AGP Executive Report

Steelpan Legacy: Pan Trinbago mourns the death of steelpan virtuoso Robert Greenidge in the United States, honouring his decades of arranging, composing and cultural ambassador work. Faith & Community: Inter-Religious Organisation head Dr Ellis Burris condemns the theft of two gold-plated monstrances from St Mary’s RC Church in St James, urging respect for sacred artefacts and calling for prayer for the nation. Pope Watch: Catholic archbishop Fr Jason Gordon says an official invitation has been extended to Pope Leo XIV for a Caribbean visit, with the Vatican yet to reject the proposal. Tragedy in Erin: MP Clyde Elder visits the family of missing 12-year-old Mercedez Layne after her body is found near an oil pipeline; a 24-year-old suspect is held as the community demands justice. Road Safety & Migrants: A Venezuelan woman dies after a scooter crash in Cunupia; police say the driver was over the legal alcohol limit, while migrant support groups renew calls for easier access to driver’s licences. Sport Spotlight: Jereem “The Dream” Richards wins bronze in the men’s 400m at the Wanda Diamond League in Stockholm. Culture Abroad: Students perform steel pan at Brooklyn College during a Caribbean Heritage Month festival, celebrating the instrument’s Trinidad-and-Tobago roots.

Tragic Child Safety: Trinidad and Tobago is mourning 12-year-old Mercedez Layne of Erin, found dead after being reported missing; police arrested a 26-year-old man and say investigations are ongoing. Racial Unity Push: The National Council of Indian Culture (NCIC) plans a national unity programme after public backlash over a proposal to rename Piarco International Airport, with NCIC citing “deep racial divisions.” Youth & Jobs in Tobago: In Les Coteaux, young men say they feel neglected by the Tobago House of Assembly, complaining that promised employment support hasn’t materialised. Guiding Leadership: The Girl Guides of Trinidad and Tobago marked its 112th anniversary, celebrating discipline, service and leadership with awards for long-serving Guiders. Education Debate: The Teaching Service Commission (TSC) faces fresh criticism over its impact on denominational education, with a renewed call for clarity around constitutional powers. Culture & Community: Skiffl e Bunch Steel Orchestra marked 50 years, reflecting on decades of steelpan resilience and community legacy. Sports Spotlight: Jereem Richards earned a podium finish in Stockholm’s 400m, while the week also highlighted grassroots football’s lasting links to Trinidad and Tobago.

Fatherhood Support: First-time fathers in T&T get a practical boost with “Called to Be Dad,” a two-part guide and workbook by Bevon and Rhonda Benjamin, built from Rhonda’s thesis and their own new-parent journey. Sports & Pride: Zakithi Nene wins the men’s 400m at Stockholm’s Diamond League, with Jereem Richards taking bronze in the same meet; locally, Michelle-Lee Ahye also clocks a win at the Lendore Classic. Culture on the Move: Pan Trinbago mourns steelpan pioneer Sterling Betancourt, whose work helped take the instrument to global stages; and Suns of Dub brings T&T’s reggae-dub sound to Brazil with a 20-stop tour. Regional Spotlight: UNESCO officially approves Aruba as a Biosphere Reserve, highlighting how biodiversity and cultural heritage can grow together. Food Security Alarm: A UN report says about 512,000 people in T&T can’t afford a healthy diet, with major impacts on children and women. Community & Safety: Opposition leader Penelope Beckles marks the nation’s grief after the death of 12-year-old Mercedez Layne, calling for stronger child protection and vigilance. Education & Policy: TTUTA warns that proposed parental responsibility legislation could expand teachers’ duties beyond their roles.

UN Security Council: Trinidad and Tobago has been elected a non-permanent member for 2027–2028, but local economists are urging clarity on what the seat will actually deliver for the economy and development. Tobago Development: A fresh debate is heating up around Tobago’s future, with voices calling for investment and others questioning what the re-established Tobago House of Assembly was meant to restore. Chaguaramas Trade & Tourism: SailClear’s upcoming electronic vessel clearance system is being pitched as a major fix for slow, outdated processes—potentially cutting clearance times from hours to about 15 minutes. Food & Health: A UN-backed report says nearly 513,000 people in T&T can’t afford a healthy meal, while schools are also tightening nutrition standards to curb childhood lifestyle disease. Education & Parenting: TTUTA is pushing back on proposed parental responsibility legislation, warning it could expand teachers’ duties beyond their roles. Culture & Media: The Caribbean Tourism Organization honoured regional storytellers in New York and launched CTO TV to boost Caribbean tourism storytelling. Sports & Community: Cricket West Indies’ Republic Bank “Five for Fun” programme rolls into Barbados, and Trinidad’s steelpan community mourns Sterling Betancourt, a pioneer who helped take pan global.

Steelpan Legacy: Pan Trinbago mourns the passing of steelpan pioneer Sterling Betancourt, whose work helped take the instrument from local stages to global recognition, including the 1951 Festival of Britain and decades of education abroad. School Health Push: Schools are tightening nutrition standards—less sugar, better portioning, and clearer labelling—aimed at cutting childhood risks for diabetes and other lifestyle diseases. Community Mental Health Training: A new mental health first-aid programme is training teachers, priests and pastoral workers across parishes to spot early warning signs and respond to a growing self-harm crisis. Youth Wellness & Support: The YWCA’s health fair brings screenings and mental health guidance, with added support for conditions like endometriosis. Parliament & Rights: Government outlines a new legislative agenda including social media rules for children under 12, while police reject claims of bias over protest restrictions under the State of Emergency. Culture & Creativity: A major art exhibition, “This Is Us Through the Eyes of Richard Ramirez,” spotlights T&T heritage through glass-printed photography. Sports & Opportunity: Swimmer AJ Bernard commits to Howard University after a strong Carifta run, and Makaira Wallace wins women’s keirin in the US. Environment & Waste: UNDP warns T&T generates about 2.6kg of waste per person daily, as tree-planting efforts mark World Environment Day.

Parliament & Rights: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar opened the second session of the 13th Parliament, flagging major bills including social media regulation for children under 12, plus reforms on education, school violence, firearms, and victims’ rights—while the State of Emergency protest restrictions remain a flashpoint, with the Police Commissioner denying bias and activist Wendell Eversley warning T&T is drifting toward a police state. Governance & Law: Dr Margaret Satya Rose was sworn in as Opposition Senator, replacing Janelle John-Bates, as the PNM frames her as an anti-corruption and governance specialist. Culture & Community: Local Government Minister Khadijah Ameen kicked off Corpus Christi with the distribution of about 3,000 vegetable plants and school visits to push “green practices,” while NAAPA hosted “This Is Us Through the Eyes of Richard Ramirez,” a glass-printed photo exhibition urging people to value and carry heritage forward. Environment & Animals: UNDP’s Ugo Blanco warned T&T generates about 2.6kg of waste per person daily, and public concern continues over the Emperor Valley Zoo’s animal welfare standards. Sports & Youth: Swimmer AJ Bernard committed to Howard University after Carifta success, and cyclist Maki Wallace won women’s keirin at a UCI event in Pennsylvania. Cricket Lifestyle: “Ladies Night” at Sabina Park offers free admission for women ahead of the WI vs Sri Lanka ODI. Diaspora & Heritage: Indian Arrival Day celebrations marked the 1845 landing of indentured labourers, with the PM calling it living memory. Arts Fundraiser: “Sixty Surprises” raised funds for animal rescue through 60 artists creating identical $600 works.

Parliament & Accountability: Dr Margaret Rose was sworn in as Opposition Senator, replacing John-Bates after a backlash over alleged ghost-editing of a parliamentary witness statement. Indian Arrival Day: Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar marked 181 years since the Fatel Razack landing at Penal, linking indentureship to living family memory and heritage. UN Diplomacy: Trinidad and Tobago won a non-permanent UN Security Council seat for 2027–2028 with 181 votes, with a campaign focused on women, peace and security and AI in global security. Corpus Christi Culture: The holiday’s planting tradition is being reframed as a national, faith-crossing push to feed communities and reconnect people with the land. Faith & Community: Archbishop Jason Gordon urged a “transformation of the heart” beyond materialism, while Anglican Archbishop Philip Wright called for a healing church reaching poverty and addiction. Local Arts & Radio: “Supahype” Lee argues radio isn’t dead—its magic comes from creating moments, not comfort. Sports Spotlight: Keshorn Walcott finished fourth in Rome Diamond League javelin; Trinidad’s track and field remains in the spotlight. Caribbean Cricket Buzz: BYD announced as official car partner of CPL 2026, rolling out fan activations and a “Wrap the Future” design challenge.

UN Security Council Win: Trinidad and Tobago was elected a non-permanent member for 2027–2028 after securing 181 votes, with support from all five permanent UNSC members—an achievement Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar says will help shape peace, security and sustainable development. Faith & Community: Archbishop Jason Gordon urged a “transformation of the heart” during Corpus Christi, warning against materialism and selfishness, while Anglican Archbishop Philip Wright called for a healing church that reaches people facing poverty and addiction. Disaster Risk & Culture: Works Minister Jearlean John told a Disaster Risk Management conference that resilience must go beyond policy and into maintained roads, drainage and coastal defences—and that habits and choices are major flood drivers. Sports Spotlight: Keshorn Walcott finished fourth in Rome Diamond League javelin; Mona retained the UWI Games title as regional competition returned successfully. Culture & Lifestyle: A Corpus Christi planting tradition is reframed as a national, multi-faith food and climate action; plus a reminder of Trinidad’s beach classic bake and shark. Public Service Training: CXC launched a Virgin Islands Excellence in Customer Service programme with Trinidad-based Customer 1st Caribbean Ltd. World Cup Music: FIFA World Cup song performers list highlights global hits from Ricky Martin to Shakira.

UN Security Council Win: Trinidad and Tobago has been elected to the UN Security Council for 2027–2028 after securing support from 181 countries, though questions linger about CARICOM backing and abstentions. Public Service & Training: CXC and the Government of the Virgin Islands launched a CXC Excellence in Customer Service programme, with Trinidad-based Customer 1st Caribbean Ltd supporting multi-level training for better public service delivery. Transport & Daily Life: The maxi-taxi shutdown reignited debate over transport fragility and long-standing sector neglect, with commuters hit hard and calls for more resilient planning. Protest Restrictions: Trade unions and opposition figures are pushing back hard against State of Emergency protest limits, calling them “draconian” and warning against curbing peaceful dissent. Culture & Food: Oakland Carnival returns June 6 at Mosswood Park, framed as joy and resistance, while a Toronto “Island Eats” festival spotlights Caribbean and Latin flavours with youth chef challenges. Sports: T&T rugby men host Mexico Saturday; cricket fans get a boost with CWI’s free-entry push for under-16s at home matches. Health & Tech: Tobago’s DHW delegation attended a Personalized Health Conference in Switzerland to explore AI, digital health and a Tobago Public Health Observatory. Literature: Shana Chandra’s debut novel Banjara brings Indo-Fijian indenture history to the spotlight.

UN Diplomacy: Trinidad and Tobago won a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2027–2028, securing 181 votes and pledging focus on small-arms trafficking, women and children in peace and security, and AI’s role in global security—though questions linger about CARICOM support and abstentions. Public Safety & Justice: In Tobago, a father of a child killed in a jet ski tragedy says he’s still awaiting justice, with the case under active investigation and no charges yet. Community & Faith: Corpus Christi messages from President Christine Kangaloo, PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Opposition Leader Penelope Beckles urged unity, service and reflection, echoing the island’s tradition of planting and seed blessings. Protest Rights: Trade unions, including the CWU, pushed back hard against State of Emergency protest restrictions, calling them “draconian” and warning against limiting peaceful dissent. Culture & Sport: Cricket West Indies launched free entry for children 16 and under for the WI Outside home series, while local golf trials confirmed players for the Caribbean Amateur Championships. Youth Health Advocacy: Regional civil society groups called for urgent action to protect children from ultra-processed food marketing around schools. Arts & Lifestyle: CIBC’s Unsung Heroes Programme opened nominations to spotlight everyday community changemakers. Crime Update: A violent night in south Trinidad left multiple people dead across separate incidents, intensifying public concern over safety.

UN Diplomacy: Trinidad and Tobago has won a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2027–2028, securing overwhelming support (181 of 191 votes) on a campaign focused on small-arms curbs, women and children in peace and security, and AI’s security risks. Corpus Christi & Local Food: MPs Khadijah Ameen and the Rural Development/LG ministry marked Corpus Christi by distributing hundreds of seedlings, urging families to plant in yards or pots and to choose local produce. Road Safety (Tobago): The THA launched a road safety caravan after a rise in student accidents, starting at Scarborough RC Primary, with interactive lessons for children preparing for secondary school. Health as Business Culture: The T&T Chamber of Industry and Commerce is pushing a new corporate view of health as a driver of productivity and economic resilience. Migrant Road Tragedy: A Venezuelan woman died days after a scooter crash in Cunupia; police say the driver was over the legal alcohol limit and the scooter was unlicensed. Food Marketing Watch: Youth and civil society across the region, including T&T, are calling for a ban on ultra-processed food marketing in and around schools. Arts & Community: SANFEST continues spotlighting young talent, with 2026 Young Star winners featured. Diaspora Spotlight: AMCHAM T&T welcomed the US nomination of Arouca-born Jennifer Johnson-Carroll as ambassador, if confirmed. Transport Protest Reality: Maxi taxi operators weigh solidarity with shutdown calls against the need to keep earning.

Diplomacy & Diaspora: AMCHAM T&T welcomed the U.S. nomination of Arouca-born Jennifer Johnson-Carroll as Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, a potential first for a T&T-born woman if confirmed by the Senate. Protest & Rights: Social activist Alyssa Phillip renewed calls for a national shutdown tied to justice demands, while 13 unions threatened court action over State of Emergency protest restrictions at 15 designated locations. Transport & Daily Life: Maxi taxi operators in Trinidad weigh the shutdown and strike fallout; Tobago drivers say they’re supporting the cause but exams and school schedules are shaping how action plays out. Culture & Heritage: UTT honoured scholar Selwyn Cudjoe with a Library Corner/Display, and Couva’s Mud Mandir (Sewala Mandir) was spotlighted as a rare, long-occupied Indo-Trini sacred site. Community & Safety: Tobago launched a road safety caravan after student accidents, and Works Minister Jearlean John blamed littering and weak waste habits for worsening flood impacts. Arts & Ideas: A literary prize controversy raised questions about AI use in writing, while local cultural coverage also highlighted Trinidad’s space history and June art/exhibition picks.

Golf & Community Sports: Chris Richards Jr topped the Trinidad and Tobago Golf Association men’s national trials at Chaguaramas, finishing four under 68 on the final day. Education & Representation: Rhonda McEwen, a Trinidadian-born AI and human-machine interaction researcher, was named the University of Victoria’s first female and first Black president, starting Oct. Transport & Daily Life: Maxi-taxi drivers continued a “rest and reflection” stance after talks with Transport Minister Eli Zakour, while Tobago drivers voiced solidarity—yet commuters and students faced disruption. Disaster Preparedness: Works Minister Jearlean John told the Disaster Risk Management Expo that flooding worsens when culture and enforcement around waste disposal fail. Faith Under Pressure: A burglar escaped with two monstrances after a church raid at St Mary’s RC Church in Mucurapo; Mass was cancelled. Social Justice Legacy: Tributes poured in for Winston Pinder, a towering youth worker and activist in the fight for social and racial justice. LGBTQ+ Rights Legal Watch: The Privy Council is set to hear a landmark appeal that could move decriminalisation of same-sex intimacy forward across parts of the Commonwealth. Tourism & Culture: Caribbean Week in New York opened with leaders pushing connectivity and a unified regional tourism voice.

Maxi Taxi Fallout: A three-day “rest and reflection” strike has left thousands scrambling for transport across Trinidad and Tobago, with Route Two and Three operators rejecting a return-to-work proposal while parents and students worry about exam disruption. Police Support for Commuters: TTPS Commissioner Alister Guevarra ordered police buses to shuttle stranded passengers, prioritising the elderly and students, though demand outstripped available resources. Disability Access in Focus: The Trinidad and Tobago Blind Welfare Association says the shutdown exposes how public transport failures hit persons with disabilities hardest. School Safety Concern: Parents are alarmed after a fight at ASJA Girls’ College, Charlieville, where students reportedly struck teachers while trying to stop the brawl. Violence Update: Six murders in a short span kept homicide teams busy, including a stabbing in Fyzabad and a triple killing in Ste Madeleine. Cricket & Culture: TG Titans Cricket Team gears up for a Tobago tour (June 3–8) with matches against Club Crusoe Cuzins and Tobago Legends. Mental Health Push: The “I Matter Movement” was launched to tackle depression and stigma with community-based, personalised support. Heritage & Identity: NCIC renewed calls to rename Piarco’s airport after Basdeo Panday, framing it as inspiration for youth and a tribute to service.

UWI Academic Boost: UWI promoted eight senior lecturers to Professor ranks, spanning psychology, applied math, econometrics, music, veterinary public health, international relations and dementia research. Mental Health Push: The new “I Matter Movement” launches to tackle depression and stigma, offering personalised, community-based support. Violence Update: Police investigate the stabbing death of 26-year-old Micah Joseph in Fyzabad; homicide detectives also reported six murders overnight across South Trinidad. Transport Disruption: Maxi-taxi operators begin a three-day “rest and reflection” shutdown, raising fears for students, parents and businesses. Indian Arrival Day Culture: PM Kamla Persad-Bissessar marked 181 years of East Indian indenture with family reflections; NCIC also renewed calls to rename Piarco’s airport after Basdeo Panday. Youth & Health Warning: World No Tobacco Day coverage spotlights how vapes marketed as “harmless” may still contain nicotine and appeal to teens. Soca on the World Stage: KestheBand makes history with a sold-out Vancouver Commodore Ballroom show. Caribbean Food & Women in Focus: A Hodges Bay Resort dinner during Antigua’s Culinary Month celebrated five female chefs and Caribbean flavours.

Maxi-taxi strike: Thousands of commuters could face major disruption as maxi-taxi operators begin a planned three-day “rest and reflection” action, citing long-standing neglect and unresolved grievances, with operators asking Government for proper documentation and route hubs. Indian Arrival Day legacy: NCIC is calling to rename Piarco’s Basdeo Panday International Airport, while Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar marked 181 years since the first East Indian indentured arrivals, linking national memory to her family’s journey. Vaping alarm: World No Tobacco Day coverage spotlights how vapes are marketed to youth with “healthier” claims and sweet flavours, warning that even “nicotine-free” products can normalise vaping and harm mental health and development. Culture & fashion: Shoma the Label honours Indo-Trini heritage through a new collection telling a family story of indentureship and resilience. Food & heritage: The Aagman Indian Food Festival at Hilton Trinidad recognised cultural stalwarts and supported children’s charity Rapid Fire Kidz. Sports spotlight: Tessica Laurence reset T&T women’s and girls’ Under-20 pole vault records again, while Keshorn Walcott opened his season with Diamond League bronze. Tourism push: Tourism leaders urged the sector to embrace AI and digital transformation as Caribbean Week in New York gets underway.