AGP Executive Report

Maxi-taxi disruption: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar says Government will assist drivers “in any way possible” as the nationwide shutdown and industrial action continue, while the TTPS prepares for a possible third day of reduced services and says it’s supporting the PTSC and commuters. Protest restrictions: Thirteen unions are threatening to go to court over State of Emergency rules that limit protests to 15 no-protest zones, with the PM insisting people can protest elsewhere and citing security concerns. Transport blame game: Maxi operators say they want upgrades to hubs and terminals, but ministers are trading responsibility between Transport and Works and Infrastructure, as police also push compliance under a proposed “checkered-band” system. US diplomacy: Trump has nominated Trinidad-born Jennifer Johnson-Carroll as US ambassador to T&T, with AMCHAM calling it a historic milestone. Trade and tariffs: The US proposes extra duties tied to forced-labour trade findings, naming India among affected economies. World Cup build-up: South Korea’s camp in Utah has trained together for the first time, but defender Cho Yu-min has left the squad injured, while Son’s scoring slump raises questions ahead of the tournament.

Diplomacy & Diaspora: Trump has nominated Trinidad-born Jennifer Johnson-Carroll as the next U.S. ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, with AMCHAM T&T calling it a historic milestone for the diaspora. Local Justice & Governance: Attorney-General senator John Jeremie met senior legal officials during a visit tied to the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force meetings. Protest Rights: JTUM is demanding the immediate withdrawal of Legal Notice No. 40, which sets 15 no-protest zones under the State of Emergency, saying it overreaches and threatens lawful protest. Disaster Preparedness: A disaster simulation is underway in Port of Spain ahead of hurricane season, while Works Minister Jearlean John blamed littering and weak enforcement for worsening flood impacts. Policing Modernisation: TTPS has issued an Expression of Interest for body-worn cameras with GPS/Bluetooth and live-streaming, plus a video management and archiving platform. Transport Disruption: Maxi-taxi operators remain dissatisfied after talks with Transport Minister Eli Zakour, with another day of “rest and reflection” agreed. Public Safety & Economy: Over 2,700 illicit items were seized in South Oropouche, including unregistered pharmaceuticals and male enhancement products; TTNGL also reported a return to profitability in 2025.

Maxi taxi strike hits commuters: A three-day “rest and reflection” shutdown by private bus drivers and maxi taxi operators left thousands scrambling for transport, with downtown businesses reporting 15–20% of commuters arriving late and delays of 30 minutes to an hour; Tobago drivers say they back the action too, while private hire “PH” taxis report higher demand as people look for alternatives. Violence spikes in south Trinidad: Six people were killed in separate incidents over a violent night, including a triple murder in Ste Madeleine, a double shooting in Penal, and a stabbing death in Fyzabad. Gangs and protests under fire: Criminologist Dr Daurius Figueira says gangs that threaten to “unite” against law enforcement should be named, after PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar linked protesters to calls for gang unity. Aviation deal for T&T: Trinidad and Tobago and the Dominican Republic signed a new air services agreement to expand overflight and landing rights and boost tourism and business links. Regional travel boost: LIAT (2020) and Air Caraïbes launched an interline agreement for single-ticket Caribbean-to-Europe journeys via Paris Orly.

UWI Promotions: The UWI has promoted eight senior lecturers to Professor, including five from St Augustine—Jeannine Remy (Music), Karla Georges (Veterinary Public Health & Epidemiology), Theodor Tudoroiu (International Relations), Preeya Mohan (Environment & Development Economics), plus retroactive psychiatry promotion for Nelleen Baboolal. Violence Update: Southern Trinidad saw six deaths in overnight attacks, including a Ste Madeleine triple murder and killings in Penal and Fyzabad. Drive-by Shooting: Sea Lots residents reported a white Honda City opening fire early Saturday; Christopher Sampson died and a 21-year-old woman was injured, with dozens of shell casings recovered. Public Safety & Protest Climate: Minister Jearlean John says infrastructure policy must serve future generations, while TT’s “no-protest zones” and police-related tensions continue to draw criticism. Transport Disruption: Maxi-taxi operators begin a three-day “rest and reflection” shutdown from today, expected to hit thousands of commuters. Health & Youth: A new push highlights the youth vaping surge and the need for Caribbean policy to catch up.

Maxi Taxi Strike: More than 5,000 maxi-taxi operators are set to begin a planned three-day “rest and reflection” shutdown from today, with thousands of commuters expected to feel the impact as businesses and schools brace for disruption. Police Threat Probe: The TTPS is investigating a viral social media video in which a man claims he’s a police officer and says he received threats tied to a court matter, including bullets shown in the clip. Judicial Independence: Chief Justice Ronnie Boodoosingh told Indian Arrival Day celebrations that the courts must remain independent and apply the law without fear or favour. UN Security Council Bid: Foreign and Caricom Affairs Minister Sean Sobers says Trinidad and Tobago is confident it has done enough diplomatic work to secure votes for a non-permanent UN Security Council seat. Tourism & Tech: YTEPP and TIATT discussed pushing the tourism sector toward AI and digital transformation, alongside workforce training. Food Security/Business: National Flour Mills CEO Terrence Kalloo was appointed, with a focus on restoring shareholder confidence and supporting national food security. Sports: Keshorn Walcott opened his 2026 season with Diamond League javelin bronze in Rabat.

Indian Arrival Day & trade links: T&T business and government leaders used Indian Arrival Day to push deeper India ties, including a signed pharma MOU and hopes for digital payments and diaspora engagement. Local governance & accountability: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar hit out at “sick and evil” rhetoric calling for gangs to unite against police, while separate legal controversy continues around parliamentary witness statement edits. Public safety: A 70-year-old man, Nanlal Bickram, was found dead in a concrete drain in Marabella after family members reported he was missing. Education & youth: UWI faces criticism over enrolment dips and competition for students, while a spotlight on youth vaping warns Caribbean policy is lagging behind fast-growing nicotine use. Food security: CARDI and the Ministry of Agriculture showcased a successful black-eyed peas pilot, pointing to faster harvest and potential for school feeding support. Regional business: Diane Hadad says export and diversification plans sound promising but still lack detail for the business community. Sports: Korea routed T&T 5-0 in a World Cup warm-up in Utah, with Son Heung-min starring.

Public Order Clash: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar hit back at “sick and evil” calls for gangs to unite against law enforcement, after a video urged “revolution” and referenced “Rasta City” and “Muslim City,” as she vowed zero tolerance and backed police action. Legal/Parliament Fight: Former House Speaker Nizam Mohammed is pressing LATT to act over allegations involving Opposition senators Faris Al-Rawi and Janelle John-Bates tied to edits in a witness statement before the PAAC probe. University Pressure: UWI faces competition for students, with analysts pointing to poverty and the spread of other degree-granting options as enrolment dips. Trade Push Questioned: Economist Dr Vaalmikki Arjoon says the push to double non-energy exports is “economically necessary,” but business leader Diane Hadad warns the government’s plan still lacks detail for real implementation. Green Fund Red Flag: Despite a $12.9b Green Fund balance, less than 1% has been disbursed over a decade, with NGOs warning of funding crunches. Citizens Stuck in Passport Lines: People report waiting hours for e-appointment access, with the process potentially taking months. Sports: South Korea thrashed T&T 5-0 in a pre-World Cup friendly in Utah, with Son Heung-min and Cho Gue-sung scoring twice each. Earthquake: A magnitude 6.0 quake rattled parts of the eastern Caribbean, including T&T, with no immediate damage reported.

Indian Arrival Day: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar marks May 30 with tributes to the 181-year journey of indentured Indians, recalling the hardship of the “kala pani” crossings and their lasting impact on T&T’s culture and development. Public Order & Protests: Police Commissioner Alister Guevarro’s 15 “no-protest zones” near key state institutions sparks union backlash, with critics warning it threatens constitutional freedoms as the State of Emergency continues. Transport Disruption: Maxi taxi operators confirm a nationwide shutdown from Monday after talks with government officials failed to deliver written commitments on long-running sector concerns. Police Procurement Allegations: Opposition MP Marvin Gonzales alleges TTPS leased 51 new electric patrol vehicles through a newly formed company linked to government contracts, calling for scrutiny. Earthquake Update: A moderate 5.0 quake was felt across Trinidad and as far as Grenada; authorities report no injuries or damage. Banking Deal: Butterfield agrees to acquire CIBC Caribbean in a US$1.8b transaction, setting up a larger regional banking group. Tourism & Airlift: Tourism Minister Marsha Henderson says Caribbean Airlines cut St Kitts routes without consulting the government, while talks continue with other carriers. Sports (T&T): South Korea vs Trinidad and Tobago is listed among World Cup tune-up friendlies today, with match viewing details circulating.

Public Safety & Protest Rights: Police have designated 15 “no-protest zones” around key state institutions under the State of Emergency, drawing sharp condemnation from NATUC and union leaders who say it threatens democracy and constitutional freedoms. Transport Disruption: Maxi taxi operators confirm a nationwide shutdown starting Monday after talks with Government officials failed to produce written commitments, with school transport also expected to be affected. Policing & Accountability: Opposition MP Marvin Gonzales alleges TTPS leased 51 new electric patrol vehicles through a company formed after last year’s election, raising fresh questions over procurement and secrecy. Water & Utilities: WASA warns of a temporary Caroni Water Treatment Plant shutdown next week due to T&TEC transformer works, with low or no supply expected in multiple areas. Tobago Court Update: A jet ski ruling at Pigeon Point/Buccoo Reef is described as balanced, with access allowed but under nine conditions. Earthquake: A 5.0 quake was felt across Trinidad and parts of Grenada; authorities report no damage or injuries. Culture & Heritage: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar marks Indian Arrival Day, honouring the 181-year legacy of indentured labourers and calling for unity.

Police & Protests: Opposition Leader Penelope Beckles says new “no-protest zones” and tighter restrictions around State institutions are being driven by fear and questions whether the Police Commissioner is acting independently, as TTPS moves to enforce 500-metre limits amid the Kaia Sealy/Joshua Samaroo fallout. Public Safety & Accountability: TTPS says a traffic-ticket shooting in Arima was “inadvertent,” while the Prime Minister backs police and the DPP against intimidation and warns against mob pressure. Transport Disruption: Maxi taxi operators confirm a nationwide shutdown starting Monday after talks with Government failed, threatening school transport and daily commuter routes. Water Supply: WASA warns of a temporary Caroni Water Treatment Plant shutdown next week due to T&TEC transformer work, with low or no supply in multiple areas. Finance & Business: Unit Trust Corporation reports a $16m jump in 2025 profit to nearly $35m; and Butterfield agrees to acquire CIBC Caribbean in a US$1.8b deal. Regional Politics: Guyana and T&T reserve positions as CARICOM condemns US sanctions on Cuba, distancing themselves from the bloc’s statement. Local Economy/Agri-Food: CARDI’s black-eyed peas pilot in Warrenville shows strong germination and fast harvest potential for food security and school nutrition.

Police Accountability & Protest Rules: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar backed TTPS after it secured the DPP’s office during Wednesday’s protest, while a Legal Notice now bars demonstrations within 500 metres of 15 sensitive state sites under the State of Emergency. Public Safety Tech: TTPS says it supports body cameras and has begun procurement for more, with about 120 active units currently. Tobago Tourism Under Court Order: A court lifted a five-week jet ski ban in Buccoo Reef Marine Park but kept tight limits—no Ny lon Pool use, no touting at Pigeon Point, speed and distance rules, no minors, and no stunts. Regional Politics on Cuba: CARICOM condemned intensified US sanctions on Cuba, but Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago reserved their positions. Finance & Business: Butterfield Bank agreed to buy CIBC Caribbean in a US$1.8bn deal, and Sagicor Group Caribbean plans to head to capital markets to fund its merger. World Cup Build-Up: Korea’s pre-World Cup camp in Utah includes a friendly vs Trinidad and Tobago, with altitude adaptation a key focus.

Protest Policing: TTPS has issued a legal notice restricting public protests within 500 metres of key public buildings, citing safety during the State of Emergency. Energy & Industry: Touchstone says two Trinidad wells are now producing about 175 barrels per day, while Atlantic LNG Train 4 is in a planned shutdown and gas flows are being redirected. Foreign Policy & Cuba: A sanctioned Russian diesel tanker reportedly diverted south after weeks at sea, raising questions about fuel shipments to Cuba. AI Push: Government launched the “Future Ready TT” AI programme, partnering with tools like ChatGPT and Grammarly for education and public service efficiency, with human oversight stressed. Money Laundering Focus: AG Anil Nandlall told CFATF that conviction rates and forfeiture of proceeds from money laundering are too low across the region, calling for stronger judiciary training. Disaster Readiness: TEMA warns disaster recovery can take years without proper planning and savings, pointing to long-running cases from past hurricanes. Agriculture & Food Security: Minister Ravi Ratiram highlighted women’s role across the agri value chain at a Mother’s Day event. Labour Education: New Board of Governors appointed for Cipriani College of Labour and Cooperative Studies as it marks 60 years. Trade & Forex: Trade Ministry targets a major jump in non-energy exports and forex earnings, while exporters push for direct engagement. Business & Finance: Butterfield agreed to acquire CIBC Caribbean Bank in a $1.8bn deal, and IDB Invest approved up to $30m for Trinidad Tissues’ regional expansion. Local Life: A Chaguanas café profile and a viral $100 chow story show how food culture is driving attention and debate. Sports: West Indies will host Sri Lanka, New Zealand and Pakistan in 2026, with Tests against Pakistan in Trinidad and at Queen’s Park Oval.

Caricom–Cuba Rift: Trinidad and Tobago has reserved its position on COFCOR’s Cuba statement, joining Guyana in distancing itself from the bloc’s alarm over intensified U.S. measures—highlighting growing fractures in regional solidarity. Local Economy & Trade: The IMF says T&T’s outlook is only marginally better, but structural weaknesses remain: energy contraction drags while non-energy must carry growth. Shipping Costs: The Couva/Point Lisas Chamber is calling for a state probe into shipping agents charging local fees in US dollars amid a forex shortage, arguing it breaches Central Bank rules. Public Sector Pay Dispute: The PSA rejects the State’s 40% cash/60% non-cash backpay plan, insisting wages must be paid in cash. Tobago Jet Ski Rules: A judge urged jet ski operators to seek alternatives to Pigeon Point Heritage Park, pushing them to modernise how they attract customers. Sports: Cricket West Indies confirmed the 2026 home season—Sri Lanka, New Zealand and Pakistan—with Tests for SL and Pakistan, including matches in Trinidad & Tobago. Culture & Community: SAPA launched a heritage exhibition honouring East Indian ancestors, while a first-ever WCA-sanctioned Rubik’s speedcubing event in T&T earned official world rankings.

CARICOM–Cuba Rift: Trinidad and Tobago abstained from a COFCOR statement condemning US threats and intensifying measures against Cuba, while Guyana and T&T “reserved” their positions—keeping the region’s Cuba debate tense. Central Bank & Tobago Business: The Central Bank met Tobago Chamber leaders on forex access, banking services, financial literacy, and Tobago’s economic priorities ahead of the Payment Systems and Services Bill. Payment Systems Bill Consultations: Tobagonians questioned cross-border currency conversion; the Central Bank said foreign-currency transfers would be handled via licensed services like Western Union/MoneyGram. Tobago Jet Ski Court Move: A judge urged jet ski operators to consider locations beyond Pigeon Point Heritage Park after a fatal April accident and a temporary injunction. Sports: T&T Red Force won the West Indies Championship title, beating Guyana by 141 runs. Culture & Faith: Ifa Orisha Council renewed calls for a national public holiday for inclusion and curriculum recognition.

Banking Talks: Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo met the Bankers Association and Central Bank officials to deepen economic collaboration, financial-sector reform and market stability. Landlord Surcharge: The Inland Revenue deadline for mandatory Landlord Business Surcharge registration has been pushed to June 30, 2026, with a $2,500 one-time fee and quarterly rates. Ozone Progress: Trinidad and Tobago says it’s at 78% of its HCFC phase-out target for 2025 and is on track for 97.5% by 2027 under the Montreal Protocol. Energy/Industry: NGC reports it has renewed 100% of downstream gas contracts, including a new agreement supporting Methanol Holdings’ methanol operations at Point Lisas. Education Arrears: TTUTA president Crystal Ashe calls for a “reasonable solution” in the PSA–CPO arrears impasse, after PSA rejected a CPO backpay proposal. Minerals Sector: Quarry operators warn of an aggregate shortfall after hold-over licences were issued, saying demand may outstrip production capacity. Regional Travel: Sean Sobers says T&T is not considering ID-card travel for CARICOM at this time. Weather Warnings: Forecasters in T&T are working to improve early warning systems with more impact-focused guidance for farmers, fishermen and commuters.

Food Security Milestone: Trinidad and Tobago’s agri-diversification push scored a win with the successful black eye bean harvest under a Ministry of Agriculture pilot, alongside corn and soya, aimed at cutting import dependence and boosting resilience. Regional Finance & Trade: Attorney General John Jeremie SC met Cayman Premier André Ebanks in Port of Spain to explore deeper trade links and strengthen anti-money laundering cooperation under CFATF. CWI Under Pressure: Cricket West Indies president Dr Kishore Shallow says the region’s cricket body is navigating serious budget strain while planning a packed home schedule. Health Access Upgrade: Arima’s new Accident and Emergency Department at Arima General Hospital has officially opened, moving emergency services closer to key support units. Economy Talks: Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo met the Bankers Association to align on market stability, confidence, and proposed banking reforms. Politics Watch: Sources say Liberal MP Steven Guilbeault is set to resign from Canada’s Parliament. Culture & Community: Honey Fest 2026 brought crowds for a day of honey, education, and culture, while Sagicor marked its 185th anniversary by planting 185 trees in Chaguaramas.