A new bill to remove the ships of Christopher Columbus from the Coat of Arms of Trinidad and Tobago has successfully passed with unanimous support from both government and opposition members in the Lower House.
The National Emblems of Trinidad and Tobago (Amendment) Bill, 2025, was approved late last Monday night, as reported by local news outlet CNC3.
The bill will see the removal of the three Columbus ships—Niña, Pinta, and Santa Maria—and their replacement with the Steelpan, the national instrument of Trinidad and Tobago.
Under Clause 4 of the bill, the “gold Steelpan and its iconic two pan sticks” will be incorporated into the national emblem, marking a significant shift in the nation’s symbolic representation.
Clause 5 ensures that licenses issued under the current legislation will remain valid, and the former emblem will be allowed until January 1, 2026. The redesigned Coat of Arms will be created by renowned designer and jeweler Gillian Bishop.
Prime Minister Keith Rowley first announced the change at a People’s National Movement (PNM) convention in August 2024. Speaking to a crowd of supporters, Rowley highlighted the need to break from colonial symbolism.
