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Thursday, May 31, 2012
PM wants national dialogue on diversity
She made the comment in a speech at Indian Arrival Day celebrations at the Parvati Girls Hindu College in Debe Wednesday.
She said she would like the various Non Governmental Organisations NGOs, activists and members of the business community join other groups in society to get together to formulate ideas on diversity.
Persad-Bissessar said such a dialogue would seek to bring individuals of different ethnic backgrounds together to explore how all groups can coexist.
Persad-Bissessar said Trinidad & Tobago has already come to demonstrate to the world how true diversity exists.
"I see it as a time when, if we are strong enough as a people to reflect on history, we must be strong enough as a nation, to learn from the teachings of the past to secure what is in front of us for ourselves and our children.
"It is for this reason I would like to call on all our nation's thinkers, our community and social activists, academics, labour leaders, business leaders, religious leaders to form a national dialogue on diversity that brings all interest groups together to discuss how we as a nation can take another step forward towards a very united nation."
Persad-Bissessar added, "I want to make it clear that I am not asking citizens to discuss race relations, our diversity and unity stands upon much more than race relations.
Persad-Bissessar added, "I want to make it clear that I am not asking citizens to discuss race relations, our diversity and unity stands upon much more than race relations.
"We must think beyond the basics. We must go beyond the boundaries. I am not asking for a repeat of the Equal Opportunities Commission which has a strong mandate to protect the rights of all citizens.
"What I have in mind is an emergence of a programme that will support the work of the EOC by assuring that an appreciation for diversity...
"We must eliminate insecurities that are held by some and at times propagated deliberately by some who have vested interest in division and mistrust.
"We must eliminate insecurities that are held by some and at times propagated deliberately by some who have vested interest in division and mistrust.
"We ensure as we embrace each other that no one is less important than the other. We must ensure that the automatic anger and tension between groups become instead one of mutual understanding of differences and a willingness to work together despite differences for greater good."
The Prime Minister said Trinidad & Tobago is a country that people of different origins accepted as home generations ago and the country has made great strides in bringing communities together.
"We must never take for granted the peace and the unity we share in our country," she said, adding that everytime the people are allowed to celebrate their traditions peacefully they must give back some effort to ensure that these traditions continue and grow."
The Prime Minister said Trinidad & Tobago is a country that people of different origins accepted as home generations ago and the country has made great strides in bringing communities together.
"We must never take for granted the peace and the unity we share in our country," she said, adding that everytime the people are allowed to celebrate their traditions peacefully they must give back some effort to ensure that these traditions continue and grow."
PM Kamla ignores Re-route protesters; Kublalsingh vows to intensify action
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| Police remove a protester at the Parvati Girls' College in Debe Wednesday. Guardian Photo |
Media reports said police bodily removed the women for Persad-Bissessar to leave the venue.
The women were part of the Highway Re-Route Movement led by Dr Wayne Kublalsingh and supported by the leader of the Movement for Social Justice (MSJ), David Abdulah.
The group is trying to get the government to change the route of a section of the highway to Point Fortin. It says the Debe/Mon Desir section will interfere with the lives of about 300 people who don't want to move, as well as cause serious environmental damage.
The Minister of Works has already ordered a suspension of works in that section of the construction and has said that he would review the project to see if the protesters can be accommodated.
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| File: Wayne Kulalsingh joins hands with OWTU leader Ancel Roget. "This news political formation will defeat the political elite". Kublalsingh |
However the movement is determined to have its way. Recently the Oilfield Workers' Trade Union (OWTU), which has stated publicly that its intention is to cause the fall of the People's Partnership government, joined the protest. Roget called it an "epic battle". In welcoming the OWTU and other activist labour groups, Kublalsingh said, "...this new political formation will defeat the political elite."
The group tried to advance its political and other agenda Wednesday in front of the national media at the school.
The female members of the group sat in the rain singing bhajans and praying for a meeting with Persad-Bissessar.
According to media reports, Persad-Bissessar arrived around 12.30 pm and her vehicle drove past the women. One media report said when Persad-Bissessar was ready to leave police asked the women repeatedly to move but they refused.
The Guardian report stated: "As the female police officers began lifting and moving them to the side the women broke down in tears. Kublalsingh was also lifted, but kept restrained.
"Thinking that the Prime Minister was in her official PM 1 car, the women began hurling insults, accusing her of betraying and destroying Indian people, as PM 1 left the venue.
"However, PM 1 stopped in front of the venue. Then minutes later, the Prime Minister, surrounded by women, children and a few of her ministers, walked from inside the compound to PM 1, bypassing the protesters without looking in their direction.
"However, PM 1 stopped in front of the venue. Then minutes later, the Prime Minister, surrounded by women, children and a few of her ministers, walked from inside the compound to PM 1, bypassing the protesters without looking in their direction.
"Asked why PM 1 was moved from the venue to the road, ASP Deonarine Basdeo said he was told the PM was coming to speak to the protesters. 'I don’t know what happened'.”
Kublalsingh called the Prime Minister's action disrespectful and vowed to intensify his protest. And he made a threat.
Kublalsingh called the Prime Minister's action disrespectful and vowed to intensify his protest. And he made a threat.
"She (Persad-Bissessar) will not be safe and the Government will not be safe. We will launch action after action after action for seven days, seven years or seven months until they stop the Mon Desir to Debe Highway," he said.
He added, "They cannot stand the force, the tempo and the force of women that is why she had to leave in disgrace. She is disgraced from now into perpetuity because she has betrayed her people."
T&T cabinet meets in Tobago
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| Grand Magdelana Hotel |
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar would formally open the hotel on Friday June 1, 2012. That would be preceded by a government Parliamentary Seminar that begins at nine in the morning. The session will closed to the media.
The hotel originally operated as the Tobago Hilton. It has been refurbished and was reopened about six months ago. Since the opening it has enjoyed an occupancy rate of about 60 per cent.
The Tobago Hotel and Tourism Association (THTA) has voted the newly-refurbished Magdalena Grand Beach Resort the top hotel establishment in Tobago.
Abdulah not attending PP rally in Tobago
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| File: David Abdulah |
The leader of the Movement for Social Justice (MSJ) told local medialeader Monday he has a prior family commitment and won't take part and attend a rally carded for this weekend in Tobago.
Abdulah said he would try to attend the discussions and Government business meetings on Friday "for a few hours", but would leave Tobago that same evening.
The Express newspaper quote an unnamed MSJ source as saying tha if Abdulah cannot attend the party would send a list of its concerns and contributions to engage the discussions.
Abdulah refused to attend last Thursday's 2nd anniversary rally of the People's Partnership in Chaguanas.
Guest commentary: Good move to report to the people
By Clevon Raphael - reproduced from the TRINIDAD GUARDIAN
For all its missteps and self-inflicted wounds, the People’s Partnership administration deserves kudos for doing what no other political party in office has ever attempted to do—deliver an annual report card on its accomplishments or lack thereof.
The publications highlighting the PP Government’s achievements over the last years and which appeared in the daily newspapers last week are invaluable instruments to give the electorate the opportunity to assess what the coalition was able to deliver in keeping with the promises made during the 2010 general election campaign.
The publications highlighting the PP Government’s achievements over the last years and which appeared in the daily newspapers last week are invaluable instruments to give the electorate the opportunity to assess what the coalition was able to deliver in keeping with the promises made during the 2010 general election campaign.
Trinidadians/Tobagonians are accused of having short memories so it is in their interest—and the PP’s too—to have in print a scorecard that would be updated annually until the completion of the administration’s five-year term. I am holding on to my copies so that in 2015, a fair and proper assessment could be made as to whether the regime’s boast of having a lot to celebrate is valid or not.
However, a cursory glance at the second annual publications shows the regime has in fact been doing a lot of work, but the big question is if the people are feeling that it is really working in their interest. A very good reason for this is that unfortunately the negatives affecting the Government are getting more prominence than the positives.
However, a cursory glance at the second annual publications shows the regime has in fact been doing a lot of work, but the big question is if the people are feeling that it is really working in their interest. A very good reason for this is that unfortunately the negatives affecting the Government are getting more prominence than the positives.
But in spite of this, only an administration confident that it is serious about transparency and diligently going after the people’s business would dare take that quantum leap because, as I said, the electorate would have something tangible to compare manifesto pledges with actual deliverables during its stewardship.
In this same way we would like to see Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley publishing a similar document pointing out things like how many alternative suggestions the loyal opposition made to the PP Government, which were not accepted, those accepted, and so on.
Meanwhile, a significant occurrence took place at the PP’s second anniversary bash in central Trinidad last Thursday.
In this same way we would like to see Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley publishing a similar document pointing out things like how many alternative suggestions the loyal opposition made to the PP Government, which were not accepted, those accepted, and so on.
Meanwhile, a significant occurrence took place at the PP’s second anniversary bash in central Trinidad last Thursday.
I refer to the appearance of the natural nemesis of anyone opposed to the People’s National Movement—Sugar Aloes. While the PP bigwigs were falling over themselves boasting how they were able to get the self-confessed “PNM-till-ah-dead” bard on the PP stage, a lot of citizens like me were aghast wondering how come no one else could be found to be the surprise guest performer.
Why on such an occasion was Sugar Aloes, who has never put water in his mouth to criticise, sometimes in a derogatory manner, those who form the core support of the United National Congress, chosen to “serenade” the Prime Minister? I am yet to fathom why all the calypsonians who are less politically toxic and even PP-friendly were bypassed in favour of someone who would be the planet’s happiest man if the PP administration were to be removed from the corridors of power in the morning.
Who among the leadership of the UNC believe that by giving him a handsome pay night Aloes would draw PNM supporters to the house of the PP? That and a battleship sailing on the Beetham Highway they would never see.
Why on such an occasion was Sugar Aloes, who has never put water in his mouth to criticise, sometimes in a derogatory manner, those who form the core support of the United National Congress, chosen to “serenade” the Prime Minister? I am yet to fathom why all the calypsonians who are less politically toxic and even PP-friendly were bypassed in favour of someone who would be the planet’s happiest man if the PP administration were to be removed from the corridors of power in the morning.
Who among the leadership of the UNC believe that by giving him a handsome pay night Aloes would draw PNM supporters to the house of the PP? That and a battleship sailing on the Beetham Highway they would never see.
To his credit, he Aloes put down a beautiful rendition of the popular hit She’s Royal, but reading his body language while “serenading” the Prime Minister I did not get the feeling he was genuinely crediting the lyrics of that song to the Prime Minister.
As far as I am concerned he was only there to “make some dollars.” His appearance brought some rather disturbing responses from two prominent figures—former Prime Minister Basdeo Panday and cultural activist Pearl Eintou Springer.
As far as I am concerned he was only there to “make some dollars.” His appearance brought some rather disturbing responses from two prominent figures—former Prime Minister Basdeo Panday and cultural activist Pearl Eintou Springer.
Panday went completely overboard saying that Indo-Trinis had lost their self-respect and dignity by applauding Aloes that night. He surely couldn’t be serious and I could only attribute the crowd’s enthusiastic response as a case of momentary amnesia.
And you can bet your last cent that come next Carnival season, Aloes would continue his vitriolic attacks on the “enemies” of the PNM, primarily the PP regime. Tell me about biting the hands that feed you.
And you can bet your last cent that come next Carnival season, Aloes would continue his vitriolic attacks on the “enemies” of the PNM, primarily the PP regime. Tell me about biting the hands that feed you.
Miss Springer evoked from me a pitiful head shake by claiming that She’s Royal was meant only for African women. She would have us believe that the line “And when I am asked what a good woman is made of…” meant that they can only be found among those of African origin. That is taking Afrocentricism to a new low.
Letter: Discrimination hurts
It hurts me to know that I was a victim of racial discrimination.
This discrimination flourished under the PNM with respect to the award of scholarships by the Ministry of Culture.
I filled out an application form for a scholarship in 2004 but I never received a response. I even wrote the minister on three occasions pleading for financial assistance.
I informed the minister of the fact that I did not have any parents and that I was living with my grandmother who was a pensioner and the sole provider for my two younger siblings and I. I knew that an education was the only way out of a life of poverty, but unfortunately I was unable to afford an education at that point in time.
What is interesting is the fact that I am an East Indian and I live in Debe, which is not a PNM constituency. I was sure that, based on my financial status, I would have qualified for a grant.
What is interesting is the fact that I am an East Indian and I live in Debe, which is not a PNM constituency. I was sure that, based on my financial status, I would have qualified for a grant.
However, as the Equal Opportunity Commission report disclosed, there was racial discrimination in the award of scholarships under the PNM, with only seven per cent of people of East Indian descent receiving funding while 97 per cent of the scholarships went to non-Indo-Trinidadians.
The PNM should be ashamed of its actions.
Nandram Balgobin | Debe
Nandram Balgobin | Debe
Happy Indian Arrival Day from PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar
For all Trinidadians and Tobagonians, the trails blazed by our forefathers possess a great number of guideposts that helped us to learn, and indeed errors which helped us to grow.
Perhaps one of the greatest lessons learnt through the rich and diverse history of our nation is that even as we held strongly and loyally to our origins, we also stood firm in our resolve to grow together, live together, thrive together and achieve together as one people, and one nation.
It was Mahatma Gandhi who put it best when he said: “I do not want my house to be walled in on all sides and my windows to be stuffed. I want the cultures of all the lands to be blown about my house as freely as possible. But I refuse to be blown off my feet by any.”
Today, 167 years after the first arrival of Indians to these shores, we as a people can lay claim to working towards being the fulfilment of that ideal to exist in a time where we hold firmly to who we are, representing one of the pillars upon which our nation’s continued progress stands, while sharing our space and our lives with each other, with no one community having its interest superseded by another.
We also commemorate an occasion which holds its beginnings in the pains of separation, in the disquiet of moments of change and the nervous excitement of newness.
We commemorate an occasion which shows us that in the toughest of times, it is our own sense of self and individuality that we must call upon to persevere.
Our commemoration today heralds how we have grown together, and how we have demonstrated that even as peoples from different lands, varied in our cultures, and different in our customs, we can celebrate our individuality and uniqueness, while still appreciating our diversity as strength.
Today we celebrate a community that has contributed to our nation a sense of purpose and an indomitable spirit to endure. Based on our experiences of the past we have cultivated a freedom envied by many nations of the world.
We celebrate the contribution of our forefathers who came from India and the lamps they lit for each successive generation along the road of progress to do better, achieve more and build allegiance to a new motherland – the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.
As we commemorate our history, celebrate our present in this our 50th year of Independence, and stand united in our hope for the future, may God bless our nation and continue to guide the construction of our peaceful, stable and united society. A happy Indian Arrival Day to all citizens of Trinidad and Tobago.
Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Prime Minister, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Jack Warner's Indian Arrival Day message urges all to be thankful
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| File: Jack Warner |
Today, those in the East Indian community among us can stand proud of all that they have achieved and contributed to our country, given the rigours and hardships under which their forebears came here 167 years ago.
Our food, music, language, festivals, and economic activity, are all the richer due to the contributions of our East Indian brothers and sisters.
Of course, many of our ancestors came here under similar circumstances, and so each segment of our community has reason to notably mark their respective presence in our country today.
However, what is good and should be encouraged among us, is that we share and thrive in celebrating each other, knowing that through our diversity we can derive greater strength and beauty. So I ask that all of Trinidad and Tobago join with me as we celebrate on this occasion.
Let us remember to be always thankful for each other and for the blessings we receive despite whatever challenges come our way. Life is not always easy but if we all would only choose to live and love as brothers and sisters, the paths we each travel would be made much easier.
Happy Indian Arrival Day to ALL.
Jack Warner | Minister of Works and Infrastructure
Our food, music, language, festivals, and economic activity, are all the richer due to the contributions of our East Indian brothers and sisters.
Of course, many of our ancestors came here under similar circumstances, and so each segment of our community has reason to notably mark their respective presence in our country today.
However, what is good and should be encouraged among us, is that we share and thrive in celebrating each other, knowing that through our diversity we can derive greater strength and beauty. So I ask that all of Trinidad and Tobago join with me as we celebrate on this occasion.
Let us remember to be always thankful for each other and for the blessings we receive despite whatever challenges come our way. Life is not always easy but if we all would only choose to live and love as brothers and sisters, the paths we each travel would be made much easier.
Happy Indian Arrival Day to ALL.
Jack Warner | Minister of Works and Infrastructure
COP leader calls on citizens to continue building a progressive nation
After 103 days it arrived in Trinidad on 30th May 1845. The Congress of the People is pleased to extend best wishes to the national community as we celebrate the 167th Anniversary of this landmark event in the historic year of our 50th year as an independent nation.
During these 167 years the Indian community has undoubtly made tremendous progress in many areas such as: education, economic, social, cultural, political, in the state and private sectors.
Today our challenge is, how does the diaspora living in a multiethnic society, transform itself while at the same time preserving its rich heritage as we confront an uncertain 21st century.
During these 167 years the Indian community has undoubtly made tremendous progress in many areas such as: education, economic, social, cultural, political, in the state and private sectors.
Today our challenge is, how does the diaspora living in a multiethnic society, transform itself while at the same time preserving its rich heritage as we confront an uncertain 21st century.
Part of the answer may lie in the words of James Arthur Baldwin, "If you know whence you came, there are absolutely no limitations to where you can go."
Searching for a better life, our forebears crossed the Kala Pani with an entrenched culture and of course their Jahaji bundles! Admittedly while the early descendants have maintained a significant part of their culture, today other cultures have also impacted on us.
Here we live in harmony with our fellow African, European, Chinese and Middle Eastern descendants, all having their unique culture and perspective. We all are proud to call here home.
Therefore as we shape our nation's future, the most important premise, is that all must feel that their interests are genuinely looked after. Tokenism will no longer work. To facilitate equitable representation and inclusiveness Constitution reform including proportional representation must be a priority.
Building a nation is no easy task. Fortunately our indentured foreparents provided many lessons for us. Values such as: self reliance, enduring patience and hard work. They performed an honest day's work for an honest day's pay.
Building a nation is no easy task. Fortunately our indentured foreparents provided many lessons for us. Values such as: self reliance, enduring patience and hard work. They performed an honest day's work for an honest day's pay.
Looking after the family was their responsibility and dependence on the state for basic needs were unheard of. They also believed that truth and sincerity of purpose always lead to success. While we are the product of this value system, today the question begs itself; are we still adhering to these values or do we need to redirect our compass?
In closing, as we celebrate let us do so cognizant of the fact that all of us arrived, albeit at different times.
In closing, as we celebrate let us do so cognizant of the fact that all of us arrived, albeit at different times.
Today therefore is a celebration for all of Trinidad and Tobago. While we each contribute our distinctive colour to the Coalition of colours that constitute our rainbow nation, we all must remember that the most important colours are red, white and black.
To quote from the recent composition by Black Stalin and Rikki Jai: “Mere Dosti, Mere Yaar (my friend, my brother).”
We must love for our fellowman the things we love for ourselves. Only then will our nation experience, "absolutely no limitations to where you can go".
In celebrating, the most fitting way to honour the early immigrants who set such high standards for us is that we should endeavour to lift the bar higher. As we look to the future, let us continue the work of building a progressive nation, so that we too shall leave a better inheritance for our children than the one we received.
Happy Indian Arrival Day to all.
Prakash Ramadhar | Political Leader, Congress of the People
Happy Indian Arrival Day to all.
Prakash Ramadhar | Political Leader, Congress of the People
Rowley urges all to build rich legacy for generations to come
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| Keith Rowley |
Since their arrival however, the indentured labourers and their descendants have done so much more than labour on sugar estates; they have helped to build our young nation Trinidad and Tobago.
In every area of our society the East Indian influence can be seen. Culturally, East Indian flavours have infused our music, dance, festivals and cuisine.
In every area of our society the East Indian influence can be seen. Culturally, East Indian flavours have infused our music, dance, festivals and cuisine.
Every year we join our Hindu brothers and sister in celebrating Divali and the Muslim community in celebrating Eid ul-Fitr and other festivals of religious significance. In various fields including education, law, medicine and politics East Indians have made laudable contributions to our nation's development.
While some unprincipled people have over the years found it in their own self-serving interest to create and promote racial divide, Trinidad and Tobago's history illustrates, for the most part, a level of racial togetherness of which we can be proud.
While some unprincipled people have over the years found it in their own self-serving interest to create and promote racial divide, Trinidad and Tobago's history illustrates, for the most part, a level of racial togetherness of which we can be proud.
This is undoubtedly to the credit of all of us whose forefathers came here from different lands, made this our home and to this day we continue to work side by side to develop our nation. As such I encourage all citizens to continue to build a rich legacy of which our children, grandchildren and great grandchildren could be proud.
On behalf of the leadership and members of the People's National Movement, I wish the East Indian community and by extension all citizens Happy Indian Arrival Day and May God bless our nation.
Dr. Keith Rowley | Leader of the Opposition
On behalf of the leadership and members of the People's National Movement, I wish the East Indian community and by extension all citizens Happy Indian Arrival Day and May God bless our nation.
Dr. Keith Rowley | Leader of the Opposition
MSJ leader says Indian Arrival celebrates integration of cultures
Indeed this celebration has significance not just to one group but to all of Trinidad and Tobago.
It is hardly arguable that from the arrival of the Fath Al Razak there has been transformation in every sphere of life in this country; from the foods we eat to the way we understand ourselves.
The atrocities of Indentureship are often highlighted but of even more importance is the resolve shown by a people who overcame those atrocities.
The atrocities of Indentureship are often highlighted but of even more importance is the resolve shown by a people who overcame those atrocities.
All of our histories are intertwined and we draw strength from the self determination of those who came before and laid a solid foundation so that we may enjoy the advantages today which we sometimes take for granted.
As we reflect on that journey across the kala pani to present day, the Indo Trinbagonian community has left an indelible mark on our identity. But even as we celebrate Trinidad and Tobago’s diversity we must also celebrate those before us who, under the reign of colonisation, spared no effort to forge unity in that diversity against the backdrop of concentrated efforts to engender animosity and division.
So on May 30th we celebrate diversity, we celebrate the integration of cultures; we celebrate what makes us Trinbagonian. The MSJ again extends greetings to the East Indian community as we celebrate Indian Arrival Day.
David Abdulah | Political Leader, MSJ
So on May 30th we celebrate diversity, we celebrate the integration of cultures; we celebrate what makes us Trinbagonian. The MSJ again extends greetings to the East Indian community as we celebrate Indian Arrival Day.
David Abdulah | Political Leader, MSJ
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Feature: How Indian Arrival Day became a holiday in T&T
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| Archival photo: Huts that Indians called home in the 19th and early 20th centuries |
Indians in Trinidad first celebrated the event at Skinner Park, San Fernando on the centenary of Indian arrival, May 30, 1945.
The Acting Governor representing the Government of the United Kingdom attended indicating the significance of the observance. Other local dignitaries who addressed the large crowd included Timothy Roodal, George Fitzpatrick, Adrian Cola Rienzi, and Murli J. Kirpalani.
Greetings were also read from Mahatma Gandhi, Lord Wavell, and Colonel Stanley, the Secretary of State for the Colonies.
The celebration declined following the grand Centenary extravaganza in 1945. By the 1950s, Indians who came to Trinidad in the post-slavery era to work on the plantations were still regarded as outsiders and treated as "coolies".
The Divine Life Society of the Chaguanas started to revive the event in the 1970s with an annual procession and ceremony titeled Indian Emigration Day.
In 1976 the Indian Revival and Reform Association (IRRA) was formed to renew pride in Indian heritage and Indian culture. It formed a committee to revive the memory of the coming of Indians to Trinidad on May 30, 1845 - Indian Emigration Day.
The first active step was taken in early 1978, when they produced and distributed a pamphlet with the title “Indian Emigration Day May 30, 1978”, giving a brief account of the Indians and the importance of the event.
The pamphlet listed the names of the first pioneers with a short description of the achievements of Indians in Trinidad since 1845.
In 1979 when the group got the attention of Satnarayan Maharaj the Secretary General of the Sanatan Dharma Maha Sabha (SDMS), who agreed to organize a major celebration at Lakshmi Girls College on May 27, 1979.
The two groups later agreed to call the event Indian Arrival Day. The 1979 celebration was a great success and included the presence of some of the original immigrants born in India.
By 1980 Indian Arrival Day celebrations were held at the Spring Village, Cedros, Penal, San Juan, Chaguanas, and many other parts of the country. By 1985 there were more than 10 significant Indian Arrival Day celebrations taking place with the Hindu community taking the lead in the development of the celebrations.
In 1991 Members of Parliament Trevor Sudama and Raymond Pallackdarrysingh first introduced to the House of Representatives the concept that Indian Arrival Day should be made a national public holiday.
This call to make Indian Arrival Day a public holiday continued to be unheeded until 1995 Prime Minister Patrick Manning declared that the 150th Anniversary would be a public holiday called Indian Arrival Day, but thereafter the holiday will be called Arrival Day.
The 1995 celebrations surpassed the 1945 celebrations with the Maha Sabha having major celebrations in Trinidad along with the National Council of Indian Culture (NCIC) under the leadership of Hans Hanoomansingh.
In 1995 Prime Minister Basdeo Panday declared that 30 May would be known as Indian Arrival Day and not Arrival Day. Manning refused to accept that and when he returned to office he insisted that the word Indian would be removed. That remains the position of the party he headed until 2010, the People's National Movement (PNM).
The PNM mayor of Port of Spain, Louis Lee Sing said recently the city would celebrate Arrival Day.
(With files from Wikipedia and Dr Rampersad Parasram)
DPP says he never closed file on Warner
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| FIle: DPP Roger Gaspard |
Gaspard said he has asked police to continue their probe with respect to possible breach of the Customs Act.
Warner had been accused of offering bribes to football executives at an event at the Hyatt Regency hotel in Port of Spain on and about May 10, 2011. Opposition leader Keith Rowley had asked for an investigation of the matter.
However, the Police Service Commission (PSC) write Rowley advising him that Commissioner of Police Dwayne Gibbs informed the Commission by letter, dated March 2012, that "on the advice of the Director of Public Prosecutions, no further action can be taken in this matter".
Gaspard said that is not so. "If the Commissioner said so, then the Commissioner is inaccurately characterising the advice that I gave," Gaspard told the media.
The DPP said, a memorandum dated March 20, 2012 from the investigator stated, "Please be advised that from my perusal of the rather threadbare information and material submitted to me, I am unable to discern any contravention of the laws of Trinidad and Tobago by any person. However, I am also of the view that further investigations may be warranted pursuant to the Customs Act, Chapter 78: 01."
He said he doesn't understand how that could be interpreted as closing the matter. "I actually suggested that the investigation be continued in the context of the Customs Act," he said.
He insisted that he never directed anyone to close the file on Warner and end the investigation. Gaspard reiterated that his role is only advise and the police are the ones who conduct investigations.
Gaspard said that is not so. "If the Commissioner said so, then the Commissioner is inaccurately characterising the advice that I gave," Gaspard told the media.
The DPP said, a memorandum dated March 20, 2012 from the investigator stated, "Please be advised that from my perusal of the rather threadbare information and material submitted to me, I am unable to discern any contravention of the laws of Trinidad and Tobago by any person. However, I am also of the view that further investigations may be warranted pursuant to the Customs Act, Chapter 78: 01."
He said he doesn't understand how that could be interpreted as closing the matter. "I actually suggested that the investigation be continued in the context of the Customs Act," he said.
He insisted that he never directed anyone to close the file on Warner and end the investigation. Gaspard reiterated that his role is only advise and the police are the ones who conduct investigations.
Jack slams Rowley on comments about probe on allegations of bribery
He added, "With regard to the thoroughness of the investigation conducted by the various agencies, again, I have nothing to say as those are matters for the relevant agencies to treat with in whatever manner they deem appropriate."
Warner was responding to comments by Opposition Leader Keith Rowley that insinuated that something was not right about the probe into allegations of bribery involving Warner and a former FIFA official, Mohammed Bin Hamman.
Warner was responding to comments by Opposition Leader Keith Rowley that insinuated that something was not right about the probe into allegations of bribery involving Warner and a former FIFA official, Mohammed Bin Hamman.
In a formal statement the minister said Rowley's rantings are "unfortunate but predictable" and speculated that "his baseless persecution of me would continue."
The Chaguanas West MP said, "By his own admission, Dr Rowley has exposed in today’s (Monday's) Daily Express that he had been on a fishing trip and a witch hunt all along.
"And in a classic case of “sour grapes” it is unfortunate that he is seeking to impugn once again the reputation of the TTPS and Customs, with similar imputations against the Director of Public Prosecutions."
He added, "One cannot help but wonder if Dr Rowley is just a parrot of rhetoric or if there is an ulterior agenda to malign the key elements of the justice system in anticipation of an unfavourable finding against him in the Landate matter.
"Either way, he is urged to be more responsible in his utterings and to treat our institutions and offices, especially the independent ones, with the respect they are due."
He added, "One cannot help but wonder if Dr Rowley is just a parrot of rhetoric or if there is an ulterior agenda to malign the key elements of the justice system in anticipation of an unfavourable finding against him in the Landate matter.
"Either way, he is urged to be more responsible in his utterings and to treat our institutions and offices, especially the independent ones, with the respect they are due."
Feature: TT’s oldest indentured immigrant turns 108
By Vashtee Achibar
In 2008, Jattan, then 104, was presented with the National Republic Day Award for her longstanding contribution to national development. The presentation ceremony was held on Republic Day (September 24) at the California Hindu Temple, located on Sandford Street, California a stone’s throw from her home. The award ceremony was hosted by the non-governmental organisation Citizens for a Better Trinidad and Tobago (CBTT) headed by Harrack Balramsingh.
She has also received awards for community service.
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| NEWSDAY's front page graphic |
Her journey from India across the Kala Pani (the ocean) to the distant shores of Trinidad began 105 years ago when she was just three years old, and today, Soogaree Jattan, considered to be the oldest living indentureship survivor, celebrates her 108th birthday.
Still going strong despite her age, Jattan, a strict vegetarian who stands at a little over four feet in height, appears to be in good health.
Her caregiver said she has no illness, and is not on any medication.
Still going strong despite her age, Jattan, a strict vegetarian who stands at a little over four feet in height, appears to be in good health.
Her caregiver said she has no illness, and is not on any medication.
Jattan has a problem with her hearing; to get her attention one has to talk close to her right ear. She also admits to having arthritis pain in her legs, brought about, no doubt, by her years of toiling on the sugar cane estates of Brechin Castle and Tarouba during the indentureship period which lasted from 1845 to 1917. Jattan would have arrived in Trinidad at the turn of the last century in 1904.
The petite centenarian walks with the aid of a cane, bathes and feeds herself and occasionally takes a walk along Sandford Street, California where she lives with her caregiver, who did not want to be named. Jattan’s favourite meal is sada roti and tomato choka.
She is a mother of five children, but one of them, a daughter, died some time ago. She is a grandmother, great grandmother and possibly a great, great grandmother to many. One of her sons, Dhanraj Jattan, is a doctor in the United States.
The petite centenarian walks with the aid of a cane, bathes and feeds herself and occasionally takes a walk along Sandford Street, California where she lives with her caregiver, who did not want to be named. Jattan’s favourite meal is sada roti and tomato choka.
She is a mother of five children, but one of them, a daughter, died some time ago. She is a grandmother, great grandmother and possibly a great, great grandmother to many. One of her sons, Dhanraj Jattan, is a doctor in the United States.
In 2008, Jattan, then 104, was presented with the National Republic Day Award for her longstanding contribution to national development. The presentation ceremony was held on Republic Day (September 24) at the California Hindu Temple, located on Sandford Street, California a stone’s throw from her home. The award ceremony was hosted by the non-governmental organisation Citizens for a Better Trinidad and Tobago (CBTT) headed by Harrack Balramsingh.
She has also received awards for community service.
When Newsday visited Jattan yesterday, she was sitting on a chair in her living room, in the company of her caregiver, looking at television. Her caregiver said she would often ask her questions about the characters on the show.
UNESCO includes Indian indentured labourers to T&T in World International register
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| A copy of the inscription (click on image to see it in a new, larger window) |
A media release from the Multicultural Ministry has noted that while the inscription on the International Register took place in July 2011, NATT, as custodians of the records, has opted to commemorate the achievement within the context of Trinidad and Tobago’s 50th anniversary of Independence celebrations.
These are the only documents for ancestral and lineage research by descendants of indentured labourers. The records were first submitted for inclusion on the Register in 2010 by Fiji in collaboration with Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana and Suriname.
Government Archivist, Avril Belfon said she feels strongly that the general public needs to become more aware of events of this nature, given the critical role archiving plays in preserving a country’s documentary heritage for the benefit of current and future generations.
“It is appropriate, in this our 50th year of Independence, that we as a nation take the time to reflect and arm ourselves with the knowledge and the experience of the past as we forge ahead into the future,” she stated.
The records highlighting the system of Indian Indentureship in Trinidad will remain on display, free of charge to the public, at the National Archives Search Room, 105 St. Vincent Street, Port of Spain until June 15, 2012.
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| A copy of an original emigration document. (Click on image to see document in a new, larger window) |
Feature: Indian Arrival - by Suruj Rambachan, Mninister of Communication & Foreign Affairs
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| Indian indentureship brought thousands to Trinidad between 1845 and 1917 |
On May 30th 2012, the 167th anniversary of their arrival, we observe that moment in time when they first landed and were quarantined at Nelson Island. We give gratitude to them for the foundations they laid for economic growth and the overall development of our twin island nation. At the same time we celebrate their spirit of fortitude, their resilience in tough circumstances and thank them for the religious institutions, cultural and social systems they introduced, which has given to so many of us our self-definition and the ability to understand ourselves.
A glance at history will show that though they were generally unlettered, they possessed a vision of the possibilities for their children’s future, that resulted in a thirst for excellence manifested today in educated individuals who form a large part of the professional classes in Trinidad and Tobago. That such education started in the proverbial “cow sheds” is immaterial. What is important is that our ancestors recognized that knowledge was important both in terms of growing the person as well as developing the society.
It is remarkable that within less than fifty years, the children of the “jheel” (lagoons), migrated from the “jheels” to become lawyers, doctors, teachers, artisans, nurses, businessmen and businesswomen as well as public servants and even Prime Ministers. Such is the power of vision.
It is their vision for a better future that we celebrate across this country on this Indian Arrival Day.
The power of vision was not limited to East Indians. We see that the same kind of progress has been made by our African, Chinese, Lebanese and Syrian brothers and sisters, indicative of the fact that personal and group success is intrinsically tied to imagination. Imagination and vision is however not enough for success.
There has to be commitment, sacrifice, productivity, risk taking and entrepreneurship. All of these qualities were embraced by our ancestors. Today more than ever we need to return to these values, especially in a world that is becoming more competitive and globalized.
I often see on this day the recreation of the arrival in 1845 by persons ‘pulling a replica of the “Fatel Rozack.” I want to say that the boat has long arrived and returned to its native shores. We have established our roots here in Trinidad and Tobago. However, I sometimes feel that the roots are not as deep as they should be. At times, it appears that they are shallow and can be easily uprooted. At times I am led to question how committed we are to our country.
I often see on this day the recreation of the arrival in 1845 by persons ‘pulling a replica of the “Fatel Rozack.” I want to say that the boat has long arrived and returned to its native shores. We have established our roots here in Trinidad and Tobago. However, I sometimes feel that the roots are not as deep as they should be. At times, it appears that they are shallow and can be easily uprooted. At times I am led to question how committed we are to our country.
We are not going to be successful, nor are we going to live fruitful and contented lives if we have a migratory mentality, or if we do not develop a sense of ownership of our land.
Frankly, at times I feel that a real sense of ownership is missing. We must change this mentality. For myself, I had many an opportunity to migrate. At a personal level, I will not trade being a citizen of Trinidad and Tobago for any other citizenship. I will always work to develop the strongest sense of nationalism found anywhere in the world.
After fifty years of Independence, it is time for all of us to develop a deeper sense of nationalism, to put country first and self after, to sacrifice for the benefit of the larger community through a sense of duty and service to our fellow citizens.
After fifty years of Independence, it is time for all of us to develop a deeper sense of nationalism, to put country first and self after, to sacrifice for the benefit of the larger community through a sense of duty and service to our fellow citizens.
Fifty years after Independence, in the nation’s life cycle, we are in the stage of maturity. This means that we are expected to be mature in our deliberations, mature in our respect and recognition of all cultural and religious streams which comprise our diversity.
The time for fighting for cultural space, the struggle for dominance by one group over is finished. These struggles are sapping the productive energy of the country. These should now be replaced by cultural accommodation, whilst the struggle for dominance should be replaced by the reach for excellence thereby building a society where people are rewarded on the basis of merit and not affiliation, political affiliation included.
The time for fighting for cultural space, the struggle for dominance by one group over is finished. These struggles are sapping the productive energy of the country. These should now be replaced by cultural accommodation, whilst the struggle for dominance should be replaced by the reach for excellence thereby building a society where people are rewarded on the basis of merit and not affiliation, political affiliation included.
In a diverse country as ours everyone must be made to feel equal, feel appreciated and valued. This is what I believe we should be working towards. To these aspirations and values we must commit on this Arrival Day.
And so, as we celebrate 167 years since our East Indian ancestors came to these shores let us truly make Trinidad and Tobago our homes.
And so, as we celebrate 167 years since our East Indian ancestors came to these shores let us truly make Trinidad and Tobago our homes.
Let us stop being onlookers and become more integrally involved in the affairs of our nation. Let us build a country that is characterized by equality of opportunity, fairness, respect, cultural accommodation, freedom of expression with respect to others, and a deep sense of spirituality. Frankly, the souls of our ancestors will be satisfied and filled with joy if this happens.
Happy Indian Arrival Day 2012. Note:
Apart from Kolkata, India, where there is a monument to mark the departure of East Indians to serve periods of indentureship, I am advised that the only other monument in the West that stands as reminder of their arrival is in Trinidad.
It speaks of their commitment to this country. It was installed in 1985 by the St Patrick County Council of which I was the then Chairman. It was a joint effort between myself and Councillor Basdeo Manmohansingh.
It was built by a sculptor from Roussilac at a cost of $1500.00TT and it consists of a boat with a father, mother and a child whose finger is pointing inland to Trinidad and Tobago. Cedros was then a regular point for celebrating Indian Arrival Day by a group led by Ramdath Jaggessar and others.
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
DPP clears Warner of FIFA bribery allegations
The matter related to a meeting at the Hyatt in Port-of-Spain on May 10-11, 2011 attended by former FIFA presidential candidate Mohamed Bin Hammam.
The allegation was that both men colluded to pay bribes to football officials in the Caribbean for their votes in the FIFA presidential elections. FIFA later suspended Warner and Bin Hammam and Warner later resigned as one of FIFA's longest serving Vice Presidents.
In announcing Warner's decision the organisation made it clear that Warner was presumed to be innocent of all charges.
However the opposition People's National Movement insisted that the police and DPP should conduct an investigation.
They did. And they determined that Warner does not have to answer for anything. A letter from the Police Service Commission (PSC) dated May 7 advised the Leader of the Opposition of the decision.
The letter, which was was signed by PSC Secretary Mrs A.M. Andrews, on behalf of the Director of Personnel Administration stated in part: “The Commissioner of Police informed that the matter was investigated by the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service and “on the advice of the Director of Public Prosecutions, no further can be taken in this matter.”
The letter also confirmed that the PSC received a response, by letter dated March 21, 2012 from the Commissioner of Police, on the said police investigations. The PSC said it received the letter on April 12, 2012.
Warner told the Guardian newspaper Monday, “I guess that will make Fixin’ T&T and all my other detractors, including, Opposition MP Fitzgerald Hinds, very unhappy indeed.”
Warner said the entire allegation was part of “a deliberate campaign designed to demonise me by those who were opposed to me.” However, he said he won’t be distracted from his objective to serve the people of T&T as minister.
Warner also thanked Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar “for having kept the faith in me." (ALSO READ Jack in the clear, no case to answer: Express)
Tobago villa for UDeCOTT manager "scandalous squandermania": Moonilal
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Moonilal first spoke about the property last Thursday in an address to supporters at the anniversary celebration of the People's Partnership.
The housing minister said he was shocked to learn only recently about the purchase agreement in which UDeCOTT made a deal to buy the property and pay in US dollars. The amount, he said, was $US449,500, which is more than TT$3 million.
"What they want a private villa for?" he asked.
Read the story
The Express newspaper published an email it said it received from the man who bought the villa in which Calder Hart stated that it was for a manager who had to relocate to Tobago. Hart denied that he bought the property for himself.
Hart's email quote in the Express said: "At no time did I, or any UDeCOTT executive under my supervision use the home while I was chairman. It was not purchased as a vacation home."
The Express said it spoke with Moonilal by phone on Monday and the minister stated that he was shocked to learn that Hart has "resurfaced and appears to have accepted responsibly."
He added, "I am very concerned that there was no Ministerial and Cabinet oversight and multi-million-dollar residence could have been acquired for the use of a middle manager."
Asked about Hart's explanation that the house was bought for a manager's use, Moonilal said "that speaks to the waste, squandermania and mismanagement. I am sure if a manager is required to be in Tobago, a guest house at a much more modest cost could have been found," said Moonilal.
Responding to Rowley's criticisms, Moonilal said he (Rowley) should not be "infantile".
"I was very clear on the platform to indicate that I was reading from the deed and I was giving the names of persons who were witnesses and I called the lawyers of UDeCOTT and also the lawyers from the independent firm, among which Mrs Rowley is an attorney involved," said Moonilal.
He also commented on a statement made by opposition leader Keith Rowley that Moonilal was out of line to call the name of Rowley's wife in the matter. Sharon Rowley was the lawyer who signed the deed.
Moonilal made it clear when he mentioned her name to state that he understood her role was a professional one and he did not wish to suggest that there was anything improper in the matter. However Rowley was offended and suggested tom Moonilal that he shouldm "leave my wife out".
Monilal said people in public life cannot take "an infantile approach about don't call my name, or don't call my wife name or don't call the name of my dog, it doesn't work so."
Moonilal said his wife is also an attorney who works in the Public Administration Ministry.
"Several PNM Ministers then would make reference to her work and her affiliation, I had no hard feelings, because she was working in a Government Ministry, so when someone is an attorney at law conducting business it is obvious their name would appear in documents," said Moonilal.
The Express newspaper published an email it said it received from the man who bought the villa in which Calder Hart stated that it was for a manager who had to relocate to Tobago. Hart denied that he bought the property for himself.
Hart's email quote in the Express said: "At no time did I, or any UDeCOTT executive under my supervision use the home while I was chairman. It was not purchased as a vacation home."
The Express said it spoke with Moonilal by phone on Monday and the minister stated that he was shocked to learn that Hart has "resurfaced and appears to have accepted responsibly."
He added, "I am very concerned that there was no Ministerial and Cabinet oversight and multi-million-dollar residence could have been acquired for the use of a middle manager."
Asked about Hart's explanation that the house was bought for a manager's use, Moonilal said "that speaks to the waste, squandermania and mismanagement. I am sure if a manager is required to be in Tobago, a guest house at a much more modest cost could have been found," said Moonilal.
Responding to Rowley's criticisms, Moonilal said he (Rowley) should not be "infantile".
"I was very clear on the platform to indicate that I was reading from the deed and I was giving the names of persons who were witnesses and I called the lawyers of UDeCOTT and also the lawyers from the independent firm, among which Mrs Rowley is an attorney involved," said Moonilal.
He also commented on a statement made by opposition leader Keith Rowley that Moonilal was out of line to call the name of Rowley's wife in the matter. Sharon Rowley was the lawyer who signed the deed.
Moonilal made it clear when he mentioned her name to state that he understood her role was a professional one and he did not wish to suggest that there was anything improper in the matter. However Rowley was offended and suggested tom Moonilal that he shouldm "leave my wife out".
Monilal said people in public life cannot take "an infantile approach about don't call my name, or don't call my wife name or don't call the name of my dog, it doesn't work so."
Moonilal said his wife is also an attorney who works in the Public Administration Ministry.
"Several PNM Ministers then would make reference to her work and her affiliation, I had no hard feelings, because she was working in a Government Ministry, so when someone is an attorney at law conducting business it is obvious their name would appear in documents," said Moonilal.
Devant defends Prado for CAL chairman; Rowley wants Integrity Commission probe
Maharaj noted that before Rabindra Moonan assumed office the airline had leased a Mercedes Benz for use by the chairman and the rest of the board of directors. he said when Moonan took office he found that the cost was "exorbitant" so he cancelled that lease.
However the Express newspaper said its investigations have revealed that two previous CAL boards did not lease a Mercedes or any other vehicle for use by directors.
The Prado leased by CAL is costing the airline $20,000 a month. The Minister said, "The Prado would be leased for use of the management and board of the Caribbean Airlines, it would not be used only by the chairman."
Maharaj added that Moonan has a "hectic schedule" as he tries to "turn things around" at the State carrier.
"It is required now that almost every other day (he has) to be in meetings with various stakeholders to carry about his duties. This is not an executive position. If we want Caribbean Airlines to really turn around we need the chairman to be very focused at this time," he said.
Maharaj said, "Clearly the facts need to be verified before headlines are written."
However, Opposition Leader Keith Rowley is not pleased with the arrangement and on Monday called for an investigation by the Integrity Commission.
He said the chairman has no entitlement to vehicular transport. "That is State-authorised abuse and ministerial encouragement of wrongdoing and this is a matter for the Integrity Commission," he said. Rowley insisted that a state board chairman is not entitled to any car.
"This Government is bending and breaking the rules to satisfy individuals who have come into office to enjoy office. There is no provision in the existing regulations for board members or chairman of a board to enjoy any kind of vehicular transport," he said.
Rowley stated that the State Enterprises Performance Monitoring Manual is very clear on entitlements for members of state boards and one of the things that is clear is that "chairmen and directors were not entitled to company cars". He added, "I am demanding that the Integrity Commission intervene and stop it and sanction the minister."
Minister sends TCL dispute to Industrial Court
He told reporters the dispute was referred to the Industrial Court under the provision of the Industrial Relations Act. The matter was on hold during the 90-day strike that ended on Saturday.
Section 61(d) states that the Minister "shall refer an unresolved dispute to the Court when a period of three months of continuing action has continued with no resolution. It is then that the Minister will refer the dispute to the Court for final determination."
The minister said it is the first time that industrial action by a union has continued for the full extent of three months. He stated that all industrial actions must now end.
"In my role of the Minister of Labour and Small and Micro Enterprise Development, I have also emphasized to them the need to work together to rebuild the relationships that would have become severely strained during the protracted industrial actions of the past three months," McLeod said.
OWTU President General Ancel Roget said he expects all workers would be back on their regular shifts by Wednesday.
Section 61(d) states that the Minister "shall refer an unresolved dispute to the Court when a period of three months of continuing action has continued with no resolution. It is then that the Minister will refer the dispute to the Court for final determination."
The minister said it is the first time that industrial action by a union has continued for the full extent of three months. He stated that all industrial actions must now end.
"In my role of the Minister of Labour and Small and Micro Enterprise Development, I have also emphasized to them the need to work together to rebuild the relationships that would have become severely strained during the protracted industrial actions of the past three months," McLeod said.
OWTU President General Ancel Roget said he expects all workers would be back on their regular shifts by Wednesday.
Photo commentary: A winning hand: 2 Jacks, one queen
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| Kamla Persad-Bissessar with Jack Warner and Ashworth Jack at Thursday's PP rally |
Jack in the clear, no case to answer: Express
By Ria Taitt Political Editor - Reproduced from the EXPRESS newspaper
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| File: Jack Warner speaks with reporters as he leaves the Diplomatic Centre in March |
Works Minister Jack Warner has no case to answer with respect to allegations of bribery purported to have taken place at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, in Port of Spain on or about May 10, 2011.
"On the advice of the Director of Public Prosecutions, no further action can be taken in this matter," Commissioner of Police Dwayne Gibbs informed the Police Service Commission on March 21, 2012.
He said the matter was investigated by the Police Service and the DPP advised the matter can proceed no further.
The PSC has in turn passed on this information via letter dated May 7, 2012 to Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley.
Warner said yesterday he was so informed about one month ago about this matter by the Commissioner of Police and that this was "old news".
He also said he did not see the need to inform the population about this development.
"There are so many things that are more important in the country. There is so much work to be done that I can't worry about foolishness. I said from day one that there is nothing in the matter and I maintain that. But there are forces out there that are trying to recreate something from time immemorial and there is nothing that they can recreate," he said.
He also told CNC3 News said he was happy and felt vindicated and thanked the PM for having confidence in him.
There had been several calls for the Prime Minister to fire Warner when the bribery allegations first surfaced. In May 2010, Warner invited the heads of various Caribbean football associations to meet with FIFA presidential candidate Mohammed bin Hammam in Port of Spain.
At that meeting, several of the officials reported that over US$1 million was distributed to them in brown envelopes.
In June 2011, the Opposition had written to Gibbs about the possible breach of the laws of Trinidad and Tobago, including the Exchange Control Act, the Customs Act and generally the criminal law relating to bribery.
This had followed the suspension of Warner and bin Hammam by the FIFA Ethics Committee based on allegations that they were involved in a bribes-for-votes campaign.
Commenting on the decision of the DPP, Rowley said: "The DPP has to rely on the police to conduct an investigation into any matter. The DPP has no investigative power and it is only what the police put before the DPP that he can act on. And clearly what was put before the DPP has caused the matter to end in this way."
Rowley said yesterday what motivated his letter to the PSC was the initial reaction of the State institutions to the issue—the Comptroller of Customs —who said they would have known if the laws were breached; and Deputy Commissioner of Police Mervyn Richardson who had said there was nothing for the police to investigate.
He said in June, 2011, he then formally wrote to the Commissioner of Police requesting the police investigate the matter.
He said since then the police have been unable to identify to the public who the investigating officer was and which of the parties allegedly involved in the matter have been interviewed by them (the police).
Rowley said the public is also unaware whether the minister implicated in the matter has been interviewed or whether the police have interviewed persons who were witnesses to the alleged offence and who provided testimony in other proceedings in another jurisdiction.
He said the public was therefore not in the position to determine whether the investigation into this matter represented the best of the country's Police Service and whether it represents the only outcome into this matter.
"On the advice of the Director of Public Prosecutions, no further action can be taken in this matter," Commissioner of Police Dwayne Gibbs informed the Police Service Commission on March 21, 2012.
He said the matter was investigated by the Police Service and the DPP advised the matter can proceed no further.
The PSC has in turn passed on this information via letter dated May 7, 2012 to Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley.
Warner said yesterday he was so informed about one month ago about this matter by the Commissioner of Police and that this was "old news".
He also said he did not see the need to inform the population about this development.
"There are so many things that are more important in the country. There is so much work to be done that I can't worry about foolishness. I said from day one that there is nothing in the matter and I maintain that. But there are forces out there that are trying to recreate something from time immemorial and there is nothing that they can recreate," he said.
He also told CNC3 News said he was happy and felt vindicated and thanked the PM for having confidence in him.
There had been several calls for the Prime Minister to fire Warner when the bribery allegations first surfaced. In May 2010, Warner invited the heads of various Caribbean football associations to meet with FIFA presidential candidate Mohammed bin Hammam in Port of Spain.
At that meeting, several of the officials reported that over US$1 million was distributed to them in brown envelopes.
In June 2011, the Opposition had written to Gibbs about the possible breach of the laws of Trinidad and Tobago, including the Exchange Control Act, the Customs Act and generally the criminal law relating to bribery.
This had followed the suspension of Warner and bin Hammam by the FIFA Ethics Committee based on allegations that they were involved in a bribes-for-votes campaign.
Commenting on the decision of the DPP, Rowley said: "The DPP has to rely on the police to conduct an investigation into any matter. The DPP has no investigative power and it is only what the police put before the DPP that he can act on. And clearly what was put before the DPP has caused the matter to end in this way."
Rowley said yesterday what motivated his letter to the PSC was the initial reaction of the State institutions to the issue—the Comptroller of Customs —who said they would have known if the laws were breached; and Deputy Commissioner of Police Mervyn Richardson who had said there was nothing for the police to investigate.
He said in June, 2011, he then formally wrote to the Commissioner of Police requesting the police investigate the matter.
He said since then the police have been unable to identify to the public who the investigating officer was and which of the parties allegedly involved in the matter have been interviewed by them (the police).
Rowley said the public is also unaware whether the minister implicated in the matter has been interviewed or whether the police have interviewed persons who were witnesses to the alleged offence and who provided testimony in other proceedings in another jurisdiction.
He said the public was therefore not in the position to determine whether the investigation into this matter represented the best of the country's Police Service and whether it represents the only outcome into this matter.
Monday, May 28, 2012
Rowley: Leave my wife out of politics, says Sugar Aloes remain PNM
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| Keith Rowley and his spouse, Sharon. Express photo |
Moonilal waved a document during the People's Partnership second anniversary celebration rally in Chaguanas on Thursday that he said was a deed for Coral Seashells Villas #113, Anthony Charles Crescent, Bon Accord, Tobago. The cost was US$449,500 (TT$3 million), Moonilal said.
Moonilal said one of the signatures on the document was that of a lady named Sharon Clarke Rowley, and made it clear that he was not suggesting that there was anything inappropriate about it. However he said he wants to know if Rowley, who was in the cabinet at the time, knew about the deal.
The opposition leader spoke about the matter at the People's National Movement (PNM) Family Day at Manzanilla Beach.
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| Keith Rowley addresses supporters. Newsday photo |
He added, "My wife is a private attorney conducting private business, who has absolutely no business with Calder Hart and UDeCOTT and any transaction. What he was referring to was witnessing the actions of other persons."
That is exactly what Moonilal said. The Deputy Leader of the United National Congress (UNC) stated that the lawyer, Sharon Rowley, was acting in her professional capacity and did not connect her to what might have been wrong about the transaction by UDeCOTT. What Moonilal wanted to know was what Keith Rowley knew about the deal.
Rowley did not answer that question. He said at the time when the UDeCOTT bought the property Hart was not reporting to him although he was Housing Minister and the line minister for UDeCOTT. He was fired from cabinet in 2008 for challenging decisions made by Hart without proper cabinet oversight.
Rowley also said he was not impressed with the announcement by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar that she plans a Cabinet "reconfiguration".
"If you reshuffle the same cards you get the same hands. I don't think it will make much of a difference. It is the same people following the same policies...Even if they change portfolios, it will be the same people doing the same things," Rowley said.
And he did not share the view that the appearance of pro-PNM calypsonian Michael "Sugar Aloes" Osuana on the PP stage was something about which he should be concerned.
"Sugar Aloes is a performer and he is a private citizen and free to do as he pleases for performances. The PNM has no control over Sugar Aloes or any other performer," Rowley said. He added that he was not offended by the performance.
"He is a private performer making his private living as he sees fit. We may be disappointed that he has done certain things but that is not our call and I tell you I have no doubt that he is still supporting the PNM. I have no doubt about that!"
Calder Hart responds to Moonilal. House was for UDeCOTT manager
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| A luxury villat at Coral Seashells in Bon Accord, Tobago |
Subject: Response to allegations made on Thursday by Minister R Moonilal.
It is important to set the record straight regarding UDeCOTT's purchase of the executive home in Tobago. The home was purchased by UDeCOTT for use as a residence by the manager of the joint Nipdec/UDeCOTT operations office there.
At no time did I, or any UDeCOTT executive under my supervision use the home while I was chairman. It was not purchased as a vacation home.
I question the highly politicised manner in which this information was provided to the public. The home is hardly a secret to people in both organisations and in fact, it was a senior development manager from Nipdec who was first appointed to the post and was required to relocate his family there.
Ramadhar still convinced PP is strong and best hope for T&T
The COP political leader was speaking at an interfaith service to mark the second anniversary of the People's Partnership.
Last week at the second anniversary celebration in Chaguanas, Persad-Bissessar promised that she would make an assessment of the members of cabinet as well as state boards after which she would make some cabinet changes.
“The second anniversary of any government is a very important one,” he said. “Going into a third year, there are issues that need to be attended to and whether there is a better allocation of portfolios, so be it.
“We hope that the Prime Minister, after consultation—I would imagine that there would be consultation before any decisions are made—will do what is best for T&T.”
“We hope that the Prime Minister, after consultation—I would imagine that there would be consultation before any decisions are made—will do what is best for T&T.”
He also dismissed suggestions that the partnership is unstable. He said what appears to create that impression is not instability. "It is more of a settling of how we go forward,” he said.
Ramadhar reiterated what he said last week at the anniversary rally, that the partnership is here to stay. He added that he expects the Government’s retreat in Tobago this week will yield positive through open discussions on issues among members of the cabinet and at the leadership level of the partnership.
Ramaadhar also said he is sure that the leader of the Movement for Social Justice (MSJ) is as committed to Trinidad & Tobago as the other leaders and added that the partnership must find a way to address the MSJ's concerns.
Ramadhar reiterated what he said last week at the anniversary rally, that the partnership is here to stay. He added that he expects the Government’s retreat in Tobago this week will yield positive through open discussions on issues among members of the cabinet and at the leadership level of the partnership.
Ramaadhar also said he is sure that the leader of the Movement for Social Justice (MSJ) is as committed to Trinidad & Tobago as the other leaders and added that the partnership must find a way to address the MSJ's concerns.
He insisted that the People’s Partnership "is the best hope for T&T". He added, "We need to maintain it, to repair it if there are issues to deal with and to ensure its long-term survival,” he said.
Ramadhar said the People’s Partnership will have a second term in office if it delivers on promises made in 2010. “We must remember that people voted not just for one party, but the combination of all,” he added.
Ramadhar said the People’s Partnership will have a second term in office if it delivers on promises made in 2010. “We must remember that people voted not just for one party, but the combination of all,” he added.
First Indian arrived in Trinidad in 1595, new book says
However it was not organised or planned as was the case with the formal movement of Indians to the region that began in the 19th century with the full cooperation of the British Government and the colonial governments in the West Indies.
According to the book, "Caribbean History: From Pre-colonial Origins to the Present," Martin makes the point that the first Indian immigrant to the Caribbean arrived in Trinidad on February 17, 1595.
That's 243 years before Indian immigration to the Caribbean began with Indians arriving as indentured labourers to work in plantations Guyana in 1838 and to Trinidad in 1845.
These are the earliest dates traditionally acknowledged and celebrated in “Indian Arrival Day” and similar observances in the region.
Martin presents an account of Trinidad’s first Indian immigrant as one of two apparently enslaved Indians who arrived on an English pirate ship engaged in exploring the “Wild Coast” of South America (Guyana) in search of El Dorado, the legendary empire of gold.
The book states that the Indians had been captured during a round-the-world voyage between 1584 and 1586 by English adventurer, Thomas Cavendish.
The English fortune-seekers made Trinidad their base for a few months as they explored Guyana. It was in Trinidad that the region’s first Indian jumped ship and made a dash for freedom.
Martin's account makes no further mention of the fate of the lone Inidan and suggests that he may have joined the indigenous Caribs and Arawaks, or perhaps even made contact with the Spaniards, who had recently occupied Trinidad. The only certain thing is that he escaped to Trinidad and his English enslavers left without him, the book says.
Caribbean History: From Pre-colonial Origins to the Present is published by Pearson.
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Jai & Sero
Our family at home in Toronto 2008
Amit, Heather, Fuzz, Aj, Jiv, Shiva, Rampa, Sero, Jai