London Mission Newsletter volume 17 (May - June 2006)

Republic of Trinidad and Tobago

Volume 17

Inside this Issue Congratulations Soca Warriors

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Warriors almost tumbled London Bridge

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T&T Cultural Contingent well received in Dortmund

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Caroni to benefit from new housing units

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New investments coming to Trinidad & Tobago

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World Cup serves to strengthen ties between T&T and Germany

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Your invitation to Emancipation Day Celebrations 2006

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Soca Warriors Homecoming

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E-mail the Editor at: tthc.information @btconnect.com

May - June 2006

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LONDON MISSION

CONGRATULATIONS SOCA WARRIORS

by Her Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip

T

he w in by the T rinidad and T obago Football team (otherw ise know n as ―the Soca W arriors‖) in the decisive FIFA W orld C up 2006 qualifying m atch against B ahrain demonstrated in a big way the value of Sports, not just football, to the Country.

The joy, the spontaneous acclamation and the embracing of the team by all members of the society, young and old alike, rich and poor of whatever derivation, provided an indication of the unifying effect Sports can have on the society. I say not just football because success by a Trinidad and Tobago team or participant on the world stage in athletics, cricket or lawn tennis, to name a few sports, would have evoked similar responses of joy and pride perhaps to a lesser extent commensurate with the national popularity of the sport.

Shaka Hislop, Dennis Lawrence and Dwight Yorke share a special moment after the Soca Warriors secured a draw with Sweden in their first game at the 2006 FIFA World Cup.

While the Soca Warriors did not win a match or score a goal in the three matches they played in the First Round of the competition in Germany, they won the hearts of the Germans and of supporters of the sport worldwide. They exceeded the expectations of the pundits who predicted a scoring avalanche of goals against this little-known team from a tiny twin-island State with a population of just about 1.3 million people. I therefore salute and congratulate our team for their sterling and impressive performance and also the managers and coaching and technical staff for their support and guidance, and, of course, Mr. Jack Warner, for his belief in and support of our Warriors.

The Trinidad and Tobago team which descended on the cities of Dortmund, Nuremberg and Kaiserslautern included not just the Soca Warriors but also the 110 plus cultural contingent sent by the Ministry of Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs, the contingent from the Tourism Development Company, the Laventille Rhythm Section, the Angostura cultural caravan, all of whom served to provide Germany w ith a taste of T rinidad and T obago‘s infectious and vibrant cultural m ix.

Additionally, the overwhelming support for the team from the thousands of Her Excellency Mrs. Morean Phillip with members of the team Trinbagonians of all ethnic versions who travelled to Deutschland to at a TTHC function held in honour of the Soca Warriors participate in the historic moment and donned the national colours to before the World Cup. proudly identify themselves with their team and country added to the impact of the C ountry‘s entry in the big league.

The significance of all this will be lost if the Country does not seek to capitalise on the seminal message that is being spelt out in the headlines – Sports have a significant role to play in the development of our Country. Sports have a part to play in the Government‘s stated objective of achieving developed country status by the year 2020. The fact that a few young men from ordinary walks of life can achieve so much from their sporting endeavours can serve to encourage the young people of the nation to turn away from negative pursuits in favour of channelling their energies towards sporting careers.

For teaching the society the value of team work, determination and persistence, the Scoa Warriors have been bestowed with the Express Individual of the Year Award and the Government of Trinidad and Tobago has rewarded each team member with the Chaconia Gold Medal and one million dollars. Sure, these rewards are great for the team for the present, but what of the future? More resources, in not just financial but also physical facilities must be made available to Sports to be utilised in structured and scientific programmes, whatever the discipline. The Government has made a great start towards achieving its objective with the construction of the Toruba sporting facility but this is just the beginning.

There is need to press on urgently with implementation of all aspects of the, or In Germany to support the boys with Her Excellency rather a National Sports Policy. were Her ExcellencyDr. Jean Ramjohn Richards, wife of His Excellency President George Maxwell Richards.

Mr Jack Warner and his wife, Mrs. Maureen Warner.

LONDON MISSION

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Warriors almost tumbled London Bridge Articles by Ashton Ford

Jo h n T erry’s go al lin e clearance (pictured left) saved England from a huge embarrassment at the World Cup finals with their encounter against Trinidad and Tobago. For me it was the most memorable moment in the match because our Soca Warriors were playing their hearts out against the mighty England squad at the Nuremberg Stadium.

England went into the game with the full knowledge that our ―W arriors‖ held another pow erful footballing nation Sw eden to a goalless draw with ten men at Dortmund the previous Saturday.

All predictions of a wipe out of Trinidad and Tobago by the English team turned into fear before the game and despair during the m atch as the ―W arriors‖ held them at bay at every turn.

Goal keeper Shaka Hislop, who was outstanding against Sweden, gave a repeat performance in the game against England. The lanky goalkepper was ably assisted by his defence team of Dennis Lawrence, Brent Sancho and the new kid on the block Carlos Edwards.

Skipper Dwight Yorke won the Man of the Match award in the first game against Sweden for his skilful display and sensible distributions from the centre. All his professionalism and

experience were exhibited against England as T&T tightened the screws on the likes of David Beckham, Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard.

After 83 minutes of enthralling football and with the chants of ―L ondon B ridge is falling dow n,‖ one P eter C rouch held onto Sancho‘s hair to head hom e E ngland‘s first goal. It w as a terrible incident which the referee allowed to the astonishment of the crowd and football fans around the globe.

The Germans, who gave T&T tremendous support during the first round playoff, were also surprised that the referee did not intervene at the time. The media in Germany replayed the incident on television and in quick time the picture was on the internet for the fans who missed the unfortunate incident.

The last game against Paraguay was an anti climax to a wonderful entrance into the big world of football for the smallest nation to ever reach the World Cup final. We definitely made a great impact on the field of play and certainly off the field with our cultural contingent.

When we arrived in Germany we were referred to as the Small Country with a Big Passion but when we left Germany the motto w as ―Sm all C ountry w ith a B ig H eart.‖

C rou ch : I pu lled San ch o’s locks “H an d of Locks” Crouch, after his controversial goal against T&T

ENGLAND forward Peter Crouch made a confession in the British press that he did tug the dreadlocks of Trinidad and T obago‘s B rent Sancho to score the crucial first goal for his team in the World Cup match in Nuremberg, Germany on June 15.

In an interview with journalist Rob Draper of the Mail , the six-foot seveninch tall Crouch made the confession.

T he article under the headline ―O h w ell, at least Crouch will be strutting his stuff again,‖ on pages four and five stated: ―C rouch also confesses that his breakthrough goal against Trinidad was lucky to be allowed. The striker was seen to tug the dreadlocks of defender Brent

Sancho as he climbed to head the opener in E ngland‘s 2 -0 w in.‖ The article quoted Crouch as saying ―Y eah, I did it but I honestly didn‘t realise until after the game. It must have been instinctive. When I watched German TV that night, though, I knew. They constantly repeated it.‖ The incident was on the sports pages of the British press on a regular basis similar to the Diego Maradona incident when the Argentina player handled the ball to score a crucial goal against England in a quarterfinal encounter in the 1986 World Cup tournament in Mexico.

England was knocked out of that tournament after the controversial goal w hich is often referred to as the ―H and of G od‖ goal. In the sam e new spaper, an article by Patrick Collins, Chief Sports Writer in Berlin for the Mail wrote under

the headline ―C heats? T alk to Shearer and L ineker.‖ C ollins w as review ing comments by the two ex-England players concerning the England/Portugal match.

C ollins w rote: ―Incidentally, w e haven‘t m entioned E ngland‘s m atch w ith T rinidad and Tobago, the one in which Peter Crouch headed the crucial first goal after yanking aside the dreadlocks of defender Brent Sancho. ―I don‘t recall Shearer and L ineker mentioning that piece of cheating, either.

P robably slipped their m inds.‖ Trinidad and Tobago continued to get good reviews from the British press and football fans for their performance in the three match in their debut at the World Cup Finals in Germany.

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LONDON MISSION

Soca Caravan booth draws Swedish fans Though they did not perform, other stars were on hand to meet and greet the international visitors to the booth, including Shurwayne Winchester, Rikki Jai and Kees Dieffenthaller.

W inchester‘s appearance at the booth created a stir w ith a particularly fanatical group of Morroccan supporters who pledged allegiance to the Soca Warriors.

German supporters, Swedish supporters, Polish fans and a unique group of Belgian nationals in support of the Soca Warriors, expressed keen interest in T&T, with particular interest in diving in Tobago.

W e’re n ot su re if th a t’s w h ere th ese Sw ed ish fa n s w ere h ea d ed b u t something had them quite excited.

Among the many locals who also visited the booth were Sports M inister T he H on. R oger B oynes, T & T ‘s H igh C om m issioner to London H.E. Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip and High Commissioner to Canada H.E. Mr. Arnold Piggott.

Soca icons Lord Superior and Skatie drew throngs of Sw edish fans to the Soca C aravan booth in D ortm und‘s C ity Centre, Germany.

Furnished with laptop computers featuring frequent updates on the homepage of the official Soca Warriors Web site www.socawarriorstt.com, the booth also contained brochures about T&T in German and English translations; large image displays and plasma screens looping DVDs of culture and tourism content.

Crowds of predominantly Swedish and German fans were mesmerised by the entertainment provided by soca artistes, who provided a teaser for the festivities which continued in the main hall of the Westfallenhallen City Centre in Dortmund.

T&T and German fans in front of the Soca Caravan Booth

Dear Editor, To qualify for the World Cup, The Greatest Sporting Event on the Planet was nothing short of miraculous.To then perform on that stage with skill, courage, passion and a warrior-like team spirit was sensational and has put T&T on the map in more ways than one in the UK, Europe and indeed the whole world.

I was based in Frankfurt with a posse of passionate and proud Trinbagonians and after the Sweden and England games we were given spontaneous applause wherever we went in the city.

To see the flag of T&Tflying proudly on hotels, restaurants, shops, taxis and even on the banks of the magnificent river that runs through Frankfurt made all those present walk tall with their chests out proudly savouring the adoration and respect from all quarters.All Trinis back home will not comprehend the impact that this achievement by the SOCA WARRIORS has had on their nation's profile throughout the World.

When we arrived in Germany most people asked us " where is T&T" and when we left it was" We must visit T&T".....The warmth and respect that we received from fans of all the competing nations was truly amazing and has put the nation in the big league in many ways.

Whilst it was disappointing not to do ourselves justice in the last game the performances against Sweden, in particular, and England were outstanding and took us to a level that did us great credit and will stand us in good stead for planning for South Africa in 2010. (continues on page 20)

LONDON MISSION

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T&T cultural contingent well-received in Dortmund

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purred on by the Soca W arriors‘ outstanding performances against Sweden in the first match in Dortmund, The T&T cuntural contingent gave scintillating performances around the city.

Masqueraders transformed the city of Dortmund into a spectacle of colour with music by the Defence Force Steel Orchestra in blazing sunshine, reminiscent of a typical Carnival in T&T. The portrayals by the masqueraders, who were also supported by tassa and African drummers, were well-received by the large crowd of football fans from everywhere. As they moved through the main streets of Dortmund, Phase II Pan Grove, positioned at a strategic point, kept everyone entertained with music ranging from calypso and soca to reggae. There were also performances by Luta, Skatie and Kees Dieffenthaller, along with limbo and soca dancers.

T&T flags and jerseys became priceless as everyone sought to identify with the T&T Soca Warriors. Hasely Crawford, who w as on the team as one of the country‘s icons, signed autographs and spoke to fans from Germany, Sweden, England and our own sweet T&T.

Moko Jumbies transform downton Dortmund

Michael Small, a director of the Tourism Development Company, was convinced that the tourism sector would get an enormous boost from this venture.

The artistes finished their performances at Westfallenhallen, Dortmund and then moved on to Nuremberg and Kaiserslawtern where the Soca Warriors battled England and Paraguay respectively.

Boogsie, Phase II Pan Groove leave Germany wanting more!

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n the main square in the city of Dortmund, Germany, where the Soca Warriors played their First World Cup game against Sweden, Panorama 2006 winners Phase II Pan G roove, led by pan virtuoso L en ‗B oogsie‘ Sharpe, opened the city‘s official program m e w ith a repertoire of local and international tunes for an audience of thousands of World Cup fans from across the globe.

international fans were temporarily switched to Trinidad and T obago‘s Soca W arriors. ‗O ur culture and particularly our national instrum ent, the steelpan, has always been able to astound those who hear it and see it being played. With our pan virtuoso Boogsie leading the band, the audience was riveted. In the Fan Fest, which is constantly a centre of attraction, this performance has certainly given value-added exposure to Trinidad and Tobago and drummed up support in the city for our Warriors, and by extension, our country,‘ com m ented D r.

James Hepple, President and Director of TDC.

‗T rini to the B one, ‘ ‗M eh lover,‘ T he ‗M ission Im possible‘ them e song and ‗E xodus‘ w ere am ong the popular melodies played by the band in the Fan Fest in the city‘s m ain square. Show ing their support for our national instrument and our team, a series of Trinbagonian Phase II Pan Groove in Germany stars including Riki Jai, Kees The TDC operated its Soca Caravan Dieffenthaller, Calypso Rose and H2O Information Booth in the Westfallenhallen Flo as well as representatives from the City Centre, adjacent to the Dortmund Ministry of Culture and the Tourism Development Company Stadium. The booth, which neighboured the Dortmund Press Ltd. (TDC) were present, spreading team spirit.

Centre, served as a base from which information about Trinidad and Tobago was disseminated. Over three thousand media T rinidad and T obago‘s supporters w ere distinctly identifiable in representatives were stationed in the press centre. red caps and hand-held flags among the crowd, which also included fans from Sweden, Brazil and Germany. The spirit of In addition to cultural information, the booth also provided the local supporters was infectious as allegiances from information on doing business and trade in Trinidad and Tobago.

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It’s o fficial Trinidad and Tobago has moved out of Jamaica

by Donald Chambers

Ever had this conversation:Question:So where are you from? Answer: Trinidad and Tobago. ‗T hat‘s nice. W hat part of Jam aica is that?‘ Not anymore!

To a doting new fan base the world over, there is no more ambiguity as to the location, culture and nature of the land and people of our beloved twin island republic. As much as we respect our industrious Caribbean neighbour, the two dots on the world map that make up Trinidad and Tobago are as identifiable as the North Star at the moment. And to that I say ‗L et it shine. L et it shine. L et it Shine!‘ The pride emanating from our country today must surely rival that of the day the Union Jack was lowered and the red, white and black was raised for the first time. And boy has it been raised several times in the last month. The Trinidad and Tobago flag is everywhere. The pride is everywhere. The passion is everywhere, and not just amongst Trinis. The Germans have fallen in love with us, the English and the Swedes now respect us and the rest of the world wants to embrace us.

Back in Nuremberg, while walking with a friend, a German man stopped us, eager to talk football and to express his admiration for the Soca Warriors and his new found love for T rinidad and T obago. ‗T he w ay you guys fought it w as incredible‘ he said. ‗Y our (T rinidad and T obago) being here has been the highlight of the World Cup. I went to the Carnival (held in N urem berg before the gam e) and oh m y goodness… can w e have one of those every w eek?‘ he pleaded w ith a big smile on his face. The conversation continued and our new German friend took us for an authentic German meal – sausages and potato salad G erm an style. ‗T he best sausages in the w orld,‘ he quipped. Such w as the w arm th extended to T rinidad and Tobago nationals by our host country as instances like this were commonplace.

All thanks to the deeds of 23 Trinbagonians, one Dutch/Trini and the thousands of travelling Trinbagonians who shared the spirit of our wonderful country with the world.

Trinis – be proud.

Soca Warriors – Thank you.

The conversation now reads: Q: So where are you from?

A: Trinidad and Tobago.

Staunch T&T supporters. Never mind the fact that they are German

‗O h w ow . C an I com e?

All over Germany the story remained the same – Trinbagonians were being mobbed for any and everything Trini. Soca Warrior merchandise was harder to come by than a legal Peter Crouch header. When I first walked into a sports store in Nuremberg and could not find any T & T m em orabilia I thought, oh no, it‘s m ore of the sam e. T hey‘ve forgotten us. B ut that w as not the case. A s the shop attendant explained, it‘s not that the stores did not have T&T merchandise but that all that they had was sold out!

While walking through downtown Munich, a Brazilian (well so I thought) decked off in full Brazilian gear approached me, only for him to shout ‗W a‘s de scene T rini?‘ A pparently he, a T rini, was himself in a sports store when a Brazilian approached him and begged for the Soca Warriors shirt off his back in exchange for his Brazilian shirt, cap and bag. The Trinbagonian obliged.

The fact that this request came from a fan from the best footballing nation in the world spoke for itself.

English enjoying their taste of Trinidad and Tobago after the game

LONDON MISSION

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All the guys and everyone involved have to be proud — Coach Beenhakker

by Donald Chambers Left: The Coach marshalling his troops in Manchester, England.

Picture courtesy Shaun Fuentes

The early indicators were there. This was not a team overwhelmed by the occasion or content with having qualified for the most popular sporting event in the world. No. The Soca Warriors, under head coach Leo Beenhakker, were determined to show their mettle at the World Cup and make a name for Trinidad and Tobago. When they trained there was a high intensity, no nonsense atmosphere.

When they were off the field and interacting as a group, the camraderie and togetherness so vital to the success of any team was obvious.

Chris Birchall, Dennis

H ere‘s w hat the C oach, C aptain and W elsh G reat Joey Jones had to say on the follow ing topics at a Lawrence and Marvin A n d rew s ‘lim im g ’ in press conference held in Manchester, England, just weeks before the tournament:

Manchester. Picture courtesy Shaun Fuentes

Leo Beenhakker

The Pressure: I don‘t feel stressed.

I like the pressure, like the responsibility. My last message to the guys before every game is enjoy it.

Playing against England: We are not fixated on England. As professionals we are always focussed on the next game. We will start thinking about England after the Sweden game. Based on their talent though, England has to be one the favourites in the Cup. Special treatment for Dennis after his goal against Bahrain: Special treatment (smiling)? Maybe from his family and his wife, not from me. The first thing I said to him after the game was, what were you doing up front? Y ou‘re a defender!

Dwight Yorke

Playing in the World Cup: A historical moment. It‘s certain to be one of the proudest moments of my career, stepping onto the field in Germany with this great bunch of lads and playing against players of the calibre of Beckam and company.

It will be great. The Champions league in 1999 with Manchester United, that was fantastic. You can‘t take that aw ay from m e.

But representing your country, captaining, that has to be the highpoint for any player.

Expectations: We will be sure to give a good account of ourselves. We will not be the whipping boys of the World Cup. We may be a small nation but as a team we have been improving.

Joey Jones

T&T players: Great bunch of lads. As part of the C oaching staff at W rexham , I‘ve worked with Carlos Edwards, Dennis L aw rence and H ector Sam . T hey‘ve been fantastic.

Welsh support: The support for these guys and for all the Soca Warriors in Wales is tremendous. Before I came today, some friends stopped and asked me to carry some shirts they had made for the guys to sign (pictured below). But let me tell you, all of Wales is behind the team.

Expectations: They are going to fight hard and should not be underestimated.

T here‘s quality in the team. A player like Carlos Edwards for example should be in the Premiere League, no questions asked.

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NEWS: TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

Trinidad and Tobago can meet CARICOM and UK energy needs Foreign Affairs Minister, Senator The Hon. Knowlson W. Gift (pictured left) said that Trinidad and Tobago can honour its contracts to supply Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and crude oil to R egio na l a nd Inter na t iona l consumers.

The Minister made the statement during the recently concluded Fifth U.K./Caribbean Forum of Foreign Ministers, in Bridgetown, B arbados, w hich addressed the them e of ―P artnerships for promoting and sustaining Caribbean development; strategies for the medium and long-term ‖.

The Meeting is a principal vehicle for dialogue between Britain and the Caribbean region and provides an opportunity for discussion on issues of common concern, and to set goals for future co-operation.

Minister Gift noted that on the basis of our gas to crude oil conversion formula, the equivalent daily output of both products is in the vicinity of 800 thousand barrels of crude oil.

A s C A R IC O M ‘s largest energy exporter, this places T rinidad and Tobago in a position to provide long-term energy security to the Region.

The Minister said that exploration was taking place and new reservoirs had been identified. This, he said, had led to the signing of various bilateral and wider regional level agreements.

In fact, during the visit by Jam aica‘s P rim e M inister, T he H on.

Portia Simpson-Miller to Trinidad and Tobago, an agreement was signed for Trinidad and Tobago to provide Jamaica with a long-term natural gas supply.

Other issues discussed at the Forum included security, trade, the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), tourism, and health and HIV/AIDS. CARICOM will continue toward the full implementation of the Single Economy by 2008; identify what assistance is to be provided in the planning and preparation for Cricket World Cup (CWC) 2007 and; to continue to implement policies that contribute to disaster risk reduction, and mitigate the impact of natural disasters in the region.

The U.K. has committed to helping Caribbean countries share in the benefits of international trade and investment. To this end, the U.K. will organise a Caribbean Investment event in London and will also support a number of business visits to the region during financial year 2006/2007. The U.K has also com m itted to support the C aribbean‘s efforts at reducing poverty and vulnerability to shocks and natural disasters, and to continue to support the setting up of a Caribbean Regional Tourism Investment Fund.

Tourism Industry developing crisis plans Strategies and guidelines are being developed to minimise the impact of crises on Trinidad and T obago‘s tourism industry.

The process started at a Crisis Communications Workshop hosted by the Tourism Ministry at the Cascadia Hotel on May 8-9.

policies, strategies, and guidelines to minimise the impact of crises on our tourism econom y.‖

Participating in the Workshop were hotel owners and operators, local tour operators, senior executives in the travel and tourism sector, airline operators, T & T ‘s international m arketing representatives and senior representatives from the Ministry of National Security including police, defence force and the marine unit.

UK Crisis Management expert Dr. David Perl gave important tips for handling a crisis. They included: risk assessment, plan preparation, rapid response, showing care and compassion, having strong and visible leadership, and getting additional expertise if needed.

In his feature address at the opening, Tourism Minister, The Honourable Howard Chin-L ee said, ―W e are here today to understand better, how we can put in place more effective

He said crises threatening the global tourism industry included: terrorism, avian flu, civil unrest, natural disasters and crime. It is important to build and maintain high levels of confidence among visitors who are increasingly sophisticated, and informed about thousands of options, Minister Chin-Lee said.

T ourism accounts for 14% of T & T ‘s G D P and is especially im portant to T obago‘s econom y, accounting for over 57 % of the island‘s em ploym ent.

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NEWS: TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

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Message from His Excellency Professor George Maxwell Richards have the advantage of small size because, as a consequence, we are generally not isolated from one another.

We are not without our challenges, but we must never be deluded into a stance of suspicion and parochialism which is a direct attack on the possibilities that can fashion us into a cohesive nation, while the distinctive aspects, characteristic of our various origins, remain in tact.

Message from His Excellency Prof es s or G eor ge Maxw ell Richards TC, CMT, PhD, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, on the Occasion of Indian Arrival Day 2006.

On Indian Arrival Day 2006, I send greetings to the national community as we join in celebration with our citizens of East Indian origin. It is a celebration for all of us.

It is cause for thanksgiving that here in this small nation, we have the privilege of various races living together, having opportunity to benefit from aspects of the culture and customs of one another. We

There is no chance that the stamp of our East Indian ancestors will be erased from the national psyche. It is indelibly inscribed in the patterns of life in Trinidad and Tobago and is manifest in several aspects including especially our music, food and fashion.

I am pleased to note that the preservation of artifacts and other pieces, as part of the history of Indians in this country, is high on the agenda. I hope that this will be sustained as it will contribute greatly to a better understanding of who we are as we all, regardless of ethnic origin, make good use of the museum that was opened on 7th May 2006, at Orange Field Road in Waterloo.

through the electronic media concerning life in other parts of the world where strife abounds because of differences in religion and race. That is not for us. Let us recover ground that has been lost, if the truth be told and be, instead, to other nations, a voice and an example of harmonious life.

When our tassa, dantal and sitar blend with our rhythm sections, our steel pans and key boards to make a joyful noise through H andel‘s H allelujah C horus or the writers of the Anthems of India and of Trinidad and Tobago, Rabindranath Tagore and Pat Castagne, respectively, we a r e ma ki ng a pow er f ul statement. We are speaking to the validity of our cultures as agents of peace. Through the music, we are letting the world know how ordinary folk of diverse ethnic backgrounds dwell together in harmony in their villages and towns, throughout this country.

Let this be our example as we celebrate life in Trinidad and Tobago and give thanks for the presence among us of the seed of those who crossed the Kalapani.

George Maxwell Richards

We, in Trinidad and Tobago should consider what we read and what we see

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

The houses will be constructed by the Estate Management and Business The Hon. Patrick Manning, Development Company Prime Minister of the Republic Limited (EMDB)— a state of Trinidad and Tobago company set up to manage the affairs of the defunct company and according to P rim e M inister P atrick M anning, ―charged w ith developing lots in the shortest possible tim e.‖

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

The Honourable Prime Minister was accompanied on the tour of the housing sites by Agriculture Minister The Honourable Jarrette Narine and junior Finance Minister The Honourable Conrad Enill, under whose portfolio EMBD falls.

The Prime Minister said the houses were intended for the former workers of Caroni and the construction has provided jobs for former sugar labourers.

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

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NEWS: TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

19 British Police Officers assigned to Tobago On May 8, 2006 during a workshop entitled Crisis Communication for the Tourism Industry, at Cascadia H otel in St A nn‘s, P ort-of-Spain, an announcement was made by Richardson Franklyn, adviser to National Security Minister, Senator The Honourable Martin Joseph, that Senator The Honourable nineteen of the 39 British police Martin Joseph officers who have been hired by the Trinidad and Tobago Government have been assigned to work with police in Tobago to assist them in dealing with the crime situation.

Mr. Franklyn reiterated that the Government would not tolerate crime against T&T citizens or visitors to the country.

He said that several new measures had been taken to deal with the crime in Tobago, including a redeployment of police in Tobago operating jointly with soldiers.

He also said 30 soldiers were also sent to Tobago to enhance work further, and additional vehicles were sent across as well.

Mr. Franklyn said Tobago would also be the pilot country for the Inter-American Tourism and Recreational Facility Security programme (ITRS).

ITRS is an initiative of a six-day conference held by the InterAmerican Committee against Terrorism with the Organisation of American States (OAS).

The ITRS programme had three principal objectives: • T o strengthen the institutional capacity of the tourism and recreational services sector in the region for sustainability and global competitiveness; • T o disrupt the capacity of terrorist attacks on tourism at recreational services sector in the region and; • T o build visitor confidence in the security and safety of tourism and recreational services in the region.

In order to achieve the objectives, Mr. Franklyn said there would be three main elements, which entailed security checks on deliveries to hotels; security and infrastructure compliance, and screening of packages.

Trinidad and Tobago, China sign deal for art centres in T&T PRIME MINISTER Patrick Manning recently announced that the National Academies for the Performing Arts in Port-of-Spain and San Fernando will cost US$100M and construction work on the projects is expected to commence very soon.

Mr. Manning said that 60 percent of this sum will go towards the north project at the Princes Building site and the other 40 percent will be used for the San Fernando site.

The Prime Minister made these points at the signing ceremony for the projects held at Crowne Plaza, Wrightson Road, Port-ofSpain.

T hrough strong bilateral trade relations betw een the P eople‘s R epublic of C hina and the R epublic of T rinidad and T obago, thre e sets of documents were signed. The first was the Framework Agreement signed by Chinese Ambassador Xing Huang and acting Foreign Affairs Minister Sen. The Hon. Danny Montano. The second was the Concession Agreement which was signed by Manning and Ruo Gui Li, president of the Export Import Bank of China and the third was the Commercial Contract where Udecott Chairman Calder Hart and Tong Jisheng, president of the Shanghai Construction Group (SCG) International (Trinidad and Tobago) Limited, put their signatures on the document.

Though the projects have been earmarked to be completed in twenty months, Prime Minister Manning said that he expects the buildings to be completed in record time, given the expediency of the Chinese.

A m bassador H uang lauded T he P rim e M inister‘s com m itm ent in m aking the project a reality, stating that art is a ―peculiar fortune‖ to m ankind. H e added that ―A rt has no boundaries w hich enables us to understand other peoples and cultures.‖ Each of the speakers congratulated the National Football team for reaching the World Cup Finals and wished the team further success in Germany.

The speakers all linked the team and its performance to some aspect of the culture of the country, with the Prime Minister going as far as to predict, ―W e look forw ard to great success in G erm any and even if w e don‘t w in the W orld C up on this occasion, w e are going to beat E ngland.‖

NEWS: TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

LONDON MISSION

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New Investments coming to Trinidad and Tobago Speaking during the opening ceremony of the seventh annual Trade and Investment Conference (TIC) held at the Centre of Excellence, Macoya, on May 17, Trade and Industry Minister The Honourable Kenneth Valley revealed that a new Government investment policy is being developed to promote more foreign and domestic investment in T&T. The Minister said in a few weeks the policy will be available for public comment.

He also urged local and regional manufacturers to use the TIC opportunities.

The Hon. Kenneth Valley, Minister of Trade and Industry

Minister Valley added that T&T would lay the foundation for sustainable economic growth by integrating our economy into the Latin American economy.

A key to this w ould be expanding the nation‘s non -energy sectors, he noted.

Research Development Facility launched by MTI and the BDC On June 13, 2006, in support of the non-energy, manufacturing and service sectors, the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) and the Business Development Company (BDC), launched the Research and Development Facility (RDF) at the Crowne Plaza hotel.

The Ministry, in a release on June 12, 2006, stated that the facility is essentially a funding mechanism, designed to stimulate and encourage investment in new and advanced technology and innovation, through the provision of grants for corporate research and development projects. It is targeted to those business enterprises which need to acquire specialised technology or introduce innovative ideas into businesses to improve profitability and competitiveness.

T he release said, inter alia, that ‌ "U nder the R D F, a com pany in the manufacturing and services sector can access a manufacturing grant of $100,000 annually to cover up to twothirds of the cost of their research and development project.

"It is also designed to encourage alliances among businesses therefore, grants will be offered to business alliances to a maximum of $200,000."

The BDC is responsible for managing the RDF, through a screening and evaluation committee, comprising representatives of the MTI, University of Trinidad and Tobago and the private sector.

Capildeo Learning Resource Centre to receive $84m facelift

The Honourable Hazel Manning

Speaking on May 25 at a post Cabinet press conference at Whitehall, Minister of Education, Senator the Honourable Hazel Manning said that Cabinet had agreed to the restructuring and redefining of the Rudranath Capildeo Learning Resource Centre at a cost of $84 million.

The Minister said the institution would act as a centre for curriculum research, design and

implementation and would also engage in the research of the efficiency and effectiveness of the material.

There will be a special unit to focus on teacher development and training.

The Minister stated that the aim of the Ministry is to establish a knowledge centre with a modern library, a reference resource

centre with training for teachers and librarians.

The physical upgrade of the Rudranath Capildeo Learning Resource Centre will include modern classrooms, science and technological labs, areas for steel orchestras, physical education areas and a block of residential flats with double and single occupancy.

New T&T Entertainment Co. Ltd. to help local artistes On June 1, 2006 the Government decided to establish the T&T Entertainment Co Ltd for the promotion and marketing of local artistes.

The company will help fund the cost of music, video and theatrical productions as well as market the final product for exposure in the international market.

The entertainment company would receive $3.1 million in funding until the end of the fiscal year in September 2006.

The company would then receive funding over the next three fiscal years as follows: Year one - $8.7 million / Year two - $12.9 million / Year three - $12.5 million.

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INVESTING IN TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

US$83m to come from Ansa McAl

I

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

H e said the G overnm ent sought to give the best value and ―can‘t sell at a price w hich does not m ake it viable.‖ And the benefits given to the companies— such as VAT and custom duties exemption— was consistent with the viability of the project, said Dr. Saith.

First UAN, as the fertiliser complex which it intends to build will The project will not benefit from income tax relief, as the be called, should start production by the first quarter of 2009. government had taken a policy decision recently on the issue of fiscal incentives. The State will also benefit from lease and port Norman Sabga, Ansa McAl chairman and a director of First UAN payments as well as fees for the supply of electricity and water as said now that an agreement has been reached with the T&T well as the taxes paid by the workers in the complex.

Government, the National Energy Corporation and the National Gas Company, it can raise the required capital to complete the The National Energy Corporation will provide all the necessary US$830 million dollar complex— 30 per cent of which will be facilities- it has already allocated 26 hectares of land at the Union funded by equity and 70 per cent by debt borrowed from the Industrial Estate and will facilitate water and electricity for the international market. com plex. T he N E C w ould act as a ―transport corridor‖ said D r.

Saith, as the development of a port would facilitate import and This means, in effect, that Ansa McAl, the parent company of export during the construction of the project and aid in trade Trinidad Publishing Company, the publishers of the Guardian when completed. newspapers, will contribute US$83 million to the project. ―W hat drives the econom ics of this business is the price of gas In total, it is expected that US$747 million in project financing which is available in Trinidad versus the price of gas in the open and equity contributions will be raised from foreign financial market, the stability of the country, the ability to raise the finance institutions and the US equity partners. and the ability to manage these projects with local talent in the m arket,‖ said Sabga.

The fact that foreign companies are willing to invest US$747 million in T&T is a vote of confidence in the economy, said But while the project would benefit from attractive gas prices, he Sabga, speaking to reporters at the signing ceremony at Energy observed that the cost of construction had increased significantly, M inister Senator T he H onourable D r. L enny Saith‘s N ational most notably the price of steel.

Library offices.

Construction, set to begin in September, will employ about Sabga said, ―W e do have the ability to raise w hat is necessary and 2,000 workers with 125 permanent jobs being created when the group does generate significant am ount of cash,‖referring to completed in 34 months. his com pany‘s U S$83 m illion equity investm ent. T his ―m ilestone investm ent‖ w ill be sourced by a com bination of retained profits Sabga explained that most of the equipment for the complex and loans, he said. would be imported from Europe and with the euro being a volatile currency, its value at the time the equipment is purchased Sabga said First UAN signed a gas supply contract with NGC in would have an impact on the final price of the project.

December 2004 to be supplied with 75 million cubic feet a day. ―If w e didn‘t think the gas price w as effective, w e w ouldn‘t have And while he acknowledged that Ansa usually sought the m ade the decision,‖ said Sabga, explaining that the gas price controlling interest in their business ventures, the size of the w ould be linked to the w orld m arket price of the com pany‘s project made First UAN different. product. ―W e have just had another investm ent in a clay roof factory First UAN comprises five chemical plants— one plant each will where we have a 50 per cent ownership. So whereas in much produce urea, ammonia and nitrate while the other two will use smaller investments we would like to have the majority interest, those chemicals to make urea ammonium nitrate, or UAN, a the sheer size of the project meant that we needed to share the chemical used to fertilise crops and flowers. risk w ith other partners,‖ said Sabga.

Dr. Saith explained that while the price of natural gas in T&T was Dr. Saith stressed that the plants in the complex would operate to com petitive, he preferred not to use the w ord ―cheap‖ because internationally-accepted health and environmental standards and Venezuelan gas was cheaper. he commended Ansa McAl for its initiative to invest in the energy sector as it was one of several local entities making substantial Dr. Saith said that the price that T&T sells gas to investors investments. interested in monetising the commodity takes into account how many jobs will be created in the country and the effect it would (Courtesy the Trinidad Guardian) have on downstream industries.

INVESTING IN TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

LONDON MISSION

Investing in T&T

M

ost of T rinidad and T obago‘s inw ard investment to date has been attracted to the energy sector, w hich produces about 72% of the country‘s exports. Its hydrocarbon resources and natural gas reserves (a proven 17.3 trillion cubic feet and rising) have enabled Trinidad and Tobago to become the most industrialised country in the Caribbean. Investment opportunities in this sector remain many and varied (TIDCO, 2005).

The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago welcomes and invites investment from foreign investors who are willing to establish and implement feasible projects. These projects may be embarked upon either as a corporate entity with 100% shareholding, a partnership or sole trader, which will: Inject foreign capital Provide goods and/or services for domestic and

foreign consumption Provide jobs for nationals of Trinidad and Tobago Provide technical expertise for nationals of Trinidad

and Tobago.

Foreign nationals are permitted to purchase property in Trinidad and Tobago to a limit of one acre of land for residential purposes (with or without dwelling) or up to five acres (with or without buildings) for commercial purposes.

Within these limits, no official permission to purchase is required. Should property in excess of these limits be required, the permission of the Ministry of National Security must be obtained.

As a foreign purchaser, the purchase of a house, premises or land will not automatically vest the purchaser

with resident status in Trinidad and Tobago. An application to acquire such status will have to be made by an Attorney-at – L aw acting on the purchaser‘s behalf to the M inistry of National Security. The grant of permanent residence is discretionary and depends largely on the number of years spent in the country and reasons underlying the purpose of stay there.

The organization charged with the responsibility for domestic and foreign investment in Trinidad and Tobago is the TOURISM AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT COMPANY OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO LIMITED (TIDCO).

Tourism and Industrial Development Company of Trinidad and Tobago Contact Information: P.O. Box 222 Level 1 Maritime Center No. 29 Tenth Avenue Barataria Trinidad, West Indies Tel: (868) 675-7034/5/6/7 Fax: (868) 638-3560 e-mail: invest-info@tidco.co.tt

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Scene from the Soca Caravan Parade in Nuremberg Their Excellencies Professor George Maxwell Richards and Dr. Jean Ramjohn Richards are greeted by a British Policeman in Germany

Hasley Crawford with former German Footballer Ottmar Walter. Ottmar represented Germany in 1954 when they won the Cup. The Kaiserslautern Stadium is named after his brother Fritz Walter

Ashton Ford with the Mayor of Kaiserslautern, Mr. Bernhard J Deubig

The Hon. Roger Boynes with H.E. Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip and Michael Small, a Director at the Tourism Development Company

Calypso Rose - always the supreme entertainer

Left: Gavin Barker with fellow Trinbagonians in Munich.

Right: Colin Connelly with son Jelani Connelly, Gavin Barker and Donald Chambers before the England vs. T&T game

Nuremberg parade: one of the many scenes that had Germans so enchanted with Trinidad and Tobago

LONDON MISSION

Members of the cultural contingent— Sherwyne Winchester, Black Stalin, Riki Jai and KeesDieffenthaller with a representative from the TDC

Brazilian fans having their own street parade

Hasely Carwford and Riki Jai in Germany

Radio personality Tony Lee of i95.5fm and son, in Germany

T&T and Sweden fans enjoying each others company at the Fan Fest in Dortmund

Inside the stadium in Nuremberg

A day we will always remember - Trinidad and Tobago vs England

Ashton Ford and Victoria Farley of the TTHC in Dortmund

The Carnival in Nuremberg after the T&T vs England game started before the fans could even make it out of the stadium

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INVESTING IN TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

LONDON MISSION

Historic launch at the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission

O

n May 4, 2006, the Trinidad and Tobago Professionals Network, United Kingdom (TTPNUK) was launched at the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission in London.

The Network, established under the auspices of Her Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip, High Commissioner, is the brainchild of London based businessmen, Ancil Barclay and Nigel Guy. Both citizens of Trinidad and Tobago, Mr. Barclay and Mr. Guy attracted the attention of the Hon. Patrick Manning while attending the reopening of the refurbished TTHC in November 2005. The entrepreneurs conveyed their desire to make sterling contributions to the social, cultural and economic development of Trinidad and Tobago to a receptive Prime Minister, and the concept of the TTPNUK was born.

About TTPNUK TTPNUK is a network of foreign-based Trinidad and Tobago nationals. Its mission, as a membership organization of professionals, is to increase the number as well as the diversity of successful nationals in the business community. The network serves as the liaison between members and the associated Ministries, thus ensuring that major Her Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip addresses the gathering of professionals as Mr. opportunities are available to all registered members. In addition, with regard to Nigel Guy, co-founder of TTPNUK looks on. contract, permanent or advisory opportunities, the expectations of the professionals will be made known to Government Ministries.

Benefits to becoming a TTPNUK member  TTPNUK connects professionals and provides contacts to key stakeholders to facilitate national change;  Assist nationals in returning to Trinidad and Tobago by providing information regarding job availability, migration, retirement or support in advisory roles;  Provide a platform for nationals to promote the culture of Trinidad and Tobago in the United Kingdom;  Serve as a source of diverse skills from the UK in a cost effective method.

The founders of the network were present at a recent nationals meeting at the TTHC to answer any questions pertaining to the organization and to report on their trip to T&T where they met with government officials and leading businessmen. When questioned as to the purpose and use of the organization, Mr. Guy stressed that the TTPNUK was an A-political organization whose intention it was to represent the people whilst working in conjunction with the government of the day, rather than for it. He encouraged all Trinbagonians, from the experienced and disheartened in the audience to the young and enthusiastic, to get on board and become a member of the TTPNUK. ‗C itizens of T rinidad and T obago are lending their expertise to businesses and countries all over the world. Let us now concentrate our efforts on the land of our birth and make our contribution towards the development of a better T & T ,‘ said N igel G uy. H e continued to state that w hile there are matters in T&T that need to be addressed, TTPNUK provides citizens with the opportunity to be proactive and to develop solutions to the existing challenges and that the organization did not serve as a soundboard for dormant complaints.

Mr. Ashton Ford, Public Affairs, Culture and Tourism Attaché at the High Commission and Chairman of the meeting also encouraged nationals to get involved. ‗V ision 20 20 depends not on the policies of governm ent, but on the contribution that y ou (citizens of T & T ) m ake. T his is the platform that you have been w aiting for and I know that you w ill m ake use of it,‘ said M r. Ford.

For information on how to join and for more information on the Network, please visit www.ttpnuk.com .

LONDON MISSION

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Sanch UK Limited has successful launch at the TTHC Sanch UK, a subsidiary of Sanch Electronix Limited was launched at the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission in London on 2 May, 2006.

The parent company has dedicated the past 20 years to the recording and production of the music of the Steelpan and other indigenous genres of Trinidad and Tobago. Sanch UK is now poised to offer these works to Great Britain and the rest of Europe.

David Pearse and wife Rhea

The Sanch catalogue contains in excess of 50 compact discs recorded using M icrosoft‘s H D C D © technology. The most recent addition being Pan in Education a dual CD - disc one inculcates technical and social aspects of the Steelpan, while disc two contains digital files that include the musical scores.

A nother exciting new release w as Sanch‘s first com m ercial D V D entitled Passport to Germany. Filmed at Hell Yard on April 12th 2006 as a commemorative tribute to the now famous Soca Warriors football team, the Neal and Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra has produced a DVD of their 2006 rendition of a composition bearing the same name. The music is performed at a slow, infectious tempo and includes cutaway footage that reflects the flora, fauna and culture of Trinidad and Tobago, as well as fleeting glimpses of the history of Trinidad All Stars. Clips of the Soca W arriors’ qualifying campaign help to enrich the presentation.

Mr. and Mrs Sandiford with Her Excellency

Simeon L. Sandiford, Managing Director of Sanch Electronix Limited has bestowed the responsibility of running Sanch UK to his daughter Rhea and her husband David Pearse. They can be contacted at sanch@sanchuk.co.uk and the entire Sanch catalogue can be viewed at www.sanchuk.co.uk … networking music for education and entertainment

Left: Ms. Farley receiving a CD from Mr. Simeon Sandiford

TTTHC has strong presence at ISS Fair The annual International Social Services Spring Fair (ISS Fair) was held at the Kennington Town Hall on May10, 2006 from 9am – 4pm, with representatives from the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission (TTHC) in London present, and sharing a stall with Barbados. The main aim of the Fair is to help provide support for children and families across national borders.

the stall and was quite impressed by the efforts made by contributing TTHC staff members Miss Ulin Friday and Mrs. Donna Philip-Forde in putting together an impressive stall in a short space of time.

Trinidad and Tobago also added even more to the pleasant atmosphere by having pianist Sammuel Dubois entertain the public in the foyer.

T T H C ’s U lin F rid a y a n d D on n a P h illip -

The fair was very successful with Forde at the Fair A good time was had by all and in a good participating countries such as Angola, the cause.

Philippines, China , Portugal, e.t.c., on Her Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean hand to display their arts and crafts and a Phillip, High Commissioner for the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, visited variety of indigenous foods.

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LONDON MISSION

Trini...a synonym for excellence!

Trinidad & Tobago Strikes Gold at 2006 Chelsea Flower

T

he Horticultural Society of Trinidad and Tobago was awarded the Gold Medal in the Tropical Flowers and Foliage category at the Royal H orticultural Society‘s (R H S) C helsea Flow er Show , M ay 23 -27, 2006. This is the eighth gold medal the Society has won at this prestigious annual flower show since 1988 when they first participated and won their first gold medal.

T he G old M edal w as aw arded for their display entitled, ―M other N ature‘s Inn‖.

The designer of the display was Joan Wilson. Other winning members of the society‘s team w ere: Sundar N arinesingh, Janice B enjam in and Joan H am pton.

Once again the Society has maintained their high level of excellence and consistency. The Society and its members continue to be outstanding ambassadors for Trinidad and Tobago.

T&T Culinary Team Scores Gold BARTENDER – SILVER MEDAL - Raymond Edwards (The Cascadia Hotel & Conference Centre) Led by Team Captain Debra Sardinha-Metivier, our National Culinary Team comprised chefs Bernard Long, Tricia CorbinOliveire, Raymond Joseph and Sabrina Rosales (Alternate Chef), Raymond Edwards (Bartender), and Ottley Alexis (Pastry Chef).

F

ollowing swiftly on the heels of the success of our Soca Warriors Football Team, our Culinary Team won two (2) gold m edals at the C aribbean H otel A ssociation‘s ―T A ST E O F T H E C A R IB B E A N ‖ Competition at the Hyatt Regency in Miami, USA, over the period June 26-28, 2006. Additionally, within the individual categories five (5) silver medals were obtained by our national culinary team members.

The list of the awards gained at this prestigious competition, include TEAM AWARDS Winner of the Team Competition -GOLD Winner of Team of the Year - GOLD INDIVIDUAL COMPETITIONS CHEF - GOLD MEDAL - Tricia Corbin-Oliveire (Solimar Restaurant) CHEF - SILVER MEDAL Raymond Joseph (The Cascadia Hotel & Conference Centre) CHEF - SILVER MEDAL – B ernard L ong (B ernard‘s Gourmet Services) PASTRY CHEF – SILVER MEDAL – Ottley Alexis (Hilton Trinidad & Conference Centre)

Trinidad and Tobago competed against 16 other teams of Caribbean chefs, each of whom won local culinary contests in their home countries. The other teams were Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Bonaire, British Virgin Islands, Curacao, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, St. Lucia, St. Maarten, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Suriname, Barbados and the United States Virgin Islands.

A ll the team s participated in qualifying rounds of ―live kitchen‖ competitions, each preparing a three course meal for 25 persons in under 4 hours, using a ―m ystery basket‖ of ingredients that is kept secret until the competition begins.

Senator the Honourable Howard Chin Lee, the Minister of T ourism , congratulated the N ational C ulinary T eam for ―once again distinguishing themselves as the finest chefs within the Caribbean and therein showcasing Trinidad and Tobago as an island destination offering authentic varying ethnic experiences, typified by our foods.‖ The Ministry of Tourism has continually supported Trinidad and T obago‘s participation in the ―TASTE OF THE CARIBBEAN‖ Competition as it redounds to the improvement of the quality of our tourism product.

The premier event for the professional development of C aribbean chefs, ―TASTE OF THE CARIBBEAN‖ strives to promote the development and refinement of contemporary Caribbean cuisine, incorporating indigenous ingredients and Caribbean culture and traditions.

LONDON MISSION

Together we aspire Together we achieve Together we celebrate by Edwin Phillips

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Indian Arrival Day 2006

M

uch can be said about Caribbean unity when viewed in terms specific to the descendants of the two predominant ethnicities, the African and Indian. While it may be difficult for many to relinquish the sentim ents that surrounded the only event ‗that the pen refused to w rite and the paint brush refused to paint‘, (Slavery), none can deny that the region‘s Caribbean leaders are committed to maintaining the framework for peace and unity between these peoples as initiated by the forefathers of Caribbean politics and government.

The commemoration of the 161st Anniversary of Indian Arrival Day remains integral to the mode and structure of Caribbean politics in which the peoples of Trinidad and Tobago continue to pride themselves, thus departing from one of the early concerns expressed by Dr Eric Williams.

In his early writing of the Independence of Trinidad and Tobago in 1962, he said: ―T w o races have been freed, but not been form ed.‖

A s the four decades of independence from C olonial rule continue to influence one‘s thinking in line w ith 21st century positiv e values, and despite there are those in the midst that are hell bent on clinging to the old hedge hog of strife, division and even hatred, our prominence as a people are clearly spelled out by aspiring towards a unique sameness.

In her opening speech to com m em orate ‗Indian A rrival D ay‘ celebration, Her Excellency Mrs Glenda Morean Phillip, Trinidad and Tobago High C om m issioner in L ondon expressed that: ―M any com m entators, scribes and spokespersons have pronounced on the uniqueness of our T rinbagonian society‖. She said that ―w e have been called a ―rainbow people‖, a m odel nation, one w here unity in diversity is the norm , as opposed to the exception, a republic, which, despite its problems, has show n the w orld the true m eaning of the w ord tolerance.‖ The keen cross section of Trinidadians in attendance at The London High Commission were told of the works of famous sons of Indian descendants, The committee behind the event: Colin Bell, Avni-Joy Bell, Mr. such as Dr Rudranath And Mrs. Andrew Ramrooop and Ms. Asela Ali (not pictured).

Capildeo, a distinguished mathematician, his younger brother, Simbhoonath Capildeo, a well known legal practitioner, and uncle of Nobel Prize-winning author Sir Vida Naipaul and Shiva Naipaul.

Indeed, modern day Trinidad and Tobago, like most of its Caribbean counterparts continues to demonstrate the strength and resilience in similar manner to that of their fore-parents who were engaged in servitude for centuries. Mrs Morean said that: ―T hey (Indo -Trinbagonians) have extracted from that legacy, strength, will power, discipline and determination to make Mother Trinidad and Tobago a better place not only for themselves but also for all citizens.

Left: cross-section of guests at the function

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...continued from page 4

Planning is the key aspect of our next campaign and I can assure you it started right after the final whistle against Paraguay. The good news is that there is a nice nucleus of young players who will form the basis of our future World Cup Squad and the experience in Germany will make them all the stronger for 2010.

Also, the heroic achievement of the SOCA WARRIORS will inspire more youngsters to focus on becoming better players in order to force themselves into contention for another glorious campaign leading upto 2010.

The quest has ended but the Glory has been achieved and I for one cannot wait for the next campaign to commence and once again experience the colours, sounds, camaraderie and excitement of the World Cup that can only be described by one word ......Magical.

Be proud of your nation T&T and give the SOCA WARRIORS a welcome back that will make the November 17 return seem like a sunday school picnic.....They deserve it.

Mike Berry England

It was also great to see the Strike Squad proudly walking around the cities and at the games enjoying the electric atmosphere and getting the pats on the back they so thoroughly deserved from the T&T fans.

Dear Editor, Well, d adventure is over! Trinidad and Tobago must return from the World Cup in Germany 2006. They gave it their best and were a credit to their country and to Caribbean sport. We should all be proud Trinidadians and Tobagonians and those from the Caribbean. They must be praised from the rooftops.

The loss against England was the hardest as you could smell an upset. The loss against Paraguay exposed again the weaknesses shown by the England goals.

For the future of the sport in T&T, It is important to review the strengths and weaknesses of the Trinidad and Tobago German World Cup experience.

The so called "small countries" can compete on the world stage at football if they have preparation and organisation.

Both were evident in Trinidad and Tobago's performance. Beenhakker is a top coach and football strategist. That is an essential for any modern team at international level in football today.

Trinidad and Tobago should put Beenhakker on a long term contract until the next World Cup qualifiers and competition.

This team and players played way beyond their ability. They had only two world class players in Dwight Yorke and Latapy; unfortunately both were over 30. The others like Edwards , Hislop and

Birchall raised their level for the world cup. But in the end though organisation and strategy can stop you getting Licks, but it won't win you games. Only real world class ability will (there has been the one exception of Greece at the last European championships). Trinidad and Tobago lacked this when attacking. It showed against Paraguay .

Can a Caribbean team win the World Cup? Of course! We have produced world class teams ,sportsmen and women in Athletics, Netball, Cricket, Basketball and Football. You need 23 players with ability, organisation and an international coach for a World Cup football squad.

1. What has to be in place is a professional league with 10 teams and players who play abroad in Mexico, Brazil, France ,Spain, Holland and in one of the top 10 teams in the English Premiership. In the Caribbean we have to abandon the US leagues, the lower English leagues and all Scottish football.

They do not give the level of football the players need. A long term youth programme based on successful countries who consistently have produced good young players like Brazil, Argentina and Holland (Ajax System) must be put in place. The best black style team in the history of football is Brazil. The black

youth team which won the European Cup was Ajax who produced Davids, Seedorf, Bogarde, Kluivert, Reiseger, etc, that season.

2. We have to produce international coaches and football strategists through long term programmes. Use Beenhakker's experience and train up some Trinidadian and Tobago coaches under his supervision. International football is not club football.

Let's see what we do get from the German World Cup experience.

Michael La Rose London

To send letters to the editor please e-mail to tthc@btconnect.com or post to: Mr. Ashton Ford AttachĂŠ - Public Affairs, Culture & Tourism Trinidad and Tobago High Commission 42 Belgrave Square London SW1X 8NT

LONDON MISSION

K rish n a ’s Kitchen

21

curry duck 1 duck 4-5 lb (2)kg 6 cloves of garlic 2-3 chopped spring onions 2 onions 2-3 sprigs thyme 5-6 sprigs coriander or Chaden Ben (cilantro) 2 tbs. Green geera (cumin) 1 tsp. multi Fennyrak Methi salt & pepper to taste dash of Angostura bitters 1 tsp. Lea & Perrin 6 tbs. Curry powder 4 tsp. Vegetable oil 2 cups Hot water 1 hot pepper or 4 green chillies (optional) 2 tbs. All purpose seasoning.

this month:

preparation 1.

2.

3.

4.

curry duck

If frozen, defrost completely Remove all skin and excess fat Cut meat into bite size pieces Wash with lemon juice Method

provided by: Krishna Ragbir Office Manager

     

Heat oil in a heavy pot adding the methi, and the chopped onion, garlic and hot pepper.

Allow to sauté Add curry powder with a small amount of water to the mixture and allow to fry for a few minutes Add duck meat, spring onion, thyme, salt , black pepper, Lea & Perrin and all purpose seasoning Turn after 3-4 minutes Cover and leave to cook on gas mark 4 for about 20 minutes.

ATTENTION NATIONALS NATIONALS MEETING DATE: Wednesday 26th July, 2006 VENUE: Trinidad and Tobago High Commission

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LONDON MISSION

World Cup serves to strengthen ties between Trinidad and Tobago and Germany Her Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip, Ambassador of Trinidad and Tobago to Germany, visited Germany during the period June 9 to 16, 2006. Accompanying the Ambassador were Ms. Victoria Farley, Counsellor, and Mrs. Romaine Maharaj, Trade and Investment Officer.

While in Germany, the Ambassador and party met with the Lord Mayor of the City of Nuremburg, Dr Ulrich Maly, the Mayor, Mr Horst Foerther, and other officials of the three main political parties of Nuremburg.

The Lord Mayor and his team were well informed about matters pertaining to Trinidad and Tobago and during an address at a reception which also included members of the media, Mayor Foerther congratulated the Ambassador on the qualification of the ‗Soca W arriors‘ for the FIFA W orld C up 2006. He also Mrs. Romaine Maharaj and Ms. Victoria Farley of the TTHC expressed pleasure that the delegation was involved in the promotion of sport with Honorary Consuls Ingo Meyr (Munich), Howard Kroch and the further development of trade and investment between Trinidad and (Hamburg) and Bernd Listner (Bonn) after a meeting in Tobago and Germany.

Germany.

A meeting was held with officials of the Chamber of Commerce in Nuremburg with a view to developing links between Trinidad and Tobago and companies operating in Nuremburg. It was pointed out that the Chamber of Commerce conducted business with more than forty four countries, with 2,500 companies having direct and indirect investment out of Germany. Thirty three companies were also identified as having direct business links with Trinidad and Tobago.

Some of the products and services of Nuremburg are as follows: satellite navigation, high speed trains, efficient road networks, outstanding medical expertise with university clinics and specialized hospitals, insurance, media and financial services.

This meeting was a follow-up to the Biennial Meeting of Honorary Consuls in Bonn, Germany from September 8-10, 2005.

The unifying force of sport and the recognition gained by Trinidad and Tobago on the world stage as a result of its participation in FIFA World Cup 2006 were acknowledged by all. It was felt that every opportunity had to be taken in order to build on this achievement in terms of culture as well as trade and investment.

ORBITUARY

Peter Iland, Director of Sales & Marketing UK/ Europe for BWIA West Indies Airways, passed away on May 21, 2006 P eter D avies, C E O of B W IA said: ‗P eter w ill be greatly m issed by all w ho knew and loved him . O ur thoughts and prayers are w ith his w ife L ee and son B en.‘ Mr. Iland had worked for BWIA for some ten years and was currenetly vice-chairman of the Foreign Airlines Association. He rejoined BWIA in 1998 after a spell with Laker Airways UK; prior to joining the airline he was with Cosmos and before that spent thirteen years with Pan-Am.

Peter Iland

The High Commission wishes to express its condolences to the family of Peter Iland, at his untimely passing.

LONDON MISSION

T T H C h o sts N ative T rin b ago n ian ’s Abstract Caribbean Sculpture

‘Ea rth a ea rth ’

L

ondon-based artist Wendell Wong presented his unique, Rastafari-inspired abstract wood sculptures at the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission between 15-26 May 2006.

Born and raised in Arima, Trinidad, Wendell spent over ten years mastering his craft having first picked up a carving knife in his early twenties. Beginning with calabash pieces, he then progressed on to other works in mahogany and cedar. His ‗earthaearth‘ collection featured over tw enty pieces, som e taking a month to create owing to the intricate detail and scale.

With the majority of his collection being in driftwood shipped in from the Caribbean, each piece was completely unique and highlighted the w ood‘s distinctive qualities.

Featured artist Wendell Wong and Mrs. Wong a t th e ‘E a rth a ea rth ’ exh ib ition a t th e T rin id a d and Tobago High Commission, London.

Inspired by the landscapes of Trinidad and the mountains of T obago, W endell represented the R astafari‘s naturalist approach in his work by depicting jungle scenes, hunting and local wildlife as well as abstract pieces. Drawing extensively from the bible, Rastafari teachings were also portrayed in sculptures such as ‗D aniel in the L ion‘s D en‘, ‗Sam son and D elilah‘, ‗O utta B abylon‘ and ‗B abyw rong‘.

Follow ing a recent exhibition at the M use gallery in L ondon‘s N otting H ill, D irector D am ian R ayne stated, ―W endell‘s w ork added another dim ension to the gallery. I‘ve never seen anything like it before in this country— truly exceptional.‖ T hose present at the High Commission were equally impressed.

C om m enting on his w ork, W endell says, ―I feel each piece of wood already has form, speaking its own story to each individual - I m erely bring to life w hat is already there.‖

Australian guests Marese McGrane (left) and Emma Summerton were very impressed with what they saw.

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LONDON MISSION

HIGH COMMISSION OF THE REPUBLIC OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

Emancipation Day You are cordially invited to attend the annual Emancipation Day celebration under the patronage of Her Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip, High Commissioner for the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

DATE: 30th July 2006 TIME: 4:00 pm VENUE: Yaa Asantewaa

Arts and Community Centre Chippenham Mews London W9 2AN

N ea rest tu b e sta tio n :R o ya l O a k. B y b u s: N o ’s 18 o r 36

Guests are kindly asked to be seated by 3:30 pm R.S.V.P. Ms. Rasheda Morton @ 020 72019650

LONDON MISSION

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LONDON MISSION

LONDON MISSION

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VACANCIES

Senior Lecturer / Lecturer in Food Science and Technology Faculty of Engineering Department of Chemical Engineering

Qualifications PhD in Food Science and Technology Minimum qualification: PhD in Food Science and Technology (Engineering bias)

Experience/Competencies/Skills A suitable combination of teaching and research experience. A track record of original research and publication is extremely desirable.

Special Expertise / Area of Concentration

postgraduate qualification such as an M.Sc. or PhD in a relevant aspect of Seismology.

Experience/Competencies/Skills Candidates should preferably have experience in the operation of modern telemetred seismograph networks and in seismic and other techniques for monitoring active volcanoes. Prior work experience in a similar institute would be considered an asset. Knowledge of computer programming and software development would be highly beneficial. Experience with Earthworm, Seisan and MiniSeed and programming in C and C++, will be particularly advantageous.

Special Expertise/Area of Concentration Geophysics or Seismology

The candidate should be able to teach the following courses at the postgraduate level and conduct research Personal Attributes in one or more related areas: 1.Materials handling and unit operations in Food processing 2.Food Process Engineering 3.Food machinery and plant design 4.Packaging 5.Food Chemistry

Special Responsibilities The candidate will be expected to teach Food Science & Technology courses to MSc. Students, supervise postgraduate research, and assist with undergraduate Chemical Engineering research projects, which relate to Food. The candidate will be responsible for conducting Food Processing Laboratory.

Personal Attributes The candidate must have the ability to interact positively with academic and support staff within the Department and the University, as well as interface with Food Industry.

Closing Date: Monday, July 31, 2006

RESEARCH FELLOW/JUNIOR RESEARCH FELLOW (VOLCANO-SEISMOLOGIST) Seismic Research Unit

Qualifications Applicants should have a good degree in an earth science or relevant physical science subject and hold a

The post requires frequent travel to all of the islands of the Eastern Caribbean and field work which is sometimes strenuous. Applicants should be physically fit. Good communication skills are necessary; of particular importance is the ability to communicate science to non-scientists. A good command of English is ab so lu tely essen tial. A valid d river’s p erm it, o r willingness to acquire one rapidly, would be extremely useful.

Closing Date: Friday, July 28, 2006

U.W.I. Application procedure Complete two copies of the application form provided and submit with the application form, your full particulars of qualifications, experience, date of birth, marital status and addresses of three (3) referees (one of whom should be from your current organisation).

This information should be forwarded to: The Campus Registrar The University of the West Indies St. Augustine, Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. Fax: 1 868 663 9684 Email: appts@admin.uwi.tt Particulars of advertised posts and application forms are available at the above address and at http://www.uwi.tt. In order to expedite the appointments procedure, applicants are advised to ask their referees to send references under confidential cover directly to the Campus Registrar at the above address.

The Hon Patrick Manning making his feature address

Jason Scotland and Avery John accompanied by a young masquerader.

The Soca Warriors make their entrance

The Soca Warriors

Stern John receives his Chaconia Medal from Act. President Linda Baboolal

It elu d ed th em in ‘89 b u t n ot th is tim e: Dwight Yorke and Russell Latapy have a chat A large crowd was on hand to show just what it all meant to them

Pictures courtesy: Natasha Nunez Communications Specialist Ministry of Sport & Youth Affairs

Trinidad and Tobago High Commission 42 Belgrave Square, London SW1X 8NT Tel: 020 7245 9351 Fax: 020 7823 1065 E-mail: tthc.information@btconnect.com

Defenders Brent Sancho and Marvin Andrews

A member of the Defence Force Steel Orchestra shows his allegiance

One of the stars from the World Cup, Shaka Hislop