London Mission Newsletter volume 16 (March - April 2006)

Volume 16

March- April 2006

Inside this Issue T&T facilitates energy for CARICOM

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The Tobago response

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On de road to Germany

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U lin ’s K itch en

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Letters to the Editor

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YoungBiz UK breakfast briefing

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Baptist leader dies in London

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Miss World Cup 2006

T&T on Road Show in Europe

Minister Yuille -Williams talks to nationals about nation building UWI St. Augustine vacancies

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

Trinidad and Tobago High Commission in London hosts ‘A T aste o f T & T ’

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LONDON MISSION

T&T Facilitates Energy for CARICOM Government Information Service, Port of Spain. Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) has facilitated the Petro Caribe arrangement between Venezuela and other Caricom countries for them to enjoy the benefits of favourable payment terms for petroleum products from Venezuela, according to Prime Minister Patrick Manning.

She said that Trinidad and Tobago had agreed to a long term arrangement to supply gas to Jamaica which agreed to invest in an Aluminium Smelter project proposed for Trinidad and Tobago. Gas supply options for Jamaica included compressed natural gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the LNG Train 4 or LNG Train X plants. The supply of gas should begin in 2009 under “M ost Favoured N ation” paym ent term s.

Mr. Manning said that T&T was voluntarily giving up Common External Tariff (CET) protection for the regional refining industry in order to facilitate Petro Caribe. He was speaking at the joint press conference with Jamaican Prime Minister, The Hon. Portia Simpson – Miller, following bilateral talks between Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica at Whitehall on Tuesday April 25.

Other items on Prime Minister Simpson-M iller‟s itinerary included a children‟s rally at the Jean P ierre C om plex / H asely Crawford Stadium, luncheon at the Trinidad and Tobago M anufacturers‟ A ssociation H eadquarters and a State B anquet at P resident‟s H ouse.

The bilateral discussion was the first item on the programme for the official visit of the Jamaican Prime Minister to Trinidad and

Prime Minister Simpson-Miller departed for Jamaica at 3 pm Wednesday, April 26, following a visit to the National Gas Company and a courtesy call on the Mayor of Port of Spain, Alderman Murchison Brown.

Tobago. Mrs Simpson – Miller was welcomed by a military parade and gun salute on her arrival at Piarco International Airport on Monday, April 24, 2006.

Jamaica's Prime Minister, The Hon. Portia Simpson Miller kisses a student after her arrival at a special rally held in her honour at the Jean Pierre Complex in Mucurapo.

Hundreds of students from Port -of-Spain and its environs flocked to the facility to welcome The Hon. Simpson Miller, the first female Prime Minister of her country (SHIRLEY BAHADUR/ TRINIDAD GUARDIAN).

NIHERST Awards for Science and Technology II The National Institute of Higher Education, Research Science and Technology invites you to submit nominations for the 2nd Annual NIHERST Awards for Science and Technology.

For further information, including details of the eligibility criteria and to obtain a nomination form, please contact the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission, London @ 0207 245 9351 or NIHERST in Trinidad and Tobago @ (868) 622 7880.

Beetham Landfill to go The 61 hectare Beetham landfill, located on the outskirts of Port of Spain, will soon be closed as government seeks to establish environment friendly disposal facilities for waste management in Trinidad and Tobago.

Public Utilities and the Environment Minister, The Hon. Penelope Beckles, said that Cabinet had agreed to rehabilitate the Beetham wetland area. It is the largest landfill in Trinidad and Tobago accepting an average of 728 tonnes of waste per day.

The Ministry will invite proposals for new, cost-effective, waste disposal facilities in Beetham, Guanapo, Forres Park, Toco, Blanchisseuse, Point Fortin, Cedros, Los Bajos, and Studley Park in Tobago.

The Hon. Penelope Beckles, Minister of Public Utilities and the Environment

Now over thirty years old, the Beetham Landfill overlays part of the most productive groundwater source in TT – the El Socorro aquifer system. „T his,‟ the M inister said, „threatens the country‟s ground water supply and poses a number of health risks to the residents and businesses in and around P ort of Spain.‟

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US$1.5 billion MOU signed for Ethylene complex

Albert Chao, left, President and Chief Executive of Westlake Chemical Corporation, presents a gift to Senator Dr. The Hon. Lenny Saith, Minister of Energy and Energy Industries at the signing of an MOU between both parties on April 18.

O

n April 18, 2006, the Government of T&T and Westlake Chemical Corporation of USA signed a US$1.5 billion MOU for an ethylene complex in Point Lisas.

Construction of the plant is scheduled to commence in 2007 and is expected to generate about 5,000 jobs at the height of construction. It is due to be completed in 2010.

The integrated complex will comprise an ethylene cracker complex and a polyethylene plant complex.

The Government will have an equity stake of up to 30 per cent.

Government forecasts an additional 3,000-6,000 jobs with the creation of downstream industries in plastics.

TCL Records Highest Production Figures for 52 Years

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uring the month of March 2006, Trinidad Cement Ltd (TCL) recorded a cement production figure of 75,000 metric tonnes, representing its highest production figure since the com pany‟s inception fifty tw o years ago.

T he figure for M arch w as confirm ed on A pril 2 by A run G oyal, T C L ‟s G eneral M anager. T he M arch production figure achieved an increase of 25 percent over its average monthly production of 60,000 metric tonnes in 2005.

T L C ‟s m onthly output of cem ent has show n a steady increase since the beginning of 2006, m oving from 68,000 in January to 73,5 00 in February and reaching 75,000 in March.

TT Trade Facilitation Office to be launched in Cuba

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rinidad and Tobago is to open a TT Facilitation Office (TTFO) in Cuba in May 2006.

During a recent press conference, Minister of Trade and Industry, the Honourable Ken Valley, announced the establishment of T T FO C uba. H e said: “T he T T FO w ill be authorised under C uban law to prom ote and facilitate trade betw een T rinidad and T obago and C uba.”

The Minister noted that Cuba was the first Latin American nation with which Trinidad and Tobago had signed a bilateral trade agreem ent . H e also said that C uba rem ained one of T rinidad and T obago‟s m ost im portant econom ic partners in the region.

The Minister said that the TTFO would eventually be expanded to facilitate all CARICOM manufacturers wishing to do business in Cuba and could serve to deepen both TT-Cuba and CARICOM-Cuba trade relations.

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Tobago makes its mark internationally Tobago has been described as the 20th best wedding location in the world.

In a special edition of The Information Magazine (published by The Independent Newspaper, April 8-14, 2006) Plantation Beach Villas, and by association Tobago, was voted the w orld‟s 20 th best wedding location.

In her article M s. Spencer w rote “from Rita Hayworth to Princess Margaret, Tobago has been a playground for the rich and idle since the forties.” She highlighted two hotels, the Blue Haven and Arnos Vale, which have been in operation since the nineteen forties. She mentions how the actor, Robert

Mitchum and his entourage, visited T obago to shoot the film , “Fire D ow n B elow ” in 1957 also starring D eborah Kerr and Jack Lemon, stayed at the Blue H aven for three m onths, “stoked by rum cocktails and the year-round benevolence of T obago‟s clim ate.”

In conclusion, Ms. Spencer stated: “T obago, w ith its w ildlife rather than its wild nights, with its treacle time and dreamy pace, is certainly a place to relax and soak up the good things in life, as Mitchum and Margaret must have known. A place to order a Singapore Sling and scan the horizon for frigate birds as the sun slips down to kiss the sea. A place, as they say, to sit back and w atch G od’s entertainment .”

The island was placed ahead of all other Caribbean islands with the nearest being Jamaica in the 43rd position.

Tobago was also featured in an article written by Mimi Spencer and published in the Saturday Guardian Travel Section, “O n L ocation” of M arch 25, 2006.

The Tobago response H.E Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip has played a pivotal role in enhancing the image of Tobago in response to the recent negative reports. The High Commissioner met with officials from the Tobago House of Assembly, The Foreign and Commonwealth Office of the UK and the Tourism Development Company at the TTHC, London.

In an immediate response to the changing safety circumstances in Tobago which have been manifesting itself in an increase in crime on the island, the authorities, and in particular the Tobago House of Assembly (THA), have launched a number of strategic initiatives from the following three fronts.

1. SOCIAL 1. Tobago Community Safety Programme. This initiative has a number of programmes/projects all designed to bring the island‟s com m unities together through social cohesion to reduce crime and criminality and to replace them with a culture of lawfulness and peace. Some of the major programmes/projects include:Be A Good Citizen Programme: This is designed for the islands pre-school students. The intent is to instil in them the qualities and characteristics of a good citizen.

Smart School Programme: Primary and secondary school students will be educated and provided with timely and relevant information that will condition them to make smart and lawful choices.

The impact is the creation of culture of lawfulness among our student population.

Home Safety Programme: The intention here is to create a cognitive shift in our households(15,000) that safety of their communities starts with safety in their homes. Households will be educated in home safety matters and it will be their responsibility to ensure that they and their children at all times make smart and lawful choices.

Community Safety Competition: This programme is structured/designed to leverage on the excitement that Trinidad & Tobago is in the Football World Cup Finals. The community (ies) on the Island that score(s) no (0) goals- measured by crime reported/committed during the period of the World Cup will be rewarded at a public function on the same day the World Cup is presented to the winning football team.

Communication Strategy: This is the engine of all the social programmes/projects. It is the component that will deliver on a continuous basis timely and relevant inform ation to the Islands‟ citizens on safety and security. Some of the major activities here include: Charting community safety – One (1) hour TV & Radio programmes where community (Continues on next page )

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...the Tobago response continued members can call-in and have their say on issues concerning community safety and general issues.

Text -(SMS) messages via mobile phones on com m unity safety “When you are safe, I am safe and our Visitors are Safe.”

Community Meetings-where we go into the communities (36) and have public meetings with them on the safety issues in their respective communities.

Radio

on the Block Programme: This programme is about going to where the at-risk youths are „lim ing‟ (hanging out) and talking and chatting with them about their safety concerns in their communities and other general matters of interest to them.

General: Public Safety Support Service in the community and city.

2. JUDICIAL Establishment of a Third (3rd) Court at the end of May 2006. This Court is a Special Court to deal on a 24 hour basis with crime against visitors (and residents). It will be a technologically driven Court. The objective being to send a clear signal to offenders that justice is swift and certain in Tobago.

The Introduction of Tele-Conferencing as part of our Laws of Evidence. This is intended to give our judicial process the global reach by having a victim go to a Court in his/her country, take the oath and give evidence in a trial in Tobago. This will remove the need to have a visitor/victim return to (Tobago) to give evidence and face the offender in the same physical space.

Enhancing Police Community Relationships : The intent here is to create an effective functional relationship between the law enforcement agencies and our communities.

This is really about reorienting our agencies (police) to take note of the fact that the communities Just minutes from Crown Point international are their clients and as Airport in Tobago is the gorgeous Store Bay. such they have a responsibility to have a productive working relationship with their clients.

Victim Support Services: The Department of Tourism has very elaborate victim support services for visitors who have been victimized on the Island. It provides social, financial, spiritual and psychological support aimed at reducing the impact of victimization on visitors to Tobago.

Establishment of a Department of Public Safety: The focus here really is to create a support institution for the law enforcement agencies in Tobago. The main objective of this department will be the provision of public safety support services to the citizens and visitors to the Islands.

The major service areas include: Marine patrol & rescue services: Beach: patrols-foot and bicycle-at the Islands‟ beaches and other historical attractions.

School: Safety-school crossing for students, property security, VIP, general school security and safety.

3. LAW ENFORCEMENT Change in Head of Police in Tobago.

Three weeks ago a new Assistant Commissioner of Police was appointed to take com m and of T obago‟s police 19 of the 39 Scotland Yard Officers recruited by the Government of Trinidad & Tobago at an annual cost of £5 million will be working directly and indirectly with the Island‟s police and other security agencies to return safety and security to Tobago.

Importantly, they will enhance the electronic surveillance capabilities at our ports of entry by providing real time analysis of passenger flows to and from Trinidad & Tobago.

Community-Oriented Tourism Policing – This is the new policing model which was developed by Tobago.

To date, 60 Barbados police officers were trained in this model of policing in November 2005 by the developer of the model- Tobagonian Anslem Richards-Crime Economist(MSC)/Police Officer.

These programmes and projects represent the platform on which the Citizens of Tobago have come together to liquidate the emerging threat (crime) to their way of life- safety and peace. When anything threatens the way of life of a people the hardest thing for them to do is nothing. Tobago is fighting and will win this fight against crime, we assure you all.

LM

THA

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Minister talks to nationals about nation building

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ationals w ere assured that G overnm ent‟s developm ent programme was progressing on schedule. This assurance was given by Senator The Hon. Mrs. Joan Yuille-Williams, Minister of Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs, when she spoke at the April monthly meeting at the High Commission.

The Minister was responding to a series of questions posed by nationals at the meeting that included Tourism, Culture, Sports, C rim e, T obago A ffairs and G overnm ent‟s developm ent programme.

Mrs. Yuille-Williams said that Government had made substantial investments in critical sectors such as Education and Training, Food, Housing, National Security and Public Safety, all of which will enhance national well being.

The Hon. Mrs. Joan Yuille Williams talks to a national after the meeting

The Minister also said that Government was mindful of the concerns by nationals who lived in Europe who were in tune with the activities taking place in Trinidad and Tobago.

She complimented the High Commission for maintaining a link with nationals through several programmes and activities in the United Kingdom.

T he M inister dealt w ith T rinidad and T obago‟s participation in the World Cup in Germany and she indicated that having qualified for the finals, the country was in the spotlight internationally, and intended to capitalise on this major achievement.

She disclosed that a large cultural contingent comprising Steeelbands, calypsonians, etc. would be performing in Germany along with programmes promoted by the Tourism Development Company (TDC).

Her Excellency Mrs Glenda Morean Phillip, Attaché Mr. Ashton Ford and other members of staff were present at the meeting.

Minister Williams tours the ABC with High Commissioner Morean Phillip

UK/Caribbean Government to Government Forum held in Barbados

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aribbean and British Ministers met in Barbados in April for the biennial Government to Governemt forum. Ministers on both sides recognised the urgent need for continued improvements in the investment climate, including the overall regulatory framework, in order to attract greater levels of both domestic and foreign investment. They also emphasized that investment in hum an resources w as key to attracting investm ent and w elcom ed the B ritish P rim e M inister‟s initiative to hold an investm e nt event in London in November 2006, with the objective of showcasing the Caribbean to potential investors.

Her Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip, High Commissioner and Mr. Evans King, Head of Chancery at the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission, London, attended the Forum where the Honourable Ministers Knowlson Gift and Martin Joseph were also present.

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Message to the Baptist Community on the occasion of Spiritual Baptists Shouter Liberation Day, 2006

The Honourable Patrick Manning

The Government and citizens of our Republic join me in extending greetings and best wishes to the local Baptist Community on the occasion of the S p i r i t u a l B a p t is t s Shouter Liberation Day.

The history of our Baptist Community in Trinidad and Tobago has been one of struggle from the incipience of the practice of their faith in our land. Among our many faith-based communities, none has been subjected to as much prosecution and persecution in the exercise of its faith.

This negative treatment at the hand of the colonial authorities, and even others in our society, was rooted in ignorance and mistrust of the strong African influence on the rituals and practices of the Baptist faith. The discrimination and prejudice meted out to them was part of the oppression and subjugation of their ethnic group.

Today, as we publicly celebrate the Repeal of the Shouter Baptist Prohibition Ordinance, there remain valuable lessons to be learnt from the experience of the Shouter Baptist Community.

However much our celebration might relate to this particular community, we must see it in terms of its meaning for the wider society. The triumph we celebrate today is not limited to any one group. It is a victory on behalf of all in our society. It is, for example, a victory for all those who have felt the brunt of colonialism, or have been victims of various forms of race -based or class-oriented prosecution.

Given the large number of women who form the membership of this faith, it is also a victory for our womenfolk. The Baptist Community across the Caribbean has suffered sim ilar travail and today‟s celebration is also a victory for the community in the region. At many levels, therefore, this celebration represents the triumph of oppressed people across the world.

We are not to lose sight of its spiritual essence, for the struggle of our Baptist Community was for the right to freedom of worship, indeed their right to search for and relate to Almighty God in their particular way. It is perhaps out of this that we can find, in their approach, many values to be inculcated, including humility, patience and long-suffering and persistence.

And notwithstanding their peace-loving and seemingly unassuming way, the

remarkable fact of the Baptist Community has been its capacity to grow and expand, even in the face of tremendous odds.

That the Baptist Community has been able to survive their travail is testimony to the strength of their religious conviction and the courage of those b elo n gin g to the faith. T o d ay‟s celebration should be seen not merely in terms of the historical struggle of our Baptist Community. We must also search for and reflect on its spiritual significance.

Ours is not a perfect society, but we continue to strive to ensure that all are treated equally and fairly. There exists much work to be done to strengthen the moral and spiritual fabric of our society, and all our religious groups have an important part to play.

T oday‟s religious celebration m ust m ean more than the embrace of a religious community for a day. Let us, in this society, Trinidad and Tobago, genuinely embrace our Baptist Community as an equal partner in the social and spiritual development and enrichment of our nation.

Best wishes for a very successful occasion.

Patrick Manning

T rib u n al ack n o w led ges T & T ’s righ t to safegu ard reso u rces History - February 2004, two Barbadian fishing vessels were arrested off the coast of Tobago in what Trinidad and Tobago claimed to be its territorial waters. Barbados objected and referred the matter to an international tribunal. nm - nautical mile EEZ - Exclusive Economic Zone CZ - Contiguous Zone 24n

12n

TW

CZ

CS

The ruling - The Tribunal, convened under the United Nations Convention of the Law of the Sea (U N C L O S), established a m aritim e boundary betw een B arbados and T & T and ruled that “Trinidad & Tobago are under duty to agree upon the measures necessary to co-ordinate and ensure the conservation and development of flyingfish stock, and to negotiate in good faith and conclude an agreement that will accord fisherfolk of Barbados access to fisheries within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of Trinidad and Tobago, subject to the limitations and conditions of that agreement and to the right and duty of Trinidad and Tobago to conserve and manage the living resources of waters within its jurisdiction.”

What is an Exclusive Economic Zone ? A maritime zone adjacent to the territorial sea that may not extend beyond 200 nautical miles from the baselines from CS - Continental Shelf which the breadth of the territorial sea is measured. Within TW - Territorial Waters the exclusive economic zone (EEZ), the coastal state has sovereign rights for the purpose of exploring, exploiting, 200nm conserving, and managing natural resources, both living and EEZ nonliving, of the seabed, subsoil, and the subjacent waters and, with regard to other activities, for the economic exploitation and exploration of the zone (www.answers.com).

See diagram

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British Calypsonians forge links with counterparts in Trinidad and Tobago

by Rachael Moore

T

he A ssociation of B ritish C alypsonians (A B C ) w as w ell represented during its visit to T rinidad and T obago‟s C arnival in February. T he A B C ‟s P resident A shton M oore, along w ith E xecutive C om m ittee m em bers M erle B londell and Shabaka T hom pson, w ere all at hom e to attend various m eetings and events coinciding w ith “the greatest show on earth!” T he A B C ‟s Administrator Nicole-Rachelle Moore was also in Trinidad to give administrative support wherever necessary. Mr. Ashton Ford, Attaché - Public Affairs, Culture and Tourism with the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission in London, was also in Trinidad at this time in his official capacity.

On Monday 20th February, the A B C ‟s representatives w ere on hand to w itness D areem Charles being crowned Junior Calypso Monarch 2006, beating several other competent competitors. Three former junior guests of the ABC performed at this competition: Amrika M utroo w as a finalist w hile K arene A sche and last year‟s Junior C alypso M onarch, Shalleika Hazell, were guest artistes.

On Tuesday 21st February, the ABC and Mr. Ford met with Sen. The Hon. Joan YuilleWilliams, Minister of Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs. The meeting was a frank and productive one which ended on a positive note.

Ashton Ford Attaché Public Affairs, Culture & Tourism

The next day the ABC and Mr. Ford met with Michael Leggerton, President of Trinidad and T obago‟s U nified C alypsonians O rganisation. T he A B C and T U C O look forw ard to a m ore cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship in the future.

Friday 24th saw the T rinidad launch of the L ondon iniative, „C arnival V illage,‟ at the C row ne P laza H otel. T he launch brought together the various partners of this ambitious project: the ABC, Ebony Steelband, Mangrove and Yaa Asantewaa Arts and C om m unity C entre. A shton Ford w as on hand to represent T rinidad and T obago‟s H igh C om m ission in L ondon. E ach of the „C arnival V illage‟ partners addressed the invitees at the press launch and there w as certainly a convivial atm osphere. O ne of the A B C ‟s m ost vibrant calypsonians, W en D (a form er U K C alypso M onarch) entertained the audience w ith one of her m ost recent popular hits.

Shabaka Thompson and Wen D were all guests on a seasonal programme on Gayelle Television while in Trinidad. Thompson was also a guest on A llison H enessey‟s daytim e talk show on N ational C arnival C om m ission (N C C ). M ore m edia coverage w as given to the A B C and „C arnival V illage‟ through radio interview s on 102 FM , i95fm and T V 6.

Steadman Hazell, father of two former junior calypso monarchs, hosted an evening of entertainment for the ABC representatives with performances by his daughters, the current Junior Monarch Dareem Charles and the 1 st runner-up, Erphann Alves. The event was also given print m edia coverage w ith the E xpress new spaper on hand to record the evening‟s proceedings.

Busy schedules prevented the ABC and TUCO from having another extensive meeting but there was regular contact between both groups during the remaining time that the ABC representatives were in Trinidad.

Once back in London, the ABC was visited by Sen. The Hon. Joan Yuille – Williams who made a whistle stop at the Yaa Asantewaa and the Mangrove theatre. The Minister was brought up to date with plans to establish the London Carnival Village.

Right: Ashton The ABC wishes to thank Ashton Ford for his ongoing support for what the Association is trying to accomplish.

The ABC also wishes to thank both TUCO and Minister Yuille-Williams for their enthusiasm regarding closer working relations with the ABC in the future.

Moore, President of ABC, presents his report to Michael Leggerton of TUCO.

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TDC on Road Show in Europe ‘S m a ll C o u n try - B ig P a ssio n ’ The Tobago House of Assembly (THA) and the Tourism Development Company (TDC) recently completed their E uropean R oadshow w hich w as tim ed to coincide w ith T & T ‟s participation in the World Cup in Germany.

Over a 5 week period, the following Cities were visited : London, Birmingham, Manchester, Berlin, Munich, Stuttgart, Dusseldorf, Amsterdam, Stockholm, Gothenburg and Copenhagen.

The following is an account of the roadshow by TDC (UK) Account Manager Nova Alexander:

Members from the private sector consisting primarily of hoteliers & D M C ‟s w ere in attendance.

The press functions featured Amedei, Vahlrona, & Trinitario chocolate tasting ( cocoa beans from T&T) accompanied by the 1824 & 1919 Angostura rums .

The roadshow consisted of : 1.Travel agent workshops, press lunches; 2.T&T consumer promotions at various shopping malls; 3. Destination training days with relevant operators; 4. Exclusive T&T promotions at all Hard Rock Cafes in Stockholm, Oslo, Gothenburg and Copenhagen which continues until the end of the Football World Cup. Trinidad & Tobago also had a major presence at two of E urope‟s biggest trade & consum er show s : IT B in B erlin and TUR in Gothenburg.

This initiative was an unmitigated success. The feedback has been unbelievable. We have already received significant media coverage and have new operators interested in featuring T&T. Both Martinair and Condor have reported increases in passenger numbers this winter and the press are interested in writing about our Islands.

We are particularly looking to increase hotel occupancy levels in May, June and July. The follow-up we are currently conducting is extremely important and will enable us to measure the overall success of the roadshow.

Limbo dancers entertain tour directors and travel agents at the Hard Rock Café in Copenhagen, Denmark

T he them e of the roadshow w as „Sm all C ountry- B ig P assion‟ and our objectives were to :

 Increase awareness of Trinidad & Tobago as a holiday

Nova Alexander -Account Manager (UK, Ireland, Holland & Scandinavia) Tourism Information Office-UK The Tourism Development Company of Trinidad & Tobago Ltd (TDC)

destination.  Increase visitor numbers from those markets to T&T  Piggy back on all the free publicity surrounding the Football World Cup while at the same time highlighting all the other T&T events.  Introduce the „culture‟ of T & T ( W e are not just about Sun, sand and sea)  Educate Press & Trade officials about T&T as a viable destination The Tobago Delegation was led by Ms. Carol Alfred, Administrator of THA, Mr. Sumant Singh, Director of Tourism for THA, and included other Tourism officials, a representative from the Tobago Hotel Association, a 6-piece Soca Band called INXS, 2 steel pannists and 2 cultural dancers.

Travel agents at the Hard Rock Café in Gothenburg pose with the popular TDC logo.

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Miss World Cup 2006 Meagan Renata Monsegue, a nineteen year old Trinbago beauty, has been selected by Carivog International to represent Trinidad and Tobago at the Miss World Cup in Germany.

Meagan Renata Monsegue - T & T ’s representative at Miss World Cup 2006

Meagan is a former student of St Joseph‟s C on vent, where she gained eight CXC passes and four A ‟ level passes. She is currently attending Florida International University

(FIU), pursuing a joint degree in Psychology and International Relations. After graduating from FIU Meagan hopes to join the United Nations.

The young talent returned home at the end of April to begin her preparation training with Carivog for Miss World Cup, which takes place on Thursday, June 1st 2006 in G erm an y‟s biggest them e park, the “E uropa-P ark.”

She is a huge football fan and has followed teams like France, Italy, Real Madrid and, of course, Trinidad and Tobago. She will compete against 31 other delegates representing other countries participating in this year‟s World Cup football, where Trinidad and Tobago will be proudly represented by first – time entrants, the Soca Warriors.

Provided by Carivog International

TDC launches new promotional drive The cartoon strip (seen below) has just been launched in the trade press by the Tourism Development Company Ltd. We are always looking for new and innovative ways to spread the word about Trinidad and Tobago and this is just one of them - Nova Alexander (TDC Account Manager, Uk)

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Callaloo

U lin ’s K itch en

Serves 4-6

12 dasheen stalks with leaves or 3 sml bundles fresh spinach 12 lge or 15 sml ochroes 1 tsp garlic 1 tsp ginger 1 tsp salt 1 tsp black pepper 2 tsp all purpose seasoning 1/2 cup pumpkin 1/2 cup shredded carrots 1/2 cup mixed sweet peppers (opt) 1/4 cup chopped onion 1/4 cup green seasoning 2 cups coconut milk 2 cups water 2 sprigs thyme 1/4 cup chadon beni or coriander 2 tbsp olive oil 1 whole yellow/red hot pepper (opt) 1/2 lb salt beef or 2 crabs cleaned

this month: callaloo

Method 1.

2.

3. provided by: Ulin Friday Office Attendant TTHC London

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

NATIONALS MEETING DATE: Wednesday 29th March,2006 VENUE: Trinidad and Tobago High Commission INDIAN ARRIVAL DAY DATE: Saturday 3rd June, 2006 VENUE: Trinidad and Tobago High Commission

Strip stalk and midrib from leaves, wash and cut into pieces or wash and cut spinach into pieces.

Slice ochroes and thyme into small pieces In a large pot put chosen meat (opt), callaloo bush or spinach, sliced ochroes and green seasoning Add all vegetables Add coconut milk and water Add hot peppers in middle of pot along with black pepper and all purpose seasoning Add olive oil Bring to boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for 25 –30 mins until materials are soft and cooked.

Remove pot from heat. Take out hot pepper and swizzle or beat contents with hand mixer.

Alternatively, put in blender and jog for 1 min.

Attention Nationals

ELEMENTS OF ZINDAGI Caribbean Indian Arrival Day Celebration, Dinner, Award, Cultural and Fashion Show DATE: Sunday 2nd July 2006 VENUE: Hammersmith Palais For Information, tickets, invitation, V. I. P & Press pass Call Zindagi UK on 07886807357 or info@cimannequins.com

THE PROGRESSIVE is an innovative newsletter designed to bring an analysis of the socio-economic, political and cultural issues in T&T to the international Trinidad & Tobago community. To share your thoughts or comment on the views of others, please e-mail: articles@theprogressiveonline.com or visit tntprogressive.blogspot.com

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Coach announces sq u ad fo r T & T ’s World Cup Campaign A b ove: T rin id a d a n d T oba g o’s n a tion a l footb a ll tea m coa ch , Leo Beenhakker

Coach of the national team for the 2006 World Cup, Leo Beenhakker, named a 24-man squad of three goalkeepers, seven defenders, six midfielders and eight forwards to represent Trinidad and Tobago in Germany.

The 24 are: Goalkeepers - Kelvin Jack, Shaka Hislop and Clayton Ince. Defenders - Cyd Gray, Marvin Andrews, Brent Sancho, Ian Cox, Atiba Charles, Dennis Lawrence and Avery John. Midfielders - Silvio Spann, Chris Birchall, Autis Whitley, Anthony Rougier, Anthony Wolfe and Densil Theobald.

Forwards - Carlos Edwards, Dwight Yorke, Russell Latapy, Stern John, Kenwyne Jones, Colin Samuel, Jason Scotland and Cornell Glen.

At a press conference on April 12, at Crowne Plaza, Port of Spain, Beenhakker said that he had also asked Anthony Warner, Nigel Henry, Ricky Shakes, Hector Sam, Scott Sealy, Anton Pierre and Brent Rahim to be on standby in case they were needed.

Trinidad and Tobago qualified for the World Cup after beating Bahrain 1-0 in November last year. The T&T Government will provide about $45 m illion for the team ‟s preparation.

The full team assembled on May 7 and trained on May 8 and 9 for an international friendly against Peru at the Hasely Crawford Stadium on Wednesday May 10 (The match was a draw at 11). The following day the players and technical staff went on a cross-country tour starting in Tobago. This was the first time the team was home since coming up against Bahrain in the qualifying round in November.

After an overnight stay in Tobago, they returned to Trinidad to visit Chaguanas, San Fernando, Penal/Debe, Princes Town, Rio Claro and Port-of-Spain. The team spent no more than 35 minutes at each venue.

On the night of May 12, the team attended the Soca Warriors Farewell Dinner. President George Maxwell Richards attended the function. The team left for London on May 13 for a training camp.

The Soca Warriors begin their World Cup campaign against Sweden on June 10. They will clash with England five days later and with Paraguay on June 20.

Stoke-on-Trent celebrates T&T footballers Chris Birchall and Hector Sam were honoured by football fans and cultural groups in Stoke-onTrent, England on April 7 and 8th. The duo, who are members of Port Vale Football Club, are also members of the Soca Warroirs Football team.

On Friday night, livewire Member of the British Parliament for Stoke-on-Trent North, Joan Walley, in collaboration with the Union of African and African-Caribbean Organizations (UAACO), convened a gathering at Yorke House to celebrate the contribution of Sam and Birchall to Burslem.

T&T footballer Chris Birchall w ith T T H C ’s Public Affairs, Culture and Tourism Attache, Ashton Ford

TT/Germany Local Organisation Committee (LOC) executive member Terry Joseph, who represented Chairman Jack Warner, brought greetings from the Trinidad and Tobago football fraternity, while Attaché at the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission to London, Ashton Ford, similarly hailed the achievements of the Warriors on behalf of the High Commissioner, Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip.

In welcoming the Trinidad and Tobago representatives, Mrs Walley expressed the hope that the connection established by the contributions of Birchall and Sam would lead to another level of cooperation between Port Vale's host city and Port of Spain. She pledged to pursue the concept through football and diplomatic avenues.

(Continues on next page )

LONDON MISSION

S

13

In tern atio n al jo u rn alists an d to u r o p erato rs revel in …

‘A Taste o fT & T ’

everal international journalists and a British Parliamentarian gathered at the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission on Monday 10th April, 2006 to pay tribute to the Trinidad and Tobago Football team and bid them farewell as they prepare to go to camp for the World Cup Finals in Germany.

The event, organized by Public Affairs, Culture and Tourism Attaché at the TTHC, Mr. Ashton Ford, was entitled 'A Taste of T & T.' Guests were treated to live calypso, steelband music, East Indian dancing, a glimpse of Trinidad and Tobago Carnival costumes by the Poison girls and, of course, the widely acclaimed cuisine of our cherished twin island republic.

Performances came from former Calypso Monarch of T&T, Tobago Crusoe, teacher/calypsonian D'Alberto and the reigning Calypso Monarch of Britain, Helena B. Theresa Mahadeo performed an East Indian dance and Sam Dubois entertained on the steelpan.

High Commissioner Glenda Morean Phillip, who welcomed the specially invited guests to have a literal “taste of T rinidad and T obago”, said that “although w e are sm all, w e pack a lot of pow er”. She m entioned that ”the energy and vibrancy of Trinidad and Tobago were not only displayed during the Carnival But also throughout the economy of our country, which is driven by our supplies of natural gas and petroleum, Trinidad and Tobago being the fifth largest producer of natural gas in the world and supplies the Eastern United States of A m erica w ith about 78% of its petroleum needs.”

...continued from previous page

Happy hostess, Her Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip, greets Soca Warrior Carlos Edwards at the function, with Mike Berry in the background.

Despite the festive atmosphere, the occasion did not fail to capture the seriousness of the mission that lay ahead for our boys, who have already captured the imaginations of the world in their quest for Trinidad and Tobago victory in the 2006 soccer World Cup in Germany.

Though a short and sweet event, the cultural impact undoubtedly evoked feelings of Caribbean patriotism and national pride. O ne of the invitees stated “w e m ay be w itnessing the preliminaries of a sweeter taste when events in Germany begin to unfold ”. W ith a plate loaded w ith pelau, dasheen and cassava, he appeared completely shocked as his glazed eyes fell upon the glitter of beautiful colour schemes that emanated from the feathers and exotically fitted costumes on the members of the „P oison G roup‟. H e collected his thoughts and said; “D on‟t underestimate our boys. There were those who underestimated H asley and look at w hat happened!” Hasley Crawford 100 meters Olympic Gold Medallist, 1976.

(Continues on page 17 )

"We are sending you guys out onto the world stage as ambassadors for both Trinidad and Tobago and Stoke-on-Trent and we have every confidence you will do us all proud," Mrs. Walley said.

Also speaking at the event was City Councillor Neil Lawson and Birchall's mother, Jennifer who, along with husband Phillip, were also on hand to witness the crucial match on the day that determined his team's survival in League One, as he played a pivotal role in securing against relegation of his club.

Proud parents, Phil and Jenny Birchall

With Saturday's afternoon temperature already perilously close to zero degrees, the rains came to add more chill as teams took their places on the field for the decider. Port Vale won the game 3-2.

Musical tributes to the Trinidad and Tobago Soca Warriors, blasting from the public address system, dominated pre-match and half-time spaces, with songs by Destra, Chris Garcia, De Fosto and Maximus Dan and the music of London -based Ebony Steel Orchestra moving fans to join in the rhythm. The fans needed no encouragement to participate as they were persuaded by both the infectious jams and a need to stay as warm as possible in the near-freezing conditions.

After the match, the teams gathered in the dining hall for another round of celebrations that also included tributes to Birchall and Sam. There were also brief remarks from Mrs. Walley, Mr. Ford, Mr.Joseph and Port Vale manager Mr. Bill Bratt. BWIA Ebony Steel Orchestra continued to provide pan music as the evening set in.

Mr. Ford presented Hector Sam, Chris Birchall and his parents, with symbolic gifts. Member of Parliament Mrs. Walley also received souvenirs from the High Commission.

It was indeed a grand farewell to Birchall and Sam as they prepared to leave for camp in Trinidad and Tobago for the World Cup Finals in Germany.

LM

10 14

LONDON MISSION

Spiritual Baptists celebrate national holiday in London

O

n Saturday 8th April, 2006, the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission, London, in conjunction with the Spiritual Baptist Faith Project for Mission & Social Responsibility, celebrated Spiritual Baptist Shouter Liberation Day. Guest of honour at the event was Her Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip, High Commissioner. Among the members of staff at the TTHC who were present were Ms. Victoria Farley, Counsellor, Ms. Greta Gay, Executive Secretary and Mr. Donald Chambers, Assistant Attaché, Public Affairs, Culture and Tourism. Also in attendance was a revered contingent from the higher echelons of the Baptist Community in Trinidad and Tobago - Archbishop Lennard Neverson (see page 21) , Bishop W illiam L eon John, R ev‟d M other A ngela P atrick and B ishop Ray Brathwaite, who delivered the feature address. Their presence in the UK was made possible through the kind assistance of the Ministry of Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs of Trinidad and Tobago.

The following are excerpts from the address by H.E. Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip at the service: Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, children.

Please permit me first of all to acknowledge the presence of Mr. Altie Daniel and party who have come from Manchester to join in our celebration. It is the aim of the High Commission to encourage participation by as many persons as possible from our Diaspora in the United Kingdom in the celebration of our national days, as a means of fostering and maintaining that spirit of nationalism and pride that is so evident here today in this gathering.

It is a great pleasure for all of us at the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission to join with the Spiritual Baptist Faith Project for Mission and Social Responsibility in celebrating Spiritual Baptist Shouter Liberation Day. Today provides all members of the Trinidad and Tobago Diaspora resident in the United Kingdom with the opportunity to reflect on the struggles of those who claim their spiritual lineage from that revered personality of the Bible, John the Baptist. It is also an opportune moment for us to ponder on the role played by members of this religious group in our national development since the repeal in 1951 of the repressive piece of colonial legislation entitled the “Shouters P rohibition O rdinance”, w hich disenfranchised innocent people whose only desire was to worship their risen Saviour in their own way. More importantly, we must take this time to reflect on the important role that the Movement can play in shaping the future of our communities.

A nd I say “com m unities” because I am looking not just at the United Kingdom but also at our own Trinidad and Tobago as well as our neighbouring Islands, with which many of you here today have connections.

Right: Her Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip addresses members of the Baptist community present at the service.

Ladies and Gentlemen, as we reflect, let us give thanks to the Spiritual Baptist community, which, despite the persecution and humiliation it encountered up to 1951, and even thereafter, continued to play its part in the retention and dissemination of the cultural art forms and expressions bequeathed to us by our ancestors and in the movement towards the independence of Trinidad and Tobago. … A dditionally, they (Spiritual B aptists) also contributed to the retention of African dress styles, which were often ridiculed and belittled by those of us who were victims of Europeanization. We must thank the Almighty that today many of us outside of the Spiritual Baptist congregation find it most aesthetically pleasing and if I may say, avant garde, to wear with pride head wraps and other modes of dress associated with our African ancestry.

I must pause here to note that this mode of worship in all its facets added to the cultural diversity for which our beautiful country, Trinidad and Tobago, is distinct. We don our saris to celebrate Divali, our shalwars to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, our Kente cloth to celebrate Emancipation.

Many say that calypso represents a significant part of the soul of Trinidad and Tobago. However, many calypsonians from the late Roaring Lion, Growling Tiger and Melody to the illustrious Sparrow and Superblue sang calypsos which were heavily influenced by expressions derived from the Spiritual Baptist faith. This is only but a fraction of its influence on the cultural landscape of modern Trinidad and Tobago.

The influence of the community in politics is not often given the recognition it deserves. We must not forget, ladies and gentlemen, that it was political action which brought about the repeal of the oppressive Shouters Prohibition Ordinance in 1951. The late the Right Reverend Archbishop Elton George Griffith and other Baptist leaders had to mobilize their flock and other sympathizers such as the late Albert Gomes, a member of the Legislative Council, into political action to repeal that ungodly law. They petitioned the legislative council of the day into action to bring about their religious emancipation, thereby allowing thousands of citizens, largely from the working class to worship their God without threats of brutality and imprisonment. The Spiritual Baptist Faith has now taken its place alongside the other religions.

(Continues on page 18 )

LONDON MISSION

15

qualification for the 2006 World Cup in Germany. Joined by Trinidad & Tobago team mate Hector Sam and Mr G. Earle, father of V ale favourite R obbie, scorer of Jam aica‟s first ever World Cup goal, Burslem was host to a truly united Caribbean celebration of football. The occasion also coincided with a Valiants Against Racism event.

As a build up to the celebrations, the Union of African and Caribbean organisations held a special Friday reception. Local people came together to show what can be achieved off the pitch, as w ell as on it, through the w orld‟s only truly global game.

Member of Parliament for Stoke-on-Trent North, Joan Walley , enjoying the music of Ebony Steelband

A big thank you to the Trinidad & Tobago High Commission for bringing some sunshine and the wonderful, award winning Ebony Steel Orchestra to my constituency earlier this month (April).

The distinguished Football Federation Executive Member Terry Joseph is on a whistle stop, pre World Cup tour of the UK. He could have been forgiven for taking shelter from the dark clouds and biting wind that marked the start of the Football League Division One match between Port Vale and Swansea City at Vale Park, Burslem. But as the clouds cleared, and the colourful music rang out, the visitors could have been forgiven for mistaking Port Vale for Port of Spain.

The fixture was a fitting occasion for Attaché Ashton Ford and his wife to pay tribute to the efforts of Chris Birchall. Chris, of course, w as crucial in confirm ing T rinidad & T obago‟s historic

T rinidad & T obago‟s achievem ent in qualifying for the W orld Cup this summer is a momentous one, especially considering the nation‟s size – it is the smallest nation to have made it to this year‟s finals. It w ill provide a m arvellous opportunity to showcase both their footballing talent and vibrant culture to the world. With this comes new hope and new opportunities for the future; networks and friendships developed through football can be nurtured and extended into other realms of civic and democratic life.

I would like to wish every success to a fellow Commonwealth country, with of course the proviso that when the Soca Warriors line up against England on June 15th I will be supporting England!

Mrs. Joan Walley is Member of Parliament for Stoke-onTrent North and is Vice Chairman of the All Party Football Group.

Dear Editor, I would like to thank the staff at the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission for the resources that you sent to our school to assist in our International Week. With your support we were able to provide a range of activities for our boys during this time.

Many of the resources have now been placed in our school library for further project use. Postcards and posters are now being used to decorate classrooms.

We also had a very entertaining International Evening with many of the resources you sent us on display. Parents, teachers and students alike commented on how colourful and interesting the displays were.

Charlotte Sohn EAL Teacher

Thank you again for your wonderful support.

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

10 16

LONDON MISSION

THREE SISTERS at the Hackney Empire Tuesday 16 – Saturday 20 May

1-2-3 ...B rian ’s leading WI

What do you do when you and your sisters are stuck in loveless marriages, playing away for fun?

4-5-6 we cah take any more licks 7-8-9 who is the next in line?

9-8-7 please pick the best eleven 6-5-4 and West Indies win forevermore!

T h ird tim e’s th e ch arm - that is the hope of West Indies fans the world over as Brian Lara, the world record accumulator and long standing servant of West Indies cricket was appointed captain of the WI cricket team for the third time. The announcement was made by President of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB), Mr. Ken Gordon, on Wednesday 26th April, 2006, only hours after the 4:30am end to the successful WICB – WIPA meeting where the year long player contract dispute was resolved.

L ara‟s previous turns at the helm w ere less than successful and the m aster batsman now gets a third try to secure his well publicised dream - the return of winning ways and new glory days for West Indies cricket.

The High Commissioner and staff at the TTHC wish Brian and the entire West Indies team all the best.

What do you do when you dream of returning home but war soon brings these hopes crashing down?

Set in 1940s Colonial Trinidad, three sisters live a privileged but empty life. They talk of returning home to their adopted country England, but as the Second World War escalates, their world is turned upside down.

Reworked by Mustapha Matura of No Problem! and Playboy of the West Indies fame. This classic Chekhov play, with Caribbean flavour, is being directed by Paulette Randall (The Amen Corner, Desmonds).

“T he hum our is w icked” T he G uardian TIMES - 7.30pm Nightly & Saturday Matinee 2.30pm Hackney Empire Theatre 291 Mare Street London E8 1EJ Box Office: 020 8985 2424, www.hackneyempire.co.uk Tony Goodrick Marketing

(See flyer on page 23)

Miss Caribbean & Commonwealth Silver Jubilee 2005

K

im Ryan, who is of Trinidadian heritage, won the Miss Caribbean & Commonwealth Silver Jubilee contest presented by CaribCommx in association with Explore Latin Carib at the Polish Centre in London. Esta Mlewu of Uganda was second and Ropa Garise third from 14 contestants representing a range of Commonwealth communities. The other main sponsors were MBE Property Consultants and Moneygram money transfer.

Kimberly, a 22yr model, is the title holder of Carivog Model International and Miss Photogenic at the Miss Trinidad and Tobago UK Pageant 2005. This beauty has obtained a BA in Business and Law and is currently furthering her studies at Kingston University with intentions of becoming a criminal lawyer.

Her hobbies are creative writing, painting, reading, travelling and charity work.

Kim, whose main prize will be a trip to Jamaica sponsored by Explore Latin Carib to mark the opening of the new Virgin Atlantic route from London to Montego Bay in July, maintains the recent domination of Trinidad & Tobago in the Miss

Caribbean & Commonwealth in recent years. Shaherah Williams won the previous contest with compatriot Alafair Celestine second, with Patrice Charles and Julia Bernard placing as runners -up two years ago. All were recommended to the competition by the organiser of Miss Trinidad & Tobago U.K, Angela Cox. The judging panel comprised Rosemary Chileshe, who has represented Zambia in the Miss World finals, Jacqueline Matovu, Miss Commonwealth Africa, Mavis Amankwah of Rich Visions Public Relations company, former international bodybuilding champion Ian Dowe, and photographer Brian Mojsak.

The programme, which was declared open by Archbishop Dr Bancroft McCarthy of the Caribbean Episcopal Church, included also a parade of former holders of the Miss Caribbean & Commonwealth title and a performance of song and movement

by VocalZones.

The Contest maintained its tradition to surprise. Promoter/ presenter Clayton Goodwin was making light of the fact that previous promotions had been beset by abnormal climate conditions when the fire alarm sounded and the audience had to vacate the premises and go into the street. Fortunately, it was only a technical error and the promotion was completed on schedule.

LONDON MISSION

17

‘A Ta ste of T & T ’ con tin u ed...

The Trinidad and Tobago High Commission, which remains a true representation of T r in b a g o n ia n s ‟ cultural, social and c o m m u n i t y expressions in the TTFA representative, Terry Joseph United Kingdom, had once again demonstrated the unique splendour of the microcosmic features of T&T cuisine, if only as one example, much to the delight of its first time and regular visitors.

that football was an international language and she expressed the opinion that through the medium of the international achievement of the Soca Warriors in the 2006 World Cup in G erm any, it w ould serve to “im prove [greater] cultural relations” betw een T he C aribbean and T he U nited K ingdom .

Dennis Lawrence (See picture below) and Shaka Hislop thanked the gathering for their support and promised to do their best for Trinidad and Tobago in the World Cup Finals.

The culinary display of the finest dishes and menu uniquely Trinidadian and Tobagonian, as highlighted by pelau, dumplings, salt-fish, doubles, only to mention a few, awakened a keen longing for home food amongst the Trinbagonians present at the function.

TV, radio and print media journalists from London, the wider UK and far reaching countries such as Australia and the Philippines to name a few, were present for the event.

Excerpts from the function were shown the following day on sports channels throughout Britain. Some of the noted journalists on hand were representatives from Sky News, well known BBC journalist Debbie Ransome, Robert Plummer of BBC World, Glenn Moore of The Independent, Lisa GerardSharp a Travel Writer, Vikki Orvice of The Sun, Neil Billingham of TWI, John C. Barrett, a London Correspondent of the International Press Bureau, Rakesh K. Mathur of Asiaventures, Scott Piecha of The People, Graham Norton of History Today, Tom Jordan of Travel Trade Gazette, Keir Radnedge of World Sport Service and Rodney Hinds of GV Media Group, along with representatives from the Voice and members from the Foreign Press Association.

Other members of the team present were Kenwynne Jones, Ian Cox, Brent Sancho and Carlos Edwards.

LM

Article and photographs by Edwin Phillips

entertainers for the night See more pictures on page 22 Below: Theresa Mahadeo Above: Helena B

Terry Joseph, who, along with Mike Berry, represented the TTFA, remarked that there were a variety of aspects of Trinidad and Tobago culture which were second to none. He recalled having to rem ind a group of people that “w e [T rinbagonians] are a strange little people”. C ontinuing, he said: “W e w on tw o M iss W orld B eauty C om petitions, if only to rem ind them that there is no shortage of beautiful w om en.”

He then made references to a national of T&T, current West Indies Captain, Brian Lara, whose current world records are not unknown to sports enthusiasts anywhere in the world, and Stephen Ames, who beat American and world golf legend, Tiger Woods.

The theme of the messages that were delivered by Her Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip, Terry Joseph and the British Member of Parliament for The Borough of Stoke-onTrent, Mrs. Joan Walley whose noticeable presence graced the evening‟s event, paid great tribute to the Soca W arriors.

In extending greetings to Trinidad and Tobago and wishing the team all the success at the World Cup, Mrs. Walley recognised

B elow : D ’A lb erto

Below: pannist Sam Dubois Right: Tobago Crusoe

D ai A ilian ‘M o th er o f C h in ese b allet’ 10/ 5/ 1916 – 9/2/2006

10 18

LONDON MISSION

Tribute to Trinbagonian legend

by Daughter - Seeta Maharaj

Born on 14 July 1941 to Pundit Karoo Ojah-Maharaj MBE, Chaconia Gold Medal, JP, and Sumintra OjahMaharaj of Las Lomas No 2, Trinidad and Tobago, Sohan was the third child of twelve; a very much loved and favoured son. th

Sohan followed in the footsteps of his father and his beloved uncle, Doon Pundit MBE, where he engaged in religious practices and found spiritual enlightenment. This was to be developed further in his latter years in London when he became involved in fund-raising for Hindu temples and working voluntarily to help in temple management.

Sohan‟s eldest brother decided to em igrate to L ondon in 1961 and Sohan duly followed in pursuit of his dream to study economics. Life was very hard for immigrant workers in the early 1960‟s. It w as difficult sim ply to survive and he had to work very long hours, undertaking several jobs at the same time just to make ends meet. However, there were also happy times and during this period he married Rohani Guinness who was to bear him three beautiful children.

Despite the adverse circumstances of hard work, long hours and a sometimes unwelcoming host city, Sohan was able to get openings as a model and actor and he was to feature in a number of films and television programmes, much to the delight of his

children. His film career saw him appear in a number of minor roles as w ell as m ore m ainstream features such as the „Far P avillions‟ and „ M y B eautiful L aundrette‟.

Throughout his life, Sohan also demonstrated the charitable aspects of his character. For example, he frequently visited the leper colony in Chacachacare, Trinidad, where he would feed the people and he took tremendous pleasure in being with the inhabitants and simply talking to them. As a father, he was selfless, ensuring that his children, Seeta, Tara and Sohan Jr received a good education, worked hard to achieve the best for themselves and to perservere into higher education. All three children were to become graduates of British Universities.

During his teenage years, Sohan had developed an early passion for sport, cars and music. His sports antics were legendary, especially cricket, and he was an accomplished bowler. Sohan had an excellent musical ear and was often seen in the company of world-renowned artistes, many of whom would visit him at his home in North London.

He was a very popular and charismatic man within the Caribbean community in London, always attending and supporting his people in whatever form required. He vigorously pursued his religious beliefs and was a founding member of the Maha Lakshmi Satsang, and other different organisations including the Indo-Caribbean Hindu Society.

He passed on 6th April, 2006, and will be tremendously missed by his family and friends.

Spiritual Baptist celebration continued...

Fellow Worshippers and Friends, the influence of those worshippers who were not to be denied went beyond their immediate politics. Before the entry of the late father of the nation, Dr. Eric Williams, into the politics of independence, coming out of the 1930's struggles for self-government and better working and social conditions for the working class, was Tubal Uriah Buzz Butler, who like Archbishop Griffith, was of Grenadian birth. … M ore than ever before, as a sector of the young people of our nation wander around dazed and lost killing and self-destructing, your intervention is required. Y ou don‟t have to w ait to be pressed into service. The initiative is yours to take. We look to you to be standard bearers in the move to restore the moral fabric of our society. Yours is a heritage rooted in self sufficiency, powerful in faith and rich in resistance to injustice.

Use these attributes to work with the young people of the nation to engender in them a sense of self-esteem and faith, whereby they can be encouraged to develop to their full potential and also play their part in building Trinidad and Tobago. Without their active participation, fellow worshippers, I believe we will be fighting a losing battle. So I challenge each and every one of you to gird your loins to do battle in support, yet again, of another

just cause. We must reinforce in our children the ideals of our m otto, „D iscipline, P roduction and T olerance‟.

Members of the flock, I cannot tell you how pleased I am to see how your faith has sustained you in the United Kingdom. While it continues to thrive, I can only imagine the struggles you would have gone through in order to create space for yourself. You deserve a tremendous round of applause and you have my abiding respect for your achievements. In so saying, I must congratulate the indefatigable Reverend Stephens and all those w ho assisted in contributing to today‟s celebration.

So my dear brethren and sisters, there is just cause for you to celebrate Liberation Day. Your struggle for religious freedom was not in isolation from other struggles in Trinidad and Tobago. We all owe you a debt of gratitude, a Some members of the audience at the gratitude which we cannot service take for granted.

LM

LONDON MISSION

19

YoungBiz (Haringey) UK breakfast briefing Programmes scheduled from early 2006 include:

Mrs. Judith Bennett Henry (pictured above), Commercial AttachĂŠ at the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission ,recently attended a breakfast briefing regarding the operations of YoungBiz (Haringey) UK. Also in attendance were David Lammy, MP for Tottenham, educationalists, Metropolitan Police, parents, Children Services of Haringey Council and businesses. The briefing provided background to the YoungBiz programme, and also demonstrated what students from schools such as Gladesmore Community School, Haringey have learnt in their courses.

Attendees were encouraged to sponsor persons wishing to participate in the YoungBiz programmes as a means of investing in the Haringey community.

The programmes have been delivered in the US, Tottenham (CONEL & Gladesmore Community School) and other parts of the UK. It has been recognised that Trinidad and Tobago nationals who reside in the UK may not have the support or access to such programmes especially where they aim to be entrepreneurs either here in the UK or back home in Trinidad and Tobago. Such a programme provides the support, encouragement and network.

The YoungBiz Programme has the support of the MP for Tottenham and the Children Services of Haringey Council in helping the community, especially ethnic groups, to achieve these goals. It is also known that Haringey and neighbouring boroughs have a large Trinidad and Tobago community.

YoungBiz (Haringey) U.K. will offer camps and workshops during 2006.

3-Day Smart Start to Money Camp 3-Day Smart Start to Business Camp 1-Day Smart Start to Money Workshop 1-Day Smart Start to Business Workshop as well as workshops on: gifted and ta lented educa tion, beha viour management, academic mentoring and coaching, motivation, memory aids, exam techniques, state management, goal setting and conflict management.

The programmes bring the following five benefits to the community: a. Support and keep young people out of crime especially those who have not had the opportunity for further education by providing them with the encouragement to explore their potential; b. Bring the real world to the classroom to support discipline, tolerance and increased production from the high standard of education delivered in the classroom; c. Allow people especially the young , to recognize the benefits of saving and investing, putting money to work, earning more money, supporting the setting of short and long term financial goals and helping them to research potential investments; d. Equip all to recognize money-making opportunities, achieve business planning skills to become a job-maker instead of a job-taker; e. Provide skills and toolsets for financial literacy, entrepreneurship and motivation.

For additional information about the YoungBiz programmes please visit http://www.youngbizuk.co.uk/ Haringey.html or call the YoungBiz (Haringey) UK office in Tottenham at 0709 286 8389. Additional information is also available online at http://

www.youngbizuk.co.uk/Haringey.html as well as a video clipping of the breakfast briefing.

The Trinidad and Tobago High Commission supports these programmes and encourages Trinidad and Tobago nationals to inquire more about this opportunity to leverage commercial capabilities here and back in Trinidad and Tobago. It is planned that YoungBiz (Trinidad and Tobago) will be opening offices in the later half of this year.

About YoungBIZ (Haringey) UK

YoungBiz (Haringey) UK is co-owned and managed by Trinbagonian, Eston Guy, former teacher and Deputy Head of Gladesmore Community School, Tottenham, UK, together with his wife Trinbagonian Myrtle Guy, Bill Guy (Guyanese/Trinbagonian). They are supported by sons Nigel and Duane Guy. The Parent Company, YoungBiz UK, is a training company that specializes in financial literacy, citizenship, economics and business education. Mark Hare, former Haringey resident and Steve Morris, CEO and founder of US-based YoungBiz, Inc, started the YoungBiz UK company with a mission to link students in the classroom to the real world of employment and financial responsibility.

YoungBiz provides teacher training, curriculum advice, and courses for students aged 12-18.

Additionally, YoungBiz educational consultants provide in-school training programmes, community programmes, special events, conferences, and workshops that teach young people to earn, save, invest and manage money wisely.

10 20

LONDON MISSION

Investing in T&T

M

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

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

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

and Tobago.

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

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

discretionary and depends largely on the number of years spent in the country and reasons underlying the purpose of stay there.

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

Tourism and Industrial Development Company of Trinidad and Tobago Contact Information: P.O. Box 222 Level 1 Maritime Center No. 29 Tenth Avenue Barataria Trinidad, West Indies

As a foreign purchaser, the purchase of a house, premises or land will not automatically vest the purchaser with resident status in Trinidad and Tobago. An application to acquire such status will have to be made by an Attorney-at – L aw acting on the purchaser‟s behalf to the M inistry of National Security. The grant of permanent residence is

Tel: (868) 675-7034/5/6/7 Fax: (868) 638-3560 e-mail: invest-info@tidco.co.tt WTI spot crude Oil price for 28th April 2006 $72.20 US per barrel Foreign Exchange rates as at 28th April 2006 Currency

Counter: Buying

Selling

Notes: Buying

Pound Sterling

11.2155

11.5520

10.3500

Sources: Scotiabank Trinidad & Tobago Limited and Bloomberg.com

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Baptist leader dies in London

A

Trinbagonian Spiritual Baptist leader died on arrival at the Central Middlesex Hospital in London on Saturday 15th April, after he collapsed while preaching to his congregation.

Archbishop Lennard Neverson was preaching at a Convention of Spiritual Baptist Churches of the United Kingdom, at the Capital City Academy, Doyle Gardens, London, when he fell ill. Neverson was among three spiritual leaders of the Baptist community from Trinidad and Tobago who were in London to celebrate the annual Spiritual Baptist Shouter Liberation Day under the auspicies of the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission, London, which was held on April 8. Neverson was accompanied by Bishop William Leon John and Reverend Mother Angela Patrick.

The Baptist leaders remained in London for the Convention which was attended by Her Excellency Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip, who had lunch with Archbishop Neverson only hours before he collapsed.

According to Reverend Patricia Stephens, Co-ordinator of the Convention, Neverson was in full flight, preaching heartily, when he collapsd. The paramedics and a doctor were on the scene in a very short time and attended to the Archbishop before he was taken to hospital. Preliminary reports reveal that Neverson suffered a heart attack.

F rom left: B ish op L eon Joh n , H .E . M rs. G len d a M orea n P h illip , R ev’d Mother Angela Patrick and the late Archbishop Lennard Neverson.

H is last w ords according to R everend Stephens w ere “the Spirit of the L ord is upon m e and he has appointed m e to preach.”

The High Commissioner and staff would like to extend condolences to the family and friends of Archbishop Neverson and to the entire Baptist community for this tremendous loss.

IMPORTANT NOTICE Attention nationals - Are you interested in travelling to Germany in June to Support the Soca Warriors? Please be clear on the following points: The Schengen Visa is issued by an Embassy or Consulate of the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Luxemburg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain and Sweden.

This visa allows the holder to move freely in all these countries within the validity of the visa.

However, please note that  If you intend to visit only one Schengen country, you must apply for a visa at the Embassy or Consulate of that country.  If you intend to visit several Schengen countries, you must apply for a visa at the Embassy or country in which your main destination is situated.  If you intend to visit several countries without having a main destination, you should apply for a visa at the Embassy or Consulate of the first Schengen country that requires you to have a visa.

Information provided by the Immigration Department at the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission, London

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Above: Poison UK girls in all their glory.

Above: Mr. Oscar Phillip (right) and Immigration Attaché, Mr. Nirmal Bhaggan, amongst the crowd.

Above: TDC Account Manager for the UK, Ms. Nova Alexander and Trinbagonian Hugo Gunning enjoying festivities

Left: West Ham and T&T goalkeeper Shaka Hislop with Father John Metivier

MP for Stoke on Trent North, Mrs. Joan Walley, chats with the High Commissioner.

First Secretary Mr. Colin Connelly and Immigration Attaché Mr. Nirmal Bhaggan share a joke with journalists from Vietnam.

Soca Warrior Ian Cox

Sportswriter for the Independent Newspaper , Glenn Moore and guest.

Her Excellency with young Kenwynne Jones

THE ROYAL COMMONWEALTH SOCIETY in partnership with the Public Affairs, Culture & Tourism Department at the Trinidad and Tobago High Commission, London presents

In vita tio n a l U n iversities M a ster’s O ver 45’s 6-a-side World Cup Football Tournament at

Chelsea School , University of Brighton, Eastbourne, E. Sussex, England

Friday 26 May at 7:30pm Featuring the international award winning

Ebony Steelband, Helena B, Calypso Monarch of GB old school 60s, 70s & 80s music plus delicious mouth-watering hot fork buffet by award winning chef, Mark Page Tickets: £30 (£35 non-members) includes 2 course buffet with wine and rum punch Sport Quiz, Carib, raffles and lots more This is a night to dance. Dress to impress but comfortable to swing

The Commonwealth Club, 25 Northumberland Avenue, London WCN 5AP Tel: 020 7930 6733 Fax: 020 7930 9705 Buses:6,11,24,29,91,88 &171 Stations: Charing Cross & Embankment

16th –17th June, 2006

Persons and/or team wishing to take part please contact Dr. Sid Hayes or Mr. Edward Twaddell at the Chelsea School, University of Brighton @ (0)1273 600 900 Register fast as there are limited spaces for teams!

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VACANCIES Lecturer / Assistant Lecturer Social Work Faculty of Social Sciences Department of Behavioural Sciences Qualifications Ph.D in Social Work Experience/Competencies/Skills Taught Social Work at undergraduate and graduate levels; a strong research agenda Area of Concentration Practical and clinical areas of social work Special Responsibilities Teaching graduate/undergraduate core courses; academic and field supervision of graduate and undergraduate studies; co-ordinating and developing a growing programme of mediation studies Personal Attributes Team work, leadership abilities, as well as co-ordination skills are critical.

Must also be able to work in a multi-disciplinary environment Closing Date: Tuesday, May 30, 2006 Lecturer / Assistant Lecturer in Psychology Faculty of Social Sciences Department of Behavioural Sciences Qualifications Ph.D. in Psychology Experience/Competencies/Skills Taught Statistics and Research Design in Psychology at both the graduate and undergraduate levels as well as a good publication record and a strong research agenda.

Competency Ability to teach courses in Statistics and Research Design in Psychology.

The teaching portfolio will include two of the following courses: Memory and Learning; Motivations and Emotions; Psychology of Ethnic Relations; Advanced Topics in Personality; Psychology of Politics; Community and Environmental Psychology Special Responsibilities Teaching at least three courses per semester, assisting in the supervision of the Research Projects in Psychology; Supervision of undergraduate and postgraduate students; Development of a research agenda in one of the above areas.

Personal Attributes Must be able to work in a multi-disciplinary environment.

Closing Date: Friday, June 30, 2006

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

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

Senator The Honourable Howard Chin Lee (left), Minister of Tourism, Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, enjoys the Panorama Finals with Sir Richard Branson, Chairman, Virgin Airlines, on Saturday, February 25, 2006 at the Q u een ’s P a rk Sa va n n a h , T rin id a d . Sir Branson visited the twin-island Republic to participate in the worldrenowned, annual Carnival festivities. (Photo courtesy Jim Stephens for the Tourism Development Company Limited, Trinidad and Tobago)

The Trinidad and Tobago High Commission, London, has a new member of staff, Ms. Rasheda Morton. Rasheda joined the TTHC family in March 2006. She attended Diego Martin Secondary in Trinidad and then went on to Polytechnic Institute. She is currently pursuing a diploma in Business Information Systems. Ms. Morton brings to the Mission eight years of bank experience, distinct professionalism and a warm personality. The High Commissioner H.E. Mrs. Glenda Morean Phillip welcomes her addition and looks forward to her continued contribution.

The gentlemen of the Public Affairs, Culture & Tourism Dept. at the TTHC: Head, Ashton Ford and Assistant Attaches Geoff Lowe (2nd right), and Donald Chambers with Dennis Lawrence, Brent Sa n ch o a n d Ia n C ox a t ‘A T a ste of T & T .’

How happy am I? T&T national Ricardo Cummings seems to be in his element alongside national heroes Dennis Lawrence and Carlos Edwards

Right: Artist Richard Martinez with his work, the T&T Buddy Bear -part of a World Cup 2006 display in Germany.

L eft: L on d on ’s A sh ton Ford visits the Consulate General of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Miami. Seen here with Consul General Mr. Gerard Greene and Deputy Consul Mr. Kirk Francois.

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