London Mission Newsletter volume 33 (January 2008)

Volume 33

Photograph by Donald Chambers

January - February 20, 2008

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Carnival, the greatest show on earth, takes place in Trinidad and Tobago

•

New Chief Justice assumes duty

•

New Year greetings from the High Commissioner

don New Chief Justice assumes duty

T&T Carnival Results PAGE 10

PAGE 4

Government mourns Keith Sobion

HC attends Steel Cutting Ceremony PAGE 12

PAGE 5

Inflation down to 7.6%

The Tobago Jazz Festival

PAGE 8

Product of the High Commission of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, London

PAGE 15

NEWS

LONDON MISSION

3

Address by Her Excellency Glenda Morean Phillip S.C., High Commissioner EXCITING PROSPECTS FOR 2008

W

e are already well into the second month of the not-so-new year. As you will have noted from our packed calendar of events for 2007, we rushed through 2007 and the race has already begun to December 2008. We moved from celebrating the Yuletide season into a dual celebration of the two Eids (Eid-ul-Fitr and Eidul-Adha) in January 2008; and, without pausing for air, we moved straight into the Carnival celebrations in Trinidad and Tobago, which culminated in the spectacular two-day street Parade of the Bands on February 4 and 5.

Firstly, in this our first edition of the London Mission for 2008, I begin by wishing all our subscribers, well-wishers, nationals, friends and contributors a successful and satisfying 2008. I look forward to your continuing support of and association with the High Commission Mission, your High Commission through nationality, adoption or association.

Secondly, as in previous years, I continue to update you on the positive strides being made by Trinidad and Tobago in terms of the economy, which is largely fuelled by the continuing favourable returns from the energy sector and the concerted effort by the government at diversifying and expanding the non-energy sector and improving the infrastructure. These factors have resulted in a year-end unemployment rate of about 5.9%, an inflation rate fluctuating between 7.3% and 8.1% and a continuing positive growth rate pegged at 12% at year end. The political climate continues to be stable, with a general election which took place on November 5, 2007, and saw the incumbent Patrick Manning-led People’s National Movement returned to office. The prediction for the economy as given by the Governor of the Central Bank in December is that growth and development will continue in all sectors of the local economy in 2008.

However, on the regional scene, the picture is less clear.

An event of great economic moment took place in December 2007, with the signing of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between Cariforum (Caricom and the Dominican Republic) and the European Union (EU) which came into effect on January 1, 2008, in default of which the region’s exports to the EU would have been faced with up to 30% tariff on goods which were then duty-free.

With the signing of the EPA, all remaining tariffs and quotas on all Cariforum exports to the EU, with the exception of rice and sugar, have been removed - tariffs and quotas on rice to be removed in 2010 and from sugar in 2015.

On the other hand, some imports out of the EU will have preferential access into Cariforum, with the result that Caribbean nations will be required to open their markets to European goods over a twentyfive year period. The jury is still out on the question of the overall advantage to the region of the general terms of the EPA. One certainty is that the Government of Trinidad and Tobago got out of the production of sugar just in time.

In the light of the coming into effect of the EPA, an imperative for the region is to ensure that the Caricom Single Market and Single Economy take off on full throttle at the earliest possible time. As well, the Region has to heed the call of the Secretary General, Dr. Edwin Carrington, and begin to put measures in place to raise its productivity and competitiveness if regional industries are to survive in the ensuing open market.

On the security front, the Region in general and Trinidad and Tobago in particular are not without challenges in terms of the relentless and burgeoning drug trade with the attendant increase in criminal activity. Then again, these challenges are ongoing and require concerted efforts on the part of the Government, the people and the ancillary services to put in place and sustain aggressive measures in order to take control of the situation. Since space does not permit me to deal with this aspect in greater detail, it is worth repetition to say like Calypsonian, Valentino, “we all have a part to play”.

Getting back to matters that affect some of you directly, the training of staff and the physical arrangements have been put in place at the Mission for the issue of the new machine readable passports. The system will be up and running as soon as the necessary provision for the secure transmission of the requisite documents is established by the Ministry of National Security in Port of Spain. Also, a new system has been devised for following up on applications for electronic birth certificates so as to enable staff at the Mission to effectively monitor the movements of the paper work between London and Port of Spain.

Finally, we hope to have the new website up and running within the next six weeks or so, and trust that it will serve as a source of useful information, will bring about a reduction on enquiry time and will facilitate a more seamless exchange of information.

Glenda Morean Phillip S.C.

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NEWS

LONDON MISSION

New Chief Justice assumes duty Justice of Appeal Ivor Archie

J

ustice of Appeal Ivor Archie was sworn in on January 24th 2008

by President George Maxwell Richards. He succeeded CJ Satnarine Sharma.

Chief Justice Archie was born in Tobago on 18th August 1960. He attended Scarborough Anglican Boys and Bishop’s High School, where he completed his O’levels. He later attended St Mary’s College in Port

of Spain, where he sat his A’level exams. He gained a B.Sc in mechanical engineering from the University of the West Indies and read for a degree in Law with Upper second class honours from the University of Southampton. He then proceeded to Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad and was admitted to the Bar in 1986.

From 1990-1995, CJ Ivor Archie spent a major part of his legal career serving the Government of the Cayman Islands, first as Crown Counsel, then Senior Crown Counsel. In 1998, he returned to Trinidad and Tobago and was

appointed to the High Court bench of Trinidad and Tobago and then to the Court of Appeal in 2004.

As well as his judicial responsibilities the CJ has served as Chairman of the Board of Judicial Education Institute and is a fellow of the Commonwealth Judicial Education Institute. His interests range from theology to lawn tennis and he is a member of the Lydians Choir.

Chief Justice Archie is married with two children.

President Richards unchallenged and re-elected

R

ecently re-elected President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago Professor George Maxwell Richards TC, CMT, PhD, will be formally sworn into office on March 17, 2008, by Chief Justice Ivor Archie.

Professor Richards, who was the unchallenged nominee for President when the 72-member Electoral College met on Monday February 11, 2008, was not sworn in on the same day because his term in office only officially ends on March 17, 2008. His new term as Trinidad and Tobago’s top public official and Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces will last until 2013.

House Speaker Barry Sinanan served as the Presiding Officer of the College that re-elected Professor Richards.

After the re-election, in accordance with Section 31 of the Constitution, Sinanan declared Professor George Maxwell Richards President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

Professor Richards’ nomination was signed by Prime Minister Patrick Manning and MPs Paula Gopee-Scoon, Christine Kangaloo, Joseph Ross, Gary Hunt, Dr Amery Browne, Esther Le Gendre, Peter Taylor, Neil Parsanlal, Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, Alicia Hospedales, Karen Nunez-Tesheira, Kennedy Swaratsingh and Colm Imbert.

Professor George Maxwell Richards is the seventh President of Trinidad and Tobago.

NEWS

LONDON MISSION

5

Government mourns Keith Sobion

T

he Government of Trinidad and Tobago mourns the untimely passing of Keith Sobion Esq. who served in the Government as Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs from 1991 to 1995 and who has been Principal of the Norman Manley Law School at the University of the West Indies (UWI) since 1996, a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

The former Attorney General, a graduate of the UWI, Cave Hill and the Hugh Wooding Law School UWI, St. Augustine, was an avowed patriot who distinguished himself academically and brought intellectual rigour to the performance of his job as Attorney General.

"On behalf of the Government, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon, expressed deepest condolences to his wife, Mrs. Judith Sobion and family," the Ministry said.

Sobion, the Minister said, was well respected by his fellow professionals and was devoted to his work to the very end, explaining that the Trinidad and Tobago High Commissioner in Kingston, H.E. Yvonne Gittens-Joseph,

visited him the day before his passing and even from his hospital bed he spoke of his professional commitments and future projects.

Keith Sobion (at right) with Commissioner of Police, Trevor Paul, at a reception at the TTHC London, 2005.

Her Excellency Glenda Morean Phillip joins the Government of Trinidad and Tobago in extending condolences to the wife and children of her late colleague in the Law. High Commissioner Morean Phillip noted that both herself and the late former Attorney General traversed similar career paths in the law, both having tutored at the Hugh Wooding Law School; engaged in private practice; and held the position of Attorney General.

Trinidad and Tobago's Official Response to Announcement from Cuba

T Above: Fidel Castro in his younger revolutionary days and below: a more recent picture of the aging Cuban leader.

he Ministry of Foreign Affairs has noted the announcement of Dr. Fidel Castro Ruz that, due to health reasons, he will not accept another five-year term as President and Commander of the Armed Forces.

Dr. Castro was elected as a Member of Parliament at the recent elections.

scholarships, manpower support in the medical services area (namely doctors and nurses) and technical assistance in the field of agriculture, particularly in respect of the establishment of two large-scale commercial farms to be located at Tucker Valley in Chaguaramas.

Since December 1972, Trinidad and Tobago and Cuba have had diplomatic relations covering cooperation in a wide range of areas supportive of economic and social development.

Further, over the years, Cuba has provided valuable assistance to Trinidad and Tobago in many ways, through the provision of

The Ministry wishes to recognize and salute the forty-nine years of Dr. Castro's leadership to the people of the Republic of Cuba. The change in Cuban leadership will in no way affect the cordiality or commitment of this Government's relationship with Cuba, and the strengthening of relations at the bilateral level.

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FEATURE

LONDON MISSION

MEET OUR NEW MINISTERS In this issue we feature the Minster of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of Legal Affairs

The Honourable Paula Gopee-Scoon - Minister of Foreign Affairs

F

ollowing the November 5 General Election, Prime Minister Patrick Manning appointed the Cabinet of Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

There were several new faces in the Cabinet among them being the Honourable Paula Gopee Scoon who was appointed the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Mrs. Gopee-Scoon is not a newcomer to public administration having gained her professional experience through careers in teaching, banking and finance.

At present, she is a member of the Dyslexia Association Bursary Fund Committee and the St. Joseph Convent (Port of Spain) support Group.

The Minister holds a BSc in Public Administration and Law from the University of the West Indies and LLB Law (Hons) from the University of London.

The staff at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs gave the new Minister a warm welcome when she assumed duties at Knowsley Building, Queen’s Park West, Port of Spain.

The Honourable Minster is also the Member of Parliament for Point Fortin.

The Honourable Peter Taylor – Minister of Legal Affairs

A

new minister was also appointed at the Ministry of Legal Affairs and Consumer Affairs. He is the Honourable Peter Taylor who would sit in the House of Representatives as the member for Princes Town/ Tableland.

Mr. Taylor assumes duties in the Ministry with a background of practical experience in law, media and sports. He is a respected Attorney having engaged in practice in his practice in his own law firm.

He has a varied professional background, which includes positions with the Ministry of Planning and Development and as a freelance journalist with a leading newspaper in Trinidad and Tobago.

The newly appointed Minister earned tertiary level degrees at the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine and the University of Wolverhampton, United Kingdom.

Mr. Taylor’s public experience also includes positions as Chairman of the Games Committee and member of the UWI Students Guild.

FEATURE

LONDON MISSION

7

To get you better acquainted with the activities of the Honorary Consuls we continue with our global page, profiling the individual Consuls.

Denmark

K

urt Brusgaard (pictured above) has been Honorary Consul for Trinidad and Tobago in Denmark since December 1999. The consulate is located in a beautiful townhouse (pictured) built back in 1756 in the centre of Copenhagen.

You can see the T&T shield on the wall.

In his professional life, Kurt is a partner and managing director within the executive search business at Ray & Berndtson A/S' office in Copenhagen. Kurt has run the company for more than 27 years.

Originally, Kurt founded Ray & Berndtson in the four Nordic countries but his focus now lies solely on Denmark. Mr. Brusdaard’s clients are from virtually all disciplines and industries and his networking skills are well known.

Kurt is an appointed member of the board of Jyske Bank which is one of the major banks in Denmark and heads the Supervisory Board as well.

Additionally, Kurt is a dedicated member of the world's eldest Society 'The Royal Shooting Club' (for men only!) which was formed in 1336 as a counterweight to The Hansa League, which controlled much of the commerce in the Baltic region. Every Danish monarch has been a member of The Society and today HRH Margrethe II is brother No. 1 while her husband and two sons are next in rank.

Kurt is a member of the Foundation and Board of 'Boerneringen' which is a confederation of 70 kinder gardens in Denmark.

Kurt is a dedicated family man and, together with his wife Lene, he enjoys his role as a loving grandfather to his three-year old granddaughter, a role which sometimes calls for a lot of persuasiveness and patience spiced with lots of love.

Kurt Brusgaard’s motto is 'Carpe diem.'

Mr. Kurt Brusgaard Honorary Consul of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago for Denmark Office Address Nyhavn 63C DK-1051 Copenhagen K Tel : +45 33 14 36 36 Fax: + 45 33 32 43 32 E-Mail: kurt.brusgaard@rayberndtson.dk

Nationals Meeting: March 26, 2008

ATTENTION NATIONALS Venue: Trinidad and Tobago High Commission, 42 Belgrave Square, London SW1X 8NT Time: 6pm

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BUSINESS

LONDON MISSION

Inflation down to 7.6%

T

he Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago successfully brought inflation down to 7.6% by the end of December 2007.

At the same time in 2006, the rate was 9.1%, coming down from the October 2006 rate of 10%.

Although the target of 7% set by the Government was not achieved, unanticipated influences caused this shortfall, notably global increase in food prices, depreciation of the US dollar and the rise in international energy prices.

Food price inflation slowed to 16.8% on a year-on-year basis in 2007, from 22.0 per cent in December 2006 and from 26.5% in October 2006. Core inflation, which filters out the effect of food prices, slowed to 3.9 per cent in 2007 and 4.6 per cent in 2006.

The decline in food prices in 2007 is largely attributable to the broadening of the agricultural distribution network which has created more of a

direct link between farmers and consumers.

This contributed to greater price awareness and facilitated comparison shopping among consumers.

This decline notwithstanding, the level of food prices in Trinidad Tobago continues to be a cause for concern and underscores the urgent need for a major expansion in domestic agricultural production. The Government has recently outlined a programme to boost production in the Agricultural sector while CARICOM countries are also discussing a regional approach to counter rising food prices.

During 2007, fiscal injections continued to be very strong. The non-energy fiscal deficit remained at around 15% of GDP for the second consecutive year compared with 11% in fiscal 2005. Notwithstanding an increase in interest rates, private sector credit by the consolidated

financial system continued to increase at a brisk pace facilitated by strong growth in consumer credit.

In these circumstances, the relative success in reducing inflation in 2007 owes much to an aggressive programme of liquidity absorption.

The Government has set an inflation target of 6% for 2008. In the face of rising global food inflation, the achievement of this target will require a reduction in fiscal injections, a tighter monetary policy stance and an intensification of liquidity absorption.

The revitalization of agricultural production will also facilitate inflation reduction. The Bank is in the process of finalizing its monetary policy measures for 2008 including its programme of liquidity absorption.

The Bank has decided to maintain the “Repo” rate at 8.00per cent and will continue to keep economic and monetary conditions under close review.

China shows faith in Trinidad and Tobago’s emergent economy Pictured: His Excellency Huang Xing, Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, with Prime Minister Patrick Manning at his Whitehall Office in early 2007.

A

mbassador of the People’s Republic of China, Mr Huang Xing, in addressing the Chinese community at the Hilton Hotel recently, said that his Government proposed to spend more than $600m in Trinidad and Tobago over the next few years.

A review of last year’s activities showed that both China and Trinidad and Tobago experienced high rates of economic growth and development, in the latter’s case, remaining on course with Government’s Vision 2020.

Ambassador Xing said that the economic growth of China had been fast developing for the last 29yrs, with an average growth rate of 9.5% per year.

Historically, the Chinese community has made significant contributions to the development of Trinidad and Tobago.

Today, relations between the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago have reached an unprecedented level of engagement as evidenced by H.E. Huang Xing’s testimony.

BUSINESS

LONDON MISSION

9

High Commission develops new links with German Businesses

T

he Trinidad and Tobago High Commission London is accredited (responsible for matters within) to several countries in Europe. The countries are Germany, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Norway and Ireland. As part of the trade programme, the Mission is partnering with several professional bodies and associations in these countries to create awareness of business opportunities in Trinidad and Tobago.

From January 28 – 31st, Dionne Ligoure, ( p i c t u r e d ) Commercial Attaché, London, delivered presentations to the business community at the Chambers of Commerce in Munich and Hamburg. Coordinating with the London Mission, the Honorary Consuls for Munich and Hamburg, Ingo Meyr and Howard Kroch respectively, worked closely with the Chambers and the Business Association for Latin America to plan the events.

Several leading companies attended including Bauer, worldwide leader on special foundations, currently working on the expansion of the Panama Channel and on Ground Zero (New York); Linde AG, a world leading gases and engineering company with more than 50,000 employees working in around 100 countries worldwide; HypoVereinsbank, the largest financier of Small and Medium Enterprises in Germany; Bavaria Film; Braseco Industries; CCC Machinery; Freier Publizizt Hamburg; Voigt Capital Systems and Hamburger Volksbank.

The presentations dealt with Government’s economic agenda and detailed opportunities in several areas, with

special emphasis on the non-energy sectors identified for development. The participants were quite enthusiastic and asked many questions related to doing business in Trinidad and Tobago. Already, as a result of the presentations, some new links have been created between businesses in Germany and Trinidad and Tobago.

Special thanks owed to the Honorary Consul, Munich, Mr. Ingo Meyr and his son Stefan Meyr. The Honorary Consul, Hamburg, Mr. Howard Kroch and Mrs. Kroch; Mr. Peter Rosler of the Business Association for Latin America; Mr. Heinz Werner Dickman, Head of Foreign Trade Promotion, Chamber of Commerce Hamburg and Mr. Alexander Hoeckle, Vice Director Foreign Trade Department, Chamber of Industry and Commerce for Munich and Upper Bavaria - for their expertise and support in ensuring the success of these events.

Foreign Exchange Rates as at February 20 , 2008

Currency

Counter: Buying

Selling

Notes: Buying

Pound Sterling

12.0542

12.5303

11.4000

US Dollar

6.1480

6.3324

6.000

Source: Scotiabank Trinidad & Tobago Limited

WTI Cushing Spot Crude Oil Price on 20 February, 2008 $100.74 per barrel

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TOURISM

LONDON MISSION

With photographs by Andrea De Silva Brief Intro to photographer: Andrea is based in Trinidad and Tobago but her life as a documenter of the human experience through her camera has taken her all over the world. She has worked for 22 years as a photojournalist and this award winning photographer is considered one of the best in her field in Trinidad and Tobago.

De Silva’s passion for arts and culture comes to life in her pictures of Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival (seen here).

The work of Andrea De Silva will be exhibited at the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission in July 2008. Details to be announced.

1. Patsy and Friends - Aloha Hawaii 2. SWMCOL CEPEP - Sweeping Time Again 3. Mas Jumbies - Jab

Photograph by Andrea De Silva

Large: 1.

Phase II Pan Groove - Musical Vengeance 2.

Trinidad All Stars - Thunder Coming 3.

Sagicor Exodus - Puncernelly Medium 1.

Courts Sound Specialists of Laventille - Hooked 2.

Steel Xplosion - Get Down 3.

Clico Sforzata - Thunder Coming Down Small 1.

Pan Elders - Latin on the Court 2.

Arima Golden Symphony - Fiery 3.

Merrytones - Musical Vengeance

Photograph by Andrea De Silva

TOURISM 1.

2.

3.

Jhawan Thomas – Pandemic Rage (Brian Mac Farlane) Curtis Eustace – Chromatic Chaos (Evolution Carnival) Earl Thompson – Man/Wade Madray (Island People)

LONDON MISSION

11

1. Brian MacFarlane – Earth – Cries of Despair, Wings of Hope 2. Trini Revellers – Que Viva Mexico 3. Legacy - Passages

1. Susan Low – Yemaja-Orisha, Goddess of the Sea (Trevor Wallace & Associates) 2. Lenore Caterson – Peesunt The Daughter of Chief Kitwanga 3. Tamara Alleyne-Gittens – A Splash of Scandal

Photograph by Andrea De Silva

Ph oto gra ph by A

ndr ea D

eS

ilva

1. Fay Ann Lyons-Alvarez - Get on 2. Dexter Stewart (Blaxx) - Breathless 3. Machel Montano - Blazin de Trail

Photograph by Andrea De Silva Photograph by Andrea De Silva

1. Sugar Aloes - Reflections 2. Cro Cro - Respect for the Fourth King 3. Karen Ashe - The Recipe 1. Bunji Garlin - Fiery 2. Neil “The Boss”George – Over Yuh Head 3. Fay Ann Lyons-Alvarez – Get on

1. Sherwayne Winchester - Carnival Please Stay 2. Patrice Roberts – More Wuk 3. Shal Marshall & Kerwin Dubois – Gal Farm

Erphaan Alves - Soca Movin On

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NEWS

LONDON MISSION

Off Shore Patrol Vessels to aid Trinidad and Tobago's cause The Government of Trinidad and Tobago has commissioned the building of Off Shore Patrol Vessels which, when completed, will be used by the Coast Guard of Trinidad and Tobago, to better secure our coastlines.

On January 23, 2008, H.E. Glenda Morean Phillip (pictured) attended the Steel Cutting Ceremony in Portsmouth, England. The following is the speech by Her Excellency to mark the occasion.

I

am pleased to be here this afternoon to represent the Government of Trinidad and Tobago at this steel cutting ceremony for the Off Shore Patrol Vessels. These vessels have been ordered for the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force, in particular, the Coast Guard arm to facilitate its task of securing the coastline of not just our Country but also other parts of neighbouring CARICOM space against sea-borne threats.

Permit me to extend a warm welcome to the representatives of the Ministry of National Security who are here with us today to witness this very important event.

On behalf of the Government of Trinidad and Tobago I want to congratulate all the stakeholders whose, efforts have made today’s ceremony possible, including the Defence Attache, Lt. Col. Alfonso, who has been providing on-the- ground representation for the High Commission, and by extension, the Government, at all stages of the process leading up to today’s ceremony.

The provision of state-of-the-art equipment to the Coast Guard is a prerequisite for the efficient discharge of its mandate, which includes carrying out surveillance and

protecting the territorial waters of Trinidad and Tobago against the importation of illegal drugs, arms and ammunition into the country; safeguarding the country’s gas and petroleum-related assets and marine environment and providing assistance in disaster relief operations within the Caribbean region.

As well, in the face of the events of September 11th in New York and July 07th in the UK, and of the global terrorism threat, the Government of Trinidad and Tobago has heightened its focus on homeland defence and reducing the vulnerability of our Country to terrorist attacks and criminal elements.

As you may be aware, Trinidad and Tobago is situated just off the coast of South America and provides a major transport gateway to other Islands in the Caribbean, South America, North America and Europe. Its strategic location is therefore a blessing, in that it contributes to the success of the economy, and a curse, in that it provides an ideal transhipment point to criminal elements that attempt to utilise its territorial waters and coastline.

Today’s exercise is therefore a keenly anticipated step in the development thrust of the Government of

Trinidad and Tobago towards securing our territorial waters and the Country as a whole against criminal and other destructive elements.

In keeping with the agreement signed between the Government of Trinidad and Tobago and the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and VT Shipbuilding International in April of 2007, the Government of Trinidad and Tobago is looking forward to taking delivery of the three (3) Off Shore Patrol Vessels that are being constructed, the first of which would be delivered in twenty-four (24) months, the second within seven (7) months thereafter and the third vessel to be delivered ten (10) months after the second.

Let me also say that both the Government and people of Trinidad and Tobago are eagerly anticipating the arrival of these Off Shore Patrol Vessels. 2010 may seem a long time off but there is much work to be done within that timeframe in terms of ensuring that our Coast Guard and other personnel are trained and fully equipped to maximize the benefits to be derived from the acquisition of the three vessels and the overall upgrade of ancillary equipment.

Continues on next page.

NEWS Eid celebrations at the London High Commission

LONDON MISSION

13

T

he Trinidad and Tobago High Commission in London celebrated Eid ul-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice and Eid-ul-Fitr, the feast of the breaking of the fast on Saturday January 5th at its office in Belgrave Square, London.

The High Commissioner for Trinidad and Tobago, H.E. Glenda Morean-Phillip S.C. paid tribute to the Muslim community in the United Kingdom in her address to the audience at the ceremony.

She told her audience "Today, as we engage in these celebrations, it is important that we not lose sight of their true meaning and significance. Eid-ul-Fitr is a joyous occasion, a time of giving, sharing and fellowship with friends and family."

She further stated, "We in Trinidad and Tobago are fortunate in that we can boast of the richness of our cosmopolitan society with its diverse religions, one of which is the Muslim religion. As well, freedom of religion is enshrined in Section 4 of the Constitution of Trinidad and Tobago. The rights and freedoms provided for in our Bill of Rights are inalienable.

I must pay tribute to you for your efforts in having the younger generation of the community join with us in this

From left: Mr. Reinqi Ghany, Chairman of the Ceremony, Her Excellency Glenda Morean Phillip, Dr. Hasnain, Imam Khan and Mr. Oscar Phillip at the Eid-ed-Fitr celebrations.

celebration. It is to your credit that youths are involved in the celebration and the religion as a whole".

H.E. Morean Phillip went on to thank Imam Rasheed Khan who has been at the forefront of the community and Salisha Mohammed (niece of Kamal and Sham Mohammed) for contributing to the success of the event.

Imam Rasheed Khan said the opening prayer while Dr. Ozair Hasnain MBBS gave the feature address.

Also in attendance were Attachés Ashton Ford and Theresa Plante from the High Commission along with Canon John Metivier of the Anglican Church in London and representatives of the Hindu Community and Trinidad and Tobago National Organisations in the United Kingdom.

Continued from page 12 Murphy’s Law being what it is, we expect that there may be challenges. What we do not expect and hope not to encounter are significant slippages of deadlines that will cause setbacks in the delivery of the vessels.

I therefore want to challenge all the stakeholders of the project, to put your best efforts forward towards the success of this project.

You are an integral part of the process of repositioning the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force Coast Guard for its new and expanded role.

In attendance for the Ceremony along with H.E. Glenda Morean

Phillip were representatives from: the Ministry of National Secu-

On behalf of my Government, I thank you for your sup- rity - Commodore Best, Mrs. Jennifer Boucaud-Blake (Permanent and Commander Huggins; the Trinidad and Tobago port and for the opportunity to be a part of today’s event. Secretary) High Commission, London - Lt. Col. Sharon Alfonso; and the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard.

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FEATURE

LONDON MISSION

have been encouraging me for years to come for the best Carnival on been home for carnival, I was only carnival.

Fantastic!

Absolutely earth. One of my favourite stories reminded of its greatness. I wish brilliant. has always been about the climax of more people were aware of just how A friend told me about it and I will the experience, the zenith of great our country is. pass on the knowledge so that friends excitement and release – crossing I recall that after the World Cup, of mine will join me next year. I will the stage. As it turned out, this was you published a great article be there for sure. easily my least favourite part of the proclaiming that through its exploits carnival experience – we were stuck Kate Campbell, Liverpool at the world cup, Trinidad and before the ‘stage’ (the Tobago had moved out part of the road of Jamaica. While that around the savannah may have been true, we that now substitutes need to do more to for the stage) for what capitalise. We have a felt like at least an great country and we hour, our drinks truck should share it, show it had to go another off. route so as to avoid the stage that was I live in London and meant for only watch as my friends masqueraders and gasp at the beauty of their accompanying our neighbouring music, and as for that, islands as they are when we eventually depicted on fantastically elaborate television Tourists enjoying the best of the best - Trinidad and Tobago Carnival 2008. moved off to cross the stage, the directors in ads, showcasing the Photograph by Donald Chambers the road sent our natural beauty and music truck ahead and charm of the countries made us linger and their peoples. And I think to Where is the Stage? What is behind. myself each time, ‘come on, we have happening with that? I have not been that and more, why aren’t British By the time we crossed, what should to Carnival in five years and for the people being teased with images of have been an explosion of first time this year, I went as a the Bucco Reef or being enlivened by excitement, resembled more of a spectator, not as a masquerader. I a glimpse of panorama?’ dribble of frustrated, thirsty was very disappointed that there was participants, who could barely even no actual stage and very small Come on! Whoever is responsible, hear the music that we were accommodations for onlookers. Has be it the Ministry of Tourism or supposed to be dancing too. carnival become a spectacle only for whatever Tourism body it has in those participating? place now, get cracking. I want to My friends assured me that plans show off my country to the world were afoot to rectify this by next Phillip, London and we have such a rich culture and year. I really hope so. This was my beautiful lands that unlike the others, only disappointing moment in what we might have to make our ads in To whom it may concern, was otherwise a great experience. parts, to capture everything.

This is the second year running that I Dianne Ashford, London I see we have a new Minister. Let’s have visited your country for carnival see new action. and the second year that there was no stage to cross. My Trini friends Devon James, London

I love my country and having just

Just came back from your

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

TOURISM

LONDON MISSION

15

STOP! IN THE NAME OF…

T

he line-up for the fourth Plymouth Jazz Festival in Tobago, to be held in April 2008 was announced on Tuesday 29 January 2008.

This year’s confirmed artistes come from a range of musical backgrounds to suit all tastes, including soul, swing, pop, and jazz. The headline acts include the delightful Diana Ross, ‘Do you think he’s sexy?’ Rod Stewart, and ‘I will always love you’ Whitney Houston.

The festival begins on 25 April 2008 and will run for three days in the picturesque fishing village of Plymouth, Tobago. Rod Stewart and Diana Ross will be performing on the final night of the festival, Sunday 27th April 2008. Smokey Robinson, Shakira and En Vogue are among the international artists that will be performing on Saturday 26th April 2008.

Rod Stewart

The Caribbean’s newest music festival, held on the beautiful, un-spoilt island of Tobago, is already becoming the most anticipated and talked about festival in the Caribbean. Previous line-ups have included Sir Elton John, Gladys Knight, LL Cool J, India Arie, Stevie Wonder, Sting, Vanessa Williams and many more.

Diana Ross

Nova Alexander, Manager (UK, Ireland, Holland & Scandinavia), Tourism Development Company (TDC) of Trinidad & Tobago said: “Tobago is delighted to be hosting such prestigious musicians at the Tobago Jazz Festival. From its inception only three years ago, the island of Tobago is now attracting some of the world’s greatest musicians to its shores to perform and enjoy the idyllic island paradise.”

Whitney Houston

The festival will also feature a fireworks display and great hospitality from the Tobagonians. Performers, celebrity guests and patrons can be assured of three days of fantastic entertainment in ‘Clean, Green and Serene’ Tobago.

Shakira

Trinidad & Tobago are served by numerous direct flights from the UK, with many tour operators offering hotel and flight packages. Book now to avoid disappointment for the Tobago Jazz Festival.

James Ingram

Seven nights in Tobago with Virgin Holidays (0844 557 3859 / www.virginholidays.com), staying at the 3+V Grafton Beach Resort, starts from £919. Prices include flights with Virgin Atlantic from London Gatwick to Tobago, transfers and accommodation on an all inclusive basis. Prices are per adult, based on two adults travelling and sharing a room, for departures between 11 and 30 April 2008. Child prices for under 12s start from as little as £359.

Smokey Robinson

Further information about Trinidad & Tobago is available at www.gotrinidadandtobago.com.

Peabo Bryson

Further information about the Tobago Jazz Festival is available at www.visittobago.gov.tt.

En Vogue

10 16

LONDON MISSION

FEATURE

All hail Trini high performers

An outstanding season and a seasoned campaigner

by Ashton Ford

I

n less than one year of playing professional football in the Premier League of the Football Association in Britain, Trinidad and Tobago’s striker, Kenwyne Jones, is worth forty million pounds (£40m).

This incredible assessment was made by the highly respected former Manchester United player, Roy Keane, who is currently the manager of Sunderland, the club in which Jones is now making a name for himself as the number one forward this season.

In an interview with the London’s Daily Express newspaper on Saturday January 19, Keane is reported to have said that he believed Jones was the best penalty-box predator in the business – and he would not sell him for £40m.

Jones moved to Sunderland from Southampton this season for £6m and the article indicated that top clubs like Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal were tracking the Trinidad and Tobago hitman.

Keane said “He’s the best in the Premier League. They talk about strikers being worth £20m,well he is worth £40m.

There are clubs looking at him. They wouldn’t be doing their jobs if they weren’t but I believe we can match his ambitions and I wouldn’t swap him for anyone.”

Jones plays alongside fellow Soca Warrior players Carlos Edwards and Dwight Yorke for Sunderland in the Premiership Division. The former St Anthony’s College

player replaced his colleague Stern who is currently playing for Southampton. John is also in fine form having scored a hat trick for Southampton earlier this season.

While Jones and his Soca Warrior colleagues are kicking up a storm on the football field, another national in the United Kingdom was called out of retirement and is now making the headlines in the media. He is the internationally acclaimed broadcaster Sir Trevor Mc Donald (pictured).

Sir Trevor was called back to duty to relaunch ITN’s News At Ten programme which was stopped in 1999.

His first assignment, according to a report in the Mail on Sunday, was meant to be ITN’s crowning glory – an exclusive interview with Britain’s Prime Minister Gordon Brown to start the relaunch with a bang.

The report stated that the Prime Minister would even allow Sir Trevor, 68, to film him at a Cabinet meeting – a first for Gordon Brown’s Government – in honour of the broadcaster’s special status as Britain’s best loved newsreader.

FEATURE

LONDON MISSION

17

CULTURAL TRIBUTE FOR MALCOLM FREDERICK

by Ashton Ford

G

lowing tribute was paid to Malcolm Frederick for his outstanding achievements in theatre, film and television at an evening of music and stand-up comedy on Sunday February 10th at the Tricycle Theatre, Kilburn, London.

There were other performances from Donna Spence who did a stand-up comic stint and singer Keith Waite from Guyana who was accompanied by a national from Ghana with a Trinidadian on the drums.

Frederick, a national of Trinidad and Tobago, is suffering from a form of Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma called Mantle Cell Lymphoma, which is an aggressive form of cancer.

The benefit concert, which was dubbed “Sweet music and some jokes!” featured a number of well known artistes from the Caribbean who reside in the United Kingdom.

The curtain came down on an entertaining cultural evening with a splendid performance from the group affectionately described as the Royalty of Lovers Rock, made up of Janet Kay, Carroll Thompson and Victor Romero-Evans.

D Alberto

Well known teacher from Hackney, calypsonian D Alberto opened the show with a rendition of the internationally famous song by the late Melody called “Shame and scandal in the family.” He also sang his own composition on how to deal with indisciplined children who don’t want to make use of the educational opportunities.

The African Caribbean Leukaemia Trust (ACLT) also assisted with the programme. The representative appealed to the patrons to register as potential life saving donors and stated that there was an urgent need for bone marrow donors in order to address the problem being faced by Caribbean and African people.

Former national calypso monarch of Trinidad and Tobago, Tobago Crusoe, had the audience in stiches with his two renditions of “London time” and “Advice to a daughter.”

Jamaican comedians Tony Hendricks, John Simmit and Curtis Walker thrilled the packed auditorium with some good Caribbean jokes and they also spoke of their long relationship with Frederick while living in the United Kingdom.

Frederick, well known for his role as Beastie in the 1980’s Sitcom “No problem,” has been in the theatre industry for over 30 years. The Carib Theatre Company led by Artistic Director Anton Phillip and Production Manager Witty Forde, along with the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission staged the benefit concert for Frederick.

More information can be obtained at www.aclt.co.uk

Tobago Crusoe

10 18

LONDON MISSION

CARNIVAL VILLAGE ARTS AND CULTURE SYMPOSIUM

O

n Wednesday 13th February 2008, the newly formed Carnival Village (CV) hosted a one day symposium dedicated to Artists, Arts Organisations, Practitioners and Carnivalists, as well as people interested in promoting Arts and Culture. The Trinidad and Tobago High Commission was represented by Donna Philip-Forde, Assistant Attaché III, Public Affairs, Culture and Tourism. There were also representatives from well over ninety (90) artists/arts organizations as well as independent schools, one Chamber orchestra and a Capoeira Dance Group.

The Event took place at the Tabernacle (CV’s official headquarters) and lasted from 1pm to 9pm. There were presentations by various Carnival Village partners, as well as supporters of Carnival Village. Among those who addressed the symposium’s audience were: Colin Prescod (CV’s chair); CLLR. Paget-Brown(Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea); David Ruse (Director of Libraries for Westminster); Pax Nindi (Combined Arts Services); Shango Baku (CETTIE); Nicole-Rachelle Moore (Association of British Calypsonians); and Neil Johnson of the Paddington Development Trust.

A plenary was held at the end of all the discussions and presentations, after which, the evening ended with a live showcase entertainment, featuring calypso, steelpan, masquerade, theatre, film, dance and comedy.

The symposium on the 13th February provided a perfect and practical networking opportunity for those individuals/organizations who wish to utilize the space and/or support offered by Carnival Village to develop and/or promote their artistic endeavours.

A young man on the move...

A

fter successfully completing his degree course at the University of St Andrews (Scotland), Antony HoyteWest graduated with an MA Honours degree in Modern Languages (Russian and Spanish) on St Andrews Day, 30 November 2007. Whilst pursuing his studies, he was awarded the Welmar Piano Scholarship and the Christina Kennedy Memorial Scholarship, and also received the Alice Calder Prize from the Associated Board of Royal Schools of Music for excellence in his Grade 8 Piano examination.

He is currently pursuing an MLitt in Management, also at St Andrews, where he has been awarded a partial scholarship.

Antony I Hoyte-West, son of Trinidad and Tobago National, Laurene P Hoyte-West, receiving his degree from the Chancellor of the University of St Andrews, Sir Menzies Campbell.

Are you a young citizen of Trinidad and Tobago, pursuing your studies or working in the United Kingdom? Please send us your success story.

Mr. Ashton Ford, Attaché - Public Affairs, Culture & Tourism, High Commission of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, 42 Belgrave Square, London SW1X 8NT

In October 2008, Antony will commence a MSc in Latin American Studies at the University of Oxford. As part of this course, he will be researching the Spanish influence in the history of Trinidad and Tobago.

The High Commission congratulates Antony on his many successes to date and wishes him all the best in his future endeavours.

LONDON MISSION

Provided by: Ameer Mohammed CEO KC Confectionery Limited

KC Confectionery Ltd, manufacturers of

19

Left: The Trinidad and Tobago High Commission welcomes its new receptionist, Miss Luan John. Miss John joined the staff of the High Commission in October 2007.

Background: Studied Media Performance at the University of Bedfordshire.

Worked in Trinidad as a radio broadcaster/News presenter with former Love 94.1fm and the Trinidad Broadcasting Company. Also worked as a games show presenter with “Quiz Time� which was aired on TV6.

Right: The High Commission is also pleased to welcome the latest arrival from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs - our new Officer in Charge of Accounts, Mrs. Theresa Plante. Mrs. Plante joined the staff of the Mission in September 2007.

Background: Served as Officer in Charge of Registry, Trinidad and Tobago Embassy, Washington D.C., 1995 - 2001.

Worked in various Ministries including the Ministry of National Security and the Office of the Attorney General. Has been with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs since 1990.

Above: Members of the crowd attending the Eid ulAdha celebrations at the High Commission.

Above: H.E. Glenda Morean Phillip S.C. with members of the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard at the Steel Cutting Ceremony in Portsmouth, United Kingdom.

High Commission of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago 42 Belgrave Square, London SW1X 8NT Tel: 020 7245 9351 Fax: 020 7823 1065