Energy chamber has warning for Trinidad and Tobago following new European taxes
The Energy Chamber of Trinidad and Tobago says Europe has begun the process of introducing new taxes on imports of some petrochemicals, like ammonia, and other products based on the carbon emissions associated with the particular product.
“As the largest exporter of ammonia in the world, there should be urgency in addressing issues for ensuring sustained trade with one of the largest export markets of the commodity,” the Energy Chamber said, noting that Trinidad and Tobago is the largest exporter of ammonia in the world.
It said in 2024, the country produced more than four million tons and exported almost all of it, generating substantial foreign exchange in the process. The Energy Chamber said most ammonia goes into the production of fertilisers, though there are other uses.
It said the largest export market for ammonia is the United States which accounts for approximately 25 per cent of the exports followed by Morocco 16 per cent, with both Switzerland and Mexico accounting for nine per cent.
The Energy Chamber said that one of the major trading segments of importers of ammonia from Trinidad and Tobago is the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom, which together accounts for 21 percent of ammonia imported from Port of Spain.
But it said that both the European Community and the United Kingdom are currently implementing Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanisms (CBAMs) and that the EU has begun the process of introducing new taxes on imports of some petrochemicals like ammonia and other products, such as cement based on the carbon emissions associated with the particular product.
It said the United Kingdom has also begun the implementation of similar taxes.
“The measures are aimed at addressing carbon leakage by adjusting the prices of commodities to ensure that producers do not avoid carbon taxes levied against domestic production in the importing market, by offshoring production to jurisdictions without carbon pricing mechanisms.
“This has serious implications for exporters of the commodities that may attract CBAMs, including Trinidad and Tobago,” the Energy Chamber said, noting that imports of ammonia into the EU, UK and other markets adopting CBAMs will be taxed based on their carbon emissions, “making our exports less competitive against producers with lower carbon intensity or which have had carbon taxes levied in the producing nation.
“This represents a serious challenge to our petrochemical producers, and this challenge is likely to only increase, as more jurisdictions introduce similar measures,” the Chamber said, noting that ammonia production generates CO2 as a by-product, and therefore typically has a high carbon intensity.
It said that there are ways to reduce its carbon footprint, through either substituting green hydrogen produced from green electricity and water or through capturing the CO2 produced and sequestering it either underground in depleted oil or gas reservoirs (Carbon Capture and Sequestration), but that both require significant investment.
The Energy Chamber said plans are already in place to develop a green hydrogen plant in Point Lisas in west central Trinidad and that there are also plans in place to develop CCS projects in Trinidad.
“Projects like these should be executed as quickly as possible to meet the CBAM requirements but also to develop further low carbon initiatives within the country.”
The Energy Chamber said that in addition, one vital step to meet the CBAM requirements is to implement a robust national system of monitoring, reporting and verifying emissions, usually called the MRV system.
“Importing countries with CBAMs are not just going to take a company’s own data about the emissions associated with a particular commodity and they will want to see that there is a robust and credible national system to measure emissions. This will also be important for any fair carbon taxation system.
“Industry does not typically call for new regulations from the Government, but in this case Trinidad and Tobago does urgently need a national legislated MRV system to be put in place,” the Energy Chamber said, adding that it is committed to working with all its members and with government to make sure that a robust MRV system is legislated and operationalised.
Source-CMC
Tesla Launches Robot taxi Service In Austin
Tesla carried out its “lowkey” launch of its robotaxi service in Austin (Texas) on Sunday, for a select number of people.
Both Elon Musk and Tesla used a number of tweets on X (formerly Twitter) to announce the launch, which saw a small number of invited shareholders, analysts, and pro-Tesla influencers participating in rides that cost a “flat fee” of $4.20 (£3.14). The service was not open to the general public at the time of writing.
Tesla had promised a robotaxi service in June, and ahead of the launch Tesla in May had sent a vehicle onto Austin roads without a safety driver for the first time. A Tesla engineer however was riding in the passenger seat of a Model Y SUV that drove without remote operation.
Elon Musk congratulated the Tesla teams on the successful launch, which he said was a “culmination of a decade of hard work.” Both the AI chip and software teams were built from scratch within Tesla.
t should be noted that Tesla’s robotaxi service does not yet include the two seater ‘Cybercab’ that Musk had touted last year during the robotaxi launch, and it has a human “safety monitor” in the passenger seat who can operate a kill switch.
Tesla also only operated 10 to 20 Model Y Tesla vehicles, and the rides are said to be limited to a relatively safe geofenced area of Austin that has been thoroughly mapped by the firm. This area is said to avoid highways, airports, and complex intersections.
According to media reports, in some cases Tesla is also operating chase cars and remote drivers as additional backup.
Tesla also launched a webpage that outlines rules and guidelines of the service, and gives users a form to register their interest
Source- Silicon News
NHIB STABILISATION- Strengthening NHIB for a Healthier Future
The Ministry of Health and Human Services advises that steady and meaningful progress is being made in strengthening the National Health Insurance Board (NHIB) and the National Health Insurance Plan (NHIP) to better serve the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Over the past few months, the focus has been on stabilising core systems, improving financial oversight, and laying the groundwork for long-term transformation. To date, significant improvements have been seen in system reliability and enhanced financial stability. Efforts have begun to enhance the NHIP’s cybersecurity and disaster recovery capabilities.
Operationally, we continue to identify and embed opportunities to improve care delivery, both locally and abroad, while ensuring value for money and better health outcomes. The Ministry advises that it continues to invest in improved data and reporting tools to support smarter decision-making and enhance transparency.
Most importantly, the MoHHS is committed to building a stronger, more resilient NHIB and NHIP— that are better governed, more responsive to the needs of our people, and resilient to the future. Recruitment for key leadership roles is underway, and our dedicated staff are actively contributing to this transformation.
Commenting on the process, Minister of Health and Human Services – The Honourable Kyle R. Knowles stated, “that whilst this is just the beginning and will be a gradual transformation process, we thank all stakeholders for their understanding and continued support during this period of change. My government and I remain focused on delivering practical improvements today, while preparing for the challenges of tomorrow.
May God continue to bless our Beautiful by Nature Turks and Caicos Islands!”
Tyler Perry is being sued for $260 million over sexual assault claims, which he has denied.
A lawsuit was filed against the actor and filmmaker on Friday, June 13, by Derek Dixon, who plays the character, Dale, in Perry's show, The Oval.
In the complaint, Dixon alleges "a sustained pattern of workplace sexual harassment, assault, and retaliation perpetrated by Tyler Perry" and is suing the filmmaker for alleged quid pro quo sexual harassment, work environment harassment and more.
The lawsuit alleges Perry promised Dixon "career advancement and creative opportunities," only to "subject him to escalating sexual harassment, assault and battery, and professional retaliation when Mr. Dixon did not reciprocate Mr. Perry's unwanted advances."
According to the lawsuit, Dixon and Perry met in 2019 while Dixon worked for an event company that was hired to plan the opening party for Tyler Perry Studios. Dixon claims he was assigned a role at the party that "required frequent conversation with Tyler Perry." According to the lawsuit, the Madea filmmaker and Dixon exchanged phone numbers at the end of the party and Perry began asking the then-aspiring actor about his goals.
The lawsuit states that Perry cast Dixon in his show, Ruthless, and began sending Dixon "strange and untowardly" messages.
In January 2020, the lawsuit alleges Perry invited Dixon to his home in Douglasville County, Georgia, where they drank alcoholic drinks and had "friendly" conversation.
The lawsuit continues that at the end of the night, Perry told Dixon not to drive home and offered Dixon the guest room in his home. The lawsuit alleges Perry assaulted Dixon that night.
According to the lawsuit, following the assault, Dixon tried to ignore Perry's calls or texts, which became more aggressive "until finally Perry offered Dixon a part in a new show called The Oval." According to the lawsuit, Dixon "put up" with Perry's comments due to fear over his role in the show being cut.
"Dixon immediately understood that his job security depended on his 'relationship' with Perry," the lawsuit states. "From this point on, Dixon worked with the constant fear of losing his job if he did not engage with and endure Perry's sexual harassment."
Things allegedly escalated between Dixon and Perry after they filmed the episode where Dixon's character was shot four times, "indicating a seeming end to his role on the show and his termination from the job."
Perry had invited Dixon to his trailer for drinks. The lawsuit states that after he asked Dixon if he was attracted to him and other inappropriate questions, Perry allegedly assaulted Dixon when he was about to leave the trailer.
"As soon as Derek Dixon left the trailer following Perry's violent assault, Dixon became severely nauseous and extremely anxious about his job, careers and livelihood," the lawsuit states.
Another incident took place on Perry's private island in the Bahamas, where the cast was having a party, the lawsuit alleges.
By December 2020, Dixon began "feeling depleted" due to Perry's "continued pattern of sexual harassment," according to the lawsuit. "The assaults and harassment began manifesting in his physical health and Mr. Dixon had no one to turn to."
The complaint alleges that as the sexual harassment continued through the beginning of 2021, Dixon was prescribed an antidepressant for the stress he began experiencing.
In June 2021, Dixon claimed he was invited by Perry to his house again to discuss the pilot for Dixon's show, Losing It. At the meeting, Dixon alleges he was sexually assaulted again.
Dixon decided to move to Santa Monica, California, in or around January 2023, allegedly "to put some distance between himself and Perry." But the lawsuit states that the "quid pro quo harassment and attempts to cover up the sexual assault by promising a show continued." After dangling the promise of producing Dixon's show multiple times, Dixon realized in 2024 that Perry was doing so in an effort to prevent Dixon "from exposing the dark side of Tyler Perry," the suit claims.
When reached for comment, attorneys for Dixon told ABC, "At this point Mr. Dixon has no comment. We believe the complaint speaks for itself."
In response to the lawsuit, Matthew Boyd, an attorney for Perry and TPS Production Services, LLC, said, "This is an individual who got close to Tyler Perry for what now appears to be nothing more than setting up a scam. But Tyler will not be shaken down and we are confident these fabricated claims of harassment will fail."
Good Morning America has reached out to BET for comment.
Source-ABC
Trump says US hits 3 Iranian nuclear sites, plunging America into conflict
The United States struck three nuclear sites in Iran on Saturday, President Donald Trump announced.
B-2 bombers dropped a number of Massive Ordnance Penetrator bombs -- known as "bunker busters" -- during the U.S. mission over Iran, a U.S. official confirmed.
A number of Tomahawk cruise missiles were also fired at targets inside Iran from a U.S. Navy submarine, the official confirmed.
Following the strikes, Trump addressed the nation, calling it a "spectacular military success."
Judge denies government's motion to detain Kilmar Abrego Garcia
A magistrate judge in Tennessee has denied the government's motion to detain Kilmar Abrego Garcia, the mistakenly deported Salvadoran native who was brought back to the United States earlier this month.
In her order on Sunday, U.S. Magistrate Judge Barbara Holmes said the court "will give Abrego the due process that he is guaranteed."
Judge Holmes scheduled a hearing for Wednesday to review the conditions of release.
Abrego Garcia faces criminal charges for allegedly transporting undocumented migrants within the U.S.
Source-ABC
Weekend Scores
NATIONAL BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION
Pacers 91, Thunder 103 (NBA Finals - Game 7, OKC wins series 4-3)
MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL
Orioles 2, Yankees 4
Tigers 9, Rays 3
Rangers 3, Pirates 8
White Sox 4, Blue Jays 2
Braves 3, Marlins 5
Brewers 9, Twins 8
Reds 4, Cardinals 1
Mariners 14, Cubs 6
Diamondbacks 2, Rockies 4
Red Sox 5, Giants 9
Guardians 3, Athletics 0
Astros 8, Angels 7
Royals 2, Padres 3
Nationals 7, Dodgers 13
Mets 1, Phillies 7
The Department of Gender Affairs Recognised at the New Testament Church of God 10th Annual Convention
The Department of Gender Affairs within the Ministry of Home Affairs, Religious Affairs, and Transportation extends its sincere gratitude to the New Testament Church of God, Providenciales, and the organisers of the 10th Annual Convention under the inspiring theme "Go with Fire."
We are immensely honored to receive the prestigious recognition awarded to our department for our dedication and impactful work in promoting gender equality, safeguarding vulnerable populations, and supporting mental health initiatives across the islands. This acknowledgment not only highlights the tireless efforts of our team but also underscores the vital partnerships with agencies, including the Safeguarding and Public Protection Unit, Behavioral Health, Mental Health and Substance Abuse, and the Department of Social Development.
In attendance was Hon. Shaun Malcolm, Minister responsible for Gender Affairs, who delivered a meaningful remark during the service. Minister Malcolm emphasized the crucial role of the church in shaping society and assisting those in need. He expressed his happiness about the partnership with the Department of Gender Affairs to better serve and protect the vulnerable communities of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Mrs. Carolyn Dickenson, Director of Gender Affairs, reflected on this historic milestone the first time the Department has been formally recognized for its invaluable contributions. She expressed heartfelt gratitude, acknowledging that this recognition validates the unwavering dedication of our staff and highlights the importance of our work in combating issues such as gender-based violence, substance abuse, and mental health challenges.
Mrs. Dickenson highlighted the continued sacrifices made daily late-night calls, court reports, and urgent responses to domestic violence incidents which underscoring the department’s unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of our community. While words alone cannot fully express the impact of our work, this acknowledgment fuels our resolve to continue making a meaningful difference.
This occasion energises us to further our efforts to create a safer, more supportive environment where every individual feels protected and valued. We remain committed to collaborative action across sectors to foster positive change within the Turks and Caicos Islands.
We wish to thank the Women’s Ministry of the New Testament Church of God for facilitating this recognition. Your support inspires us to continue serving with dedication, compassion, and resolve.
Department of Behavioral Health Services (DBHS) Bridge Series Addresses the Difference Between Normal Grief & Pathological Grief
On June 18th, 2025, the Department of Behavioral Health Services (DBHS) continued its impactful Bridge Series with a session titled “Differentiating Normal Grief from Pathology.” With 46 attendees, from various professional sectors, but primarily medical personnel, the session sparked a much-needed conversation around how grief is viewed, managed, and supported in clinical and workplace settings. The Session Highlighted the Need for Empathy Over Pathologizing Grief – Especially Among Medical First Responders.
Hosted by Dr. Ingraham, the Department’s Clinical Psychologist, the session featured psychiatrist Dr. Roshida Brown-Clarke, who presented on the urgent need to recognize grief as a natural human experience, not a condition to be diagnosed prematurely. Dr. Brown-Clarke guided participants through the clinical distinctions between normal grief, Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD), and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).
“Grief is not a disorder. It is a necessary, human response to loss,” said Dr. Brown-Clarke, cautioning against the increasing number of grief-related psychiatric referrals made too soon after a loss. She described grief as “a roller coaster”, sometimes sharp and overwhelming, other times subdued and manageable.
She also highlighted the heightened physical and psychological impact of grief in older adults. Of note was a 21.1-fold increase in risk of heart attacks among individuals following the loss of a loved one, underscoring the importance of informed grief care.
Participants were introduced to Complicated Grief Therapy (CGT), a therapeutic approach designed for individuals whose grieving process has become prolonged and disruptive. Still, Dr. Brown-Clarke firmly emphasized: “not everyone who grieves needs a diagnosis or clinical intervention.”
The session also featured key insights into grief in the workplace, especially relevant to medical personnel and high-stress professions:
“Let your humanity show,” encouraged Dr. Alicia Malcolm, the Department’s director, urging supervisors to lead with compassion when supporting grieving colleagues.
“Take things off their plate,” advised Dr. Ingraham, suggesting that coworkers temporarily share duties to reduce strain during grief recovery.
A third suggestion from Dr. Brown-Clarke included extending bereavement leave, allowing individuals more time to heal without pressure.
Dr. Brown-Clarke also offered practical tools to navigate grief, including:
Engaging in spiritual practices, support groups, and learning new skills
Planning ahead for birthdays, anniversaries, and other triggers
Prioritising self-care, rest, and meaningful social connection
Importantly, she cautioned against over-inquiring or intruding on grieving individuals under the guise of concern. “Check-ins should come from a place of care—not curiosity,” she said. Commenting on the training, Hon. Kyle Knowles, Minister of Health and Human Services stated: “Equipping our frontline professionals with the skills to navigate grief with clarity and compassion is essential. We commend the Department of Behavioural Health Services for delivering targeted training that supports sound clinical judgment while honouring the human experience of loss.”
The full session will soon be available for viewing on the Department’s official Facebook page. For individuals seeking grief support or mental health services, please use the booking link and referral form available directly on the DBHS Facebook page.
Turks and Caicos Islands Joins Global Observance of World Blood Donor Day 2025
The Ministry of Health and Human Services proudly joined the international community in observing World Blood Donor Day on June 14, 2025. This year’s theme, “Give blood, give hope: together we save lives,” is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary impact ordinary individuals can have through the simple, selfless act of donating blood.
In the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI), blood donation is more than a medical necessity—it is a community lifeline. Every day, safe blood is needed to support mothers during childbirth, treat children with severe anemia, support complex surgeries, care for accident victims, and provide ongoing treatment for patients with blood disorders and other chronic conditions. A stable and accessible blood supply can mean the difference between life and death in these critical moments.
Hon. Kyle Knowles, Minister of Health and Human Services, emphasized the life-saving importance of voluntary blood donation: “Blood donors are silent heroes whose generosity allows our health system to function at its best. I urge all healthy residents of the Turks and Caicos Islands to rise to the occasion and donate. Giving blood is not just an act of kindness—it is a declaration that we care deeply for one another as a people. Let us give hope, and let us give life—together.”
The campaign also aims to elevate public understanding of how vital blood and plasma donations are to the health and survival of patients. By spotlighting real stories from both donors and recipients, the initiative hopes to inspire new and returning donors to commit to giving blood regularly—not just during emergencies, but as a consistent act of service to their community.
Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Nadia Astwood, shared her call to action: “Blood is one of the most precious resources we have in health care—and it cannot be manufactured. It comes from generous people who choose to give. In the Turks and Caicos, we must build a strong culture of voluntary blood donation, so that we are prepared not just for today’s needs, but for any challenge the future may bring.”
The 2025 observance of World Blood Donor Day also highlights the values of solidarity, compassion, and civic responsibility. It is a celebration of those who give without expecting anything in return—and an invitation to others to follow their example.
The Ministry of Health and Human Services is coordinating a series of community-focused activities across the islands, including blood drives, educational sessions, and public service announcements designed to inform and engage citizens about the importance of blood donation.
We are calling on every eligible resident of the Turks and Caicos Islands to take action. Become a blood donor. Encourage your friends, family, and colleagues to do the same. Make blood donation a habit—not just a reaction. Your contribution could save a life, or many lives, right here at home.
UNITED KINGDOM CARIBBEAN OVERSEAS TERRITORIES HOLD PUBLIC SERVICE SUMMIT
Under the esteemed Chairmanship of Her Excellency Anya Williams, Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service of the Turks and Caicos Islands, the United Kingdom Caribbean Overseas Territories Public Service Summit was successfully hosted in the Turks and Caicos Islands on June 11, 2025.
Held under the theme "Collaboration, Innovation, Impact: Driving Public Value Together," the Summit provided a dynamic platform for strategic dialogue, knowledge sharing and regional collaboration.
The Summit brought together high-level leadership from all six United Kingdom Caribbean Overseas Territories.
Attendees included:
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In her official welcome and address, Deputy Governor and Head of the Public Service, Her Excellency Anya Williams, emphasized the significance of the Summit in uniting public service leaders under a shared vision:
"As the current Chair of the United Kingdom Caribbean Overseas Territories Heads of Public Service, it is an honour to welcome my fellow Deputy Governors and Heads of Public Service to the Beautiful By Nature Turks and Caicos Islands for this year's Public Service Summit.
This Summit, held under the theme 'Collaboration, Innovation, Impact: Driving Public Value Together,' speaks directly to the heart of what we aim to achieve and comes at a pivotal moment in our collective journey as public service leaders.
Across our territories, we are navigating an increasingly complex and interconnected world, one that demands not only resilience, but also adaptability, innovation and strong regional cooperation.
Though our responsibilities as Heads of Public Service are as diverse as our islands, we are united by a common mission: to serve our people with integrity, efficiency, and purpose.
This Summit, followed by the Turks and Caicos Islands Public Service Leadership Forum, provides an invaluable opportunity to learn from one another, to share best practices and to identify impactful strategies to strengthen governance and service delivery across our region.
I encourage my colleagues to fully engage, to explore new perspectives and to foster the enduring spirit of cooperation that defines our region."
Acting Premier and Minister of Border Control and Immigration, Honourable Jamell Robinson, in his remarks, stated, "The decision to host this year's UKOT Heads of Public Service Summit in the Turks and Caicos Islands is both a powerful endorsement and a symbolic milestone, a clear affirmation of our territory's rising leadership and influence within the region. This Summit is more than a gathering of leaders, it is a bold call to action. It reaffirms our collective commitment to excellence, adaptability, and the pursuit of meaningful public value that reaches every citizen, every institution, and every future generation."
Meanwhile, Governor Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam also offered opening remarks, stating, "It is a pleasure to welcome the Deputy Governors and Heads of Public Service from across our sister Overseas Territories to the Turks and Caicos Islands. You gather at a critical moment, as we collectively navigate complex challenges and bold public service reform to meet the evolving expectations of a modern world. For the Turks and Caicos Islands, hosting this event and the Leadership Forum, featuring 200 of our brightest talents, offers a unique opportunity to share insights collectively and connect our future leaders with the wealth of experience of the Deputy Governors and Heads of Public Service. It is through this kind of collaboration that we cultivate innovation, inspire excellence and ensure our public service remains resilient and responsive in a rapidly evolving world."
The Summit takes place during a week of activities hosted by the Office of the Deputy Governor and marks the first time the Public Service Summit has been held in the Turks and Caicos Islands.