February 21, 2017: On Monday February 20 the Honourable Stuart R. Young, Minister in the Ministry of the Attorney General and Legal Affairs and Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, was paid a courtesy call by His Excellency Tim Stew, British High Commissioner, Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary Mr. Paul Holewell and Mr. Julian Davies of the British National Crime Agency.

The meeting took place at the Ministry of the Attorney General and Legal Affairs at the AGLA Tower, Government Campus Plaza where the delegation held discussions with Minister Young about assisting the Cabinet appointed manpower audit Committee, being chaired by Professor Ramesh Deosaran, into the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS).

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For further information please contact:

The Corporate Communications Unit

Ministry of the Attorney General and Legal Affairs

868-223-2452

February 21, 2017: In keeping with the mandate of “helping…, empowering…, transforming lives,” the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services on Friday February 10, 2017, hosted two (2) fifth-form classes of the Bishop’s High School, Tobago. The visit was part of the students’ knowledge quest to complete their School-Based Assessment requirements.

Permanent Secretary Jacinta Bailey-Sobers and Deputy Permanent Secretary, Haimdath Ramoutar, who represented the Ministry’s Executive, welcomed the students and teachers and provided a brief background into the operations of the Ministry and its mandate as it relates to the programmes and services available to the citizenry. PS Bailey-Sobers also stated that the Ministry was happy to host the students and teachers, and encouraged the students and teachers to visit and connect with the Ministry’s Social Welfare arm which functions in Tobago.  She extended best wishes to the students, for every success in their future endeavours.

Although described by one of the teachers as a hectic but successful day, the visiting students, embarked on this journey as they sought to examine contemporary family life in Trinidad and Tobago as well as the reasons for laws to protect the family in social situations. The National Family Services Division of the Ministry took centre stage in this regard, as Social Workers, Camille Mc Donald, Farisha Mohammed provided the visiting students and teachers with an engaging and interactive presentation on the family. Their presentation focused on:

• The roles, relationships and responsibilities of adult and sibling members of a Caribbean family;
• The causes and effects of the changes in the roles of family members in Caribbean society;
• Strategies for dealing with contemporary social issues that influence Caribbean family life.

A presentation was also made by Ian Rampersad, Attorney and Director of International Law and Human Rights, Ministry of the Attorney General.  In a brief but impacting discourse, Rampersad spoke on the five main Human Rights Conventions to which Trinidad and Tobago is a party to and the important role these Conventions play in protecting and preserving the rights of each Trinidad and Tobago citizen. Speaking from his own experience and knowledge, Rampersad encouraged the students to always aim for success and emphasised that each of them had the right to engender change, as they achieved their goals in life.

The students were also in receipt of information packages which comprised of useful study notes on the topics that were discussed. These were provided by the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services and the Children’s Authority of Trinidad and Tobago.

The Ministry of Social Development and Family Services was pleased to collaborate with both the Ministry of the Attorney General as well as the Children’s Authority, to host the students and teachers of the Bishop’s High School, Tobago. 

Students and teachers of the Bishop’s High School Tobago pose for a group photo after their session.

Farisha Mohammed (left) and Camille Mc Donald (right) National Family Services Social Workers speaking to students during their presentation to the students and teachers of the Bishop’s High School Tobago.

-END-

For further information please contact:

The Communications Unit

Ministry of Social Development and Family Services

868-623-2608 Ext 5405/5432                                                                         

February 21, 2017: The Honourable Camille Robinson-Regis, Minister of Planning and Development has announced the Government’s approval for Trinidad and Tobago to participate in a regional project called ‘Advancing the Nagoya Protocol in Countries of the Caribbean Region’.  This project will focus on access to genetic resources and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from their utilization and its overall aim is to determine whether Trinidad and Tobago should become party to the Nagoya Protocol.

The Ministry of Planning and Development, through its Environmental Policy and Planning Division is the national focal point for the Convention of Biological Diversity (CBD) and we are seeking the best interest of the traditional knowledge and biodiversity resources of Trinidad and Tobago.  The Nagoya Protocol refers to the way in which indigenous genetic resources and associated traditional knowledge may be accessed, and how the benefits resulting from their use may be shared between the entities or countries that use the resources (users) and those that provide them (providers). 

As it stands, other countries and institutions can develop downstream products such as medicines, dyes, chocolate products etc. from the genetic stock of Trinidad and Tobago’s indigenous plants, for example our cocoa and peppers, and animals and we earn no benefits or income from the sales.  In extreme cases, derivative or processed products were sold to countries which were the source of the original genetic stock at full market value without any concessions or recognition of that country’s input to the development of the new commodity.  The Nagoya Protocol intends to allow Trinidad and Tobago to claim profits of our natural resources that are used to create downstream products. 

Trinidad and Tobago has considerable potential with respect to the utilisation of genetic resources, particularly as a source of genetic materials which would contribute to the stock of biological resources required for research and development by external parties.  The Agricultural sector is likely to be the primary sector for biotechnology research as there are ready markets and a high demand for the commercialisation of bioengineered agricultural products.  Other sectors which may provide opportunities may include (but are not necessarily limited to) horticulture and the manufacture of non-timber forest products such as fabrics, dyes and pharmaceuticals.  The manufacture of organically based pesticides and biofuels remain an emerging sector for the application of biotechnology with the potential to access lucrative markets for organic agricultural produce and renewable energy respectively.

The Protocol aims to ensure that indigenous and local communities obtain a fair share of benefits from the use of their traditional knowledge associated with genetic resources and for their actual genetic resources, in cases where they have established rights to grant access to them, in accordance with national legislation. 

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For further information please contact:

The Corporate Communications Unit

Ministry of Planning and Development

868-627-9700 ext 1457

February 21, 2017: The Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) in collaboration with its state agency and subsidiary company, The Trinidad and Tobago Creative Industries Company Limited and the Trinidad and Tobago Music Company Limited hosted a Workshop on Friday 17 February, 2017 at the National Academy of Performing Arts, Port of Spain on the Business of Calypso, featuring, Dr. Linda Mc Cartha Monica Sandy- Lewis also known as Calypso Rose.

Senator the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon, Minister of Trade and Industry, in delivering the featured address indicated that, ‘Calypso Rose is an outstanding example of a Calypsonian who has excelled and shattered the proverbial glass ceiling in the process. She made her way into the calypso fraternity, at a time when this art form was primarily male dominated, and became the first female Road March winner and the first woman to win the Calypso Monarch title. She also copped the Calypso Queen title for five consecutive years from 1972 to 1977.’

Senator the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon assured members of the audience that, ‘the Government of Trinidad and Tobago appreciates and understands the social, cultural and economic importance of Calypso Music to our nation and beyond. Calypso Rose, in collecting her French Grammy, signalled that Calypso was not limited to any country, any language, any culture, or any gender. Indeed, this Government remains fully committed to the development of the Creative Sector of which music, indigenous to Trinidad and Tobago, is a key component. In fact, this facility, the National Academy for the Performing Arts, is testament to our Government’s vision to diversify the economy through investment in infrastructure to bolster the Creative Industry.’

According to Senator the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon, ‘in order to succeed, small and medium enterprises in the Music Industry must have greater access to financial support. The Ministry of Trade and Industry, for instance, has been working with the World Bank to establish a Secured Transaction and Collateral Registry where movable property would serve as collateral.  By that I mean non-traditional assets such as equipment can be used as collateral. Another area which needs strengthening is that of intellectual property.  Those wanting to make a career in the Music Industry, including songwriters, singers and producers must therefore be well-versed with assessing the value of their intellectual property and must use mechanisms to protect these assets to ensure their rightful income streams.’

According to Price Waterhouse Coopers, revenue from the global Music Industry is expected to grow from 42.93 billion U.S. dollars in 2015 to just over 47.7 billion in 2020.  Trinidad and Tobago’s bourgeoning Music Industry is therefore not only critical to the preservation of the culture but also to the country’s sustainable development.  Production, sound engineering, composing, recording and publishing were highlighted as viable career choices. Also referenced was a 2016 report by the Inter–American Development Bank (IDB) which listed the creative arts as an industry with the potential for the highest employment in Trinidad and Tobago along with fields such as medicine and engineering, according to data from the University of the West Indies.

During a panel discussion, the dynamic Calypso Rose gave the audience which comprised of budding and established artistes, a road map to her success. She stated that, ‘God said I made you in my own image and likeness. Anything you want in life you can get it. As long as you build your faith and hope and you say I will, I will, I will, you are going to succeed.’ Calypso Rose also made a call for culture to be taught in the Nation’s Schools. ‘I have taken Trinidad and Tobago’s culture, our Carnival all over the world. We need to teach culture in the schools in Trinidad and Tobago,’ she said.

In delivering remarks, Dr. the Honourable Nyan Gadsby-Dolly, Minister of Community Development, Culture and the Arts affirmed that, ‘most times we look at Carnival as participatory. How we participate, how we sing, how we enjoy our Carnival and we tend not to look at it from the aspect of what it can bring for us because the enjoyment tends to be what we concentrate on. But we are at a time now, where others have taken their creative arts and done so much with it and a time where our oil and gas reserves are being threatened ... this is the time now where we have to look at our creativity as a way for diversification and as a way for bringing economic returns into the country.’

The workshop served as a medium through which calypso and the people who make it a reality, could gain insights into commercializing their skills and expanding opportunities.  It included panel discussions on the story and history of Calypso Rose; essentials in composing calypso – then and now; calypso music production and the music business/ finance /marketing of calypso.

The panellists comprised distinguished contributors in the local music industry.  Among the areas highlighted were the benefits of ongoing training to perfect one’s art or performance, hard work and commitment, valuing local creativity, protecting one’s intellectual property, strategising for commercial/financial viability, branding, and online marketing.  Effective communication, including between the more experienced music entrepreneurs and those less experienced, was also stressed.

Cross-section of the workshop participants. 

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For further information please contact:

The Corporate Communications Unit

Ministry of Trade and Industry

868-623-8480/623-2931 ext. 2722

February 21, 2017: Noise pollution isn’t just a problem for residents in surrounding areas. It also has an impact on business and the tourism sector.

So efforts are being made to help curb this practice. Secretary of Infrastructure, Quarries and the Environment Kwesi Des Vignes recently met with members of the tourism industry, the recentlyformed
task force that will monitor noise pollution, and business owners of the Crown Point area.

Crown Point is one of the areas that has been most affected by this problem.

The Secretary is urging the public to play their roles in supporting the island’s economy, which can be impacted in the long term by continued noise pollution. “While law enforcers and the Government would do their part to protect its citizens,” Des Vignes said, “individual and collective responsibility must also be borne with those that are closest to the issues...we must all see the bigger picture.”

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For further information please contact:

The Department of Information

Office of the Chief Secretary

Tobago House of Assembly

868-639-3421 ext. 5019

February 21, 2017: In response to information being circulated in the public domain that the Traffic Warden Division and the Transport Division have embarked on an initiative to crackdown on vehicles that have not been inspected, the Ministry of Works and Transport (MOWT) would like to maintain that no such action was taken. The inspection of vehicles is in fact an ongoing process conducted by Motor Vehicle Officers throughout the year.

In light of the above, the MOWT would like to highlight the following information:-
 Cabinet Minute No. 1787 of 2013 which saw the Expansion of the Traffic Warden System noted that the Traffic Warden Division is “an institutional framework for dealing with the management of traffic and providing much needed assistance to the police service” as well as “increased awareness of road safety in schools and on the roads”.
 The Traffic Warden Division and the Transport Division are both guided by the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act 48:50; however, the inspection of vehicles falls under the purview of the Motor Vehicle Officers (known as Licensing Officers) who are assigned to the Licensing Department
 The Patrol of Traffic Wardens and Motor Vehicle Officers alongside the Police Officers is a routine occurrence that takes place throughout the year. The inspection of vehicles is not restricted to the Carnival Season.
 The fine for non-inspection or expired inspection stickers is $5000.00.
 Private Vehicles with a manufactured date (not date of registration) of five years or older are required to have their vehicles inspected at an authorised testing station every two years. Owners of these private vehicles are required to pay a fee of $165.00

 Owners of commercial vehicles are required to have their vehicles inspected on an annual basis at the Transport Division at a cost of $300.00
 Owners of Private and Commercial Vehicles are required to submit their Certified Copies to begin the inspection process.
 All vehicles must be in a roadworthy condition at all times.

Please be guided..

Below is a list of authorised garages where members of the public can have their vehicles inspected.

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For further information please contact:

The Corporate Communications Unit

Ministry of Works and Transport

625-1225 Ext. 10815

February 21, 2017:

The Honourable Anthony Garcia, Minister of Education toured the Queen’s Royal College with several Ministry officials on Tuesday 21^st February, 2017. He also met with the School’s Principal David Simon and other key members of the educational institution. The objective of the visit was to assess the scope of works required at the school to facilitate the effective delivery of the curriculum.

Minister Garcia said that Ministry officials will continue discussions on the way forward and make recommendations to the Ministry of Public Administration and Communications with respect to QRC’s claims for use of the premises vacated by the Ministry of Education. The QRC administration has sought permission from the Ministry of Education to occupy the former adjacent buildings which housed the Ministry of Education in St. Clair. However, the facilities on Alexandra and Hayes Streets are under the remit of the Properties and Real Estate Services Division (PRESD), Ministry of Public Administration and Communications.

Dr. the Honourable Lovell Francis, Minister of State in the Ministry of Education said repair works are needed on the school’s assembly hall where a portion of the gangway collapsed due to water seepage, “As a National Heritage Site, restorative works to that building are the responsibility of the Ministry of Works so we will be having discussions with that Ministry to see how quickly repairs can be effected. At present, students are compelled to meet in the courtyard, which is not ideal, especially since there is a space dedicated for such a purpose.”

Mr. David Simon, Principal of QRC said he was happy to facilitate the tour, “We had a very productive morning. We appreciate the Ministry’s commitment to continue discussions as we work toward ameliorating conditions at the school.”

At present, the school has undergone restorative work to its exterior, however there are several areas on the compound that need to be improved.

END

For further information, please contact:

February 21, 2017:

There has been a Cabinet decision to restructure the On-the-Job Training Programme (OJTP). The decision was made to facilitate the most efficient and effective integration of the OJT
Programme as a division of the Ministry of Labour and Small Enterprise Development, with a view to developing an appropriate organizational structure for the OJTP.

The OJTP under the existing structure will end on May 31, 2017 and the Programme, under the new structure will commence on June 1, 2017. A Transitioning Team has been put in place and is working steadfastly to ensure a seamless transition and that all bases are covered in this critical transitioning process.

The OJTP has successfully placed thousands of Trainees since its inception in 2002 and provided many with an introduction into the professional world of work. However, the integration of this Programme as a Division of Ministry of Labour and Small Enterprise Development presented duplication in several Support Unit areas. At this juncture in the process, a decision was made to obtain the official advice of the Public Management Consulting Division (PMCD) of the Ministry of Public Administration and Communications on the least invasive approach to
aligning the Programme to the Ministry.

A meeting with the Staff of the Programme was held on Tuesday, February 21, 2017 to address the issues and questions posed as a result of this restructuring. The Ministry advises that there will be neither disruption of employment nor payment of stipends to the Trainees enrolled in the Programme.

Cabinet, Minute No. 496 dated March 21, 2002, agreed to the implementation by the former Ministry of Science, Technology and Tertiary Education with effect from April 1, 2002 of an
On-The-Job Training Programme. The National Training Agency (NTA), an incorporate body, was mandated by Cabinet Minute No. 736 dated March 27, 2008 to develop a labour force that was competent, innovative, enterprising and entrepreneurial and administer the OJTP under the purview of the former Ministry of Science Technology and Tertiary Education. Gazette No. 125, Vol. 54, dated December 4, 2015 documented the transfer of responsibility of the OJT Trainees and Programme from the NTA to the purview of the Ministry of Labour and Small Enterprise Development.

END

For further information, please contact:

Corporate Communications Unit

Ministry of Labour and Small Enterprise Development

Tel: (868) 625-8478

Email: communicationsmolsmed@gov.tt

February 21, 2017:

Planning and Development Minister Camille Robinson-Regis hosted Her Excellency Penelope Beckles, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago to the United Nations in New York today, February 21, 2017.  The purpose of this meeting was to discuss the national development of Trinidad and Tobago in particular and the similar issues facing Small Island Developing States in general in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

The development of Trinidad and Tobago’s National Development Strategy Vision 2030 is based on goals highlighted in the SDGs.  The idea of collaborating with regional partners in Latin America and the Caribbean to address similar issues was discussed as part of a strategy to address the common factors of concern as well as to share successes in national development.

END

For further information, please contact:

Corporate Communications Unit

Ministry of Planning and Development

Tel: (868) 612- 9700 Ext: 2073-76

February 20, 2017:

The north-eastern community of Matura was host to the “Community Film Screenings – Carnival 2017” on Friday 17^th February, 2017. Carnival Roots was the second film to be featured in the collaboration between and the Ministry of Community Development, Culture and the Arts and African Film Trinidad and Tobago (AFTT). The screening, which took place at the Matura Community Centre, served as a home-coming of sorts for Asha Lovelace - Festival Director, AFTT. In her brief welcome remarks, she introduced herself “I’m Asha or Lulu – as some of you may know. I spent my early childhood here in Matura and I’m very happy that you made it to Community Film Screening this evening.”

The outreach initiative seeks to bring Carnival based documentary films to rural communities in Trinidad. The screenings are intended to bring communities together for communal movie viewing and entertainment. The films give a glimpse into various aspects of Carnival rituals and celebrations. Carnival Roots was no exception.

The music documentary film by Jason Benjamin and Peter Chelkowski took an in-depth look at Carnival and followed several Carnival performers over the 1999 Carnival season. Contemporary artistes of the day were featured including Black Stalin in the Calypso Arena; Kurt Allen in Soca and Winston ‘Gypsy’ Peters in Extempo. Their segments corresponded with exponents of the traditional Carnival Arts included Brian Honore and his portrayal of the Midnight Robber; Narcenio ‘Senor’ Gomez – Master Wire Bending Artiste and Sydney Joseph – Steel band Arranger. The 86 minute film held patrons’ attention as it seamlessly wove aspects of contemporary Carnival with its time-honoured practices.

Attendees at the Community Screening described the film as ‘informative,’  ‘educational’ and ‘a great experience and showed where the roots of Carnival originated.’

The Culture Division, Ministry of Community Development, Culture and the Arts will continue informing locals and visitors alike of the cultural significance of Carnival in Trinidad & Tobago with the following Carnival Exhibitions which will run throughout the Carnival Season:

•  Grandmaster of Calypso– An Exhibition on the late Aldwyn ‘Lord Kitchener’ -  National Academy for the Performing Arts (NAPA), Port of Spain. Monday to Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. 

• The Treasures from the Hideaway Exhibition - A presentation of the Mighty Sparrow’s personal and professional life - 2nd Floor, Culture Division Building, Frederick Street, Port of Spain Mon – Fri from 9.30am to 4.30pm.

• A Taste of Trinbago Carnival - An interactive display highlights three core components of Carnival: Mas, Pan & Calypso - Gulf City Mall, San Fernando. Monday to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Traditional Carnival Characters will be featured each Saturday from 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Event Photos:

Photo Caption: Brief Introduction: Asha Lovelace - Festival Director, AFTT introduces the Film at the Matura Community Centre last Friday.

Photo Caption: Getting Rooted:  Patrons at the Community Film Screening take in the Music Documentary Carnival Roots on the Friday 17^th February, 2017 at the Community Film Screening organised by the Ministry of Community Development Culture and the Arts and Africa Film Trinidad and Tobago. (Photos Courtesy: Ministry of Community Development, Culture and the Arts).

END

For further information, please contact:

Corporate Communications Unit

Ministry of Community Development, Culture and the Arts

Tel: (868) 624-5004 ext. 5140/5147

February 22, 2017:

The Children’s Authority of Trinidad and Tobago is concerned about the increasing number of reports of children missing. 

The Authority notes that children who run away from home are at the risk of being exposed to physical and sexual abuse from perpetrators, who will have increased access and opportunity.  As a result, the Authority is appealing to parents and guardians to know their children’s whereabouts and ensure that they are supervised at all times by a trusted adult.

Parents and guardians are reminded that maintaining open communication with children allows them to feel comfortable to report any incidents or concerns they may have.

Meanwhile, the Authority is calling on parents and guardians to ensure adequate measures are put in place for children’s safety over the Carnival period.

The Authority has identified some tips to observe:

• Set boundaries about places children may go and enforce them
• Encourage children to check in with you frequently when they are not at home
• Monitor closely social media and cellular phone activity
• Observe changes in your child’s behaviour which may reveal signs of abuse
• Know your children’s friends and observe any new influences which may affect their behaviour
• Older children should not be given the responsibility to supervise younger ones
• When attending Carnival activities, provide young children with identification cards bearing their name, name of parent/guardian, address and telephone number (this should be placed on their person, e.g. pocket, pinned under shirt or around the wrist)
• Do not serve alcoholic beverages to children
• If children are attending camps, be aware of the adults supervising them, their contact information and request the itinerary of events
• Monitor children at all times when at the beach or by the river. Never allow a child to go into the water alone
• Regardless of age, parents and guardians should talk to children about safety rules

The public is advised to report all incidents of child abuse to the Police or to the Authority at 996,800-2014 or email registry@ttchildren.org

For more information about the Children’s Authority,visit www.ttchildren.org

END

For further information, please contact:

Communications Manager

Children’s Authority of Trinidad and Tobago

Tel: (868) 627-0748 ext 2100

February 21, 2017:

Diversification, education, renewable energy, financial services and cross functionality of Governmental operations were the key areas of discussion for technical collaboration and support between the Minister of Planning and Development the Honourable Camille Robinson-Regis and the High Commissioner designate for the Republic of Botswana, Mr. David Newman. 

Mr. Newman is due to present his credentials to His Excellency Anthony Carmony soon.  Minister Robinson-Regis shared the view that Trinidad and Tobago possesses the capacity in all of the areas mentioned to be a strong partner and is willing to work with the Ambassador to create a solid partnership.  There is a shortage of surface water in Botswana and exploration activities have discovered water in the aquifer deep underground, this opens up opportunities for drilling companies with experience in the energy sector from Trinidad and Tobago. 

Ambassador Newman also made note of Trinidad and Tobago’s strong tertiary institutions and is looking for opportunities for sharing in this field.  The Government of Botswana is exploring diversification away from mining and its dependence on fossil fuels, namely coal, and seeks to work further with Trinidad and Tobago in this regard.  There are also opportunities to work together to identify means of developing sources renewable energy.

Diplomatic relations between Trinidad and Tobago and Botswana were established in 1998 and have remained cordial with cooperation over the years remaining primarily in multilateral fora such as the UN.  Possibilities for trade and developmental partnerships do exist and Minister Robinson-Regis is keen on exploring these opportunities.

Event Photo:

Photo Caption: Minister of Planning and Development, the Honourable Camille Robinson-Regis hands a token to His Excellency Mr. David Newman, High Commissioner designate for the Republic of Botswana. (Photo Courtesy: Ministry of Planning and Development)

END

For further information, please contact:

Corporate Communications Unit

Ministry of Planning and Development

Tel: (868) 612-9700 ext 2073-76

February 22, 2017:

At around 3:50 p.m. on Wednesday February 22, 2017, a fire occurred at the Ansa Mc Al Building, located at Independence Square, Port of Spain, which houses offices of the Ministry of Social Development and Family Services. The Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service was contacted and quickly responded.

Several Support Units of the Ministry were located at this building, namely the General Administration Department, Project Implementation Unit, the Policy Programme Planning and Development Division, the HIV Coordinating Unit, the Library, the Ministry’s Legal Unit, as well as the Secretariat of the Deputy Permanent Secretary.

All occupants of the building were escorted to safety and there were no injuries or casualties. Affected employees will be accommodated at other offices of the Ministry located on St Vincent Street, Port of Spain.

The Ministry of Social Development and Family Services wishes to advise that its Service Delivery Units were not affected as a result of the fire. All social services will continue to be available to the public.

The cause of the fire has not been ascertained at this time, as investigations are continuing.

 -END-

 For more information, please contact:

Communications Unit 

Ministry of Social Development and Family Services

Tel: (868) 623-2608; ext 5405/5432        

February 23, 2017: The Ministry of Health would like to report that the total number of confirmed cases of Zika since the onset of the epidemic on February 11th, 2016 has been 718 cases. Of these, 463 confirmed cases have been noted in pregnancy.

March 1, 2017: The Ministry of Finance has taken note of comments, articles and editorials in the newspapers regarding the passage of the Tax Information Exchange Agreements Bill 2016, also known as the FACTA Bill and the misconception that a JSC could have been established back in September 2016 and the Committee could have completed its work on the Bill at that time.

For the record, the following is the chronology of events with respect to this bill:
1. An advance copy of the original Bill was sent to the Opposition on September 5th 2016 and the Bill was then introduced and debated for the first time in the House of Representatives on September 9th 2016

2. At that sitting, the Opposition insisted on the establishment of a Joint Select Committee of Parliament to examine the Bill

3. It was pointed out at the time that the 1st Session of the 11th Parliament was due to expire in less than two weeks and it would thus be practically impossible to establish the JSC, which required separate sittings of both Houses of Parliament for its establishment, and for the JSC to meet, examine the Bill, solicit comments from stakeholders and the wider public, interview interested parties, report back the House of Representatives and conclude the debate in both Houses of Parliament before the session ended and Parliament was prorogued. In fact, under the best circumstances, working virtually nonstop, it would have taken at least one month to establish and complete the work of a JSC on a bill of this nature. It was also pointed out that the Government was in the final stages of preparations for the 2017 Budget which was due to be introduced in a few weeks, and which would occupy the Parliament for almost one month, almost to the end of October 2016

4. Debate on the Bill resumed on September 14th 2016 and the Opposition again insisted on a JSC, notwithstanding the fact that the 1st Session of the 11th Parliament was due to expire on September 22nd 2016, 8 days later. Budget Day was also announced on that day as September 30th 2016. The Budget takes precedence over all other matters and must be concluded before the end of October in any given year. The Parliament was then prorogued in accordance with the Constitution and in accordance with the Standing Orders, the proceedings on the Bill ceased.

5. The Bill was subsequently carried over to the 2nd Session of the 11th Parliament and debate restarted on September 23rd 2016. The Opposition again insisted on a JSC, although the Budget Debate was due to start on September 30th 2016, 7 days later, and it would again be impossible to complete the work of a JSC before the commencement of the Budget Debate.

6. With the original September 30th deadline for compliance with FACTA fast approaching, the Government then sought from the US Treasury an extension of time to September 30th 2017 for compliance. A JSC was contemplated at the time.

7. After the Budget Debate was concluded in both Houses of Parliament, debate on the Bill resumed on December 9th 2016. The Opposition again requested the establishment of a JSC and the Hansard record will show that on December 9th, the Minister of Finance referred to consideration by the Government of the establishment of a JSC to examine and report on the Bill. However, at that same sitting, the Hansard record will also show that the Leader of the Opposition was ejected from the Parliament at the beginning of the sitting under Standing Order 55 (Order in the House) after getting into an argument with the Speaker over the denial of a request that the Parliament be adjourned to debate an urgent matter. And after the Leader of the Opposition was ejected, the remaining members of the Opposition walked out.

8. It was thus impossible to establish a JSC at that time because it required the active participation of the Opposition to do so. The procedure requires the Opposition to name its members on the Committee in the House in active proceedings and then vote in the House to establish the JSC.

9. Thereafter on December 12th 2016, when the debate resumed on the Bill, the Opposition absented itself, thus making it impossible once again to establish a JSC. In the absence of the Opposition, because of the fast approaching extended deadline for FACTA compliance, the Bill was examined Clause by Clause and amendments were proposed, taking into accounts comments by stakeholders and the contents of a newspaper advertisement published by the Opposition. However, the final vote was not taken, leaving the door open for the establishment of JSC when the Opposition decided to return to the House.

10. The Opposition subsequently returned to the House on January 6th 2017, at which time the names of the Opposition members of the JSC were provided and a motion was proposed and approved by the House to send the Bill to a JSC.

The above chronology has been published to make it clear that the Government made every effort to establish a JSC on the TIEA Bill 2016, within the real constraints of the constitutionally required prorogation of the Parliament in September 2016 and the 2017 Budget debate, but the establishment of this Committee required the active participation of the Opposition, which occurred on January 6th 2017.

END
Ministry of Finance

March 1, 2017: A Public Awareness Seminar on the Moruga locust was held on Thursday 23^rd February 2017 at the Richard Douglas Presbyterian School in Barrackpore targeting residents and farmers of the southern side of Barrackpore, where locust swarms were previously identified. This session was coordinated by the Ministry's Regional Administration South Division (Victoria County Agricultural Office) and facilitated by the Agricultural Assistant III (with direct responsibility for the Locust Control Programme), Mr. Rudy Ramdass. 

Ms. Gangapersad, Agricultural Officer I, Victoria, acknowledged that the Ministry's efforts were supplemented as there were some farmers who ‘had become very proactive in the management of their own holdings either through their purchase and application of chemicals and/or by their active surveillance and responsible reporting of the locusts.’ Farmers at the session were informed of life cycle of the locust and the concomitant control strategy that the ministry has been employing.

The Ministry continues to effect its pest management strategy to treat the Marac, Moruga Food Crop Project (La Savanne), Cachipe, St. Mary’s, Santa Maria and Edward Trace areas. 

To report sightings of the Moruga locust and for additional information on the agricultural pest, please call the Victoria County Agricultural Office in Princes Town at 655-3428/7526/5637.

Farmers and residents of the Barrackpore community, gather at the Richard Douglas Presbyterian School in Barrackpore on Thursday 23rd February, 2017, to participate in a Public Awareness Seminar on the Moruga Locust, co-ordinated by the Ministry's Regional Administration South Division (Victoria County Agricultural Office) in Princes Town. 

County Agricultural Officer in the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, Ms. Sati Gangapersad (centre), is flanked by Agricultural Assistant III in the Ministry, Mr. Rudy Ramdass (right) and Barrackpore farmer, Mr. Harinarine Jaimungal (left), at a Public Awareness Seminar on the Moruga Locust on Thursday 23rd February, 2017, at the Richard Douglas Presbyterian School in Barrackpore. 

County Agricultural Officer in the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, Ms. Sati Gangapersad (left), sits down for a chat with two farmers from the Barrackpore community - Mr. Randy Gajadhar (centre) and Mr. Harinarine Jaimungal (right) - at a Public Awareness Seminar on the Moruga Locust on Thursday 23rd February, 2017, at the Richard Douglas Presbyterian School in Barrackpore. 

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For further information please contact:

The Corporate Communications Unit

Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries

868-622-1221

March 1, 2017: The Honourable Anthony Garcia, Minister of Education says the majority of teachers in both primary and secondary schools attended school today with 81.3% in primary schools and 77.7% in secondary schools, while there was notable absenteeism of students in both primary and secondary schools with 26.5% in primary schools and 18.3% in secondary schools. Minister Garcia is again calling on parents/guardians to treat Ash Wednesday as a normal school day, “We cannot allow the situation to continue where parents/guardians are keeping their children away from school because of Carnival. The situation must be stopped.”

Speaking during a media conference, Minister Garcia said teacher attendance at secondary school level ranged from 69.1% in South Eastern Education District to 81.5% in Caroni East Education District with and average attendance of 77.7% nationally.  At the primary level, teacher attendance varied from 79.1% in St Patrick Education District to 84.3% in Victoria Education District with and national average attendance of 81.3%. 

Students’ attendance at the secondary level was low in all Educational Districts, ranging from 11.0% in North Eastern to 28.1% in Victoria with a national average of 18.3%. At the primary level, attendance was also low in all Education Districts, ranging from 14.2% in North Eastern to 36.3% in Victoria with a national average of 26.5%.

Table: Summary Attendance of Students and Teachers on Ash Wednesday 1^st March 2017.

Minister Garcia said parents and guardians are expected to send their children to school on Thursday 2^nd and Friday 3^rd March 2017 in order to take advantage of the educational opportunities provided for them.

Chief Education Officer Harrilal Seecharan says the Ministry of Education will continue discussions with parental bodies such as the National Parents Teachers Association and other groups to deal with high student absenteeism during Carnival week. He said it is up to parents/guardians to send their offspring to school, however, if necessary, the Ministry of Education will explore different options. 

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For further information please contact:

The Corporate Communications Unit

Ministry of Education

868-628-6769

February 26, 2017:

The hit E-Entertainment Docu-series “WAGS” are filming an entire episode of its upcoming Season 3 in Trinidad and Tobago during Carnival 2017. Cast members arrived this evening (February 26) to a warm reception from TDC’s Chief Executive Officer (Ag.), Ms. Arveon Mills, and other senior tourism officials.

 “WAGS” stands for Wives and Girlfriends of SportsStars and one of the cast members is Sasha Gates who has roots in Trinidad and often times travels back annually for Carnival. Sasha Gates is currently married to NFL player Antonio Gates who plays with the San Diego Chargers. Other cast members arriving include Natalie Halcro, Olivia Pierson and Nicole Williams.

The cast will be filmed playing mas in one of T&T’s popular bands (FANTASY), visiting the Paramin Blue Devils as well as enjoying the serenity and beauty of some of our popular beaches. Whilst focusing on showcasing the energy and vitality of Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival, it is anticipated that the docu-series will provide potent glimpses of our twin islands’ natural beauty and myriad heritage attractions.

“WAGS” is a hit among young viewers (18-49 adults with a 65/35 female and male skew) especially among Hispanic and other diverse populations – 32% African/American and 26% Hispanic. The audience reach is approximately 94,296,000 households and the past season peaked with 1.1 million total viewers. During its overall Season 2 window, “WAGS” was seen by some 15.2 million viewers and the total reach across WAGS and its affiliated spinoff series WAGS Miami was 20 million people.

E-shows also get exposure on E-subsidiaries in Canada, Europe, Asia and Australia.

In welcoming the cast and crew of “WAGS” at the Piarco International Airport, Ms. Arveon Mills, the Acting CEO of the TDC pointed out that “the TDC agreed to provide logistical support to the filming by E-Entertainment as this show created a unique opportunity for potential visitors around the world to see, hear and watch positive messages about destination Trinidad and Tobago.”

ABOUT TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

Trinidad and Tobago, the culture and festival capital of the Caribbean, has the best and biggest Carnival celebrations in the world. A vibrant festival that mustbe experienced to be believed, Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival is undeniably the most exciting time to be anywhere on the twin island nation.

Enriched and influenced by the diverse ethnic groups which settled in these islands, Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival is “People’s Theatre on the Street” featuring many indigenous, artistic elements that distinguish it from other Carnival-style festivals.

A festival that embraces virtually every nook and cranny and everyone regardless of social persuasion, ethnicity or religion, Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival has shaped the celebration of over 150 Carnivals worldwide.

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For more information, please contact:

Manager Corporate Communications       

Ministry of Tourism                                                     

Tel: (868) 624-1403 ext. 248

March 2, 2017: Minister of National Security Major General (Ret'd) the Honourable Edmund Dillon wishes to thank members of the Defence and Protective Services for their efforts in minimizing incidents of crime during Carnival 2017.

The Minister noted that the high presence and visibility of officers on the streets during this Carnival period contributed to safer festivities and minimized crime.

Minister Dillon extended sincere condolences to the family of former soldier Sgt. Dexter James, and to the family of PC Sherwin Cedeno who both passed away after separate incidents on Carnival Monday.

Expressing concern over the murder of female citizens, the Minister expressed condolences to the family of Ambrozina Bernard and her daughter Cathy Ann Bernard.

Minister Dillon assured that the Ministry of National Security will continue to work unceasingly to reduce crime in Trinidad and Tobago, so as to make this country a safer place for all.

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For further information please contact:

The Corporate Communications Unit

Ministry of Finance

868-624-5771

March 2, 2017: Minister of National Security, Major General (Ret’d) the Honourable Edmund Dillon commends the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard on its recent multi-million dollar drug bust in international waters during a joint drug interdiction operation with the United States of America Coast Guard.

The interception which took place on 16 February, 2017 in international waters north of Paramaribo, off the coast of Suriname resulted in a find of 4.2 tonnes of cocaine with an estimated street value of One Hundred and Twenty-Five Million US dollars ($125,000,000.00 USD/$837,000,000.00 TTD), one of largest in the Atlantic since 1999.

This successful joint operation is demonstrative of the significance of maintaining close international and regional cooperation and coordination in addressing issues related to the transhipment of illegal drugs across borders.

The Ministry of National Security will continue to engage our international and regional partners on strategic and cooperative initiatives in several areas consistent with efforts to mitigate against cross-border crimes.

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For further information please contact:

The Corporate Communications Unit

Ministry of Finance

868-624-5771