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thechasefiles · 5 years ago

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The Chase Files Daily Newscap 11/2/2020

Good Morning #realdreamchasers ! Here is your daily news cap for Tuesday February 11th, 2020. There is a lot to read and digest so take your time. Remember you can read full articles via Barbados Government Information Service (BGIS), Barbados Today (BT), or by purchasing a Daily Nation Newspaper (DN).

BARBADOS TOPS EXPENSIVE PLACES – BARBADOS has been ranked as one of the world’s most expensive places to live. In its 2020 index of the countries where the cost of living was highest, international business publication CEOWORLD Magazine placed Barbados 12th out of 132 countries. Switzerland was deemed the most expensive place to live, followed by Norway, Iceland, Japan, Denmark, Bahamas, Luxembourg, Israel, Singapore, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Barbados. The most affordable place to live in, the publication added, was Pakistan. The others in order or ranking were Afghanistan, India, Syria, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tunisia, Venezuela, Kosovo, Georgia, Nepal, and Egypt. In the 2018 index, Singapore topped the most expensive ranking, and Barbados did not feature in the top 20. (DN)

TAX WARNING – GOVERNMENT WILL BE going after more tax evaders this year. Acting Revenue Commissioner Wayne Forde made this promise yesterday as he urged land tax defaulters to pay up. During the launch of a partnership between Card Services at Cave Shepherd and the Barbados Revenue Authority (BRA) at the latter’s Weymouth, St Michael office, Forde said there were 110 000 accounts, but the compliance rate was only 65 per cent. And he suggested that these delinquent accounts contributed to delayed payments to taxpayers. (DN)

SAGICOR PREPARES TO CUT JOBS IN BARBADOS, ST LUCIA - Job cuts at insurance giant Sagicor General’s Barbados - and St. Lucia appeared imminent Monday as the company announced that it will be undergoing a restructuring process. In a statement, president and CEO Keston Howell said the decision was taken after a strategic review of the company’s operations. On the fate of the staff in the two countries, he said: “We sincerely value the contributions of our team and will ensure that the affected team members receive the necessary guidance and support to assist them through this process.” He suggested the restructuring was a nod to an “ultra-competitive market” in which the firm sought to “improve customer experience and deliver superior value”. Sagicor General underwrites auto, home, travel and business insurance. “The company is focused on the delivery of exceptional service to its clients and is continuously reviewing operations to improve efficiencies,” the statement added. The news comes as Sagicor, the legacy of the Barbados Mutual Life Assurance Society nears its 180th anniversary. It operates in Antigua, Bahamas, Barbados, Dominica, St Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago. (BT)

TRUDEAU MAY BE HERE NEXT WEEK – Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is expected to be in Bridgetown next week for talks with Prime Minister Mia Mottley, she hinted today. The revelation came from Mottley as she addressed the launch of an initiative designed to improve diagnosis, treatment and care for children affected by paediatric cancers and serious blood disorders, which is being lead by the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, Canada. Addressing the function at Ilaro Court, Mottley said: “This Monday we have the opportunity to thank you as Canadians, and to thank the SickKids Foundation and to thank the High Commissioner, and next Monday I think we will do the same thing with the Prime Minister of Canada when he is here with us.” Mottley gave few details, but pointed to the longevity of the Canadian-based commercial banks in Barbados, saying the two countries would continue to build on their centuries-old relationship. But she gave an indication that the issue of climate change and climate resilience would be featured in their discussions. Mottley said: “The relationship between our countries is centuries long and I am happy to report that the temperature of that relationship is a good temperature. It is not in any means at risk of catching any kind of unfortunate problems that are facing the world today. “We look forward to working with our Canadian partners not just in the area of healthcare or philanthropy, but in a number of other areas of development, particularly the climate crisis which is bedeviling all of us at a rate and in a way that is really frightening some times.” Back in September 2018 the two prime ministers held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, as they discussed issues of interest to Ottawa and Bridgetown. (BT)

MIA WANTS NEW CDB STRATEGY – PRIME MINISTER Mia Amor Mottley is calling on the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) to come up with new strategies for new times. Though complimenting the bank on its 50 years of existence at an anniversary thanksgiving service held at Frank Collymore Hall yesterday evening, Mottley said it could no longer be a case of all things to all people. She highlighted a need for the bank to involve the youth in its mission going forward, to create economic accommodation to deal with climate change, and to ensure a secure water source for the region. The Prime Minister said Barbados had benefited from almost $1 billion in development capital over the last 50 years from the bank. “But I speak to you here not only as governor of the CDB [for Barbados], Prime Minister of Barbados and chairman of CARICOM, but I do so conscious that if ever this region needed the oxygen of finance for the thrust of development, it’s now as we face a series of existential crises that threatened to destabilise our progress.” (DN)

VIRUS TEST SOON – TESTING for the deadly coronavirus could begin in Barbados this week. That was the word last night from Minister of Health Jeffrey Bostic, as the death toll from the virus in China, where it was first reported last December 31, reached 811 yesterday, with 37 198 confirmed cases. It has spread to 27 countries and territories, infecting more than 330. Bostic was speaking to the media at the end of a public information session on the deadly virus, held at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre. He said the testing kits, which had been mentioned by acting Chief Medical Officer Dr Kenneth George during the session, would be facilitated through the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO). “We have a state-of-the-art public health laboratory here, the Best-Dos Santos [Public Health] Lab that has the capacity to do testing once we have the kits,” he said. George, in his closing remarks, had said the kits were on their way. “Barbados has taken an unprecedented step to try to have testing here in short order. And therefore, the Minister of Health and Wellness has been working closely with the Pan American Health Organization to have that facility in Barbados. The kits are coming shortly and after a quick verification and training of staff, Barbados should be able to test shortly,” George said. (DN)

WATER RATIONING FOR FARMERS – The Barbados Agricultural Development and Marketing Corporation (BADMC) will once again be rationing the water supplied to farmers at its Spring Hall Land Lease Project amid the forecasted drought conditions threatening to wreak havoc on yet another crop. Dr Jamekal Andwele, Technical Officer at the corporation made the revelation during a recent press briefing with local climatologists and meteorologists. He revealed that the Barbados Water Authority’s (BWA) decision to ration water last year took farmers by surprise and forced the BADMC to reduce their own rations down to two hours per day in some cases. While stressing there was no need to panic this time around, Andwele admitted that a solution was desperately needed for many rural farmers whose wellbeing is directly tied to the success of their crops. “There were drought conditions, low water levels and even some instances where our levels went completely dry. We were facing new issues because our pumps were clogged with slush from the low water levels and because of that, many farming districts went without water for three months as we replaced the pumps and as the water levels slowly began to improve,” he disclosed. Hoping to prevent a repeat of the issues, the technical officer revealed the BADMC would soon be installing new water metric metres at Spring Hall St. Lucy which will allow them to measure the water usage of each farmer and limit their water use based on how much produce and livestock they are raising. “So a farmer with ten acres growing a crop that needs significant amounts of water, he would get more water to wet his crops compared to a farmer who has one acre of something like Cassava or Sweet Potato which might not require the same amount of water. That is a pilot project that we want to start in either February or March,” Andwele disclosed. He added that over the last three months, officials from the Ministry of Agriculture have been engaging with the BWA and funding from the Caribbean Development Bank, to help them capture surface runoff from gullies and drainage canals before reaching the ocean. The statutory body will also be carrying out research, which will guide them in a quest to catch and store their own water for irrigation. Since Andwele’s comments, Prime Minister Mia Mottley announced an initiative that will see farmers planting more crops to supply institutions like the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) and the School Meals department. Farmers from Spring Hall will reportedly be key stakeholders in the venture, but it is still unclear how drought conditions might affect the effort. Meanwhile Chief Agricultural Officer, Lennox Chandler believes poultry farmers will be hardest hit by impending drought conditions and have been urged to rethink their stocking practices.“A lot of heat is given off in pens because you could have as many as 30 000 birds, which adds to the situation. So we are advising them to lower their density to a level that they could get enough circulation in the pens,” he suggested. Chandler advised other livestock producers to store high quality foliage of the grass and conserve it by placing it in special containers. For planters of fresh produce, he suggested that the focus be crops like cassava, sweet potato and others which do not require large amounts of water. (BT)

FISH PRICE WORRY – While Barbadians are now paying $10 to $15 dollars less for a pack of flying fish, fisherfolks are hoping that they would be paying less at Easter. Last Christmas the fish which forms part of Barbados’ national dish was being sold at between $35 and $40 per pack of 10. But when Barbados TODAY visited the Bridgetown Fisheries Complex today, vendors were selling the fish between $20 and $25 dollars. Vendors who agreed that the price should be reduced even further, said they are hoping that when the Easter season arrives they can sell the fish for less. Fishermen lamented that the vendors might get their wish once the catch improves. Returning to the island this morning after spending 16 days at sea where he caught about 14 000 flying fish, fisherman Jerome Brathwaite said Barbadians can be assured that flying fish will be around for Easter. He said he caught between three and five crates (300 fish per crate) of flying fish per day while on his recent trip, but noted that he was accustomed to catching way more than that. “Fish will be around for Easter. The price may go back up or come down, but fish will be around for Easter. The people in Barbados can rest assured that they are going to get fish for Easter,” Brathwaite said. Another fisherman who requested anonymity also returned to the island today with what he described as a fair catch. That fisherman said “Once the catch continues on this trajectory Bajans will get fish at a reasonable price for the Easter holidays.” “The catch wasn’t bad but we accustomed to catching more fish than this and that is why the vendors got to sell it for the price them selling it at now. But what I can say is that the catch is much better than it was around Christmas time,” the fisherman said. Barbados TODAY understands that in recent weeks, fishermen have been selling flying fish at between $130 and $150 per hundred depending on the catch. Vendor Angel reported that customers were happy to see the reduction in the price from $35 to $25. She said several customers have indicated that they were anxiously waiting for a cheaper buy. “They are happy but not as happy as they are to see them come down to their price where they could get them at $15 per pack. “But I don’t think that they would get to that price so soon because the vendors still paying a high cost for the fish from the boat,” Angel said. Meanwhile, vendor Gad Taitt suggested that vendors who were able to sell flying fish at $20 would have to be buying thousands. “When we had flying fish in here last week and week before, people buy three, four and five boxes of fish, and them people might still got flying fish to sell at $20. “But the average Joe that does buy flying fish on a daily basis and clean and sell everyday would have flying fish at $25 because if we don’t have a lot of boats the price is going to be high. “The man that buying 500 and 200 and 100 flying fish from the boat, is not going to get them at the price as the person that buying 10 and 15,000,” Taitt said. Taitt advised Barbadians who know they want to have flying fish on their tables at Easter to purchase them now so they would not be disappointed if there were only few around later. “Right now the flying fish ain’t stabilizing. Dolphins and flying fish ain’t stable and the price is fluctuating. So one day you might come and hear one price and another day you might come and hear another price. But I telling you that if the flying fish continue to go down as far as the catching is concerned, there is a possibility that the price could go back there,” Taitt said. (BT)

15 EQUIPPED TO TACKLE DRUG TRADE – THE CHANGING FACE of the drug trade needs to be matched with the changing face of drug law enforcement. Executive director of the Regional Security System (RSS) Captain Errington Shurland said this was why it was so important for women to be trained in how to identify and safeguard against drug traffickers. He was speaking yesterday during the opening ceremony for the Drug Investigations for Female Officers course, where 15 regional female law officers from the police and military forces are being trained. It is a partnership between the RSS, Organisation of American States and the Canadian Government. (DN)

FORMER PM SUED FOR DEFAMATION BY CURRENT PM’S FATHER – The High Court today ruled that former Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Owen Arthur used words capable of defaming the father of Prime Minister Mia Mottley in the lead-up to the May 24, 2018 General Elections. On July 23, 2018, Queen’s Counsel Elliott Mottley, now Sir Elliott filed an action in the High Court claiming that words spoken by Arthur during a press briefing on May 14, 2018 were capable of defaming him, based on the meaning or meanings attributed to Arthur’s statement which was published by a number of news outlets. And when he handed down his decision in the Number 12 Supreme Court before attorneys for both parties this morning, Justice Barry Carrington agreed with Sir Elliott’s claim. “In the circumstances, taking guidance from the principals and noting what constitutes ‘defamatory’, I hold that the words used by the defendant are capable of having the meaning attributed to them in…the claimant’s statement of claim,” Justice Carrington ruled. Before giving his decision, the judge quoted from Sir Elliott’s statement of claim which Sir Elliott outlined as possible grounds for defamation. “In their natural and/or innuendo meaning, the words meant and were understood to mean that the claimant [Sir Elliott] requested the defendant, as Minister of Finance to act ultra vires and unlawfully and grant the claimant a waiver of income tax arrears on income of millions of dollars under the provisions of the Duties, Taxes & Other Payments (Exemption) Act, Cap 67B of the Laws of Barbados,” Justice Carrington said. He further told the court that the claimant alleged that Arthur’s words meant or were understood to mean that Sir Elliott made the request in circumstances where he knew or ought to know that the said request required the defendant to act ultra vires or unlawfully. The presiding judicial officer went on to cite another aspect of Sir Elliott’s claim for defamation in which the Prime Minister’s father alleged that Arthur’s statement was capable of conveying the meaning that he, Sir Elliott, had made an outrageous, egregious or highly improper request of the former Prime Minister. “[He] Made a request of the defendant which was corrupt and/or unethical in that it would have been necessary to take the claimant’s request to the Cabinet of which his daughter, Ms Mia Amor Mottley was a member and thereafter to Parliament of which she was also a member, for its approval subject to a negative resolution,” Justice Carrington quoted paragraph 6 (iii) of Sir Elliott’s claim as stating. The judge also noted that Sir Elliott’s claim went on to allege that what the former prime minister said about him could be taken to mean he was inviting Arthur to commit a crime, namely, conspiracy to defraud the revenue. Justice Carrington also referred to paragraph 6 (v) of the claimant’s statement in which he [Sir Elliott] suggested that Arthur’s words meant and were understood to mean that he “was able to have arrears of tax waived probably as a result of a conspiracy involving a public officer”. Through his lawyers, the former prime minister filed his defence in which he claimed the words he used were fair comment on matters of public, national and historical interest and importance. His counsel Vernon Smith, Q.C. in association with Hal Gollop, QC contended that the words their client used were true and therefore justified. The defendant argued he did not impute or imply any motive on the part of the claimant, rather, he gave his reasons why he did not entertain Sir Elliott’s purported application for a waiver. The defence also indicated that reference to a conspiracy did not mean or suggest that there was one. Arthur’s counsel further insisted that use of the word ‘outrageous’ did not refer to the claimant’s character or reputation, but to his application for a waiver of tax. The claimant had filed an application to strike out the defence in its entirety, while the defence countered with a Notice of Application for a ruling on “meaning”. And today, Justice Carrington ruled on what he concluded Arthur’s statement were capable of conveying in its natural and ordinary meaning. “That the claimant wrongly made an unreasonable request of the defendant to waive the payment of taxes on millions of dollars of income earned by the claimant that involved a process where Cabinet and Parliament approval were necessary and thereby placed the defendant in an invidious position since the claimant’s daughter was a member of Cabinet and Parliament. Further, if the claimant was granted the waiver, it was possibly through a conspiracy with a public officer,” the judge ruled. But immediately following Justice Carrington’s decision, Arthur’s counsel served notice of his client’s intention to appeal the court’s decision. Lead attorney for Sir Elliott, Roger Forde, Q.C. did not contest the defence’s application for leave to appeal. Attorney for Arthur, Vernon Smith, Q.C. acknowledged that he had 21 days in which to formally file the appeal application. In the meantime, Judge Carrington will await the outcome of the Court of Appeal’s decision to determine the direction of trial to deal with the substantive case of defamation. Sir Elliott wants the High Court to grant him relief in the form of damages, aggravated and/or exemplary damages for defamation spoken and published by Arthur on May 14, 2018 at a press conference. The Prime Minister’s father is also seeking an injunction to restrain Arthur, whether by himself, “his servants or agents” from further publishing or causing to be published, the same or similar defamatory statements and/or comments. Sir Elliott also wants costs and such further or other relief the court deems fit. Neither he nor Arthur attended today’s sitting. Forde appeared for Sir Elliott in association with Lyn-Marie Simmons and Stewart Mottley. Also in court today as observers were attorneys Gregory Nicholls, representing the state-owned Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) and Shadia Simpson for Barbados TODAY. (BT)

POLLARD GOES ON TRIAL FOR MURDER –Twelve jurors empaneled to hear a murder case against a St Michael man have been urged to focus only on the evidence given in the High Court. Principal Crown Counsel Alliston Seale made the appeal in his opening remarks to the jury of six men and six women selected for the trial of Andrew Harclyde Pollard, of Mahaica Gap, Green Hill, St Michael. The Crown is alleging that Pollard, who is in his 30s, murdered Onicka Gulliver between March 11 and 14, 2014 in Vaucluse, St Thomas. The accused, who is being represented by attorney-at-law Sydney Pinder, has pleaded not guilty to the charge. In putting forward his case Seale, who is prosecuting the matter along with Crown Counsel Kevin Forde, told the jury that his side was also alleging that Gulliver was the “girlfriend or at least a friend” of the accused and sometime around March 11, 2014 she left her residence in Station Hill, St Michael in his company but never returned home. The prosecutor said as result, a missing persons report was issued and police investigations started. The prosecutors further alleged that during the probe the accused made “certain statements” which the police followed and were able to discover Onicka’s body in St Thomas. “Did anyone see him kill her? I tell you empathetically no,” Seale said. He added, “It is not any ‘I see’ witness . . but there is circumstantial evidence strong enough that you can make a reasonable inference from all of the circumstances. “You should focus on the evidence and only the evidence that comes from the witness stand.” However, he told the jury the case was being tried as a non-capital matter given the amendment legislation and as such there was no death sentence involved. The Crown expects to call 16 witnesses to give evidence in the case which will be tried in the No. 2 Supreme Court before Justice Randall Worrell. The matter will continue on Thursday February 13. Before that the two sides will make submissions in the absence of the jury beginning tomorrow. (BT)

REGIONAL – DAD KILLS EIGHT-YEAR-OLD DAUGHTER, HANGS HIMSELF – A man who allegedly beat his autistic daughter to death, killed himself on Sunday. Michael Maynard, 37, was found hanging from a tree outside his home at Boysie Trace, Kelly Village. The child, Makisha, was found dead in her bed. She turned eight-years-old last month. Maynard’s 11-year-old son alerted neighbours. At around 10.20 p.m. on Sunday, police were contacted and went to the Maynard house, a simple structure made of galvanised roofing sheets and wood. Police were told that around 7 a.m. on Sunday, Maynard used a cutlass to beat Makisha until she fell unconscious. The father changed her clothes, powdered her body and placed her to lie on her bed. Around 10 p.m. when the child did not regain consciousness, Maynard tied a length of rope to a mango tree and hanged himself. His son jumped through a window and alerted neighbours and relatives. Maynard’s brother cut the rope and placed the body on the ground. A district medical officer pronounced the father and daughter dead at the scene. Maynard’s sister told police that Maynard and his wife broke up about a year ago and he cared for his two children. President of the Glimmer of Hope Foundation Zahir Ali commented on the incident on a social media post, bringing attention to the issue of the parenting of autistic children. He said: “Autism is something that can lead you into Great Depression. No one knows how a autistic child can play on your mental, unless you in fact have a child with it. If you weren’t prepared for it, life can be quite frustrating. Only God knows what parents of autistic children are going through, especially in this third world country called Trinidad, where Autism has been around several years now and there is absolutely nothing put in place to help the less fortunate parents who can’t afford to pay for the occupational and speech therapy services”. (Trinidad Express)

SHORTAGE OF MALES WORRIES ERDISTON COLLEGE PRINCIPAL – A DEARTH OF MALES accessing adult education at Erdiston Teachers’ Training College has led its principal to consider launching a survey to examine what offerings might be more attractive to them. Dr Patricia Saul made this known when she delivered the principal’s address at the college’s Division of Continuing Education graduation ceremony for the year 2018-2019, at the Pine Plantation, St Michael campus on Saturday night. Of the 248 students receiving certification in 11 courses, only seven were men. “I don’t know if it’s that our offerings are not attractive to men. Probably we should be offering more things in the skills area, but [there is] SJPI (Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute of Technology] and so we do not want to go into their area . . . . “We want to have more males taking advantage of continuous professional development, if not the women are going to leave them behind. We’ve got to bring along the males,” she said. The overall pass rate for the graduates was 94.3 per cent, which Saul suggested was a reflection of the high level of commitment to the programme (DN)

LAND TAX CAN NOW BE PAID ‘THROUGH CAVE SHEPHERD’ – Land tax payers now have Cave Shepherd Card Services through which to make their payments to the Barbados Revenue Authority, the agency has announced.The revenue collection and tax administration agency announced that effective immediately, the over 110,000 taxpayers could use the send/receive feature on the Cave Shepherd App to make their land tax payments when they become due. The new Cave Shepherd App payment method is an addition to the authority’s digitization efforts, following on its recently implemented Tax Administration Management Information System (TAMIS), and the eZPay+ platform that is used to pay for various government services. Making the announcement at the BRA’s Weymouth, St Michael location today, Acting Revenue Commissioner Wayne Forde said the additional payment method was one of the ways the agency was seeking to become more efficient and effective. Stating that the changes were being made at a time when consumer expectations were changing and increasing while tax compliance regimes were being constantly changed, Forde said it was important that Barbados keep up with the developments. He said the continued digitization of various aspects of the BRA’s operation would lead to improved business facilitation and increased investment. Forde said: “For us at the authority, improving service delivery and integrating technology are deemed as two of our most important strategic goals. “With Government spearheading the modernization, digitalization and transformation of the public sector, this is but one aspect of how we at the revenue authority are helping to fulfill that vision. “This initiative with the Cave Shepherd Card Services is a good example of public and private sector partnership towards facilitating ease and increasing efficiency in our operations.” The revenue chief is hoping that the additional payment platform would help to improve tax payment compliance, adding that taxation was “vital to the functioning of our society”. He said the BRA would continue to build out its digital footprint, adding that plans were in the pipeline for enhancing the service experience of BRA and expanding online payment to the other taxes. Forde also disclosed that BRA was mulling the distribution of land tax bills electronically. There are currently just over 35,000 Cave Shepherd cardholders, and just over 20,000 of them have so far downloaded and are registered on the app. Once Cave Shepherd cardholders download the application on their mobile device they can make the payment through the send/receiver (peer-to-peer) feature. The land tax payer would need the last four digits of their account number, the BRA telephone number attached to that payment system. They would also fill out the map reference field with a unique set up numbers and the year the tax is being paid for. With the next issue of land tax bills around May, officials are expected to launch a marketing campaign soon to sensitize the taxpayers. Alison Browne-Ellis, Director of Card Services with the Cave Shepherd Card Services said the pilot phase started in December. She said: “With the growing concerns around productivity in our country, we see this partnership with the Barbados Revenue Authority as a step in the right direction”. “The ability to reduce foot traffic and long wait times across the various Barbados Revenue Authority offices builds a case for the future of digital payment across all government agencies.” She said during the next phase of the partnership, cardholders will be able to use the Cave Shepherd card mobile app within the BRA offices to make digital payments using QR code technology with tablets that are to be made available. Browne-Ellis said: These two digital payment methods will allow for enhanced experience, diversification of payment options and overall efficiency within the Barbados Revenue Authority.” (BT)

SICK KIDS TO GET INTENSIVE ATTENTION -Paediatric care in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean is about to get a major boost. Medical care for sick children at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital is about to be overhauled in a seven-year initiative to create a regional paediatric centre, officials have announced. The “Centre of Paediatric Excellence for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean” is to improve diagnosis, treatment and care for children affected by paediatric cancers and serious blood disorders, they said. Under the initiative, the QEH paediatric care ward is to be refurbished and there will be procurement of furniture and up-to-date medical equipment. Patient and family areas at all polyclinics are also to be overhauled and the medical equipment is to be upgraded. Forty paediatric nurses are be trained in a special programme and deployed across the health system while four doctors are to be trained in targeted, high-need paediatric sub-specialties through fellowship at the Hospital for Sick Children. There will be support for six international observer ships in quality improvement (BT)

TRAFFIC CHANGES FOR SPEIGHTSTOWN COME ALIVE – Special traffic regulations will be in place from 10 p.m. Friday until midnight Saturday when the We Gatherin’ event Speightstown Alive is held in St Peter.

No vehicular traﬃc will be allowed along Orange Street to Queens Street at its junction with Chapel Street.

To facilitate this road closure, the following traffic measures will be in effect.

1. No vehicular traﬃc will be allowed to enter Orange Street at its junction with Sand Street and Major Walk.

2. No vehicular traﬃc will be allowed to enter Orange Street at its junction with Church Street.

3. No vehicular traﬃc will be allowed to enter Queens Street at its junction with Goddings Alley.

4. No vehicular traﬃc will be allowed to enter Queens Street at its junction with Chapel Street.

During that time, vehicular traﬃc will be allowed to ﬂow in both directions along Church Street and Goddings.

Absolutely no parking of vehicles will be allowed on Church Street, Major Walk, Goddings Alley or Chapel Street.

(DN)

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tripstations · 6 years ago

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How safe is travel to Africa? African Tourism Board appoints SaferTourism

African Tourism Board, (ATB) has travel and security on its top agenda when attracting visitors to the continent.

At the upcoming ATB Launch on April 11, the organization will be announcing their appointment of SaferTourism.com to provide support and guidance to keep African Tourism Safe.

The man behind SaferTourism.com is no other than one of the best global experts available in this field.

Dr. Peter Tarlow, seen as a world-renowned expert in travel and tourism will be the keynote speaker at the African Tourism Board Launch Event on April 11.

ATB members and WTM visitors will be able to meet Dr. Tarlow at the African Tourism Board Stand (AP 12). His goal is to provide proactive guidance and hands-on approach to keep African destinations, hotels and attractions safe and available specifically for North American Visitors.

Dr. Tarlow is leading SaferTourism’s Visitor Surety approach, meaning:

• The providing of a safe and secure environment for visitors and for those who work in its visitor industry • Protection of tourism sites and infrastructure • Perceptions, including how these perceptions impact its reputation • The Protection of the economy vis-à-vis its tourism industry

Dr. Tarlow has been working on projects around the world and is known to include feedback from the US State Department in many of his international projects.

Dr. Peter Tarlow will be a speaker at the ATB Launch event on April 11,2019 during WTM Cape Town.

He is a world-renowned speaker and expert specializing in the impact of crime and terrorism on the tourism industry, event and tourism risk management, and tourism and economic development. Since 1990, Tarlow has been aiding the tourism community with issues such as travel safety and security, economic development, creative marketing, and creative thought.

Tarlow has worked with numerous US government agencies including the US Bureau of Reclamation, US Customs, the FBI, the US Park Service, the Department of Justice, the Speakers Bureau of the US Department of State, the Center for Disease, US Supreme Court police, and the US Department of Homeland Security. He has worked with such US iconic locations as the Statue of Liberty, Philadelphia’s Independence Hall and Liberty Bell, the Empire State Building, St. Louis’ arch, and the Smithsonian’s Institution’s Office of Protection Services in Washington, DC.

Tarlow has been a keynote speaker for governors’ tourism conferences around the nation including those for Illinois, South Carolina, South Dakota, Washington State and Wyoming.

He has addresses large-scale US government meetings for such agencies as:

The Bureau of Reclamation

The US Center for Disease Control

The US Park Service,

The International Olympic Committee

On the international scene, he has addressed conferences such as:

The Organization of American States (Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Panama City, Panama),

The Latin American Hotel Association (Quito Ecuador, San Salvador, El Salvador and Puebla, Mexico),

The Caribbean Chiefs of Police Association (Barbados),

The International Organization for Security and Intelligence – IOSI ((Vancouver, Canada),

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Ottowa

The French Hotel Association CNI-SYNHORCAT (Paris)

Additionally, Tarlow is a featured speaker for numerous US embassies and with foreign tourism ministries around the world. For example, in his role as an expert in tourism security he has worked with:

Vancouver’s Justice Institute (2010 Olympic games)

The police departments of the state of Rio de Janeiro (2014 World Cup Games)

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police,

The United Nation’s WTO (World Tourism Organization),

The Panama Canal Authority,

Police forces in Aruba, Bolivia, Brazil, Curaçao, Colombia, Croatia, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Serbia, and Trinidad & Tobago.

In 2013 the Chancellor of the Texas A&M system named him his Special Envoy. In 2015 the Faculty of Medicine of Texas A&M University asked Tarlow to “translate” his tourism skills into practical courses for new physicians. As such he teaches courses in customer service, creative thinking and medical ethics at the Texas A&M medical school

In 2016 the international engineering firm Gannet-Fleming appointed Tarlow its Senior Security and Safety Specialist Also in 2016, Governor Gregg Abbot of Texas named Tarlow as the Chairman of the Texas Holocaust and Genocide Commission. As such he has wide experience in dealing with protest marches and other public events that touch upon that theme.

Tarlow organizes tourism security conferences around the world, including the International Tourism Safety Conference in Las Vegas along with conferences in St. Kitts, Charleston (South Carolina), Bogota, Colombia, Panama City, Croatia, and Curaçao

Tarlow lectures and trains tourism professionals and security personnel in multiple languages on a wide range of current and future trends in the tourism industry, rural tourism economic development, the gaming industry, issues of crime and terrorism, the role of police departments in urban economic development, and international trade. Some of the other topics about which he speaks are: the sociology of terrorism, its impact on tourism security and risk management, the US government’s role in post terrorism recovery, and how communities and businesses must face a major paradigm shift in the way they do business.

Tarlow publishes extensively in these areas and writes numerous professional reports for US government agencies and for businesses throughout the world. He has been asked to be an expert witness in courts throughout the United States on matters concerning tourism security and safety, and issues of risk management.

As a well-known author in the field of tourism security, Tarlow is a contributing author to multiple books on tourism security and publishes numerous academic and applied research articles regarding issues of security including articles published in The Futurist, the Journal of Travel Research and Security Management. Tarlow’s wide range of professional and scholarly articles includes articles on subjects such as: “dark tourism”, theories of terrorism, and economic development through tourism, religion and terrorism and cruise tourism. Tarlow also writes and publishes the popular online tourism newsletter Tourism Tidbits read by thousands of tourism and travel professionals around the world in its English, Spanish, and Portuguese language editions.

Among the books that Tarlow has authored are:

Event Risk Management and Safety (2002).

Twenty Years of Tourism Tidbits: The Book (2011)

Abordagem Multdisciplinar dos Cruzeiros Turísticos (co-written 2014, in Portuguese)

Tourism Security: Strategies for Effective Managing Travel Risk and Safety (2014)

A Segurança: Um desafío para os setores de lazer, viagens e turismo, 2016 published (in Portuguese) and republished in English

Sports Travel Security (2017)

At numerous universities around the world Tarlow lectures on security issues, life safety issues, and event risk management. These universities include institutions in the United States, Latin America, Europe, the Pacific Islands, and the Middle East. Tarlow earned his Ph.D. in sociology from Texas A&M University. He also holds degrees in history, in Spanish and Hebrew literatures, and in psychotherapy.

Tarlow has appeared on national televised programs such as Dateline: NBC and on CNBC and is a regular guest on radio stations around the US. He is the recipient of the International Chiefs of Police highest civilian honor in recognition for his work in tourism security.

Tarlow is a founder and president of Tourism & More Inc. (T&M). He is a past president of the Texas Chapter of the Travel and Tourism Research Association (TTRA). Tarlow is a member of the International Editorial Boards around the world.

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khalilhumam · 5 years ago

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How can the Caribbean prepare for a post-COVID-19 world?

New Post has been published on http://khalilhumam.com/how-can-the-caribbean-prepare-for-a-post-covid-19-world/

How can the Caribbean prepare for a post-COVID-19 world?

It's about finding solutions that are empathetic to people's needs

Associate director for design thinking for social impact and professor of practice at Tulane University, Lesley-Ann Noel. Photo courtesy Noel, used with permission.

As is the case with a few other countries, the Caribbean is beginning to see a plateau in the numbers of new COVID-19 infections, as well as deaths resulting from the virus. Some regional territories, like Trinidad and Tobago, are supposedly meeting the criteria to slowly roll back lockdown protocols. As Caribbean nations begin to look to the future, however, concerns abound as to how already vulnerable regional economies will adjust to a post-COVID world. Lesley-Ann Noel, associate director for design thinking for social impact and professor of practice at Tulane University, believes that design thinking is a great way for Caribbean nations to reengineer many aspects of life — and governance — after the pandemic. Speaking with Global Voices via email, she explained how this might happen in the Caribbean context.

What is design thinking?

According to Noel, design thinking is a process — a mindset — that implements how designers think and work as a way of finding solutions to problems. The solutions that come out of this approach are typically empathetic responses to human needs. As the region faces heightened levels of both social and economic uncertainty, change is inevitable, leaving many questions as to how Caribbean governments intend to plan for the near future. To Noel, it's the perfect opportunity for regional leaders to use the process of design thinking to plan for and implement change:

We have an opportunity to redesign many things after this pandemic. It's a good time to reengineer social services, education, healthcare, among other areas, particularly because all of the pre-COVID-19 ways [in which] we accessed these services will have to change once the ‘stay-at-home’ orders are lifted.

Design thinking, Caribbean style

Noel suggests that regional governments can first learn about the concerns and consider the solutions proposed by various members of the community:

Designers are […] very good at facilitating cross-disciplinary conversations. One of my favourite parts of the process is talking with people and learning about their concerns and dreams. Designers and design thinkers borrow anthropology skills to understand human needs. So, there is an opportunity to dig deep and check with people about the systems and services that do not serve them well. When we discover and pay attention to these ‘painpoints,’ we can design better solutions.

Of course, this measure can be paired with other techniques. Governments can also use a “prototype” approach, which many tech companies tend to use. They quickly find a solution to the challenge at hand, then follow up with people about the “efficacy of the solution.” After receiving this feedback, they can then make the required adjustments, as part of a design thinking process that is “participatory and collaborative.” Caribbean governments can also use the creation of forums in which people propose expected solutions. This, Noel says, will allow leaders to see a variety of ideas and draw inspiration from unusual sources.

Can design thinking work in the region?

Many Caribbean territories still have rigid systems that make possibilities for change subject to high levels of bureaucracy. While Noel acknowledges that this type of red tape can get in the way of governments using design thinking, she believes the Caribbean's creative and experimental nature offers an ideal environment to test this type of thinking and devise practical solutions to pressing issues. Even so, she cautioned against the temptation to think that “things can be fixed easily and quickly”, explaining, “Speed can also result in not listening carefully to people and properly analysing the issues deeply.”

Hope for education?

Noel thinks design thinking can work really well in the field of education because it has the capacity to not only help plan for the future of schooling but also to “work out the kinks” in the region's educational systems. As a collaborative effort, design thinking could allow stakeholders — teachers, students, parents and more — to come together, identify needs and challenges and propose and implement solutions. These will begin slowly on a small scale to be reviewed and then implemented by the government on a larger scale.

“A Designer's Critical Alphabet,” a card game developed by Lesley-Ann Noel, to introduce designers and design students to critical theory and help them reflect on their design process. Image courtesy Lesley-Ann Noel, used with permission.

Her second application would be to the curriculum, by implementing this problem-based methodology and adopting more creative mindsets in academic as well as everyday life. Noel's PhD research considered these very theories within the context of a Standard 4 primary school class in the rural village of Moruga, in south Trinidad. Governments like Singapore have already used this type of thinking to reshape their country — from the way hospitals deal with elderly patients, to helping families deal with the mental and emotional aspects of family court cases:

Hefen Wong from Singapore presents how they combine behavioural insights, design thinking and data analytics to develop better policies and services #GovDesign pic.twitter.com/7uvOvaps7C — Honey (@honeygolightly) July 17, 2018

Noel is confident that this type of thinking will assist the Caribbean in coming together and thinking differently about the future. Interestingly, the government of Trinidad and Tobago has already begun to use this design thinking approach: the Ministry of Communications’ “Roadmap to Recovery” website allows citizens to submit proposals for the ways in which they think the country should be re-opened. The balance between optimism and realism that design thinking provides can also be used on a personal level post-COVID-19, Noel suggests:

One small way that people can use a design thinking approach in their personal lives might be in asking, ‘How might I create the future that I want post-COVID-19?’ and use the problem-solving approach and the experimentation and creativity to design several possible futures for themselves. That might help people move beyond the fear that this pandemic might create for us […] to a place of hope and possibility.

Rather than adding to the panic, design thinking offers a tangible way in which to bring people and ideas together, and come up with a practical, achievable roadmap for a better, more resilient region — one that is stronger together, and empathetic to wider societal needs. Not only will this kind of thinking help shape a better future, Noel says, but it's already a part of Caribbean identity:

Caribbean people design all the time. So, this way of thinking is compatible with our way of life.

< p class='gv-rss-footer'>Written by Jada Steuart · comments (0) Donate · Share this: twitter facebook reddit

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darrylsmithpnm-blog · 6 years ago

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The Diego Martin Regional Corporation mobilized its CAT 313D2L Excavator to continue remedial desilting and removal of large debris under the bridge at the major watercourse located at Bridge Road off Water-Wheel Road, Blue Basin.

The Diego Martin Regional Corporation would also like to thank the Ministry of National Security Trinidad & Tobago for providing a Lowboy Trailer and the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government for the Excavator.

#darryl smith #darryl smith mp #darryl smith minister #darryl smith minister of sport #darryl smith sports minister #darryl smith trinidad #darryl smith pnm #darryl smith member of parliament

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glennwurlus-blog · 6 years ago

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Ideas for Wellness Industry Reform in Trinidad and Tobago

Wellness reform describes the changes in wellness management, health and wellness preparation and, health and wellness research that places significant emphasis on local health difficulties focused on boosting health administration, health and wellness planning and healthcare. They will certainly incorporate to produce an effective version of health care shipment with the ability of increasing person physical, medical and also psychological security. Health reform must be driven by empirical data, best technique and also evidence based technique. A variety of wellness data; such as mortality, manpower needs, modern technology functioning as well as individual complete satisfaction; need to be analyzed and utilized in reinforcing wellness systems.

In Trinidad and also Tobago the present system of health care is extremely systematized. The Ministry of Wellness preserves operational oversight of five local health authorities. These are the North West Regional, North Central Regional, Eastern Regional, South West Regional and also Tobago Regional. South West, North West and also North Central are the biggest regions; each providing for the health care requirements of more than 3 hundred thousand people.

A substantial reform must be the specialization of the Ministry of Health in less functions aimed to improve healthcare effectiveness. As an example, it could focus on data compilation and also evaluation. It needs to be staffed with experienced wellness scientists entrusted with examining adjustments in epidemiology, as well as patterns in morbidity and also death. Additionally, the Ministry of Health ought to have the power to instruct regional authorities to earn systemic and also resource adjustments based upon the stats collected as well as analyzed. Regional bodies should be mandated to give health and wellness based data to the Ministry of Wellness quarterly. The Ministry of Health and wellness have to preserve general oversight of local authorities. It needs to produce annual reports based upon self- monitoring as well as examination of the systems, efficiencies and obstacles in each region. Financial statements and also audits must be sent yearly to the Ministry of Health and wellness as well as variables making up variance should be warranted. Referrals must be created renovations and occurrences of white-collar crime prosecuted.

One major reform that must be implemented is giving outright autonomy to regional health authorities for the delivery of healthcare. They should be able to generate their own funds by billing fees for their solutions. This would remove reliance on the state or Ministry of Finance for financing. Each local health authority need to be able to buy the stock exchange or undertake various other earnings producing steps it considers feasible. Its funds need to be invested in accordance with the health needs of the population it serves. Regional authorities must be accountable for main, additional as well as tertiary medical care. On top of that, they ought to be provided oversight of private hospitals and also health facilities in their geographic areas. Private centers ought to be subject to price controls to prevent excessively high costs and also ought to be called for to pay at the very least ten percent of their annual earnings to the local authority.

Furthermore, regional authorities should have the power to ensure that health and wellness establishments and companies stick to national certification requirements. The Ministry of Health and wellness must be accuseded of obligation for creating nationwide certification standards in all elements of the procedures of wellness institutions. These should consist of hospitals, drug stores, private practice. Additionally conventional and natural medicines should be subject to accreditation criteria. Every little thing as well as every health based organization should be subject to accreditation criteria equivalent with those of even more developed nations such as Canada as well as the United States.

It is apparent that the borders of each local authority be redefined to ensure that they are of almost equivalent population size. At this time South West Regional is responsible for somewhat over one fifty percent million people. As a result offered its restricted sources, it can not be expected to do with best effectiveness. Given that the much better health facilities are located in metropolitan centers, this would be an obstacle that must relapse deliberately. To suit this reform, local authorities must induce joint public and also personal partnerships in the stipulation of healthcare centers in rural and also various other areas much less accessible to significant medical facilities and also health centers.

To earn the health and wellness system efficient, a central digital health and wellness record system must be established and also executed. This would guarantee that patients might access care in any type of area. Hence it would certainly make it easy to access health and wellness records from any type of healthcare facility had as well as carried out within any kind of local authority. It is anticipated that the Ministry of Wellness need to take a leading role in this business. Records of clients secretive hospitals should come to local authorities given that they could be transferred to a public health center if the treatment they require could not be acquired there. Sometimes for economic factors such as inflated cost, individuals might be moved to a public hospital.

Work policies should make it possible for the cost-free activity of abilities and knowledge throughout regions. In some circumstances, highly specialized surgeons and caregivers must be provided to patients in various other areas on a needs basis. To puts it simply, one area could pay one more for the solutions of its proficient human or physical resources required.

Regional bodies could team up in health preparation. They could create their critical, company and budget strategies en masse. After that they can modify their strategies to fit their population needs. The major advantages of centralized planning will be greater openness, responsibility and also inter-operational performance. Inter-planning can lower competition in between areas as well as make sure that scare sources are used effectively. In effect, the Ministry of Health could compare functional efficiency and finest method across all areas and give opportunities to stamina operational or institutional effectiveness.

The health and wellness system must be reformed so that it has the ability to give top quality take care of individuals.superman exercise People should be well-educated to capitalize on a qualified, highly organized as well as skillfully administered medical care system. Lastly reform needs to involve all stakeholders; government, personal specialists and also population. A convergent bottom up and cover down design needs to be adopted to ensure that there is global buy-in to wellness reform with the ability of contributing to financial and also social advancement of the nation's human resources.

This article contains pointers for health and wellness market reform in the small island nation state of Trinidad and Tobago. If these and also various other reforms are adopted, the nation's overall wellness will certainly be improved. Its citizens would certainly gain from a well administered system.

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ruraldevelopmentcompany · 9 months ago

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Nurturing Communities: The Ministry of Rural Development's Impact

In the vibrant landscape of Trinidad and Tobago, the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government stands as a beacon of hope and progress for its people. With a steadfast commitment to uplifting rural communities, this ministry plays a pivotal role in fostering sustainable development and enhancing the quality of life for all citizens. At the heart of its mission lies a dedication to empowering localities, driving economic growth, and fostering social cohesion.

In Trinidad and Tobago, the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government serves as a cornerstone for initiatives aimed at bolstering rural areas' infrastructure, services, and overall well-being. From the rolling hills of Trinidad to the picturesque shores of Tobago, the ministry's presence is felt, resonating through its various programs and projects designed to address the unique needs of each community.

In recent years, the Ministry of Rural Development Tobago has spearheaded numerous initiatives to promote sustainable agriculture, enhance access to education and healthcare, and improve infrastructure in rural areas. Through strategic partnerships with local stakeholders and international organizations, the ministry has been able to implement innovative solutions to longstanding challenges, driving positive change and fostering resilience in the face of adversity.

Similarly, the Ministry of Works Trinidad & Tobago plays a crucial role in supporting the rural development agenda by overseeing the planning, construction, and maintenance of critical infrastructure projects across the twin islands. From road networks to drainage systems, the ministry's efforts are instrumental in enhancing connectivity, facilitating commerce, and improving the overall quality of life for rural residents.

Central to the ministry's approach is a commitment to community engagement and grassroots empowerment. By actively involving local residents in the decision-making process and soliciting their input on development priorities, the ministry ensures that its initiatives are responsive to the needs and aspirations of the people they serve. Through capacity-building programs and training initiatives, the ministry also equips communities with the tools and resources they need to chart their own path to prosperity.

As Trinidad and Tobago continues on its journey of growth and development, the Ministry of Rural Development Trinidad remains steadfast in its commitment to building inclusive, resilient, and thriving communities. By harnessing the collective strength and ingenuity of its people, the ministry paves the way for a brighter future where every citizen has the opportunity to flourish and thrive. Together, we can create a nation where no community is left behind, and where the promise of progress reaches every corner of our beautiful islands.

#Ministry of Rural Development Tobago #Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government #Ministry of Works Trinidad & Tobago

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ruraldevelopmentcompany · 7 months ago

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Enhancing Rural Development: Infrastructure and Social Facilities Services

In the pursuit of equitable development, rural areas often grapple with the challenge of inadequate infrastructure and social facilities services. Across the globe, regions like Tobago and Trinidad face this reality, where access to fundamental services such as reliable transportation, healthcare, education, and communication remains limited. However, concerted efforts are being made to bridge this gap and uplift these communities.

Governments and organizations recognize the pivotal role of infrastructure and social facilities services in rural areas for fostering economic growth, improving living standards, and promoting social cohesion. In the Caribbean, initiatives spearheaded by the Ministry of Community Development are aimed at addressing these pressing needs. By investing in roads, bridges, and utilities, governments aim to facilitate connectivity and enhance accessibility to essential services.

Improving healthcare facilities is paramount in ensuring the well-being of rural populations. In many remote areas, access to quality medical care is limited, posing significant challenges during emergencies. Therefore, initiatives focusing on upgrading existing healthcare infrastructure and deploying mobile clinics play a crucial role in providing timely medical assistance.

Similarly, access to education remains a fundamental right, yet it is often compromised in rural regions due to inadequate school infrastructure and limited resources. By constructing schools, providing educational materials, and implementing digital learning initiatives, authorities strive to ensure that children in these areas receive quality education, empowering them for a brighter future.

Furthermore, the development of robust communication networks is essential for fostering economic opportunities and enhancing connectivity. Access to the internet and telecommunications services not only facilitates communication but also opens doors to e-commerce, online education, and telemedicine, thereby bridging the gap between rural and urban areas.

However, implementing infrastructure and social facilities services in rural areas comes with its own set of challenges. Limited funding, geographical barriers, and bureaucratic hurdles often slow down progress. Moreover, ensuring sustainability and community engagement is vital for the long-term success of these initiatives.

In conclusion, enhancing infrastructure and social facilities services in rural areas is imperative for fostering inclusive and sustainable development. Governments, along with the support of international organizations and local communities, must continue to prioritize investments in key areas such as healthcare, education, transportation, and communication. By doing so, we can create a more equitable society where every individual, regardless of their geographical location, has access to essential services and opportunities for growth.

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ruraldevelopmentcompany · 8 months ago

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Unlocking Progress: Exploring the Role of the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government

In the dynamic landscape of Trinidad and Tobago, the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government stands as a beacon of progress and empowerment. With a steadfast commitment to enhancing the lives of citizens residing in rural areas, this ministry plays a pivotal role in fostering sustainable development and community resilience. At the heart of its mandate lies a dedication to improving infrastructure, fostering economic growth, and promoting social cohesion. The Ministry of Rural Development Trinidad and Tobago embodies the government's vision for inclusive growth and equitable distribution of resources across the nation.

Central to the ministry's mission is the promotion of grassroots initiatives that address the unique needs of rural communities. Through strategic partnerships and comprehensive programs, it endeavors to uplift marginalized areas, providing them with the necessary tools and resources to thrive. Whether it's enhancing access to education, healthcare, or basic amenities, the ministry remains unwavering in its pursuit of holistic development. Moreover, it actively engages with local stakeholders, empowering citizens to actively participate in decision-making processes that affect their lives.

One of the key functions of the ministry is to oversee the implementation of infrastructure projects aimed at improving connectivity and accessibility in rural areas. From road networks to water supply systems, these initiatives not only enhance the quality of life for residents but also create avenues for economic advancement. Additionally, the ministry collaborates closely with the Ministry of Works Trinidad & Tobago to ensure that these projects are executed efficiently and sustainably.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the integral role played by local government bodies in driving development agendas. The ministry works hand in hand with municipal corporations and regional corporations to decentralize governance and empower communities at the grassroots level. Through capacity building initiatives and technical support, it strengthens the institutional framework necessary for effective local governance.

Furthermore, the ministry extends its reach to the island of Tobago, where it operates under the name Ministry of Rural Development Tobago. This underscores its commitment to fostering development initiatives that are tailored to the specific needs and aspirations of Tobagonians.

In conclusion, the Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government serves as a linchpin for progress, resilience, and empowerment in Trinidad and Tobago. By prioritizing the needs of rural communities and championing inclusive growth, it embodies the government's commitment to leaving no one behind in the journey towards sustainable development.

#Ministry of Rural Development

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jobwerld · 3 years ago

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Employment Opportunities

The Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government in Trinidad and Tobago invites applications from suitably qualified persons for employment on contract in the under-mentioned positions: CHANGE MANAGER DISASTER MANAGEMENT FIELD OFFICER CORPORATE SECRETARY SENIOR CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER SPEECHWRITER/RESEARCHER AUDIO/ VIDEO TECHNICIAN ENGINEERING AND…

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thechasefiles · 5 years ago

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The Chase Files Daily Newscap 17/12/2019

Good Morning #realdreamchasers. Here is your daily news cap for Tuesday, December 17th, 2019. There is a lot to read and digest so take your time. Remember you can read full articles via Barbados Government Information Service (BGIS), Barbados Today (BT), or by purchasing a Daily Nation Newspaper (DN).

PM’S FINE WARNING – Stiffer fines will be handed to Barbadians who ignore warnings and fail to clean their properties and wells. Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley gave that warning to householders and landowners yesterday as Government embarks on a national $2 million clean-up drive. She urged Barbadians to take note of an upcoming public education programme to sensitise them about the severe health risks related to poor sanitation practices. The programme is set to begin during the new year and run until the end of March. “The law already exists but it needs to be enforced. I’ve already spoken to the permanent secretary [in the Ministry of Transport, Works and Mainteance] who has advised that come the new year, after initial sensitisation and letters, they will be telling the owner you will be fined under the law. (DN)

POT HOUSE ROAD FIX COMING – They cried out for relief from a problem-plagued road, and yesterday residents of Pot House, St John, got a visit, and promises, from Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley that a fix was around the corner. After their long-running grievances over a partially collapsed road were highlighted in yesterday’s DAILY NATION, a team of Government and private sector officials, led by Mottley, descended on the rural area to survey the damage and promise action. It included Member of Parliament for St John Charles Griffith, Minister of Health Jeffrey Bostic, Minister of Water Resources Wilfred Abrahams, Minister in the Ministry of Transport, Works and Maintenance Peter Phillips, Minister of Youth and Community Empowerment Adrian Forde, as well as chairman of the Sanitation Service Authority Senator Rudy Grant. (DN)

MORE GARBAGE TRUCKS COMING – Another ten garbage trucks are expected to arrive in Barbados before the end of this week, Prime Minister Mia Mottley has announced. And by early 2020, there should be another ten on island, to help the Sanitation Service Authority (SSA) overcome the significant challenges it faces in collecting garbage in some parts of the island. “I think [we] have ten trucks coming in another day or two, and another two, I suspect, by the end of the year and then another eight in the early part of the new year,” Prime Minister Mottley told reporters today after a tour of Pot House, St John, where she also expressed concern that garbage continues to block drains across the island, and urged Barbadians to stop littering. A year ago, Government said it was planning to import several garbage trucks for the SSA. In January this year, the first two Mitsubishi Refuse Compactor Vehicles, each costing $600,000, arrived in the island but the delay in the arrival of more trucks was attributed mainly to US/China trade tension. By May, the SSA had added seven new garbage trucks to its fleet, moving it from 17 to 24, and two weeks ago, it received another two. As she announced the expected arrival of more vehicles in the coming days and months, Prime Minister expressed regret at not being able to get more trucks sooner. “I wish I could have done this earlier, but when you are operating on a patient, the first rule is that you have to stop the bleeding and the bleed had to stop with us restructuring our debt,” she said. “By us restructuring our domestic and external debt, we have saved the country $1.2 billion a year. There are other things we are doing: [the Barbados] Water Authority has now reached an agreement that the Minister will brief you on later in the week, to be able to settle some of the egregious and outstanding claims and hopefully we can go forward.” (BT)

BARBADOS PASSES ANOTHER IMF TEST, GETS ACCESS TO MORE FUNDS – Barbados has passed its latest International Monetary Fund (IMF) test with flying colours, in the process impressing the directors of the fund, and opening up for itself access to almost $100 million from the Washington-based institution. However, it was the comment of the directors of the IMF as they reviewed the progress on the island’s Barbados Economic Recovery and Transformation (BERT) programme that was most heartening. According to the directors, in spite of its limited technical capacity, Barbados has made impressive progress towards achieving fiscal and debt sustainability, rebuilding reserves, reducing uncertainty towards generating growth. This development was explained by Dr Kevin Greenidge, Government’s economic advisor on loan from the IMF, who noted that today the Executive Board of the IMF completed the second review of our BERT programme which is supported by an IMF Extended Fund Facility (EFF). The completion of this review allows us to draw the equivalent of SDR 35 million (about US$98 million). “This passing of the second review reflects Barbados meeting all its targets under the BERT programme and in some instances, with a wide margin. There were lots of praise from the Directors at the Board.... “Of course, there is significant work to be done, and we remain resolved to stay the course and continue meeting our commitments under the EFF. “Passing yet another IMF review, completing the debt restructuring and having our credit ratings upgraded are all sending an important message to the world – that Barbados is back; we are serious about our reforms and about transforming the economy,” Greenidge said. (BGIS)

ANSA TAKES OVER TRIDENT - After months of negotiations, ANSA McAL (Barbados Limited) has purchased the shares of Trident Insurance Company Limited. Chairman of ANSA McAL Andrew N. Sagba made the announcement in a statement issued today, saying the Trinidad and Tobago conglomerate was delighted to welcome Trident Insurance into the wider ANSA McAL family which comprises 73 companies in more than eight countries. It is not clear whether the sale of Trident Insurance will affect the staff complement there. Sabga only offered assurances to policyholders in the statement, saying “Trident insurance would continue to conduct business as usual”.Back in June, David Alleyne, General Manager of Brydens Insurance, which is a branch of the ANSA McAL-owned Tatil Insurance Company in Trinidad and Tobago, told Barbados TODAY, that the companies had come to an agreement to join forces to create a stronger, focused entity. At today’s signing, President and CEO of Trident Insurance Algernon Algie Leacock said the resources of the ANSA McAL conglomerate would enable Trident Insurance “to better support the evolving needs of our policyholders, and to remain a strong player in this fast-paced and aggressive financial environment”. “We are therefore extremely pleased to accept this offer,” he added. Leacock also revealed that the deal paves the way for the Leacock family and Group to pursue “other business opportunities which are a better strategic fit to their existing businesses and future expansion plans”. The over 39-year-old Trident Insurance Company offers a range of products including property, motor, travel, liability and marine insurance. It is in the top ten of insurers in Barbados, based on gross written premiums. (BT)

DOUBLE TRAGEDY – The anguished wails and screams of Stacie Howard filled the air at Welches, Christ Church yesterday evening after she identified the bodies of her daughter and grandson who died in an apparent drowning. Howard, canteen operator at the Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), had clung to her other daughter Jamila for support as they slowly made their way down the beach to where two covered bodies lay on the sand. They were those of Nioca Howard, 27, and her five-year-old son Nico Roach, who both lived with Stacie at Emerald Park West, Six Roads, St Philip. Nioca used to help her mother run the canteen. Police public relations officer, Acting Inspector Rodney Inniss, said police at Oistins received a report about 4:15 p.m. that two people – an adult female and a young boy – had drowned while at Welches Beach. “On arrival at the scene, police confirmed the two bodies on the sand. Further investigations informed that they were both floating in the water and were pulled from the sea by two individuals who were walking along the beach, who tried unsuccessfully to resuscitate them,” he said. (DN)

RESCUE MISSION – One day after the tragic drowning of a mother and son at a popular south coast beach, the Minister who holds the responsibility for beach safety, says there needs to be an urgent ramping up of the presence of lifeguards on local beaches. In fact, Minister of the Environment, Trevor Prescod told Barbados TODAY that he plans to meet with the board and management of the National Conservation Commission (NCC) today, where the subject of recruiting and training more lifeguards is expected to take centerstage. The Minister explained that the numbers of persons frequenting the beaches have increased, which also increases the chances of drowning incidents. Pointing out that while lifeguards come with no guarantees, Prescod contended that their presence could reduce the number of drowning incidents. “We have had several cases last year and this year of persons drowning and to some extent this triggered a response. We also understand that we need to upgrade the facilities in the lifeguards’ huts because we recognize the increase in numbers of persons frequenting the beaches,” said Prescod, noting that his concern about the current state of affairs is heightened because the schools’ Christmas vacation began today. Prescod said that even though it was approaching the final quarter of the fiscal year, there may need to be some “re-jigging” of expenditure, to determine what actions can be taken in the short-term. “Children are going to be out on vacation and lots of persons will be going to the beach for relaxation, so we have to be concerned about saving the lives of people. We have to look carefully now and see out of what I have there in the estimates, how we can respond to the request for lifeguards. I will discuss in detail with the board and the management to see where we are. We have to make sure that if we employ these lifeguards, we can afford to train and pay them,” he said. Back in 2014 under the Freundel Stuart-led administration’s homegrown austerity programme, sweeping cuts were made to the staff at the NCC, which included lifeguards. Thirty-one of the 97 lifeguards were retrenched, which resulted in a number of beaches being unmanned. However, this morning, Prescod made it clear that he would do all within his power to ensure that seabathers are safe. “We are going to explore the entire situation to ensure that anything that can be done, is done. The reality is that we already know that lifeguards is an issue and we are now working on a number of posts for lifeguards. Later today I would be able to better state how soon we can have these plans in place but I can definitely tell you that it is going to be an issue that will engage a significant amount of our attention this morning,” he stressed. On Sunday Nioca Howard, 27, and her five-year-old son, Nico Roach, 5, of Emerald Park West, Six Roads, St Philip, lost their lives while at Welches Beach in Christ Church. Around 4:15 p.m., police received a call about the possible drowning and discovered the bodies on the sand on their arrival. Beachgoers reportedly saw the woman and child in a shallow area of the water and pulled them to the sand where they tried to resuscitate them. Medical personnel later pronounced them dead. (BT)

CRASH VICTIM LOSES LEG – Hours after a car crashed into a shop at Tweedside Road, St Michael, one man lost his leg and another was being prepared for surgery to repair the damage to his. Police reported that a vehicle owned and driven by 62-year-old Michael Derrick Collymore, of Baywoods, St James, ran into the the Eagle Nest Bar & Grill around 3 a.m. where several people had been enjoying a karaoke session. The incident left seven injured. One of them, Carl “Singer Man” Henry, was so badly hurt that his foot had to be amputated and he remained at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH). His family declined to speak on his condition yesterday evening. Cheryl-Ann Daniel, sister of another of the victims, Ian “Sharky” Daniel, said he went to the karaoke session and was leaving with a container of food when the accident occurred. (DN)

AG’S 2020 PLAN – GOING INTO NEXT YEAR, the Royal Barbados Police Force (RBPF) will be putting more pressure on criminals, says Attorney General Dale Marshall. And if he has his way, fewer officers will be required to operate the Police Certificate Of Character Office, and the days of officers responding to minor accidents will be a thing of the past. Both changes, he said, should give the force additional time to pursue more serious matters. The St Joseph Member of Parliament was speaking to reporters yesterday at Grantley Adams Memorial School during his Christmas luncheon for the elderly. He was reacting to the 48 murders that have occurred so far this year, the most in a single year in Barbados’ history. Rondell Alexander, 27, who was shot and killed at 1st Avenue, Gills Gap, Eagle Hall, St Michael, on Friday night, was the most recent victim. (DN)

MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO ASSAULTING COP –A man charged with assaulting a police officer was released on bail when he appeared at the No.1 District ‘A’ Magistrates’ Court this morning. Peter Lee, 56, of Wellington Street St Michael pleaded not guilty to assaulting police constable 1905 Alex Hall on December 13, 2019. However, he pleaded guilty to possession of a cutlass and a knife on the same date. Prosecutor Sergeant Vernon Waithe had no objection to bail and the matter was adjourned until January 13, 2020. (BT)

TEENAGER SENT FOR DRUG TREATMENT – A teenager was ordered to drug rehabilitation today after he pleaded guilty to drug possession charges. Jaden Jamar Harris, 17, of 3rd Avenue Bibby’s Lane, St Michael pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis on December 14, 2019. Appearing before Magistrate Douglas Frederick in the No. 1 District ‘A’ Magistrates’ Court this morning, Harris was also charged with stealing a bicycle valued at $989 belonging to Kemar Austin on December 10, 2019. However, the court learnt that Austin was no longer interested in proceeding with the matter. Frederick dismissed the theft charge but ordered Harris to return to court on March 27, 2020 at which time a report would be given on his treatment. (BT)

GUILTY OF POSSESSION – An Orange Hill, St James man was released on $3,000 bail today after pleading not guilty to several drug-related and money laundering charges. This morning, Rommel Orlando Jordan, 40, of Endeavor #3 Orange Hill, pleaded not guilty to charges of possessing a traffickable quantity of cannabis and intent to supply the drugs on December 15. Jordan also pleaded not guilty to possessing $2,900 in cash allegedly the proceeds of crime. He however pleaded guilty to the charge of possession of cannabis. When asked by Magistrate Douglas Frederick why he was pleading guilty to possession but not the other drug offences which are tied to the same possession charge, Jordan denied having the amount of the illegal substance that would constitute a traffickable quantity. “I know I had a little weed but not the amount that they say that I had,” said Jordan. It was then revealed by prosecutor Sergeant Vernon Waithe that the police had found 460 grams of the illegal drug in Jordan’s possession. Jordan was granted bail with one surety and was ordered to return to court on April 27, 2020. (BT)

HAZELL PLEADS NOT GUILTY TO WOUNDING – Ron Darien Anthony Hazell, 24, of Venture St John, pleaded not guilty to wounding charges when he appeared before Magistrate Douglas Frederick at the No. 1 District ‘A’ Magistrates’ Court this morning. It was alleged that on December 15, 2019 Hazell maliciously wounded Bertram Barrow. It was also alleged that on the same date he entered the premises of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital and behaved in a threatening manner. Prosecutor Sergeant Vernon Waithe did not object to bail and Frederick released Hazell on his own recognizance. The matter has been adjourned until January 13, 2020. (BT)

MONITORING “WE GATHERING” –The ‘We Gatherin’ 2020 national event will have a motorsport component, as a drag racing event will help to open the action in St Lucy next month. Chairman of the Barbados Association of Dragsters and Drifters (BADD), Jason Downey, made the revelation during his address at the 2019 awards ceremony in the cafeteria at Bushy Park last Saturday. “January 19, two days before Errol Barrow Day, interest will be on the drag race meet at Bourbon, St Lucy. All the fast men are expected to face the starter,” he announced. Downey said the format would be different from what was done in the past by the Motoring Club Barbados Incorporated (MCBI), as the event would start from an area near to the St Lucy Parish Church. (DN)

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