London Mission Newsletter volume 21 (Oct 2006)

Republic of Trinidad and Tobago

MarchApril 2006 2006 October

Volume

Inside this Issue Welcome Caribbean Airlines

3

Plans for GTL Plant unveiled

3

The China Experience

4

Art Extravaganza at TTHC

8

Grand T&T Day at Pontefract Races

10

Divali Celebrations at TTHC

13

Letter to the Editor

16

Attention Nationals

18

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

from $18,00 to $60,000

2006-2007 Budget Presentation

O

month; ii) Under the current system, a person whose income exceeds $100 per month but does not exceed $1,000 per month receives a “basic pension” of $1,050. It is proposed that, with effect from January 1st 2007, this person will The Hon. Patrick Manning, Prime now receive a Senior Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Citizens’ Grant of Tobago, during his budget presentation $1,150 per month, an increase of $100 per According to the Hon. month; Prime Minister, the Effective October 1st 2004, iii) A person whose income government proposes to the maximum Old Age is less than $100 per month increase the tax allowance Pension was increased from is currently paid a “monthly for Trinidad and Tobago $1,000 per month to $1,150 pension” of $1,150. This students studying overseas p e r month.

T h e person will continue to from $18,000 to $60,000 Government has reviewed receive $1,150 per month as per household. This measure the distribution of the Old a Senior Citizens’ Grant. In requires amendments to the Age Pension, to be renamed addition this person will be Income Tax Act and would Senior Citizens Grant, and also provided with an take effect from January 1, now proposes the following additional allowance of 2007. amendments: $100; Highlights from the iv) The maximum amount 2006/2007 Budget are as i) With effect from October paid as Senior Citizens’ 1, 2006, there will be only follows: one qualifying income Grant will be $1,150 per FISCAL MEASURES ceiling, that is, income not month; (Continues on page 2) Senior Citizens Grant exceeding $2,150 per

verseas students stand to benefit from a substantial increase in tax allowance.

This announcement was made on Wednesday 4th October, 2006, by the Honourable Patrick Manning, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, as he delivered the 20062 0 0 7 b u d g e t presentation.

2

LONDON MISSION

His Excellency Stuart Innes - New British High Commissioner to Trinidad and Tobago The new British High Commissioner to Trinidad and Tobago, His Excellency Stuart Innes, paid a courtesy call on the Honourable Patrick Manning, Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, on Friday 27th October 2006 at his Whitehall office.

2006-2007 Budget continued...

The Physically Challenged Disability Grant increased from $800 to $900. This measure will benefit approximately 14,000 individuals and took effect from October 1, 2006.

Small and Micro Enterprises Due to an increase in entrepreneurs in non–traditional business enterprises such as light manufacturing and service based industries and an increase in technology based enterprises, the entry level funding of National Entrepreneurship Company Ltd. (NEDCO) has been increased from $50,000 to $100,000. In addition, individuals who have completed the payments on their first loan will be eligible for a second loan of up to $250,000.

Technology Telecommunications equipment required for roll out of internet and broadband services will be exempted from import duties and Vat for an initial period of two years commencing January 1, 2007.

In addition, all computer peripherals including cables, speakers, mouse

pads and anti-glare screens are to be exempt from Vat and Customs Duty.

This measure will come into effect from January 1st 2007.

Promoting Healthy Lifestyles In keeping with the Government’s commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles, there was an increase to the excise duty on tobacco products, the import duty on tobacco products of Common Market origin, and the tobacco tax on extra-regional tobacco products, by 15 per cent respectively. This measure took place with immediate effect.

Excise duty on locally manufactured rum, beer and other alcoholic products was increased by 15 per cent, while the import duty on rum, beer and other alcoholic products of Common Market origin was increased by 15 per cent. Import duties on rum, beer and other alcoholic products from extra regional sources was increased by 30 per cent. This measure took place with immediate effect.

OTHER FISCAL MEASURES Stamp Duty In accordance with Government’s

policy initiatives to make housing more affordable, it is proposed that further concessions should be given to homeowners whose properties are valued at $450,000 or less.

It is proposed that residential properties valued at $450,000 or less be exempt from stamp duty with effect from January 1st 2007.

Further, the rates of duty applicable to residential properties whose value exceed $450,000 should be as follows: i) For every dollar of the first $100,000 in excess of $450,000, the stamp duty will be five per cent; ii) For every dollar of the next $100,000, the stamp duty will be 7 1û2 per cent; iii) For every dollar thereafter, the stamp duty will be ten per cent.

T h i s m e a s u r e w i l l r e q ui r e amendments to the First Schedule of the Stamp Duty Act, Chap. 76:01 under the heading “Conveyance or transfer on sale of any Property.”

(Continues on page 5)

Welcome C

LONDON MISSION

3

aribbean Airlines was launched on October 16, 2006, signalling a new era in Caribbean aviation.

essentially, the warmth of the islands. Today is the start of a very exciting phase in aviation in the Caribbean."

Caribbean Airlines will offer the Caribbean a worldclass, financially strong carrier dedicated to bringing quality and efficiency to its customers as they travel to, from or within the Caribbean region.

Caribbean Airlines will replace BWIA West Indies Airways, which has served the Caribbean honourably for 66 years.

"The livery and logo of Caribbean Airlines centre around the hummingbird. The hummingbird is found only in the New World and early references to Trinidad are as the Land of the Hummingbird. This makes this symbol highly appropriate as an emblem for Caribbean Airlines" stated Peter Davies, Chief Executive Officer of BWIA. He continued, "Caribbean Airlines style of service will be professional but not distant, personable not pushy, genuine not contrived, very natural and easy. Its character will capture the diverse aspects of the region, its food, music, décor, language and personality,

The process of change will bring no inconvenience to travellers. There will be a seamless transition from one company to the other when the first Caribbean Airlines flight takes off on January 01, 2007. Tickets purchased for travel on BWIA will be honoured on Caribbean Airlines; frequent flyer miles and membership in Club BWEE will be automatically transferred, guaranteeing continuity and confidence for all customers.

For more information on Caribbean Airlines please visit www.caribbean-airlines.com

Trinidad and Tobago to set up the first GTL Plant In the Western Hemisphere Company of Trinidad and Tobago Limited, and Ms V. Farley, Counsellor, High Commission of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

Her Excellency as she prepares to make her presentation.

H

er Excellency Mrs Glenda Morean Phillip SC represented the Government of Trinidad and Tobago at the ‘Gas to Liquids (GTL) 2006 Conference’ held at One Whitehall Place, London, from October 23 to 24, 2006. Also attending the Conference were Mr Wayne G Bertrand, President, Operations, Petroleum

Her Excellency, the sole female speaker at the Conference, highlighted the emergence of a GTL Industry in Trinidad and Tobago and the plant which is scheduled to come on stream in September 2007. This plant will be the first GTL plant in the western hemisphere and gives the Government of Trinidad and Tobago the opportunity to further diversify the energy sector.

The Conference which was sponsored by some of the key players in the energy sector provided ‘inter alia’ the opportunities to (a) learn from leading industry experts in the area of gas to liquids (GTL); (b) gain insight into the largest GTL plant which has been set up in Qatar; (c) network and gather information; (d) learn how GTL is driving the growth of new fuel markets.

4

LONDON MISSION

China's Foreign Affairs Minister, Mr. Li Zhaoxing, and Dr. Saith signing a visa waiver agreement.

M

inister of Public Administration and Information and Minister of Energy and Energy Industries, Sen. Dr. the Hon. Lenny Saith, recently wrapped up a one week official visit by a Trinidad and Tobago delegation to the People’s Republic of China.

The visit, which included meetings with government officials and other leaders in commerce and industry in Beijing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen and Shanghai, ended on October 31.

In Beijing, the delegation met with China’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Mr. Li Zhaoxing, and Dr. Saith later signed a visa waiver agreement for holders of valid service, official and diplomatic passports, entering or transiting through the territory of the other contracting party. Dr. Saith and the delegation also met with the Vice Chairman of China’s National Development and Reform Commission, Mr. Chen Deming, and representatives of China Railways, the Import and Export Bank of China, China National Overseas Engineering Corporation and China National Petroleum Corporation.

From Beijing, the delegation traveled to Guangzhou, a city with a population of over 8.4 million with 14 million in the province and an economy of over US$50 billion based on agriculture and manufacturing.

There, Dr. Saith met with the province’s Deputy Secretary General, Mr. Liu Youjun, and other government officials. Discussions revolved around its main revenue earners as well as its information technology capability and tourism.

The following day, the delegation visited the Guangzhou Academy of Agricultural Sciences. Here Dr. Saith was very interested in agricultural marketing and the strategies used in the province to guarantee farmers a stable price for their produce. He was also interested in techniques that can be used by local farmers for increasing yields on the same acreage.

Then it was on to Shenzen, a city with an estimated population of 20 million.

In Shenzen, Dr. Saith and Prof. Ken Julien held lengthy talks with Mr. Liang Hua, Vice President of Huawei Technologies Company Limited, the leading communications company in China, along with other company executives. Huawei Technologies produces video and wireless phones, group video conferencing equipment as well as broadband communication systems.

Dr. Saith was interested in how Trinidad and Tobago and the company could cooperate in developing broadband systems locally. He explained that there was a

need for a provider of broadband services that the private sector could not offer at this time.

The delegation also visited the company’s product exhibition hall, its digital home customer experience lab, its data, auto logistics and training centers.

The visit ended in Shanghai, China’s largest city with a population around 30 million and an economy over US$26 billion. Following a meeting with the Deputy Mayor of Shanghai, Mr. Zhou Yu Peng, Dr. Saith and the delegation visited the headquarters of the Shanghai Construction Group, one of the largest construction companies in China, with expertise in road, airport, office buildings, housing, railway and stadium construction. The delegation also had the opportunity to ride on the company’s newly developed, magnetic levitation train that can reach speeds up to 500 kilometres an hour.

After discussions with top executives of the Group, the delegation visited Pudong Economic Technological Development Area, a high tech park similar to what Trinidad and Tobago intends to set up at Waller Field through E-Teck.

LONDON MISSION

5

Trinidad and Tobago receives positive review

S

tandard and Poor’s, an internationally recognised provider of independent credit ratings, indices, risk evaluation, investment research and data, affirmed on October 6, 2006, Trinidad and Tobago’s foreign currency rating of Awith a stable outlook. According to S&P, the ratings were supported by continued buoyancy of the fiscal and external accounts, underpinned by the booming energy sector.

Economic expansion in T&T, as outlined in the review, outpaces that of its peers and continues to be driven by the thriving energy sector. Real GDP growth averaged close to ten per cent in 2002-2005 and per capita GDP is estimated at around US$13,000 in 2006, essentially on par with that of the ‘A’ median of US$12,950.

In an analysis of the review which appeared in the Trinidad Guardian, Mr. Vangie Bhagoo highlighted the fact that the ratings were also reflective of an increasing non-energy fiscal deficit, mainly because of the slow development of the non-energy sector, which is primarily the source of labour-intensive employment. The report also stated: “The outlook for economic growth is well in excess of seven per cent in the medium term, which is above the ‘A’ median of 5.7 per cent. Social indicators in T&T also compare favorably with Latin America and Caribbean counterparts as well as other similarly rated peers.

(Continues on next page)

2006-2007 Budget (conclusion) FISCAL OPERATIONS Revenue The budget for FY2007 provides for total revenue of $35,125.9 million, which is $3,561.8 million lower than estimated revenue collections in FY 2006. The main reasons for the shortfall are the lower oil and gas prices used in the revenue calculations for the new fiscal year.

Energy revenue Energy revenue collections in 2006/2007 are budgeted at $15,239 million or $2,518 million lower than actual collections last year. This year’s budget estimates are based on an average oil price of US$ 45 per barrel while the actual average oil price in 2006/2007 was $ 63.30 per barrel.

Non-energy revenue Non-energy revenues in FY2007 are budgeted at $19,887.4 million,

which is $1,044 million lower than actual collections last year. The decrease reflects the completion of further loan repayments from certain State Enterprises and lower property income.

Expenditure Total expenditure in Trinidad and Tobago Parliament FY2007 is budgeted at $ 38,054 million, which is $2,206 million less than last year’s s i m i l a r p e r c e n t o n s o c i a l expenditure. Excluding transfers to development and poverty alleviation, the Heritage and Stabilisation Fund eight percent on national security ($3,160 million), total expenditure 6.5 per cent on health, six percent in FY 2006 is $37,100 million. This on infrastructure. means that the budget for FY2007 is a mere 2.5 per cent over last year’s Budget Balance level.

On the basis of a notional oil price of US$ 45 per barrel, the budget In terms of the functional provides for a small overall surplus classification, 12.5 per cent of the of $29 million. budget will be spent on education, a LM

6

LONDON MISSION

Standard and Poor’s review continued...

The country ranks 59 in Transparency International’s 2005 Corruption Perceptions Index and 57 in the UNDP’s Human Development Index, placing it ahead of oil-producers such as Kazakhstan and Oman, but behind regional peers like Barbados and The Bahamas.

An inherent problem associated with any resource-based economy is the heavy dependence on one sector. In T&T, Mr. Bhagoo noted, the energy sector contributed 43 per cent of total GDP in 2005, up from 37 per cent in 2004 and 26 per cent in 2003. This reliance masks the country’s vulnerability to external shocks. Any downturn in oil prices on the international markets will severely undermine the T&T economy.

The Heritage and Stabilisation Fund (HSF) has the potential to smooth the country’s income patterns inter-temporally, if it is designed properly. However, the current proposal is not without its flaws and many issues need to be resolved regarding the establishment of the HSF. So far, the Interim Revenue and Stabilisation Fund contains about $8.7 billion, which represents about seven per cent of estimated 2006 GDP. Other oil-dependent countries such as Oman have established similar large asset funds—about 30 per cent of GDP—to hedge against oil price volatility and have seen their overall fiscal positions improve over the medium term.

According to the recently presented fiscal package, energy revenue came in at $17.2 billion, substantially up from $12.2 billion in the previous fiscal year, and represented close to 15 per cent of GDP in the fiscal year ended September 2006, slightly increasing from 12 per cent of GDP a year earlier.

The Government operations should result in an overall budget deficit of almost three per cent of GDP, however, this takes into account $1.7 billion transfer to the RSF in the FY2006/07. The nonenergy deficit is projected to moderate to 22 per cent of non-energy GDP, compared to 24 per cent in the previous FY.” The report also stated that, “The T&T economy is operating very close to its absorptive capacity, which makes inflation control and exchange rate stability problematic. For the 12 months to August 2006, the inflation rate was at nine per cent, and the outlook suggests that inflation could hit double digits by December 2006.” It pointed out however that to counter the inflationary build-up, the Central Bank has tried tightening monetary policy, increasing the repo rate steadily throughout the year, ending September at a benchmark rate of eight per cent, signalling increases in interest rates across the curve.

S&P suggested the need for economic diversification as well as a significant reduction in the non-energy deficit.

Additionally, improvements in transparency, governance and the passage of the legislation regarding the HSF could all strengthen T&T’s creditworthiness. Alternatively, slippages in the public sector restructuring could lead to pressure on the fiscal accounts and could reverse the recent ratings trend.

LM

LONDON MISSION

7

The second wave of Chinese immigration took place after the abolition of slavery. The period of 1853 to 1866 saw the Chinese migrating on a global scale to countries as Australia, Canada, the United States and the Caribbean. Trinidad and Tobago received a small portion of this vast movement. Those who went to the shores of Trinidad and Tobago included indentured labourers and free Chinese who migrated voluntarily.

The Third wave came after 1911 and was a direct result of the Chinese revolution. These immigrants were predominantly families and friends of the earlier migrants. They travelled as tradesmen as opposed to field workers.

The fourth wave started in the 1970s and continues on a smaller scale up to today.

Her Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip SC, makes a presentation to Merlin Sancho as Attaché Ashton Ford looks on.

O

n Tuesday 17th October, the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission celebrated 200 years of Chinese presence in our twin island Republic. The event featured a performance by entertainer Greta Mendez, addresses

by Her Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip SC, High Commissioner, and Mr. Ansel Wong, along with artwork by Miss Melin Sancho.

History in brief Chinese immigration to Trinidad and Tobago occurred in four waves. The first wave of immigrants arrived in Trinidad on 12th October, 1806 in the ship Fortitude.

They came not from mainland China but from Macao, Penang and Calcutta. This move was engineered by the British who were hoping to find a new labour force for its colony, Trinidad. Living conditions for the Chinese immigrants were harsh and many returned to China on the Fortitude. Of those who remained, many became butchers, shopkeepers, carpenters and market gardeners.

Her Excellency’s Message In addressing the gathering of nationals, High Commissioner Morean Phillip commented on the invaluable contributions that the descendants of the Chinese migrants have made and continue to make towards the development and progress of Trinidad and Tobago. Her Excellency made mention of a few of the outstanding individuals: national icon, the late Governor General, Sir Solomon Hochoy; politicians, Alloy Lequay, Howard Chin Lee and Gerald Yetming; artists Carlisle Chang and Sybil Atteck; Carnival Designers and Band Leaders, Elsie and Stephen Lee Heung; Olympic marksman, Bert Manhin; Champion Tennis Player, Petal Lee Loy; mother and daughter national hockey players Mary and Stacey Sui Butt; West Indies cricketer, Rupert Tang Choon; the Prime Minister’s Best Village Trophy Competition Co-ordinator, Joyce Wong Sang, and former CAREC Head, Dr David Picou who spearheaded the Committee to celebrate Chinese Arrival Day in Trinidad and Tobago.

In closing, Mrs. Morean Phillip reminded the audience of the unique civic society that is Trinidad and Tobago, a rainbow country admired by many. She supported this claim with the words of a poem written by the former Chinese Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, Lu Shulin.

Please see page 11 for the conclusion of the High Commissioner’s address.

10 8

LONDON MISSION

T

he Trinidad and Tobago High Commission in London recently hosted an art exhibition featuring some of the best of T&T, from the talented up-andcomers to the established.

The pristine white walls of the reception room at the Mission were transformed into a brilliant amalgamation Her Excellency (centre) with Wendel Clement and the featured of colour, talent and national pride, as the works of artists. From left: Justin Sobion, Jenny Chambers and Esther Salazar. emerging artists Jeanine Lethe Hospedales,Esther Cupid At right are Jeannine Lethe Hospedales and Michael Douglas.

Ramoutar Salazar, Justin Sobion, Michael Douglas and Commenting on the evening’s festivities, Public Affairs, the reputable Jenny Chambers, were on display.

Culture and Tourism Attaché at the High Commission, Ashton Her Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip SC, a self- Mr. Ford, said, “It confessed art enthusiast, opened the show with a brief hardly comes address to the gathering of London’s crème de la crème. as a surprise Inspired by the engaging turnout and the strength of the that the works fifty plus cultural representations on the wall , the High showcased Commissioner was reminded of an instance earlier in the should be year where similar feelings of pride and nationalism were received with prevalent: “Looking around this room at the elaborate such art pieces that are decidedly Trini, I am reminded of enthusiasm by another time just a few months ago when we were all the public.

On the Way to the Market filled with national pride. It was during Trinidad and Trinbagonians Jenny Chambers Tobago’s participation in FIFA World Cup 2006. Was are talented anyone there? What a moment! The theme for our people and the football team – the Soca Warriors – during the extraordinary tournament was Small Country Big Passion, and fittingly, art that you see that is our theme for tonight.” on display this evening is a Among the guests present at Small Country- Big Passion succinct but were diplomats, representatives from the House of highly accurate Lords, prominent London businessmen and women, representation representatives from London art galleries, art lovers, of that talent High Commission staff and a dash of celebrities, that abounds including the lovely Miss Martina Laird, star of the hit back home. I UK television series, Casualty. The High Commission myself, do not was quick to capitalise on the presence of one of its profess to be Keeping Secrets nationals who has made it big in the UK entertainment Jeannine Lethe Hospedales any expert on industry and Miss Laird eagerly complied with the grace the matter and style befitting of one so accomplished. In one of the (art) but I think that the atmosphere created here tonight highlights of the night, Miss Laird, along with the speaks volumes of the calibre of the artists that we were Mission’s Donald Chambers, made an impromptu able to attract for the occasion…and the fantastic thing is presentation to three lucky guests who walked away with that of the five (artists) present, no one person’s work paintings donated by artists Hospedales, Salazar and resembles the other and yet, as Her Excellency said, they Chambers. are all decidedly Trini.”

LONDON MISSION

The Artists in a Nutshell: Jeannine Lethe Hospedales is the holder of a Bachelor of Arts Degree with a Double Major in Visual Arts and English Literature (first class honours) from the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus.

She received the Eastman-Christensen Award for the best Visual Arts Student at the University of the West Indies in the year 2000. She has harnessed her childhood love for painting into refined, elaborate pieces.

Peaceful Warrior Esther Cupid Ramoutar Salazar

Brothers Michael Douglas

Posing with Grandfather’s Pipe Justin Sobion

Esther Cupid Ramoutar Salazar is a selftaught artist who, in the past three years, has had three solo exhibitions, “Open” July 2004, “Art for humanity” November 2005, “Mind, Body and Soul” January 2006, and three joint exhibitions “Expression One” April 2006, “Expression Two” June 2006 and “Expression Three ” August 2006.In 2004, a Professor of Visual Arts from the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus in Trinidad and Tobago, who critiqued her artwork, adjudged her ‘the most promising artist’.

9

Justin Sobion, a self-taught artist, has been painting since he was eight years old. In August 2003, Justin was one of several local artists whose art work was featured in Carifesta VIII in Suriname. Justin defines his work simply as “intuitive art”. He has had many solo exhibitions along with co-showings with fellow artist Michael Douglas.

Michael Douglas himself has been painting for fourteen years of his life. His paintings seek to capture the good and evil that is in every man, the beauty he can create and the destruction he can cause. Through his art, he hopes to learn more about Mother Earth and the people and great things that inhabit her.

Jenny Chambers, the most established of the artists on show, has always found avenues to express her creativity whether as a teacher, designer or artist. Essentially selftaught, her acrylic canvasses are an expression of the joy of Caribbean living, both in her native Trinidad and Tobago and the experience of a decade in Jamaica. Her art reflects her belief that the environment and mankind are inseparable, with her inspiration coming mainly from the serenity and simplicity of Caribbean rural lifestyles.

Although her paintings can be found in the museum in Trinidad and Tobago, banks and corporate offices and in private collections in the Caribbean, North America and India, Jenny rarely exhibits her work. Her first public viewing was at the University of Technology in Jamaica in 2001, followed by an exhibition at the Kiskadee Art Gallery in Trinidad and Tobago in late 2002.

The High Commission wishes to acknowledge the work done by Campbell’s of London with special mention of Mr. Wendel Clement and Miss Kristel Lake of who were responsible for putting together the display. Their expert assistance was essential in making this event a success.

The paintings of all five artists can now be found at the Campbell’s of London Art Gallery.

Persons interested in purchasing any of the artwork, please visit Campbell’s of London at 1-5 Exhibition Road, London SW7 2HE. For further contact details please see page 18.

10

LONDON MISSION

T

he Annual Trinidad and Tobago Race Day at Pontefract, Yorkshire, was a tremendous success when a crowd of over two thousand witnessed the day’s programme on Monday 2nd October, 2006.

Feature Race of the day, the Trinidad and Tobago Handicap, was won by Shumkkh and Mr. Colin Connelly, First Secretary of the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission in London, made the presentation to Paul Rutter, who accepted on behalf of the owners.

Mr. Ashton Ford, AttachĂŠ at the High Commission, London, also made a presentation to Tom Eaves, the jockey who rode Tarraburn, who was the winner in the Soca Warrior Event.

The first runner up in the Miss TnT UK beauty contest, Miss Tobago, presented prizes to Tom Bogle whose horse won the Bucco Reef Event. Top UK jockey, Frankie Dettori, also rode a winner in the Caroni Stakes on Wolly Bully.

Mr. Luciano Woodley of the Betting Levy Board of Trinidad and Tobago had the honour of presenting prizes to the top jockey.

Hugo Gunning, a National residing in the UK and chief organiser of the event, said that this year was better than previous years because of the big turnout and the

First Secretary at the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission in London, Mr. Colin Connelly (right) makes a presentation to Paul Rutter at Pontefract. Also pictured is organiser Mr. Hugo Gunning.

fact that the race day is growing and attracting top trainers, owners and jockeys from across Europe.

Representatives from the Tourism Development Company along with PoisonUK girls were on hand distributing handbills, booklets and general information about Trinidad and Tobago.

The crowd was also entertained with steelband music and calypso from Sean Daniel, Trinidad and Tobago's Young King.

LONDON MISSION

Eugenie’s Kitchen

11

Watergate Cake 1 box white cake mix 1 packet pistachio jello 3 eggs (beaten) 1 cup oil 1/2 cup crushed walnut 1 tin soda water (125ml)

this month Method

Watergate Cake provided by: Eugenie Arthur Assistant Attaché II TTHC London

• • • • •

Combine all ingredients except soda water Mix well Add soda water and mix in Pour into greased tins Bake in preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius or gas mark 6 for 1 hour

Chinese Arrival Celebrations at the TTHC (conclusion) This celebration today of the Chinese presence and their contributions, underscores our intention to ensure that each ethnic group in the nation is recognised for the specific role it plays in helping us as a people to achieve attaining and maintaining our goal of harmony.

In closing, I would like to leave with you the words of a poem written in May 1996, about our rainbow country by a former Chinese Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, Lu Shulin, after savouring the delights of swimming at Maracas Bay: Brown, yellow, black and white All are playing with water in delight.

As if a rainbow has fallen onto the sea, Waves of joy are rolling in the bay so deep.

Moved by the great scene of People’s oneness, The clouds shed rain of tears in happiness.

Mr. Ansel Wong and a guest at the event.

Ladies and Gentlemen, in paying tribute today to those seminal Chinese individuals who have contributed to the development of Trinidad and Tobago, let us not forget that all our life and culture have been shaped and enriched by people of different ethnic origins and that as a people, we should strive to uphold our motto: Together we aspire, together we achieve!

LM

10 12

LONDON MISSION

Divali in Trinidad & Tobago T

iny flames dancing in miniature earthen bowls, filled with oil, sit atop ornate bamboo frames, transforming otherwise mundane spaces into veritable fairylands.

This is Divali – the Hindu Festival of Lights. The symbolic act of lighting deyas (small clay bowls, filled with oil and a wick) signifies the essence of Divali and one of the world’s most universally-held beliefs – that of light conquering darkness or good conquering evil.

In Trinidad and Tobago, the festival has taken on national proportions as weeks prior to the day of Divali, communities all over the islands get together and celebrate the festival with Lakshmi Puja (communal prayer), lighting deyas, singing Bhajans or religious songs, dances and music. One major celebration, however, stands out - Divali Nagar, or Village of the Festival of Lights.

Divali Nagar ran for nine nights ending on the night before Divali day. This year, the Nagar opened on Thursday, October 12, 2006 and ended on Friday, October 20.

The festival featured performances by the cream of the east Indian cultural practitioners on its main stage, a folk theatre featuring skits and dramas, an exhibition on some aspect of Hinduism, displays by various Hindu religious and social organizations, nightly worship of Mother Lakshmi, lighting of myriad deeyas, performances by various schools related to Indian culture, and a food court of mouth watering Indian and non-Indian vegetarian delicacies. The festival culminated with magnificent fireworks displays ushering in Divali. Thousands participated each night in an atmosphere devoid of alcohol and in a true family environment.

Divali day is very special as the entire country is lit up by thousands and thousands of deeyas. Some villages are sights to behold as they celebrate their festival with joy and merry-making as they usher in Mother Lakshmi with all her glorious blessings for home, for community and for the country.

For weeks prior to Divali, Hindus prepare themselves, their homes, their Mandirs for the festival. Homes and Mandirs and the environs are all thoroughly cleaned, repainted and redecorated. Hindus observe a period of abstinence or fasting and conduct Pujas or worship to the Goddess Lakshmi, the presiding Deity of the Festival. It is strongly believed by Hindus that Mother Lakshmi will not enter any home, mandir, or environment where there is uncleanliness and unworthy attitudes and behavior.

On Divali day, luscious vegetarian meals are prepared, Lakshmi Puja or worship is performed and homes are all lit with thousands of Deeyas. It has become customary among the orthodox Hindus not to leave their homes on Divali night and so friends of other religious faiths are invited to participate in the lighting up and in savouring of the delicious meals that are prepared.

Divali has special significance for children as they are all given new clothes to wear and are loaded with gifts.

There is an atmosphere of freedom, friendliness and festivity everywhere. The festival with its universal message is now more and more being celebrated by those of other beliefs as the universal message spreads.

The Tourism Development Company Limited is proud to have been a sponsor of Divali Nagar 2006.

LONDON MISSION

13

Divali Celebrations at the TTHC

Office Manager Shree Krishna Ragbir gives prachaar from the Holy Ramayan.

H

er Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip SC hosted a function to celebrate Divali on Saturday 28th October, 2006.

The Ceremony was conducted by Pandita Arsha Gosine Ghosh M.B.E and discourse from the Ramayan was given by Shree Krishna Ragbir, Office Manager at the High Commission.

During the Ceremony, Her Excellency, who delivered her Divali message, was garlanded by Miss Zara Nirupa Kamrudeen.

The vote of thanks was given by Mr. Basdeo Singh.

The event was attended by more than one hundred and fifty guests.

Guests present at the Celebration.

Her Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip SC with Mr. Michael Leggerton, representative from the Ministry of Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs, before the Divali

Srotas preparing for worship.

10 14

LONDON MISSION

Trini...a synonym for excellence!

G

iselle ThomsonLowe is the daughter of Geoff Lowe, Assistant Attaché 1V (Public Affairs, Culture & Tourism Division) at the High Commission, London and Gillian Thomson, Life Underwriter, Guardian Life of the Caribbean, Trinidad & Tobago. She is the grand daughter of Patricia Thomson and Gill Thomson.

Following are extracts from an article written by Mark Lawrence entitled: “Lawyer Giselle wants to sing” which was published in the Features section of the Newsday newspaper, Trinidad and Tobago, of September 7, 2006: “As clichéd as it sounds I just love helping people, law pervades everything. It affects all and we take that for granted.”

These were the words of 25-year-old lawyer, Giselle Thomson-Lowe, who after being awarded a series of scholarships and special awards, was called to the Bar of the Law Society of England and Wales on October 12, along with nine of her academically exceptional peers. Giselle was recently invited for a visit to the House of Lords. She was also given a personal invitation by Lord Justice Keene for a week at the London Court of Appeal.

Giselle was born in England. She left at age seven and became officially Trinbagonian.

Regarding her motivation to become a lawyer, she explained, “I left Trinidad at 19 with the intention of doing law. Its really simple but difficult to explain. I just felt it instinctively that I would be a lawyer

since about age 13 and I have managed to combine that passion with my love of music and the arts through intellectual property law. I found that after I did my final year LLB (Bachelor of Law) I began to see the field in a whole new manner. I found intellectual property gave me an edge and the year that I spent studying the area helped me to see exactly where I wanted to go.”

modern jazz dancer Giselle was also a prefect and a peer tutor in French and Spanish. She was an active member of the Afro-Caribbean Society of her university and taught singing and song writing at workshops for teens in London.

UK-based publication, the Sunday Times, recently displayed Giselle’s name as one of the brightest young lawyers in England. Giselle was awarded three separate scholarships and two special awards as a result of her diligence and academic success at University College London and Universtee de Partheeon-Assas in Paris. These included the Mark Hodgson Prize and the Duke of Edinburgh Entrance Scholarship.

recently displayed Giselle continued, “I Giselle’s name as want to sing, one of the brightest young and I’m serious when I lawyers in say that Mariah England.

Carey taught me to sing. When I got her first album I put it on every day and would imitate every nuance and inflection of her vocals. I can imitate her but I have my own style. She’s one person who sticks out to me in terms of musical versatility.”

Giselle’s success was built on a foundation laid in Trinidad and Tobago under the watchful eye of her mother. “I attended Blackman’s, then Tranquility until Form Three, then onto St Joseph’s Convent, Port-ofSpain,” explained the young attorney.”

Success such as this would be the experience of few and only if they could focus all their attention on their career pursuits. Giselle was able to attain these accolades in spite of her constant involvement in several cocurricular and recreational activities.

The well-rounded Giselle explained: “I have always loved music and singing. While at university, I was always a choir member and loved drama. I also played football during my school years. I was actually choir captain while at St Joseph’s Convent.”

The list of activities doesn’t end there because apart from being a tap and

“I write a lot of music and poetry. I’m actually in the middle of directing the play of the inner temple drama society.”

The Sunday Times

She is carded to sing a solo at the Inner Temple guest night in a few weeks time.

Although based in England, the mulittalented young woman declared her loyalty to her Trinbagonian roots by saying, “I have a great sense of identity being educated here in this beautiful place, I don’t try to fit in and pretend to be someone else while over there. I have been very blessed and humbled by my successes.; Without God in my life I wouldn’t have been able to achieve what I have and believe me when I say it hasn’t been easy.”

With regard to a possible return to Trinidad, she said, “Coming back to be a judge would be great from that position you can really make a difference in the law.”

LONDON MISSION

15

Business News

by Curtis Williams

M

ore women are employed in T&T than men according to the latest statistics from the Central Statistical Office (CSO).

As of the end of the second quarter of 2006, women made up 53.9 per cent of the total work force, up from 48.9 per cent just three years ago.

As the economy continues to grow it appears that women are taking advantage of the opportunities more than men and getting involved in areas which men have traditionally dominated.

Surveys done by the CSO show that a total of 32,600 additional jobs have gone to women between 2003 and the second quarter of 2006.

Minister in the Ministry of Finance, Sen. the Hon. Conrad Enill, said “Women are playing a crucial role in the expanding T&T’s economy and have put their hands up to take the economy forward.”

“From the Government’s training programmes what is coming out is that women are taking advantage of the opportunities particularly in the construction sector,” he said.

The growth of women as a percentage of the labour force showed a gradual increase. In every quarter under review between 2003 and the second quarter of 2006, women as a percentage of the labour force has increased.

The Minister of Science, Technology, and Tertiary Education, Sen. the Hon. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, said, “Women have also been taking advantage of the training opportunities which are preparing them for the workplace.”

“You have to look at two different things. The ministry offers a plethora of training programmes and in some areas like hospitality clearly women dominate. In fact, the numbers in the training areas minus construction are not dissimilar to what you see at the university level. It is also true in construction men still dominate the programme but women are increasingly participating in the MUST programme,” said Hamid.

It is not strange to enter businesses in which only women are employed.

One of areas where females have increasingly become involved is in construction. President of the Trinidad Contractors Association, Mikey Joseph, said that over the years there has been a steady increase in women working in construction as engineers, carpenters, masons and even welders. Mr. Joseph explained that he had been training female welders since 1974 and women tend to be more focused and committed on the job.

“It is a joy to have women on your construction site because they are more committed, better focused, can multitask better then men and more of them should be encouraged in construction,” he said.

Courtesy The Trinidad Guardian

Contractor Emile Elias agreed with Mr. Joseph. “It is absolutely true that we are seeing more women in construction. It is a welcome addition to the workforce and in many instances they perform their jobs better than the men because they are far more focused,” he said.

Elias added: “They are performing as sub-contractors, some are performing skilled functions as well as senior management including important site administration duties.”

Elias and Joseph agreed that the construction boom had presented more opportunities to women.

Mr. Joseph argued that construction was one area where the semi-skilled and the unskilled could find work and be trained at the same time. “ Quite often these women are single parents or the sole breadwinner in their families and as a result they have to be focused,” he said.

“Given an opportunity, they often get trained and become technicians,” Joseph explained.

In 2003, there were 236,100 women in the labour force that has increased by 26,100 to 262,200 at the end of the second quarter of 2006.

10 16

LONDON MISSION

The ABC’s Juniors Black History Month Competition

by Nicole Moore

A

fter the Association of British Calypsonian’s (ABC) Black History Month (BHM) London Calypso Tent on Friday 27th October, the next day was time for the organisation’s junior calypsonians to shine. And shine they did during their Black History Month Competition.

The juniors had spent the preceding half term week at the Yaa Asantewaa participating in workshops which involved putting finishing touches in shaping and writing the lyrics for the songs entered into the competition.

Ashton Ford of the London based Trinidad and Tobago High Commission was a judge along with Cherisse Nixon and Michael Leggerton aka Protector, President of Trinbagonian Unified Calypsonians Organisation (TUCO) who was the ABC’s BHM guest. The judges had the unenviable task of choosing a winner from among the abundance of talent which was so evident in the performances by the eight youngsters. Ultimately, Kiki B emerged as the 2006 Black History Monarch with her calypso ‘My Tribute’ which paid honour to Rosa Parks as well to legends in calypso. Kiki B’s talent may well be attributed in part to her genes! Her mother is the ABC’s Helena B who was the 2005 Calypso Monarch. Kiki’s performance was impressive with Michael Leggerton commenting on her “excellent performance”. In second place was Fearless Taiyo with her calypso entitled

‘Slavery’ and in third place was Princess Tia with her offering ‘Harriet Tubman’.

All those present at the Yaa Asantewaa Arts and Community Centre enjoyed the show and the convivial family atmosphere. The show’s Mistress of Ceremonies was the ABC’s Wen’D and there was a guest Winner on the night, Kiki B performance by H1 another ABC member.

Protector was the special guest performer on that day and was well received by the audience. The ABC’s President Ashton Moore was on hand to lend his support to the young calypsonians and was clearly pleased with the event itself. To those of you who attended, the ABC thanks you for your support. For those of you who missed it, we’re sure that you won’t be missing the next show! Watch this space.

Letter to the Editor Dear Mr. Ford I am writing to thank you and the people of Trinidad and Tobago for the flag we recently received from the High Commission. Would you be so kind to pass on our thanks to Her Excellency the High Commissioner and say that we are most grateful for her support.

We flew your flag on your National Day August 31st and will do so on future international occasions.

The enormous enthusiasm we have received in undertaking this idea makes it all very worthwhile.

As a further development, a Fellowship scheme is being drawn up from the momentum that this project has created; this will be open to any member of the Commonwealth or Overseas Territories.

Yours Most Sincerely Cllr. Johnnie Amos M.A. Flore Parish

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

LONDON MISSION

17

Spotlight on Business and Community Development in T&T at Nationals meeting

T

here were two special guests at the October nationals meeting Michael Leggerton, known in the calypso world as Protector, and Above: Ms. Gertrude Gonzales during her Gertrude Gonzales, presentation. Seated is Immigration a sales representative Attaché, Mr. Nirmal Bhaggan. from CLICO. Both guests came from Trinidad and Tobago and made presentations before a large, receptive audience at the High Commission.

Mr. Legerton was wearing two hats at the meeting. In his capacity as an Officer of the Ministry of Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs, he gave an overview of the Ministry’s work pertaining to community programmes throughout Trinidad and Tobago. He touched on the self-help, youth and women programmes undertaken by the Ministry that resulted in the improvement of the quality of life in several communities.

Mr. Leggerton also spoke briefly about the intervention by the Ministry to curb the indiscipline in some areas among the young people.

Ms Gonzales made an impressive presentation regarding investment opportunities for nationals that are offered by

her company. She has won several awards as CLICO’s representative among them being CLICO’s member of the million dollar round table in 2004 and 2005 and was the company’s top producer in traditional sales in 2005.

Nationals were pleased with the information and by their questions, seemed eager to learn more about investing opportunities.

Also present was the Immigration Attaché, Mr. Nirmal Bhaggan, who provided important consular information.

According to Mr. Bhaggan, the new and improved machine readable passports would become available to nationals soon.

The new British Calypso Monarch, Brown Sugar entertained the audience when she sang her winning number “Terrorist”, before Mr. Leggerton, in his second hat as the accomplished calypsonian Protector, closed the evening’s proceedings by singing one of his favourite songs “Baptist Freedom “.

Left: Some of the nationals present at the meeting.

10 18

LONDON MISSION

The final Nationals Meeting for 2006 will be on Friday 8th December.

Attention Nationals of Trinidad & Tobago

Time: 7pm Place: Trinidad and Tobago High Commission 42 Belgrave Square London SW1X 8NT

The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago has introduced a Computerized Birth Certificate, free of charge for the first request, to all persons born in Trinidad and Tobago.

In the forthcoming issuance of the New Machine-Readable Passport, all applications from person(s) born in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago must be supported with a copy of the computerized birth certificate.

In view of the above, this Mission has been instructed to invite those persons born in Trinidad and Tobago to apply for the computerized birth certificate, either directly through this High Commission or to seek the assistance of family or friends residing in Trinidad and Tobago.

The relevant application form for the Computerized Birth Certificate can be obtained from the Consular Department of the High Commission.

LONDON MISSION

Public Holidays 2007

Eid-Ul-Fitr

19

Left: New Miss T&T UK Chandani Persaud signs an autograph for TTHC’s Mr. Noel Callender.

Right: TTHC’s Donald Chambers and the lovely actress Martina Laird, draw names for three lucky guests at the art exhibition.

Left: Entertainer Greta Mendez (second left) with Ansel Wong and other guests at the Chinese Arrival Celebrations.

Above: H.E. Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip SC with artist Jenny Chambers and Trinidad and Tobago architect Helena Van Lare at the High Commission.

Left: Michael Leggerton, aka Protector, with the UK Calypso Monarch, Brown Sugar, after the nationals meeting.

Nationals at Pontefract Races

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