“[…] The officers (in the Belmont incident) wore no uniforms, bore no visible badges, and allegedly seem to give no verbal identification, yet exercised full policing powers. That borders on impersonation. “TTPS operational guidelines require that plainclothes officers identify themselves clearly when engaging civilians, especially during arrests or searches. Their …
Read More »Dear Editor: Public figures must stop reckless habit of filming while driving
“[…] Public figures—especially elected officials—have enormous influence. Their actions speak louder than their speeches. “When they film themselves while driving, they send a dangerous message to their followers, especially impressionable youth: that risk-taking and rule-breaking are acceptable if you’re important or influential…” The following Letter to the Editor which criticises …
Read More »St Louis: UNC guilty of mass retrenchments; but PNM left workers vulnerable
The recent article by Ashton Ford, former general secretary of the People’s National Movement (PNM), attempts to paint the PNM as a historic champion of labour. While it’s true the party has had moments of engagement with trade unionists and enacted key legislation decades ago, this selective retelling overlooks the …
Read More »Dear Editor: How to build fitter, smarter and more resilient athletes
“[…] One of the most common causes of injury in the preseason is the sudden increase in training intensity. Coaches must resist the common temptation to cram fitness into a short window. “[…] Coaches in Trinidad and Tobago must create an environment where players feel comfortable speaking up about pain, …
Read More »Dear Editor: Club Eting’s shooting highlights dangers of TTPS officers taking guns home
“[…] In other countries where off-duty firearm carry is allowed, it is done with strict safeguards: ongoing psychological assessments, secure storage requirements, detailed protocols for off-duty use, and clear disciplinary procedures for breaches. “Commissioner Allister Guevarro has not yet made clear whether such safeguards will be implemented in our local …
Read More »Dear Editor: Is Cepep programme in crisis? Or is this an opportunity for reform?
“[…] Cepep was designed as a springboard—a transitional system for those facing barriers to employment, a way to build dignity through work and community care and structured training. “[…] Eventually, somewhere along the journey, the programme drifted… This drift turned Cepep into a make-work programme that, while providing some income …
Read More »Dear Editor: Soldier in road rage video is disgrace to TTDF
“[…] What kind of country are we living in if our trained soldiers are behaving this way in broad daylight? “[…] Someone with this kind of violent temper and lack of respect for civilians has no place in uniform. If this is how he behaves in public, just imagine what …
Read More »Dear Editor: Silence is not always strength—why men’s health is national issue
“[…] In Trinidad and Tobago, non-communicable diseases like heart disease, diabetes and cancer continue to claim far too many of us men far too early. Mental health struggles often left unspoken, add another layer. “Statistics show that men are far less likely than women to seek timely medical or psychological …
Read More »Dear Editor: Why is accountability only demanded of ‘the other side’?
“[…] What kind of society are we building when the working class is always the first to feel the axe? When institutions are reshaped in silence? When accountability is demanded only of ‘the other side’? “[…] Too often, those who cry foul in opposition grow quiet once in power. Outrage …
Read More »Dear Editor: TTFA should come clean on relationship with radio station
“[…] We have a national senior men’s soccer team funded by Fifa, the government (my tax dollars), and private donors that pays for radio announcers’ travel and lodging to cover their games on a radio station that broadcasts those games and sells advertising. “This scenario raises important questions about media independence, conflict of interest, and …
Read More »Dear Editor: Child’s play is no idle pursuit; it’s crucial to our development
“[…] Playing helps children build relationships, overcome trauma and develop problem-solving skills. It also supports the development of the cognitive, physical, creative, social, and emotional skills that children need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. “[…] We must recognise playing as an important medium through which children connect with …
Read More »MSJ: T&T Labour movement can breathe after Rowley’s relentless attacks
“[…] The 10 years under the Dr Keith Rowley-led PNM saw a vicious attack on the trade union movement and the working class as that government pursued its neo-liberal policies that result in the rich becoming richer, the middle-income struggle to make ends meet, and the poor not able to …
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