are additions to the regular menu which will be rotated on a 20-day cycle, it was revealed yesterday.

Last year $200 million was spent on the programme. The new dishes are expected to increase the bill but it is not immediately known by how much.

NSDSL chief executive officer Ingrid Hererra said that smart menus were being offered under the theme "Making It Cool To Eat In School."

"More than the smart menus this year would be the style of cooking," she said.

Hererra said that the most enjoyable menu items were kept and new ones were added to make the meals more exciting.

"We know that the children will enjoy the box meals this year," she said.

Hererra said that it was found that children loved roti.

"We have added roti as well as the most enjoyable foods," she said.

She encouraged school children to partake of a box meal on a daily basis as "the meal contains much needed nutrition for growing children".

She said that during the last school year, the focus was on enhancing the progressive development of caterers by continuous training.

NSDSL, she said, took the initiative to start a series of courses to help caterers. The courses included practical skills training, management and technical training, food safety certification and visits from manufacturers of food service equipment, Hererra said.

TT, Ireland hold trade talks


Friday, September 8 2006(T&T Newsday)


TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO and Ireland have discussed the possibility of establishing a bilateral investment treaty between the two countries.

This was one of the major issues discussed when Trade and Industry Minister Ken Valley met this week with Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern in Dublin. Valley is currently leading a TT investment mission to four European nations.

The mission was launched to capitalise on European interest in TT that was sparked by the participation of the Soca Warriors at the 2006 World Cup that was held in Germany in June and July.

In a statement yesterday, the ministry said Valley and Ahern discussed the establishment of such a bilateral trade and investment treaty, agreed in principle to an Irish trade mission visiting TT in January 2007 and agreed to fast-tracking the establishment of stronger TT-Ireland diplomatic relations.

The ministry said Ireland is of particular interest to TT because it has successfully managed to shift from agriculture and agro- processing to information and service technologies.

"This mission has allowed us to set the framework for deepening economic relations between our countries providing us with an ideal opportunity to share and learn from the experiences of another nation and perhaps apply their approaches within certain areas and of course, in a manner best suited to our particular experience," Valley said. The minister added that TT can share its energy expertise with Ireland.

During the visit, the mission met with representatives of Digicel, Keyland Group, Island Capital, Jurys Doyle Hotel Group and Marina Marketing and Management. The mission is scheduled to visit France, Spain, Germany and England before returning home on September 22. Valley said similar missions would be sent to the Far East and Latin America.

Friday 8th September, 2006


Jamaica backs Manning in scolding Washington



BY ASHA JAVEED


Jamica's Foreign Minister Anthony Hylton has come out in support of Prime Minister Patrick Manning's tongue lashing of Washington, saying the Caribbean's concerns were not being addressed.

Asked by journalists to comment on Manning's statement that the United States Government had turned a blind eye to the region's concerns, Hylton said he agreed, and that the region was not interested in window dressing by the George Bush administration.

"Prime Minister Manning is not incorrect in saying that these concerns have been raised by Caricom Heads of Government over a long period.

"And we are not satisfied that they have been addressed in the way that I think is important"”not only on energy sustainability, but as Manning said, some security issues as well.

"I think we have to remain engaged in the dialogue, and we are certainly looking forward to a continued dialogue with Washington.

"We in the Caribbean have never been interested in window dressing. We have always been interested in what comes out of it."

Manning had said, on Tuesday, that while the US had turned its attention to terrorism, the war against the drug trade had fallen by the wayside, and that T&T would look for alternative markets for its LNG.

But Karen Harbert, assistant secretary in the United States Department of Energy, said her administration was aware of Manning's concerns.

"We have, yesterday, seen some concerns by the Prime Minister of T&T. We look forward to a meeting with him to discuss these concerns, but a measure of our commitment is seen here today in expressing our solidarity in addressing the energy challenge, and bringing together members of the private sector and members from the Inter American Development Bank (IDB) to help address these concerns.

"Should T&T choose to sell its products in other places"”as long as it respects the existing contracts it has with its consumers it is certainly within its sovereign rights."

Harbert was speaking to reporters after the opening session of a two-day conference titled, "Energy and The Competitiveness of The Caribbean," at the Hilton Trinidad yesterday.

Harbert said the US had observed a "resurgence of resource nationalism in the Western Hemisphere and some of the other producing countries around the world, and that is cause for concern for us.

"We are certainly an advocate for market-based expansion of the energy sector, which capitalises on the advantages of the private sector which is capital and expertise and that is what we hope to see here in the Western Hemisphere, and particularly in the Caribbean."

She added that the market for LNG in the US was "growing exponentially," and there was a very big market for Caribbean products.

"Energy security is a challenge in all country states. What we are trying to do in the next two days with the policy-makers for the Caribbean, with the private sector leaders of the Caribbean, is to make sure that Caribbean competitiveness is increased and expanded, that jobs are created.

"Security is a central part of that solution. It's an important time.

"Energy prices are at a very high point, and it's a big challenge for all economies, particularly the smaller economies in the Caribbean. So now is the time to get beyond the issue and solve the problem."

She said the US valued its relationship with the Caribbean and with T&T, and "we certainly hope that continues."


©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Delaware Governor to visit T&T next week



Saturday, September 9th 2006(T&T Express)



Governor of the State of Delaware, United States, Ruth Ann Minner, will visit Trinidad and Tobago on September 11-14 on the invitation on the invitation of the Government of Trinidad and Tobago.

Her visit to the country is the result of a State Partnership Programme which the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force entered into with the National Guard of the State of Delaware last July, the Ministry of National Security said in a statement yesterday.

During her visit, Minner will pay courtesy calls on President George Maxwell Richards, Prime Minister Patrick Manning and National Security Minister Martin Joseph.

She will also visit the Pt Lisas Industrial Estate and Tobago where she will be a guest of the Tobago House of Assembly.

Minner will be accompanied by a 14-member team that will participate in a programme of roundtable discussions to promote political and economic relations between Trinidad and Tobago and the State of Delaware.

Joseph said: "The visit by Governor Minner will provide an excellent opportunity to discuss further co-operation between Trinidad and Tobago and the State of Delaware on a number of issues but particularly on matters related to education, disaster management, the judicial system and homeland security."

State earns $38.7b

Juhel Browne


Saturday, September 9th 2006(T&T Express)



As the Government finalises the budget for its next financial year which begins on October 1, Minister in the Ministry of Finance Conrad Enill announced yesterday that the State earned $38.7 billion in revenue the last 12 months while it spent $34.9 billion for the same period.

This means that the State earned just about $3.8 billion more than it spent in the last financial year.

And with only three weeks left until the end of the existing financial year, Enill also announced that the Government now wants to transfer $2.7 billion from the Consolidated Fund, where all the State's revenues is collected, towards infrastructural projects now ongoing throughout Trinidad and Tobago.

The transfer comes as the Government is seeking to transfer $3.159 billion of the excess $3.8 billion in revenue to the Interim Revenue Stabilisation Fund which means the State's actual surplus for the 2005/2006 financial year is less than $600 million.

Both transfers are contained in the Finance (Supplementary Appropriation) Bill, 2006, which Enill piloted during yesterday's sitting of the House of Representatives at the Red House in Port of Spain.

"This Government is committed to the prudent management of the people's resources. In this regard, when the two transactions for which approval of this honourable House is being sought are considered, the fiscal account is estimated to register an overall surplus of $580.1 million," Enill said.

"The revised estimate of revenue for fiscal 2006 is $38.687.7 billion."

Enill said the transfers contained in the Supplementary Appropriation Bill, will be recorded as expenditure from the Consolidated Fund, as required by the Exchequer and Audit Act, Chapter 69:01 and, therefore, requires that Parliament give approval by way of a Supplementary Appropriation.

"However, in the overall context of Government expenditure, they do not represent additional expenditure but merely the transfer of funds from the Consolidated Fund to other funds, that is, the Interim Revenue Stabilisation Fund and the Infrastructure Development Fund," Enill said.

Robinson-Regis expecting twins


Saturday, September 9 2006(T&T Newsday)

picture
Camille Robinson-Regis.


Planning and Development Minister, Camille Robinson-Regis is pregnant and is expecting twins.

The minister, who already has a daughter in her mid-twenties, told Newsday that she expects to give birth in early March next year.

"I am extremely happy, thankful to God and a bit anxious about it," she said.

Hearing that she would be having two babies at the same time was not too surprising for the minister. Twins, and even triplets are nothing new in her family, she said.

"There are six sets of twins in my mother's family and one triplet. There are two sets of twins in my father's family (his mother was a twin) and there is another triplet in my husband's family," Robinson-Regis disclosed.

Asked how she will cope with being a new mom of two in an election year, and if citizens will see less of her, the MP for Arouca South replied, "I expect to be able to cope as I have an older daughter, a husband, a large extended family and a helper to assist me.

Robinson-Regis, known for her fire on the political platform assured, "I will neither neglect my duty to my family, nor to my constituents, the Parliament, my colleagues, Cabinet and the ministry. Once I am well, which I expect, I will perform my duties."

TT thrills Ireland, Berlin


ASHTON FORD Sunday, September 10 2006

picture
Exodus performing in St Stephens Square, Ireland.


The Trinidad and Tobago cultural contingent made a great impact in Berlin, Germany when Exodus Steel Orchestra performed in front of the Parliament building yesterday evening before a large audience.

The band played several tunes that included calypso, soca and some of the latest hits in Europe that had the crowd dancing and singing.

Three top calypsonians Denyse Plummer, Kenny J and Pink Panther performed on the programme along with dancers who did the limbo and other traditional dances from Trinidad and Tobago.

The Minister of Trade and Industry Kenneth Valley and Her Exellency Mrs Glenda Morean Phillip and Ambassador Jerry Narace along with officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade were also present.

Before their visit to Germany the cultural group also gave performances in the Republic of Ireland where they were well received at the St Stephens Square, in an open concert and also at an indoor complex in Dublin. After Germany the group will be performing in Spain, France and UK.


picture

Trinis pay Sept 11 tribute


Kimberly Mackhan


Tuesday, September 12th 2006(T&T Express)


picture
US Ambassador Roy Austin, right, speaks to Prime Minister Patrick Manning during yesterday's September 11 memorial service at the All Saints Anglican Church, Marli Street, Port of Spain.


American flags flew at half mast yesterday, as a memorial ceremony marking the five-year anniversary of the September 11 attacks against the country was held at the All Saints Anglican Church, Queen's Park West, Port of Spain.

Families laid flowers and lit candles as they paid tribute to the 14 nationals who were killed in New York.

The group fell silent around 8.46 a.m. to mark the time that the first hijacked plane hit the New York World Trade Centre north tower, and then again at 9.03 a.m. to mark the moment that a second plane hit the south tower.

US Ambassador Roy Austin described the attacks as an "inhumane terrorist mass murder of citizens of more than 90 countries".

He said that the murdering of nearly 3,000 "innocent" persons in New York had "deeply affected the modern mindset".

Austin noted that locals who were killed during the collapse of the two towers should be remembered and that we should not yield to the temptation to treat them as faceless "victims".

"This memorial service unites people of different faiths, nationalities, races, ages and social backgrounds. It offers the message that these differences do not compel divisive actions; and we know this message to be true because there are many instances in nature in which differences attract rather than repel," Austin said

Austin pointed out that in America as well as in Trinidad and Tobago, people of different religions and races co-existed peacefully. He said that in both countries, as well as elsewhere in the world, all major religions shared a commitment to social justice, compassion, concern for the poor and love of family and community.

"All of these faiths teach that life is precious, and that taking innocent life, including your own, is always wrong," Austin said.

Austin added that the international community was faced with an ideology that promoted hate, destruction and death and that placed no value on human life.

"Terrorist attacks against the United States and our friends and allies began before September 11 2001, but everything seems to have changed since that day," he said.

"The images of September 11, 2001 burnt into our minds are not only those of senseless violence and hateful hearts, but of people the world over standing together to condemn the atrocity," he said.

"That was an appropriate time to affirm that all people are equal and equally deserving of justice, respect opportunity and dignity. Nor is it now too late to commit ourselves to living in accord with that conviction."


List of Trinidadians who died on September 11, 2001:

Conrad Cottoy

Rena Sam Dinoo

Joan Francis

Winston Grant

Clara Hinds

Stephen Joseph

Glenn Neblett

Jerome Nedd

Oscar Nesbeit

Anthony Portillo

Vishnoo Ramsaroop

Goumatie Thackurdeen

Paula Morales

Bobby Mohammed

Youths play the ˜Best of Mozart'


Tuesday, September 12 2006
(T&T Newsday)

picture
The Trinidad and Tobago Youth Philharmonic presented the "Best of Mozart" for their premiere performance at the Sports and Physical Education Centre, UWI, St Augustine on August 23.

The orchestra performed before a full and very appreciative audience of approximately 1,300 patrons who gave a standing ovation at the end.

The attendance exceeded the seating capacity of Queen's Hall, St Ann's.

One hundred and sixty-eight students played in the beginner, intermediate and advanced strings, symphonic band, and full orchestra.

Founder and music director Kenneth Listhrop takes pride in the fact that this is one of the few youth orchestras in the Caricom region.

It is a truly Trinidad and Tobago Youth Orchestra with students from several music schools across Trinidad and Tobago.

He is also pleased with the commitment and expertise of local tutors Leslie Clement, Judith Clement, Charles Ross, Christopher Herbert, Steven Villafana, Mark Brewster, Kenny Stephen and Roderick Urquhart.

Together with the St Augustine Chamber Orchestra, the team will provide year-round tuition and support for the strings, wind, brass, and percussion students.

Eric,
Why are motorist in T&T experincing gas problems?
http://www.trinidadexpress.com/index.pl/article_news?id=161011385

That's none of your concern, you don't live in T&T nor do you have a stake in T&T's affairs.

quote:

Originally posted by Eric's_Revenge:
That's none of your concern, you don't live in T&T nor do you have a stake in T&T's affairs.

Maybe so, but you try to make us believe that T&T is a land of perfection - with no problems at all. But then you don't live there, do you?
http://www.guardian.co.tt/business1.html

Imbert: Trains to roll by 2009

Julien Neaves


Wednesday, September 13th 2006(T&T Express)


A MAIN railway change station for this country's new rapid railway system is to be located somewhere between Curepe and Mt Hope, Works and Transport Minister Colm Imbert said yesterday.

He said the railway system was "well on its way to becoming a reality" and noted that tenders for the project closed on August 28. He also added that they had received five bids from major corporations, including consortiums, involving some of the largest railway contractors in the world and some of the leading manufacturers of railway equipment.

The bids were received from North America, Europe and the Far East, China in particular, together with their local counterparts. The ministry expects to start negotiations with the first-ranked bidder next month and should be in a position to award a contract for the new railway system by December this year, he said.

Imbert, speaking yesterday at the opening ceremony of the Farm Road Bridge in St Joseph, said the first segment of the new railway is expected to be the construction and commissioning of the link between Port of Spain, St Joseph and Chaguanas.

"We expect this first segment to be completed within three years, so that by the end of 2009, the first train will roll into Port of Spain," he said.

He noted that a number of other segments would follow shortly thereafter, such as the St Joseph to Arima leg, the Arima to Sangre Grande leg and Chaguanas to San Fernando leg.

"When this new railway system is in full operation, life as we know it in Trinidad and Tobago will change profoundly and persons travelling to and from work or school, along the East-West Corridor or from North to South, will be able to travel in a safe, comfortable and environmentally-friendly mass transit system, and get to their destinations in minutes, as opposed to the hours now spent in traffic jams on our heavily congested roads," he said.

He noted that the railway system would not stand alone and would be complemented by an enhanced bus service and a new ferry service between PoS and San Fernando, which the ministry hopes to introduce next year, so that travellers would have a range of transport options to choose from.

Accused Israelis still not arrested

Corruption charge involving Desalcott

Stories by Hayden Mills



Wednesday, September 13th 2006(T&T Express)


FOR a third time, Chief Magistrate Sherman McNicolls inquired about the arrests of two foreigners-Israeli Daniel Hoffman from Tel Aviv, and Israel national Joseph Ben-Dak, who is now a resident in New Rochelle, New York-who are wanted for a corruption charge involving the Desalination Company of Trinidad and Tobago (Desalcott).

And yet again, McNicolls was told they are still to be arrested.

Businessman Hafeez Karamath, 50, of Palm Road, Valsayn, re-appeared before McNicolls at the Port of Spain Eighth Magistrates' Court yesterday.

Joint corruption charges have been laid against Karamath, Hoffman, Ben-Dak and Karamath's company, Karamath Engineering Services Ltd.

The indictable charge, laid by Insp John Telesford of the Anti-Corruption Investigations Bureau, alleges that between January 1, 1998 and August 25, 1999, Karamath conspired with other persons to defraud the State of Trinidad and Tobago by dishonestly arranging for a water supply contract to be awarded to a joint venture between Hafeez Karamath Engineering Services Ltd and Ionics, known as the Desalination Company of Trinidad and Tobago (Desalcott), by the State through the Water and Sewerage Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (WASA).

State attorney Nizam Khan told the court that lead special prosecutor in the matter, English Queen's Counsel Peter Thornton, was not in the country and sought an adjournment.

When McNicolls inquired from him if the other two accused had been arrested he said no.

He told the court that the prosecution was liaising with the Central Authority Unit (CAU) in the Ministry of the Attorney General, with respect to arrest of the foreigners. The CAU has extradition matters under its purview.

There is no extradition treaty between this country and Israel, but under the current treaty with the United States, if the accused persons are in the US, it is possible for them to be arrested and extradited if they do not come to face the charge willingly.

Queen Counsel Karl Hudson-Phillips leads attorneys Ravi Rajcoomar, Darrell Allahar and Kelvin Ramkissoon in defending Karamath.

Dr Claude Denbow SC leads attorneys Om Lalla and Kelvin Ramkissoon for Desalcott.

The matter was adjourned to November 12.

According to the contentious contract, signed on August 5, 1999 and currently being investigated by police, WASA is bound to pay Desalcott $175 million a year for the next 20 years or $15 million a month.

Imbert: PTSC to get 50 more buses this year

-Julien Nieves


Wednesday, September 13th 2006(T&T Express)


The Public Transport Service Corporation (PTSC) is in the final stages of acquiring 50 new 40-seater buses, specifically for use in rural and suburban areas, Works and Transport Minister Colm Imbert said yesterday.

Imbert made the disclosure while delivering the feature speech at the opening ceremony of the Farm Road Bridge in St Joseph, saying this was part of the Government's $126 million bus fleet expansion plan.

He noted that the first 25 buses have already been manufactured to the PTSC's specifications in Brazil and are expected to arrive in Trinidad within the next month, with the second batch of 25 buses due before the end of this year.

In 2007, a further 50 buses of various sizes and types, including large 150 passenger buses and special purpose coaches, will be purchased, bringing the total complement of buses at PTSC back to over 200 units.

Imbert said that for the last two years they have been able to acquire 50 new buses and together with the additional 100 new buses purchased this year and next year the "PTSC will be in a position to provide a greatly improved service to the general public".

Wednesday 13th September, 2006


T&T signs investment deal with Germany
(Trinidad Guardian)



T&T and Germany signed on Saturday a bilateral investment treaty designed to protect the commercial interests of local and German investors as they conduct business between the two countries.

The treaty was signed by Trade Minister Ken Valley, who is heading a five European nation investment mission, and Dr Peter Ammon, director general for Economic Affairs and Sustainable Development of the Federal Foreign Office of Germany.

"This is a historic agreement, the idea for which was first generated in 1963, by Dr Eric Williams and here we are today actually putting in place, the structure for protecting our mutual investments," Valley said.

Ammon said the treaty is a mechanism for securing investment between both countries and lays the foundation for further business co-operation and integration.

Germany and T&T have had diplomatic relations at ambassadorial level since 1962.

Germany is T&T's third largest foreign direct investor, particularly in the petrochemical sector, especially with regard to methanol.

Germany's current ambassador to T&T, Dr Helmut Ohlraun, is resident in Port-of-Spain and accredited to all Caricom countries, with the exception of Jamaica, as well as Suriname, Montserrat, Anguilla and the British Virgin Islands.

Included in the investment mission are Ambassador Plenipotentiary and Extraordinaire Jerry Narace, Glenda Morean-Phillip, High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, and technical staff from the Ministry of Trade, Eteck and the Business Development Company.

The team also visited Ireland, where Valley held talks with Irish Prime Minister Bertie Ahern towards establishing a bilateral investment treaty between T&T and that country.
Other stops are London, Paris and Madrid.

The mission aims to promote T&T as the best place for business and investment in the region with an emphasis on the non-energy sector.



©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Wednesday 13th September, 2006 (Trinidad Guardian)




Saith: Failed Ibis Deep won't hurt interest


BpTT has said its failed $500 million Ibis Deep well demonstrated its willingness to take "real exploration risk."

The Guardian reported exclusively yesterday that the much-touted Ibis Deep well had been a failure with bpTT drilling a dry hole.

In a statement bpTT's executive Chairman Robert Riley said:

"We made the ˜best efforts' to deliver on our objectives and we are very proud of what we achieved in getting to this depth."

Riley explained that on reaching a depth of 19,000 feet, the drilling team encountered pressures in excess of 18,000 pounds per square inch (psi), which were above the pre-drill predicted pressure of 16,000 psi.

"We were able to test the prospect and encountered no significant hydrocarbon-bearing structures.

"Given these high pressures and the insignificant presence of hydrocarbons, a technical decision was made to cease drilling and initiate procedures to safely exit the well." Riley noted.

He added: "While we are understandably disappointed by this result, we are proud to have been part of the team that pioneered drilling the deepest well ever in this country, in an effort to find new hydrocarbon resources."

"The Ibis Deep was the first well to successfully breech the ˜pressure ramp' of the deep horizons of the Columbus Basin.

"In the process, we also pioneered the use of ˜down-hole' seismic imaging and ˜real time' pressure-testing tools.

"I can assure the national community that the result by itself does not mean the end of our exploration efforts in T&T.

"We remain committed to our current exploration programme going forward."

Asked if the failure of the well would hurt government's upcoming deep water bid round, Energy Minister Dr Lenny Saith told the Guardian:

"No, I do not think the failure of Ibis Deep will hurt the bid round or the bargaining position of the government of T&T.

"In any case, let's wait and see how the bids go, rather than speculate what this failure means."

The well was spudded on April 14 and was located in a special exploration zone in the South- East Coast Consortium operated by EOG Resources in a joint venture with the NGC and Petrotrin.



©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Thursday 14th September, 2006(Trinidad Guardian)

Mannings on test flight of private jet


Government officials confirm Bombardier Global Express trip to Antigua last Saturday


BY KRISTY RAMNARINE


Less than 24-hours after Government announced it was shutting down State-owned airline BWIA, Prime Minister Patrick Manning went on a test flight of the executive private jet which the State is considering buying for a reported US$50 million.

Government officials yesterday confirmed that Manning, his wife Hazel and other officials were taken for a test flight aboard the Bombardier Global Express Jet last Saturday.

The Global Express is an ultra long-range business jet developed by Bombardier Aerospace, a subsidiary of the giant Canadian company which also builds and designs trains and transit systems.

Yesterday, a source close to the flight arrangements said Manning and his entourage boarded the aircraft from the old Piarco airport entrance. The party was flown north to Antigua. Without landing, the flight returned to Piarco just after noon.

The source said the prime ministerial party was served lunch by a Bombardier hostess.

It has been reported that Manning stopped using Coast Guard aircraft for trips following a scare he experienced during a flight from Barbados to Trinidad on January 8, 2005. The plane reportedly plummeted due to ice build-up on its wings.

Since then, Government has been leasing a private aircraft from Guardian Holdings Ltd. Sources said it costs US$24,000 to lease the GHL jet to Miami, but could not state the fees paid by Government.

In the works since 2004

The prospect of the Government's possible acquisition of a private jet was first raised by reporters at a post-Cabinet news conference on February 5, 2004. It was raised in the context of a swirling controversy over a report of Manning's acceptance of a flight in a private jet owned by Spanish oil giant Repsol.
Asked then whether it might not be appropriate for T&T to buy a private aircraft in light of the controversy, Manning said: "I could tell you that it is a question that is being discussed at certain levels of Caricom."

The PM had said then that the use of private aircraft minimised the amount of time wasted in airports and waiting for flights.

Questioned on the cost of an executive jet, he added: "I can't say. A feasibility study would have to be done."

Unanswered

Only last week Tuesday, Government was expected to respond to a question posed in the Senate on the matter.

Opposition Senator Wade Mark had asked: "Could the Prime Minister state categorically if it is the intention of the government to purchase a private jet for the exclusive use of the holder of the office of the Prime Minister?

"If the answer is affirmative, would the Prime Minister further state: a."”the estimated cost of such an aircraft and b."”the procedure which would be followed to procure such an aircraft?"

Answer to the question was deferred to the next sitting of the Upper House on Tuesday.

Jet facts

The Global Express is an ultra long-range business jet, which was developed by Bombardier Aerospace.

It has a cruise speed just below sonic level at Mach 0.88 or 0.85 and is capable of using first class or secondary airports and basic short airfields in remote areas.

Global Express is certified by European (JAA and LBA) and North American (FAA and Transport Canada) airworthiness authorities.

Bombardier has developed the ultra long-range Bombardier Global Express XRS, which adds a forward fuel tank to extend the range to 11,390km (6,150 nautical miles) at Mach 0.85. The aircraft also has a new "zero flaps" take-off ability, which will allow access to more "hot and high" airports.

The first flight of the aircraft took place in January 2005 and it entered service in December 2005.



©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Keep them coming eric. My 3 year old grand daughter is now learning to cut and paste..

Joseph: Major drugs in TT


Thursday, September 14 2006(T&T Newsday)



MINISTER of National Security, Martin Joseph, said Trinidad and Tobago is a growing point for drug-trafficking. His disclosure came on Tuesday in the Senate during debate on the Finance (Supplementary Appropriation) Bill 2006 as he replied to criticism from the UNC about delays in the Government's purchase of surveillance vessels.

Joseph said: "The number one challenge we face here is our location. We are smack between the producers of cocaine "” Colombia, Bolivia, Ecuador etcetera "” and the consumers in the north. We are a major transshipment point."

He suggested the situation was worsening.

"Intelligence has indicated that because of some of the activities taking place in the northern Caribbean especially the Jamaican exercise, Operation King Fish, and Operation Trident in the United Kingdom, etcetera, displacement is taking place and as a result the drug lords are moving further south."

Joseph revealed that a "go-fast boat" (ie a type of power boat) can travel from Venezuela to Trinidad in eight minutes. "So the OPVs (Offshore Patrol Vessels) are designed to provide the offshore patrol capability to police in the Gulf (of Paria)." He said that the Government is now trying to acquire the OPVs by a government-to government deal with the United Kingdom or Italy.

The Government, he added, had previously invited tenders for the OPVs, for which three firms had bid "”VT of the UK, Bloom and Voss of Germany, and Fincanteri of Italy. "After due consideration it was felt that the speed to which these suppliers responded was inadequate on the basis of sound technical advice by the competent authorities." The tender was revised to increase speed and the accompanying technical specifications, and again all three firms bid, said Joseph.

He said the preferred bid was VT but Bloom and Voss had complained. The Government selected VT, but then aborted the entire tender process (paying some compensation to VT) and instead decided to acquire the vessels by a government-to-government deal. This began with the governments of the UK, Italy, Germany and Sweden, and was whittled down to just the two former. Claiming grounds of national security, he declined to offer any more information but said the OPV's would have to be built to specifications for TT, and this would now take 18 months.

Joseph explained other delays in his Ministry's other acquisitions. "We will only engage in activities associated with the procurement of those six fast patrol vessels after we completed the OPVs."

He said the Government's delay in buying four helicopters had resulted from a decision to move from sole selective tendering to getting four firms to bid.

Joseph said the delay in renovating the St James Police Barracks was caused by the Government underestimating the required time.

He vowed not to demolish the existing historical building. Joseph seemed to blame the delays in constructing the promised new police stations on the architects who do not provide full drawings to let the Government know how long the constructions will take.

Saying he wasn't badmouthing agencies, he said it is a "common secret" that his Ministry's agency for construction is NIPDEC.

No PM plan to buy plane

Juhel Browne


Friday, September 15th 2006(T&T Express)



Several leaders within the 15-member Caricom want the Prime Minister Patrick Manning administration to buy a private jet on their behalf, sources said yesterday as Government denied it had any intention of doing so.

Sources said this may have led to Manning's test flight last weekend on board a US$50 million long-range jet manufactured by Canada-based Bombardier Inc.

In 2004, Manning said the purchase of a private jet was discussed at certain levels of Caricom but the regional body has since offered no official statement on the issue.

While Manning has not yet spoken publicly on the test flight, Works and Transport Minister Colm Imbert said yesterday that it had nothing to do with the acquisition of a private jet for the Government or Caricom.

He was speaking to reporters who questioned him on a report about the test flight during yesterday's post-Cabinet news conference at Whitehall.

In confirming the test flight, Imbert said it was merely a result of Manning politely accepting an invitation offered by Bombardier.

"This present Government absolutely has no intention of purchasing a private jet aircraft for use by the Prime Minister or any other member of the Government."

Imbert equated the test flight to someone test driving a car.

"It was simply the manufacturer of the airplane making a demonstration aircraft available, its a long range aircraft I believe. The manufacturers of the aircraft simply wished to allow the Prime Minister to participate in a test journey.

"As I indicated to you, someone might ask you to test drive a vehicle. That's all it is. Don't make more out of it than it is. I am sure you have test-driven many vehicles that you have not purchased, like all of us," Imbert said.

When asked if the test flight was linked to the discussions at the Caricom level for the purchase of a private jet, Imbert said: "No".

Asked later if the Manning administration planned to lease a private jet, given his declaration that it had no intention of buying one, Imbert said:

"This present Government has no intention of entering into a lease arrangement for a private jet aircraft or any other aircraft for the Prime Minister or the members of the Cabinet for their private use."

Imbert noted that the Bombardier aircraft could travel much longer distances than the jet the Government now leases from Guardian Holdings Ltd for Manning's trips throughout the region.

Imbert, however, said that since the plans for the airline that will replace BWIA includes the continuation of transatlantic flights, there is no need for the Government to purchase a long-haul aircraft for the Prime Minister.

"Sometimes, he uses commercial aircraft but sometimes when he has multi destinations, for example, when he was travelling on Caricom business he would be travelling to several different Caricom territories in one day.

"And that is virtually, not virtually, it is absolutely impossible using commercial airline which run on a schedule so that the Prime Minister exercises his judgment depending on the number of appointments that he may have and the countries they are in and whether they are within the Caricom region or not," Imbert said.

Friday 15th September, 2006

War ˜relic' stops work at $1b industrial park


By Sherwin Long (Trinidad Guardian)


Work on the Government's $1 billion industrial and technology park in Tamana has come to a halt, after the discovery of what sources have described as "a potentially hazardous device."

The site is managed by Evolving Technologies and Enterprises Development Company (eTeck), whose president, Khalid Hassanali, confirmed yesterday that work at the site had come to a standstill.

Hassanali said, however, he could not confirm the nature of the device, whether it was explosive or not.

He said: "A device was found a few days ago, and the army is trying to trace the origin of the device.

"As a safety precaution, we have decided to take a few days off from doing any work."

Military historian and curator of Chaguaramas Military History and Aerospace Museum, Gaylord Kelshall, said he was contacted about the device.

Kelshall said he did not see the device, but was informed "it was an empty canister with a trigger."

Sources said the device was placed in the hands of the T&T Defence Force.

They said army officers were attempting to find out how long the device had been exposed.

Up to last night, however, senior army officers could not divulge the result of the examination.

The Wallerfield site was used as a US army airbase during World War Two in the 1940s.

Kelshall said guns, ammunition and even jeeps and trucks could well be buried underground.

Work on the industrial and technology park began earlier this year, and included excavations, removal of vegetation and installation of utility corridors.

In an address to the media, in November, 2005, Hassanali said t the park would occupy 1,100 acres and inhabit the two airstrips.

He said it would boast of a state-of-the-art telecommunications network.

Hassanali also said there would be no overhead electrical wires, and solar energy would be harnessed as part of the electricity supply.

He described the park as the region's Silicon Valley.

The site will also house a University of T&T campus.




©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Soon Trinidad will have to bring labourers from outside to fill all those jobs the T&T government is creating.

Transparency warns of new corruption scandals
Clint Chan Tack Friday, September 15 2006
THE Trinidad and Tobago Transparency Institute (TTTI) is warning that the country could witness corruption scandals of the magnitude of the Piarco Airport Terminal project if the enhanced public procurement regime is not in place and called on Government to make this regime a top priority in the 2006/2007 Budget.
In a statement yesterday, the TTTI said it was very concerned that since Prime Minister Patrick Manning spoke about this new regime in his 2005/2006 Budget presentation in Parliament on September 28, 2005, it does not appear to have been implemented to date.

TTTI recalled that Manning said in his budget presentation last year that the new procurement regime should come into effect by the fourth quarter of the fiscal year 2006.

The TTTI also recalled the Prime Minister saying that the new regime would apply to all government ministries, statutory boards, regional health authorities, regional corporations, state enterprises, NGOs and CBOs.

The TTTI said the new regime is even more relevant today when the current level of State expenditure, either by the Government or various State enterprises, is causing concern amongst the population as well as the Central Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

In its July 21 Article IV report on TT, the IMF advised Government to pace the use of TT's energy revenues in order to advance long-term socio-economic objectives, avoid overheating the economy and pushing up inflation. Overall, the IMF gave Government good marks over its fiscal and monetary policies to date.

"The country needs the assurance that soon, none of this spending will go on without effective checks and balances," the TTTI said.

The institute claimed that under the existing regime, there were several agencies permitted to spend public funds outside of the purview of the Central Tenders Board and under the new regime, all these agencies would fall within a new, single legal framework.

The TTTI added that it was concerned that the proportion of public funds being spent by these agencies may have increased since September 2005.

"The country surely doesn't want a repeat of what went wrong, for example, with the Piarco Airport Project," the TTTI stated.

TTTI chairman Reginald Dumas said the group hoped that Manning would give a "firm assurance" in his upcoming budget presentation that this regime "will come into full force before much longer."

The Prime Minister is expected to present the 2006/2007 Budget in Parliament either in late September or early October.


DOCTOR: CORRUPTION IN HEALTH SERVICES
Friday, September 15 2006
"Wheeling and dealing" in the procurement of medical equipment and "questionable employment practices" within the North West Regional Health Authority (NWRHA) were two areas highlighted by Dr Petronella Manning-Alleyne, consultant neonatologist at the Port-of-Spain General Hospital, at the Commission of Enquiry into the Operations and Delivery of Public Health Services yesterday at the Industrial Court.
Dr Manning-Alleyne said at the Port-of-Spain General Hospital (PoSGH) she tried to get action regarding a doctor who was once assigned to her unit. She told the Commission his output was unsatisfactory and he showed no technical skills.

Manning-Alleyne said when his medical knowledge was questioned during ward rounds he was always hesitant in responding. She said there were complaints from other areas of the hospital about the doctor. She complained to the Ag Medical Chief of Staff to have the doctor removed. She said the doctor's personnel file could not be found nor his "letter of assignment" to PoSGH. Manning-Alleyne said a week after complaining the doctor was transferred to the Casualty Department. She said the NWRHA Human Resource Department was responsible for hiring.

She conducted her own investigations and said from a list of house officers she saw "a disturbing pattern," four other doctors listed as working at PoSGH had the same surname as the doctor she complained about. Manning-Alleyne said despite complaining, she could not get any investigation into the medical schools or backgrounds of the doctors.

At the start of her comments on questionable staffing, she accused the NWRHA of having a "fondness for Asian doctors" and not liking Nigerian doctors.

She spoke for several minutes about the problems she experienced in getting equipment for the neonatal unit. Manning-Alleyne said there was "a lot of behind the scenes wheeling and dealing from whom you purchase equipment." She referred to one instance in which an official from the Health Ministry trusted with assisting with the job specifications for equipment wrote to a supplier of incubators. Manning said, "he presented himself as representing the Ministry of Health TT, and he made a number of statements to the company that supplies us with those items that we are unhappy with the service we are getting from them and we wanted a new supplier." Manning-Alleyne said as a result the company who "historically" was responsible for servicing the equipment at the PoSGH was given unfair competition and was unable to tender for the items. She said the new incubators purchased from the company needed parts but was "extreme difficulty" getting them from the original agent because of the wheeling and dealing.

Manning said in the procurement process in the NWRHA "certain suppliers" were preferred by the people making orders, and persons involved in the process tried to influence the choice.

She said in the RHA there did not seem to be any "identifiable" system to obtain equipment and "you put your paperwork in anywhere.'' Requests could be made to the Hospital Suppliers officer, Medical Chief-of-Staff, Chief Executive Officer.

Manning-Alleyne said for ten years she asked for infusion pumps (for measuring the rate of IV fluids) and cardio respiratory monitors. She said without infusion pumps excess fluids can go into infants. Manning-Alleyne said there is no overall vision for neonatal care in TT. She said a model must be designed identifying the needs, and care must be standardised in the RHAs. Focusing on staffing she said a neonatologist working in New York had applied to the NWRHA but had not been hired. Although she has indicated her intention to retire, the NWRHA has not sent a doctor to be trained in neonatology. (Manning-Alleyne is the only neonatologist at PoSGH).

She said the NWRHA has conducted training for nurses in neonatology but staffing had not improved. Manning-Alleyne referred to 22 nurses from different areas (surgery etc) but none of them were working in the neonatal unit. She said, "We have been training them for the export market."

Gillian Lucky's late submission prompts allegations of misleading the court.

By Denyse Renne

The preliminary inquiry into bribery charges against former prime minister Basdeo Panday his wife Oma, former government minister Carlos John and businessman Ishwar Galbaransingh has been adjourned to January.

When the matter was called yesterday, presiding magistrate Ejenny Espinet, sitting in the Port-of-Spain Eighth Court, said she had received a letter from defence attorney Gillian Lucky indicating several objections.

Lucky argued that the section under which the former prime minister was charged did not apply to the accused. She said the amended Act 23 of 2005 could not apply to the accused, and it was on Wednesday afternoon that she realised this.

Saying she was taking full responsibility for the late submission, Lucky said when the matter was called on Wednesday, the magistrate did, in fact, ask whether there were any applications or submissions to be made.

However, attorneys present said they had no objections or submissions. As a result, the matter was listed to start yesterday.

Lucky further said she did not try to mislead the court and was placed in an awkward position on Wednesday since she no longer appeared for John. She added that she did not want to compromise any of the accused by having the matter expedited.

However, Timothy Cassel, QC, objected to the delay. He said the State was ready to proceed and that foreign witnesses were present.

Cassel further said the case was an old one, having been in the court since May 28, 2005.

"Now 15 months down the line, the matter is still here," Cassel said.

Adding that Lucky did, in fact, mislead the court, Cassel said, "Ms Lucky is using blatant pieces of cynical filibuster."

Defence attorney Prakash Ramadhar rose to Lucky's defence and accused Cassel of casting aspersions on Lucky, "who has integrity."

"I am very disgusted with Mr Cassel's comments," Ramadhar added.

After hearing several more applications from the defence and prosecuting attorneys, Espinet adjourned the matter to January 3.

The Pandays, John and Galbaransingh are charged with allegedly giving and receiving bribes in exchange for favours during the Piarco International Airport expansion project.

The State plans to call 19 witnesses.

UNC supporters again crammed the Eighth Court when the matter was called, among them Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Wade Mark, Dr Tim Gopeesingh, Jack Warner and the Pandays' daughter, Mikela.

Ramadhar is appearing for Oma, while Lucky and Andrew Mitchell, QC, are representing Carlos John. Lucky is also appearing for Galbaransingh, together with Rajiv Persad.

Panday is out on $300,000 bail after appealing a two-year sentence handed down to him by Chief Magistrate Sherman Mc Nicolls earlier this year on three counts of failing to declare a London bank account.

Galbaransingh is contesting moves by the US authorities to have him extradited to answer 13 corruption charges in that country.

Galbaransingh and businessman Steve Ferguson are wanted in the USA to face charges of fraud and conspiring to engage in money laundering in the USA, T&T, the Bahamas and elsewhere.









©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

By Jada Loutoo

A diabetic patient is likely to go blind before receiving eye care treatment at public health institutions, an optometrist said yesterday. And according to Petra Bridgemohan, the lengthy delays experienced by glaucoma, cataract and diabetes' patients for treatment can be as long as six to nine months. "It comes down to a lack of administrative understanding and a lack of resources and adequate management," she said. Bridgemohan was testifying at yesterday's sitting of the commission of enquiry mandated to look into the operation and delivery of public health care services. She also slammed the Government's cataract unit, saying it was a good political public relations tool but delivered only short-term solutions. Admitting that there was no structured eye care service at the public health care institutions, she added that optometry services locally were largely provided by private practitioners. Bridgemohan suggested adopting the UK hospital accredited optometry services model which will allow hospitals to contract out eye care services to accredited practitioners throughout the regional health system. She said the failure by the regional health authorities to deliver a proper service was as a result of poor management and not understanding the technical aspects of the work of optometrists. "Political interference and partisan appointments have got to stop at the level of board appointments," she stressed. She also said people trained in hospital management must be appointed to RHA boards, instead of partisan nominations. Theft, corruption in procurement and other forms of corruption in the global health care sector, she said, was identified by Transparency International in its 2006 corruption index report. She said the procurement and tendering processes in T&T must be looked at.

©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Jet maker: Test flights common


Hayden Mills


Saturday, September 16th 2006(T&T Express)



IT is common practice for Canada-based Bombardier Inc to have discussions and regular demonstrations of the products and services they offer, as in the case of the test run Prime Minister Patrick Manning had last weekend.

So said Leo Knaapen, the media relations officer of Bombardier Aerospace, Business Aircraft department in Dorval, Quebec, Canada, yesterday.

He was being questioned on the policies involved with respect to the company's demonstrations of its products and services.

According to their website, Bombardier is an international manufacturer of innovative transportation solutions, from regional aircraft and business jets to rail transportation equipment.

Knaapen said the company has discussions and regular demonstrations with top corporations and government officials globally at any given time of the month.

And these demonstrations and discussions were different in each case, since the needs of the clients were different.

When asked if it was the company which initiates these discussions and demonstrations, he again said that each case was different.

Knaapen was unaware of the test flight Manning had last weekend on board a US$50 million long-range jet manufactured by Bombardier.

However, he said even if he knew, he would not have been able to divulge the details of such an arrangement, since they were confidential.

Works Minister Colm Imbert denied at Monday's post-Cabinet meeting that the Government had intentions of purchasing the private jet.

PM: Change lifestyle to beat health woes


Anna-Lisa Paul



Saturday, September 16th 2006(T&T Express)


While heart disease has remained the leading cause of death in Trinidad and Tobago, authorities are worried that chronic non-communicable diseases affecting persons in younger age groups will continue to rise if a lifestyle change is not immediately wrought.

And special attention is being paid to cardiovascular disease and diabetes, in the context that Trinidad and Tobago continues to have the highest prevalence among countries of the region, as well as an even greater rate in comparison with North American countries.

Revealing this yesterday as he addressed participants at a national symposium on Chronic Non-communicable Diseases at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Port of Spain, Prime Minister Patrick Manning said he was deeply concerned that non-communicable diseases continue to "affect the people of our region in epidemic proportion".

With the symposium placing special emphasis on cardiovascular diseases, Manning said it was critical to sensitise the Caribbean people to "the nature and gravity of the challenge and to devise measures for the prevention of these diseases".

Manning believes a lifestyle change could prevent many non-communicable diseases from occurring and said Government would spare no expense in ensuring the physical health and well-being of its citizens.

Also addressing participants, Health Minister John Rahael echoed Manning's comments as he quoted some statistics.

In 1990, Trinidad and Tobago reported the highest mortality rate for ischemic heart disease in the Caribbean and in 1997, cardiovascular diseases were responsible for 38 per cent of all male deaths and 43 per cent of all female deaths, he said.

Current statistics reveal that cardiovascular disease is at 25.1 per cent; diabetes at 13 per cent; cancer at 13 per cent and cerebro-vascular disease at 10.4 per cent.

Saying that "these numbers are expected to rise unless immediate action is initiated and sustained", Rahael extended a challenge to all citizens to take charge of their lives and begin thinking and eating healthily.

The risk factors which contribute to heart attacks, strokes and end stage renal failure include diets high in saturated fat, low in fresh fruit and vegetables, a lack of physical activity, tobacco smoking and excess alcohol, he noted.

Rahael said the ministry and Government was alarmed to find that chronic non-communicable diseases account for almost 60 per cent of all deaths worldwide and in 2005, a quarter of those deaths, which amounted to nine million, occurred in men and women below 60 years of age-people of working age.

An announcement that there would soon be a policy which bans smoking in all government buildings and vehicles was met with a round of applause from the audience.

Referring to non-communicable diseases as the "silent tsunami", UWI Chancellor, Sir George Alleyne, said attention must be paid to early warning signals which could prevent "it from overwhelming us and our children".

Saturday 16th September, 2006

BHP makes discovery


By Curtis Williams (Trinidad Guardian)


BHP Billiton has made a hydrocarbon discovery in Block 3(a). Well placed sources told the Guardian the discovery was made in BHP's Kingbird-1 well which was the fourth spud in the block.

The well was completed on September 4 but there is no word on the extent of the find.

The Guardian has been told that a shallow well, Ruby-1 was being drilled to give the Australian outfit a better idea of the extent of the discovery.

Yesterday BHP said it was not in a position to give any information on the discovery.

"We don't have any material information to disclose at this time. However, we will make announcements as appropriate and in compliance with relevant stock exchange rules," the company said.

BHP Billiton however, confirmed the drilling of Kingbird-1 well and the fact that it was now drilling Ruby-1.

In a statement the company said: "As part of its ongoing exploration programme off Trinidad's east coast, BHP Billiton T&T recently completed drilling of its fourth exploration well"” Kingbird-1, in Block 3(a). Drilling on Kingbird-1 was completed on September 4 Kingbird-1 was spud on June 17 2006. Drilling results from the well are still being reviewed."

Ruby-1 is expected to be completed in October 2006.

The Nabors Rig 657 is conducting the drilling programme on behalf of the Block 3(a) joint venture.

BHP Billiton said it was too early to tell if it would tie its commercial discovery in Block 3 (a) to its facilities in Block 2(c).

"We are focusing on completing the current drilling programme, and only after evaluation of the results will we be in a position to address this issue." the release explained.

Block 3(a) has so far been a very unsuccessful block for BHP Billiton having failed in its first three wells.

Block 3(a) is operated by BHP Billiton T&T (25.5 per cent). Joint venture partners include Kerr McGee (25.5 per cent), Talisman (25.5 per cent), Petrotrin (15 per cent).




©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Saturday 16th September, 2006


T&TEC chairman promises lower rates


BY RESHMA RAGOONATH

Citizens can look forward to paying lower electricity rates in the not too distant future, so said chairman of T&TEC Devanand Ramlal.

That is once the electricity company implements its "Automatic Meter (Reading) Infrastructure" project.

Ramlal made the disclosure at the official streetlighting ceremony at Mon Repos Fire Station headquarters on Thursday night at which Prime Minister Patrick Manning switched on the newly installed lights.

The chairman said the new Automatic Meter Infrastructure "will allow T&TEC to remotely read its meters accurately and timely and reduce the incidence of estimated billing. No longer will meter readers call at customers' homes."

He said the automatic meter reader project, when completed, "will be equipped with the technology to offer flexible rates for off peak usage."

"In other words," Ramlal said, "when the system is installed in the not-too-distant future T&TEC will be able to offer lower rates for off-peak usage."

This project will be shared with WASA, he added, "allowing us the opportunity to read their meters when they provide water for all."

The PM, in delivering his remarks at the ceremony, confessed that the current WASA chairman has asked him to be relieved of his post at the public utility due to the workload.

Manning also congratulated T&TEC for installing 69,000 streetlights in a ten month period.



©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

PM smiles


Saturday, September 16 2006(T&T Newsday)


picture
NO COMMENT: Prime Minister Patrick Manning remains mum as media indicating personnel question him Thursday over rumours he wants a private jet.

PRIME MINISTER Patrick Manning, has declined comment on whether Government had considered purchasing a private jet.

Manning was questioned by reporters at Thursday night's function to switch on street lights in Mon Repos, whether or not he had taken a test ride on a Bombardier Global Express long-range business jet. The prime minister responded with a broad smile when questioned. Asked whether the jet's manufacturers who also build and design trains and other transit vehicles, had been contracted to build the light rail system in Trinidad, Manning again declined comment.

At Thursday's post-Cabinet briefing, Works and Transport Minister, Colm Imbert, said that there was no intention by Government to purchase a private jet aircraft for use by the Prime Minister or any other member of the Government. Imbert, however, said that the test flight was instead a demonstration of the aircraft's capabilities. When asked whether he was on board last Saturday for the test run, Manning placed his hands in the air and smiled.

Sunday 17th September, 2006


Minister raps PNM's ˜election behaviour'


"Some of the worst behaviour you will see in the PNM is around election time," says junior National Security Minister Fitzgerald Hinds.

He said the comment was made to him by a PNM stalwart as he cautioned the young people in the audience not to follow the example of some of the party's senior members.

"There are elements in the PNM who take the election process too far."

Hinds said these elements, in their rush to attain office, became malicious and engaged in unseemly behaviour.

Urging the youths to keep their election process pure, clean and disciplined, Hinds said:

"You must understand when you are seeking office it has to be because you are committed to serving."

Hinds, who delivered the feature address at the function, also installed the Youth League's new executive.

Prime Minister Patrick Manning, according to the programme"”and a release sent to the media"”was slated to speak at the function and install the new executive. He was, however, a no-show.

In his address, Hinds encouraged youths to make a positive difference in their communities.

Paying special attention to Laventille"”which he described as not merely a place but rather an experience"”Hinds advised the PNM's young supporters to take advantage of the programmes and opportunities offered by the Government.

"It is a sin to waste money and a moment in time...We have no time to lose," he said.

"You don't need the clothing of office to serve. And if you serve well, you don't have to fight for office. The people will put you on their shoulders and take you into office."

Hinds, however, had some harsh words for the young men he said wasted money, their potential and time.

The Laventille East/Morvant MP said it made him sick to see groups of young men liming on the road at 8.30 am "like corbeaux taking sun."

"They feel because they peeing froth they is man. It have 15- and 16-year-old with two children already.

"Being a man don't mean just having sex and a baby. Being a man means responsibility," said Hinds, and the mainly female audience applauded lustily.

"Without discipline, work and prayer, there will be no progress," he added.

Marcus Solomon was elected the new PNM Youth League chairman, Kizzy Vincent vice chairman and Adrian Winter public relations officer.



©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Sunday 17th September, 2006


T&T Consulate plays host to New York Beauties


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Allison Mason, marketing manager of Travel Span, Eric St Bernard, Miss St James Charisse Mills and Earl Crosby.



The T&T Consulate in Manhattan, New York, played host to participants in the Miss T&T New York competition, last Thursday.

The press launch, billed as a champagne soiree, was organised by director Renée Cummings with the assistance of consulate press attaché Andrea Chambers-Wilson, Arlene Roberts and Giselle Williams.

The event attracted the who's who of New York's T&T community, in particular, and other Caribbean VIPs living in New York City.

Hosted by Eric St Bernard, participants gave guests a taste of their talent, intellect style and flair.

The tenth annual Miss T&T New York will be held on Sunday, September 24, at the Fashion Institute of Technology, Haft Auditorium, West 27 Street and 7th Avenue, Midtown Manhattan.


For further information, visit: www.missttny.com, www.thepageantblog.com or 212-340-1334.

Photos: Clyde Belcon



©2003-2004 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Mexican celebrations in TT


Sunday, September 17 2006(T&T Newsday)


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Members of Xitlali Folkloric Ballet perform a traditional Mexican dance. picture


MARIACHI music, part of Mexico's rich cultural heritage, filled Queen's Hall on Friday evening. The occasion was a concert in celebration of Mexico's 196th Anniversary of Independence.

The traditional music was performed by the band Los Charros de Villa, among the Mexican artistes who were in Trinidad and Tobago for the event.

Guests at the event, including this country's Foreign Affairs Minister Knowlson Gift, were also treated to performances by the Xitlali Folkloric Ballet in a repertoire that included favourites like "Guadalajara" and "Viva Mexico".

The evening ended with cocktails served in the lobby of Queen's Hall.


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Sunday 17th September, 2006



interest-free loans



BY GIZELLE MORRIS (Trinidad Guardian)


Imagine being able to buy your own home without the burden of paying interest rates or a mortgage loan.

Interest-free home and property ownership is exactly what T&T's newest co-operative, Manzil Co-operative Society Ltd, seeks to offer its members.

The Manzil home acquisition plan is based on a declining balance approach which places the buyer and the co-operative as co-owners on the property. Under the terms of the programme, the buyer does not repay an interest-bearing loan.

President of the fledgling co-operative, Isa Jerome Chambers, said the organisation is based on the tenets of Sharia, or Islamic religious law derived from the Qur'an.

"The idea for Manzil came out of a need for the provision of Sharia-compliant financing in the area of property development," said Chambers on Thursday during an interview at the co-operative's Santa Maria Plaza, Mucurapo Road, St James, office.

He also stressed that Manzil, registered as a co-operative in December 2005, is not a "fly-by-night concept," or a front for any radical Muslim group.

So worried was he about the latter, Charles, a Muslim of African descent, revealed that he was hesitant about accepting the post of president.

"It is firstly an Islamic financial institution," Chambers said.

What this means is charging interest, or riba, is not permitted.

Chambers said Manzil is an alternative for Muslims interested in property and land development, but without the obstacle of riba.

The Qur'an, he explained, states that engaging in usury"”the collection or payment of interest"”is prohibited.

"If the Qur'an says stay away from riba, do not deal in it, nor take, nor give; the choice is clear," he said.

Chambers said this is the biggest difference between Manzil and other co-operatives.

But if the co-operative will not charge interest, how is the company to make money?

According to Chambers, Manzil's profit lies in trade.

"For now, we are concentrating on buy-and-sell transactions, as opposed to going through the financing process," he said.

Chambers explained that unlike other banks, which loan a prospective buyer money, in Islamic mortgage transactions, the institution purchases the property.

The financial institution then re-sells the property to the buyer at a profit, while allowing the purchaser to pay in instalments.

During the stipulated payment period, both parties will be co-owners with the buyer having the option to purchase the co-operative's share in the property.

Because this type of commerce is based on Islamic laws, there are no penalties to the buyer for late payments.

Chambers also said if a member encounters problems in making payments repossession is not automatic.

"If a person is unable to afford to pay, the majority share holder can sell the property at market value," explained Chambers, who has worked out of the office of the Commissioner of Co-operatives for the past 15 years.

And even then, said Manzil's treasurer Wayne Herbert, the co-operative can only recover what it is owed and the member is refunded their initial investment.

But repossession, said Chambers, is extreme, because in most cases, allowances would be made for persons in financial difficulty.

"In all these agreements, we are relying on the person to behave like a good Muslim," said Chambers.

Which brings us to another major issue.

Membership in Manzil is only available to Muslims"”of good character.

"The whole entity is really there for the welfare of the Muslim community, to provide one of the basic requirements for man and that is a home," said Chambers.

As part of their commitment Manzil has a Sharia board, consisting of Islamic scholars, including Mufti Waseem Khan and Sheik Yusuf Talal De Lorenzo (member of the Canadian Islamic Bank and Dow Jones Company Sharia board).

"A Sharia board is a requirement for Islamic financial institutions," said Chambers. "The management has a commitment to pay attention to what the Sharia board has to say."

The board ensures all investments comply with Islamic law.

Islamic financial organisations are forbidden to invest in businesses engaged in the production, or trade, of alcohol, pork, gambling and un-Islamic media, like pornography.

"We must ensure that everything complies (with Sharia) because it is easy to slip into interest in a capitalist society," said Chambers.

The September 2, launch of Manzil at Rasam Restaurant, City of Grand Bazaar, Valsayn, signalled the co-operative's readiness to enter the real estate business.

Although the membership now stands at 65, Chambers said because of the unique service Manzil offers this number is expected to grow at a rapid rate.

"Property development is one of our long-term projects. We are not trying to make gated Muslim communities, but we are creating homes for the general public," said Herbert.

Bheemal Ramroop, Commissioner of Co-operatives at the Ministry of Labour, who attended the launch, wished Manzil's new board success, but issued a note of caution.

"Be constantly vigilant. We've had organisations with intentions of getting into housing, but they have not delivered based on the expectations of members," he said. "We have societies getting into this area without doing research and in their enthusiasm to get ahead sought to purchase property without realising they could not get the proper approvals and now the land is of no use to members," Ramroop added.

In challenging the board of directors to ensure accountability and transparency in all its' dealings, Ramroop said Manzil's venture was a much needed service, particularly with the escalating cost of housing and real estate.

Kwesi Atiba, of the Islamic Resource Society, also offered the fledgling co-operative words of encouragement and commended the board for taking up the challenge to provide affordable housing in T&T.

Also addressing the gathering was Yacoob Ali, president general of the Anjumaan Sunaat Ul Jamaat Association.

"Poverty and deprivation affects the mass of Muslim people in the Diaspora, organisations like these help look after our brothers and show we are a people who care ." he said.



©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Russia strikes deal for TT gas


Sunday, September 17 2006


MOSCOW: Russian gas monopoly Gazprom said on Wednesday it had struck a deal with Britain's BP on supplying liquefied natural gas (LNG) to the Atlantic market, and said the first cargo had already been loaded.

Gazprom said in a statement that BP would supply it with cargoes of LNG for sale on the Atlantic market during the rest of 2006 and early 2007.

It said the first cargo was already loaded at Point Fortin in Trinidad and Tobago on Wednesday and would go to the Cove Point regasification terminal in Maryland in the United States.

Firearms for Customs Officers



RIA TAITT Monday, September 18 2006 (T&T Newsday)


CUSTOMS Officers will soon be able to carry guns while on the beat. This is the major amendment to the Firearms Amendment Bill which was piloted by junior National Security Minister Fitzgerald Hinds in the House of Representatives last Friday.

Under existing law, customs officers could only bear arms while "patrolling the territorial sea" but the new bill proposes to remove this restriction.

This was necessary, Hinds stated, because of the broader mandate given to these officers which subjected them to greater threat from criminals.

He recalled that a valued and senior member of the Customs Department lost his life in Tunapuna in circumstances that gave great concern to the security forces and the population.

Hinds said this was because the function of customs officers had moved from revenue collection to tax facilitation, free trade, cross border safety and other more thorough security issues.

He said in keeping with this mandate, the Customs and Excise Division through its specialised units, had become very active in anti-security operations, fraud detection, money laundering, detection of document tampering and counter narco and illegal weapons. More recently, they have been engaged in counter-terrorism activity in conjunction with other law-enforcement agencies, Hinds added. He said the recent success of the Division pointed to the need for modern legislation and up-to-date equipment, especially for the officers' personal security and the security of retrieved items and the need for properly engaging criminals.

He said penalties arising out of breaches of the customs law amounted to $5.5 million between 2003 and 2005.

He said in the same period, narco interdiction at all ports resulted in the arrest of 125 people and the seizure of cocaine, heroin and marijuana with a total street value of $109 million.

Eric, these are not money paying ventures.. They will cost a lot to implement..

Monday 18th September, 2006


From Chile to T&T


picture
Chilean ambassador Gabriel Zepeda and his wife Irina pose for a photo at the 2006 National Awards Ceremony and Independence celebrations hosted by President George Maxwell Richards at President's House, St Ann's, on August 31. Photo: Andre Alexander



By Michelle Loubon

"It happens in Trinidad." So says Chilean ambassador Gabriel Zepeda as he referred to two firsts"”his appointment from career diplomat to ambassador and his mandate to establish a residential embassy.

"It's the moment you have in mind all the time. It's the first time I am ambassador. It is my privilege to serve at the highest level.

"I presented my credentials to His Excellency (President George Maxwell Richards) on December 13. At that moment, you are in the position of representing all the peoples of your country," said Zepeda, 57, at his home at 3 Ellerslie Park, St Clair, two Wednesdays ago.

From his office on the seventh floor of the Tatil Building, 44 Maraval Road, Port-of-Spain, Zepeda is eager to begin working on establishing a programme of co-operation, building and strengthening personal and business relationships and establishing contact with the T&T Government.

Sharing in the happiness of Zepeda's milestone was his wife Irina, 55, the mother of his three children. Two of the offsprings"” Daniella and Jose"”are studying in Santiago and Jabiera is personal secretary to her doting daddy.

Far from the long sliver of a country in south-western Latin America, which is bordered by Peru (north), Bolivia (east), the South Pole and the Pacific Ocean (west), the Zepedas are settling in after eight months.

Irina has fallen head over heels in love with Trinidad's beautiful beaches.

"I love to go to Maracas, Toco, Blanchisseuse, Las Cuevas and Manzanilla. I love the environment here. I don't mind the rain. I sit and embroider when it rains," said Irina, a civil construction engineer by profession. On the flip side, Zepeda was impressed by the work ethic, affable nature and organisation of the locals.

Trade/ co-operation in T&T

Locals savour the bouquet of Chilean wines such as Merlot and Sauvignon Blan from prime wine regions in Atacama, Coquimbo and Aconcagua. As trade links grow, Zepeda is optimistic that locals would purchase more Chilean products, including fresh fruit and produce, flowers and bulbs, pork, chicken, beef and lamb products, marine equipment, garment, textile and wood.

"Chilean wines are increasing its presence here. Then, we have the kiwi fruit, prunes, apples coming here. Our goal is to increase that presence. We want to export seafood here, too," added Zepeda.

Chile's Mediterranean climate makes it the world's largest source of grapes and the second-largest kiwi fruit and avocado producer. It is a leader in the Southern Hemisphere, as a shipper of apples, plums, peaches, nectarines, pears and berries.

Then, its 4,300 km coastline on the Pacific Ocean holds an astounding variety of fish, shellfish, seaweed, salmon, oysters and scallops (second largest source). Its 2004 catch positioned Chile as the seventh largest fishing nation in the world after China, Peru, Japan, Indonesia, India and the United States.

With his country blessed with such enviable abundance, Zepeda is hoping to attract the investment of the private sector.

"Chile is an open economy. It has a low tariff. We want to create conditions to attract the private sector," he said.

Transport, especially via air, has to be strengthened, too.

"We are looking at Panama, and its connection with Chile, and hoping to link it with direct T&T flights. We are looking at sea transport and air freight. We are looking at new airlines to link South America with T&T.

"We have fresh fish that could reach here in less than 24 hours. We are looking at fresh fish from the farms arriving in Trinidad in the late afternoon, in time for the restaurant."

Whipping up "reciprocal interest," is extremely vital for the country of 13 million people"”a small country by Latin American standards.

"We want to buy LNG from here in the future," he said.

Spanish as a second language

Se habla espanol (Spanish is spoken here). Zepeda is supportive of T&T's Minister of Trade Ken Valley and the country's Minister of Foreign Affairs Knowlson Gift's drive to make Spanish the country's second language.

Through the International Co-operation Agency of the Republic of Chile (AGCI), eight Spanish teachers from secondary schools were given scholarships to Santiago, Chile.

On July 27, Zepeda hosted the schol recipients at a cocktail party at his home.

"I am supportive of the Government's drive to bring Spanish here as a second language. It will take some time. We are hoping the sending of teachers would be permanent. I am looking at bringing a TV station to put Spanish on the air."


Former postings

A Bolivian painting of a Madonna and child, a table from 19th century Chile, Oriental rugs from Argentina and trinkets from Colombia enhance the Zepedas' spacious living room.

Before coming to T&T, at 24, he was appointed Third Secretary to Colombia and Nairobi, Kenya, in Africa. Then he served as First Counsellor in Argentina, New Zealand, Washington, Maryland, Bolivia and then again at Buenos Aires, Argentina.

His stay in Nairobi remained etched in his mental archives.

"I don't think I can run away from a lion, now.

"We had such a good time in Nairobi. I made some of my best friends there. It is sad, when you leave behind the friends you've made," he said.

Hard work marked Zepeda's stay in Argentina. Emigrating Chileans head to the land of revolutionary Evita Peron, mainly in search of work.




©2005-2006 Trinidad Publishing Company Limited

Chile would send spanish teachers to Trinidad and in return Trinidad would send oil..