“The United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) is headquartered in Santiago and as part of the visit, I was able to meet with the leaders of ECLAC (who) put a proposal on the table which, by our recommendation, will be on its way to Caricom headquarters in the next few weeks.

TT will put it on the agenda for the next Heads of Government meeting in Grenada in July,” Rowley said.

He explained that “the gist of the proposal is to make a major drive for debt relief for all Caricom countries (while) the developed countries who are carrying that debt should be made, not to write off those monies but to put such monies into a fund that can be put to the aid of Caricom countries when shock situations develop.” He said ECLAC recommended the funds be set aside in this manner because their research has shown that “the condition of indebtedness in Caricom is driven by these periodic shocks, whether it’s an earthquake, hurricane and I dare say, a price collapse of the scale we’re experiencing now in oil and gas.

Because our economies are so unidimensional, the loss of revenues force these countries into debt and it’s a downward spiral. You go into the debt but you can’t get out of it.” Meanwhile, in a statement issued the day before, ECLAC’s Executive Secretary, Alicia Barcena, said the commission advocates so that Caribbean nations “are not unjustly qualified as middle-income countries, a situation that complicates their access to financing.” Barcena also argued that special attention should be paid to the triple vulnerability that Caribbean territories suffer with respect to climate change, difficulties financing their economies and high public debt, which, on average, totals 70 percent of the subregional Gross Domestic Product.

She proposed that ECLAC reduce the debt of English-speaking Caribbean island states by pardoning part of their debt to create a resilience fund that allows for financing climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts.

“We are ready to help you. We want to know what your needs are to provide assistance for overcoming the problems that affect the Caribbean today,” Barcena stated.

The ECLAC meeting was one of several on the Trinidad delegation’s packed agenda. Rowley was accompanied on the visit by Energy Minister Franklin Khan, Trade Minister Paula Gopee-Scoon, Foreign Affairs Minister Dennis Moses, and Minister in the Ministry of Attorney General and Legal Affairs/Minister in the Office of the PM, Stuart Young.

Standing at the podium in the VIP Lounge, Piarco International Airport, Piarco while the aforementioned ministers sat at the head table, Rowley said, “We met all the people that we wanted to meet and we met the people who make the decisions.” “Therefore, we now have two things on the table. One is the partial scope agreement, which we will work on assiduously. Minister Paula Gopee- Scoon (and her team) have started that work and we’re going to try and accelerate it. The other one is, we are hoping that we can get an air services agreement, so that we can have better or more useful air transport through TT.” Providing context for the proposed air services agreement, Rowley said members of the Federation of Chilean Industry (SOFOFA) had expressed the view “that TT has the potential to be a clearing house for Chile going forward into the Atlantic and into the Caribbean.” “Tourism, air transport and of course sea transport; now that we are using the Panama Canal in the way that the big ships can, there’s a lot that can come out of it. Hopefully, if we are sufficiently nimble, some arrangements between our business sector and (Chile’s) business sector could see some good things (develop).” Rowley met with SOFOFA members on May 30 when he presented an overview of TT’s energy sector and the plans for its future development to the Chilean energy sector during a breakfast meeting hosted by the federation.

Founded in 1883, SOFOFA is a private, non-profit trade association representing the views and interests of Chilean industry. SOFOFA has 2,500 corporate affiliates, 36 sector association affiliates, and eight regional affiliates.

Regarding TT’s position as a major supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to Chile, Rowley said, “TT is running a significant trade advantage with Chile because while they are buying from us, hundreds of millions of dollars in energy, we buy from them a small amount of other things.” During the SOFOFA talks, “one of the things that came up was how fast can we accelerate our negotiations (to complete) a partial scope agreement which would…allow selected TT products; like LNG, (entry) into the Chilean market duty-free and of course, some Chilean products enter TT’s market.” Rowley pointed out that while Chile has a large number of trade agreements with other countries, there is none in place with TT. “So if we are to not be disadvantaged, it would fall to us to very quickly conclude a proper trade agreement with Chile.” Noting that any partial scope agreement would have to be signed off on by Caricom, the PM said Jamaica, like Chile, is moving to LNG “as their fuel supply.” “In the Jamaican case, it is not TT’s LNG. It’s an American company, which we expect would want to use American gas; a private sector arrangement. We will have to ask for a Jamaican agreement for TT to get a partial scope clearance for certain duties outside. I hope that these discussions will not be insurmountable but it’s a very complex business that’s developing and what we are trying to do here, for our country, is to stay ahead of the game and be in a position to ensure that the interests of TT are protected and well-executed.” Rowley also said the establishment of a partial scope agreement between both countries is important for TT’s LNG exports, particularly since we are now facing potential competition from suppliers in the United States.

“On (May 30), we took a visit to the Port of Quintero where the LNG re-classification plant operates. It’s a private sector plant (GNL Quintero) but it’s at the centre of Chile’s major policy shift to convert its energy use to natural gas. We got there just a few hours after the 299th ship left that pier. We were advised that of the 299 cargoes of LNG that were discharged at that pier, 225 came from Point Fortin.” “I tell you this so you can understand how important Chile is to TT. It’s a replacement market for the markets we lost in Boston and elsewhere. It’s also a market where there’s to be some significant expansion but that expansion is now of interest to our competitors, not the least of which is the United States.” Now that TT is focused on deepening its ties with Chile, a delegation from the South American nation is expected to visit this country “very soon,” Rowley stated, “to follow up on the doors that we’re trying to open.”

The cost of corrosion involves an important part of the gross domestic product (GDP) and takes place in a wide range of examples, from large structures to implants placed in the human body.

From 1999 to 2001, the United States had a total annual direct cost due to corrosion issues of approximately $276 billion, or 3.1 percent of their GDP.

Similarly, in Peru, according to the Teknoquamica company, in the year 2000 losses by corrosion accounted for eight percent of GDP, ie, approximately $1,200 million.

Trinidad and Tobago hasn’t done any study to estimate costs that represent losses by corrosion.

Despite this, problems due to this phenomenon can be felt so it is clear then the need to implement the relevant measures.

There are different reasons why the phenomenon has not been controlled in an appropriate manner, ranging from climatic to economics. The situation, as you might guess, affects equally the majority of Latin American countries in which Governments and environmental conditions are similar. Governments practically do not pay attention to the problem of corrosion, not by lack of trained staff but by the lack of a unified policy on maintenance of structures.

Little by little private companies are becoming aware of the issue of corrosion and the damage the phenomenon causes when it is not addressed in a timely manner. But what is the corrosion? Corrosion can be defined in many ways.

Some definitions are very direct and focus on a specific type of corrosion, while others are very general and cover many forms of deterioration.

The word “corrode” is derived from the Latin word “corrodere” which means “gnawing parts”.

For most purposes, corrosion can be characterised as an electrochemical reaction between a material – usually a metal – and its environment which produces a deterioration of the material and its properties. The metals are rarely found in a pure state but rather are almost always combined with one or more non metallic chemical elements, and ores are usually an oxidised form of the metal. Therefore, a significant amount of energy should be applied to transform the ore into pure metal. This energy can be applied via metallurgy or chemical; additionally, extra energy is required in the form of cold work or by casting processes necessary to transform the pure metal into a usable piece.

Corrosion can be also defined as the tendency of a metal – produced and formed by a substantial application of energy – to return to its natural state of lower energy. From a thermodynamic perspective, the tendency to decrease the energy level is the main force that induces corrosion in metals.

The effects of corrosion in our daily life are classified into direct and indirect. Those affecting useful service of our real life are the direct. Indirect are those in which the producers and consumers of goods and services have influence on the corrosion costs. At home for instance, the phenomenon is observed directly in the automotive, steel burglar proof or windows, metal tools and others.

One of the more serious consequences of corrosion happens when it affects our safety or even life directly. When going about our daily business, we may see a number of problems due to corrosion. For example, on a bridge on the highway, corrosion may occur in the reinforcing steel rod inside the concrete, which can fracture it and, consequently, cause the failure of any section; similarly, the collapse of electric transmission towers may occur. These may damage buildings, structures, factories, etc, without mentioning the environmental impact and costly repairs that follow.

In December 1999, in the Bay of Biscay off the coast of France, the tanker MV Erika sank due to a hull rupture caused by corrosion. The result: approximately 20 thousand tons of crude oil spilled into the sea, which caused great damage to the marine ecosystem.

To control corrosion, it is necessary to know the process or mechanisms of corrosion, or in what manner it originates.

Corrosion takes place in different ways. Its classification is usually based on one of these three factors:

• Nature of the electrolyte: corrosion can be classified as “wet” or “dry”. It is necessary to have a liquid solution or mixture for wet corrosion to occur. Dry corrosion usually involves the reaction with gases at high temperature.

• Mechanism of corrosion: involves electrochemical reactions or direct reaction with a chemical.

• Appearance of corroded metal: corrosion can be uniform where metal corrodes at the same rate along the surface, or it may be localised, in which only small areas are affected.

The most common classification of wet corrosion based on the appearance of the metal is identified in the following forms: general or uniform corrosion; pitting corrosion; galvanic corrosion; corrosion-erosion, which includes cavitationerosion; intergranular corrosion, which includes sensitisation and exfoliation; de-alloying, including dezincification, and environmentally assisted cracking, which includes corrosion under stress, corrosion fatigue and damage by evolution of hydrogen.

In theory, the eight forms of corrosion are clearly distinct. In practice, however, there are cases of corrosion that includes more than one from; in other cases, it does not seem to conform to any of these forms.

Depending on the way in which corrosion occurs, an appropriate technique must be chosen to control it or prevent it.

There are five main primary corrosion control methods:

• Selection of materials.

Resistance to corrosion of a metal depends on the environment to which it is exposed. Once taking this into consideration you can carry out a good selection of materials for a specific use.

• Coatings. Coatings for protection against corrosion can be divided into two large groups: Metallic and non-metallic (organic and inorganic). With any type of coating that is selected the goal is the same: isolating the metallic surface from the corrosive environment. of the corrosive medium.

• Inhibitors. Some chemicals (salts, for example) cause corrosion, other chemicals inhibit it. Chromates and silicates and organic amines are common inhibitors. The mechanisms of inhibition can be a little complex.

Depending of the type, the inhibitor could be adsorbed on the specific sites to override the corrosion current. Others promote the formation of a protective film on the surface of the metal.

Inhibitors can be incorporated in a protective coating as well.

• Cathodic protection. The purpose of cathodic protection is to eliminate the current associated with the electrochemical process that occurs in wet corrosion.

For this an external artificially generated current is impressed over the structure. A system comprising a sacrificial material (anode) is used, such as zinc or magnesium, which are connected to the structure to provide protection. While the anode corrodes the adjacent structure is then protected.

• Design. The application of principles of design can eliminate many problems of corrosion and reduces the time and cost associated with maintenance and repair. Corrosion occurs frequently in small spaces or loopholes in which corrosive medium starts to be more aggressive. These areas can be eliminated or minimised in the design process. Where the corrosion under stress is possible, the components can be designed to operate at low levels of stress.

For all the above, it is very important that the engineers or specialist in corrosion, materials engineer, maintenance supervisors and reliability engineers to have sufficient knowledge to control this phenomenon. They must recognise it and know what is its origin and its severity; They must keep themselves updated on the tools and methods available today, as well as the inspection techniques, the effects of design variables, how to interpret and apply information on the corrosion and know where to get help.

For more information on corrosion you can contact our Metallurgy department at: Caribbean Industrial Research Institute (CARIRI) Trincity West Industrial Estate, Macoya.

Telephone: 285-5050 ext. 3110 E-mail: metallurgy@carir

History is not on the side of the visitors but coach Dennis Lawrence has, from day one on the job, stressed to his players that they “must write their own history”.

“It’s right there in our hands for the taking. We must show how much we want it. This team, the players, must write their own history,” Lawrence said.

TT have not scored a goal against the hosts on US soil since the 1996 Gold Cup – a double by Arnold Dwarika in a 3-2 defeat. And the last time TT secured a point away to the US in a World Cup qualifier was in May 1989 when Hutson Charles’ last gasp equaliser earned a 1-1 draw in California.

In 23 meetings since 1982, TT have won only twice, both in Port of Spain, lost 17 and drawn four.

“We are always considered the underdogs when we come up against the United States moreso because of the results but the only way to begin changing that concept is by turning the tables and we have another chance to start this come (today),” said captain Kenwyne Jones.

“The history is rich between the two teams and while they have gone on to play in more World Cups and are a much bigger country that we are, I think that when it comes to stepping onto the same field, anything is possible. We have the right mentality and with the right approach and desire, we have demonstrated that a result is not beyond us,” added the Atlanta United FC striker.

TT has a injury-free compliment of players with US-based handful of Kevin Molino, Joevin Jones, Kevan George, Mekeil Williams and Kenwyne Jones all ready to produce the goods along with Shahdon Winchester, Daneil Cyrus, Jamille Boatswain, Hughtun Hector, Radanfah Abu Bakr, goalkeepers Jan Michael Williams and Marvin Phillip.

Veteran Carlos Edwards has lots of memories when it comes to battling the Americans.

“The rivalry is a long one from since I was a kid in 1989 to then coming up against them maybe five or six times in World Cup qualifying football as a player,” said the evergreen wing-back. “Every game is different but I don’t think the occasion is one that can easily get the better of us.

“Hometown advantage is always critical but we know what we are here for and it’s a level playing field from the opening whistle. What we have to do is finish the game with more of everything, more energy, more legs, and more points,” Edwards added.

Seattle Sounders’ Joevin Jones will be up against club teammate Clint Dempsey and he’s ready for the face-to-face battle.

“Clint is a really good player.

We are teammates at Seattle but in this game we’re on opposite ends. I think our players will have to keep an eye on him because he could be dangerous.

But generally, I’m focused on playing my game and doing well,” Joevin Jones noted.

“We have never won here in the US but I think if we stay focused we can get a good result.

The key to playing in the conditions is getting the lungs opened up early. As the game progresses I think both teams will have challenges but it’s all about who can last the full 90 (minutes),” Jones ended.

We are happy that the framers of this policy arrangement would have seen the need to level the playing field and allow members and all citizens the right to place their funds in an organisation of choice rather than being forced to enter into arrangements made for them by third parties. This demonstrates to us that the Honourable Minister of Social Development and Family Services, Cherrie-Ann Crichlow- Cockburn and her team are forwardthinking.

We believe that this will augur well for success of the new initiative on this occasion.

The League’s Chief Operating Officer, Ms Dianne Joseph, speaking of this new thrust, expressed much optimism about the readiness of credit unions to welcome new members and to continue to act for and on behalf of the current ones to ensure that the process is an easy one for them.

She referred to Newsday’s article of Saturday June 3, 2017 and confirms that the League was also in receipt of numerous complaints from members who had encountered challenges with cheques, stolen or damaged cheques. More importantly, the League was very concerned about its members who were not allowed to place their funds in their credit union accounts, but rather at other financial institutions, some posing major transportation challenges to get to and from the venue. There are also the issues of long lines and the missing social side of the work necessary to fully explain account details for those affected.

Joseph boasted that the nature, structure and intent of credit unions are more specifically geared towards an initiative of this form. This is directly within our purview and ambit and we have been the driving force of meeting the needs of our members when it comes to social work. We provide free financial counselling, retirement advice, guidance on the preparation of Wills and other forms of education to allow members to enjoy their retirement and in the case of disability grants or other public assistance to allow them to not feel less than anyone else in society.

One of our major themes is ‘People helping People’. We take pride in our members.

Our member credit unions are ready to be a part of the process and once all the formalities of the arrangement have been completed, we will be fully on board with the Ministry and by extension our Government to ensure that our people are well cared for.

Credit union are not for profit, but for service organizations and this will benefit all persons who become members for this purpose.

Those who do not now understand the importance of saving a little out of a little will be taught to do so.

The benefits of will be far-ranging and everyone will be able to access the quality products and services that will take them up a ladder of financial comfort, despite their circumstances.

We invite every citizen to contact us at 671/4704 or via creditunionleague@gmail.com for further information and guidance.

We are the National Umbrella Body for credit unions and we will cover our citizens during the good and challenging times, Joseph ended.

Newallo, a 20-yearold Maraval resident, was chosen from among eligible applicants from the Caribbean and Latin American countries in which Payless is offering the scholarship: Costa Rica; Dominican Republic; El Salvador; Honduras; Guatemala; Nicaragua; Panama; and Trinidad and Tobago (TT).

Payless ShoeSource (BVI) Holdings Limited established the scholarship fund in 2009.

It said, “Our intention to supplement the fund by annual contributions so that it becomes selfsustaining within ten years.” The scholarships will be awarded on academic and needs criteria, while the grants will be awarded to UM students on a needs basis. The scholarship recipient must be an applicant to the UM School of Business who not only demonstrates financial need, he/she must maintain above average grade point average; applicants must have the equivalent of an “A” average in secondary school and rank in the top five percent of their class.

The scholarship is awarded by UM’s Office of Financial Assistance Services, with the assistance of its Office of Admission.

Selected in 2016, Newallo is currently pursuing a degree in Geological Sciences with minors in business, mathematics and psychology.

Speaking with Business Day, she said, “I started classes in August of last year. I hope to go to graduate school… in the future and study geophysics.” Newallo attended St Monica’s Preparatory Primary School, Port-of-Spain then St Joseph Convent, Portof- Spain.

“My parents always ensured that my siblings and I (Mariessa and Matthew), were not only focused on academics. So I was very involved in sport, music and community service throughout primary and secondary school.” Asked how she found out about the scholarship, Newallo said an admissions representative from UM “called and told me about (it) and informed me that I was short-listed with two other students for this specific scholarship.” How has the Payless scholarship impacted her situation? Newallo told Business Day it’s given her “a great sense of financial security and removed the financial burden from my parents for my four years here at UM. It has opened up many doors of endless opportunities that I never thought possible and I am eternally grateful.” “Being able to attend an institution as technologically advanced and as amazing as the UM is a dream come true and I will give back to my community and sweet TT,” Newallo assured.

The Payless scholarship was officially presented to Newallo by UM president, Julio Frenk, at a ceremony held in San José, Costa Rica on March 30.

According to the article, “New future for LatAm, Caribbean students at University of Miami”, published on the website, www.news4europe.eu, Frenk said “…talented young people of the region should not be stopped from developing their potential because if they do well, their respective societies will also do well.” The article also noted that UM promotes the emergence of Latin America and the Caribbean as prominent voices in the global dialogue, and seeks to develop a strategy based on wide associations and institutional consortiums.

“The project includes collaborating on research and data exchanges, along with exchange programmes for students and professors, in order to get the Americas and eventually the world on the road to integration,” News4Europe stated.

For more information on how to apply, visit the UM website at www.

miami.edu/

We asked some attendees if they were concerned about how changes in the GATE programme would affect their schooling.

One parent was unaffected by the changes, at least for now. He has a daughter studying in Canada.

Meanwhile, his son who is the second year of his IT degree is safe. As he started the programme before last year’s changes, his degree will be fully funded until he finishes.

The parent was concerned about a younger daughter still in secondary school though. He thought his portion of the fees for her degree will be exorbitant. He doesn’t remember Minister Garcia breakdown of the parents’ contribution under the new GATE system amounting to hundreds of dollars per month according to the degree, with totals of less than $4,000 for most programmes.

Another parent looked wistfully around the campus. Even though he was there for his daughter, he told us he would have liked to have gone back to do a Master’s programme. He can’t though. He is now over the age limit for funding. They seemed to be in a minority, however.

“Most people didn’t ask about GATE,” said an administrative officer on duty for the afternoon shift, “I provided the information because it was there.

But it didn’t appear to be a concern.” But if funding does not yet appear to be a concern at public educational institutions, it certainly is at the private ones. When we last wrote about the GATE programme, we projected that the private institutions would feel the brunt of the cuts. We wrote: “The first big losers are likely to be private tertiary institutions. Several of the private tertiary schools we approached were reluctant to discuss their enrolment prior to GATE and after its introduction as well as their levels of profitability over the same period.

However, some extrapolations can be made based on other information.

Government expenditure for GATE has steadily increased over the past 10 years… From 472.8 million in financial year 2006/07, both the finance and education ministers have estimated that between $650 and $700 million has been spent on GATE every year since 2010.

Additionally, checks with the Accreditation Council of Trinidad and Tobago show that roughly over the same period, 81 institutions sought to be registered. An institution cannot be considered for GATE unless it is at least registered with ACTT. Documents on the Education Ministry’s scholarship division page average that the cost of a post graduate degrees at a public tertiary institution is roughly $70,000, the cost at the Arthur Lok Jack Graduate School of Business, is around $100,000 and the cost at other private institutions is around $140,000, or about twice that of the public schools.

Even though undergrad degrees cost less, they are also more expensive at the private institutions owing to the fact that a number of them are foreign based.

“The above would indicate that over the past 10 years, private institutions have been receiving a handsome portion of GATE funding, although the figures do not show if they have been receiving more or less than public institutions.” We have subsequently been able to obtain figures for the cost to taxpayers of nationals’ schooling at private tertiary institutions. From 2004 to 2015, the government has spent $212,786,822 at private institutions, just slightly over half of the $421,875,568 spent at public institutions.We also noted at the time that private institutions were likely to see significant reductions in GATE funding support because several of their degree programmes were not aligned to stated national skill priorities. It appears as though our projections were right, if reports coming out of the private tertiary education sector are any indication.

Business Day has sought interviews with executives at several of the country’s leading private institutions, but again, as was the case last year, was unsuccessful.

Sources tell us, though that the situation is likely to be grim.

At one major institution, closure of branches is already being considered in anticipation of lowered class numbers.

According to our sources, the GATE administration office of the Ministry of Education has signaled that funding will be cut “across the board” at private institutions. At another institution, the administration has signaled changes to lecturers’ rosters. Previously, the lecturers were signed to a fixed contract over the school year. Now, they will be paid according to class numbers. One source told Business Day that the silence on the issue continues to be disturbing.

“The ministers aren’t communicating with us at all,” they said.

In turn, the schools aren’t able to provide much information to current or prospective students.

“People need to know what’s going on so that come 2017. Students need to be able to come in and be able to ask questions. And not be startled when they come in and find out that programmes they thought were funded are no longer and they will now be covered out of pocket,” said the source.

Business Day attempted to reach the GATE Administration Office through its office numbers and email, however, we were unsuccessful in getting responses.

Next week, we explore the GATE issue further, as we attempt to contact the both the Minister of Education and the GATE Administration Office for an update on how the programme intends to treat with private institutions.

The group organised a tour of the First People’s Museum and a tree-planting event at the First Peoples’ Community Centre and the site for the Amerindian Heritage Village, Blanchisseuse Road respectively. A moriche palm, a red flamboyant and a yellow poui were planted by the Chief Ricardo Bharath-Hernandez, the Canadian High Commissioner Carla Rufelds-Hogan and Hakwai Clan. The event also launched Hakwai Clan’s tree-planting and land rehabilitation exercise to be conducted on July 8 at the Toco Forest Reserve on 25 acres of land allocated by the Forestry Division.

The commission has pledged a grant for this project.

According to Hakwai Clan, the partners were strategically selected as the First Peoples have developed a programme of activities to increase their visibility. The group also want to place “much-needed spotlight on the First Peoples’ ongoing struggles and, in particular, their newly-returned land.” Also, Canada being the host nation for WED is also celebrating its 150th Anniversary of Confederation with a focus on youth engagement, the environment, reconnection to indigenous peoples, and inclusion and diversity, said a media release.

Corporate secretary for Hakwai Clan Rudolph Hanamji said the initiative was designed “to give life to the theme of this year’s WED – Connecting People to Nature”.

“WED gives us a perfect opportunity to come together and give back to the land that supports us all – indigenous and non-indigenous –- all members of the ecosystem alike,” Hanamji said.

Bharath-Hernandez praised Hakwai Clan for “its foresight in leading such a project and the Canadian High Commission for its support”. He noted that “the First Peoples, whose world view is firmly rooted in nature… have depended on [it] for physical sustenance and intellectual, moral, social and spiritual growth.” He used the occasion to recognise the oneoff holiday on October 13 to celebrate the First Peoples and to invite all indigenous people across TT and the region to unite.

Mayor of Arima Lisa Morris-Julian, herself a descendant of the First Peoples, applauded the project and called on Hakwai Clan and young people to get more involved in national development and that of our indigenous communities.

Hogan-Rufelds shared similar sentiments.

She said “no people are more connected to nature than indigenous peoples.

They have a special relationship with the earth and all things living in it that goes back thousands of years. They have a rich knowledge, history and special skills in environmental stewardship. They have extraordinary contributions to make in discussions and decisions around climate change and sustainability.

We need to listen to them.” Hogan-Rufelds said she is “particularly excited to be in Trinidad and Tobago where the Tobago Main Ridge Forest Reserve is on record as the oldest legally protected forest reserve, established on April 13, 1776. Scientific American magazine has commented “that the protection of Tobago’s Forest was the first act in the modern environmental movement”.

Hakwai Clan was founded by a group of diverse young people with the aim of creating positive change.

Its founder Jeremy Tai Chew and some of its members such as director Jason Calderon are actually part-descendants of the First Peoples. The word hakwai, loosely means mixed, and not only describes the group’s members but represents TT ’s diversity and the fact that we are stronger in unity, the release said.

For more info: Facebook @HakwaiClan.

“Such effects as the quantum increase in congestion, road rage, drivers’ focus on looking for cops rather than attention on the road.

I spend more effort in scanning in front, behind, on ramps, at the side, type of vehicle used by cops etc – than I spend on keeping track of traffic six cars ahead and three cars behind me for proper safety. I have reduced my moving offence tickets to zero over the last two years (knock on wood!) but I am more stressed and subject to road rage than the average driver. I typically drive within the first standard deviation above the 75 percentile! “You will probably ask, why don’t I simply obey the speed limit etc? Well, if revenue collection is the goal, almost every car on the road within the speed limit if not committing some other offence, is still going to commit an offence in the next five minutes anyway – since there are so many rules that everyone is always breaking one at any particular time.

Not coming to a dead stop (defined as holding stop for 2 seconds) at stop sign or on red signal, stopping over the white line, eating, drinking or handling a phone or anything else in your car – even if stopped, accelerating “too fast” off the signal, reckless or aggressive driving – at the discretion of the police etc…

“It is not unusual for the police in slow periods, to drive behind you for several km in unmarked vehicles, waiting for you to change lane not to their liking etc.

“Apart from this, the loss of respect for the police, citizens’ feeling of being highway-robbed by their government through the police – will have priceless damage to the cooperation between citizens and police – something that will further aggravate the crime situation in the country.

“And, yes why are so much police resources being put on the highway, when crime is running at meltdown level in murders, rapes kidnapping etc?” Laws are supposed to be established for the protection of the public and the regulation of the unreasonable behaviour of a few individuals.

International traffic investigations have shown that most people will drive the roadway as they perceive the conditions, and will ignore a speed limit that is unrealistically too low. A realistic speed limit is voluntarily obeyed by the reasonable majority, and more enforcement effort can be applied to the unreasonable few who drive too fast or too slow.

An unrealistic speed limit that is too low will: (a) Make the behaviour of the majority illegal; (b) If enforced, will cause antagonism toward enforcement personnel and traffic laws in general, and create an image of law enforcers as revenue generators; and, (c) Result in speed differentials in the traffic flow, which are wellknown to be significant contributors to traffic crashes. Speed differential is the range of vehicle speeds within the traffic stream. A large variation in these speeds complicates the driving task and necessitates sudden braking, multiple lane changes and other compensating driving manoeuvres.

An appropriate speed limit will result in the maximum number of vehicles travelling at about the same speed, thus reducing conflicts caused by speed differentials. The 85th percentile speed, that speed at or below which 85% of the traffic is moving, is widely accepted as being closest to that appropriate speed.

Of course, other traffic investigation factors must also be taken into consideration.

It is critical to furnish enforcement personnel with a guide as to what appropriate actions for a segment of road so that enforcement actions may be consistent and fair. For example, it is not uncommon for a backhoe to be lumbering along the highway, the driver completely unconcerned about its impact on the traffic. It is illegal, but has any backhoe driver been charged for the offense? Also, many motorists regularly coast down the right lane or centre lane of the highways driving at the speed limit., although they are not overtaking. Has any of them been pulled over for this action? Further, on the highway, slower vehicles are supposed to move over to allow faster traffic to pass, and drivers should stay in the slow lane except to pass. Fat chance that happening here, except when the blue lights are in the rear! I have argued several times for higher highway speed limits. I would also like to see speed limit adjustment and enforcement for the following:

• Residential zones;

• School zones;

• Other collector and local roads with pedestrian and cycling activity;

• Road work zones; and,

• Minimum highway speed limits.

e-mail: info@ccost.org

I have been working at the same job for a number of years and a pay rise is long

overdue, but I’m a bit nervous about asking for one. How can I approach this topic

with my boss?

~ Pending Pay Increase

Dear Pending Pay Increase,

For many employees, the thought of asking their boss for a raise can be terrifying.

Lots of people, particularly women, simply don’t enjoy negotiating, and others simply don’t know how. And yet, the art of negotiating is a key skill that determines one’s personal financial success. It may also be an important skill that can assist in narrowing the genderpay disparity in some jobs.

Several research studies have shown that, in general, men tend to view negotiations as a game, whereas women tend to dread the thought of them.

Regardless of gender, successful negotiations are all about preparation.

Here are some key pointers to help you prepare for that important conversation with your boss

• Acknowledge the dual goals in a negotiation An employment contract is exactly that – a contract. You provide a company with your skills and expertise in exchange for a paid salary. Recognising this fact should reduce some nervousness and allow you to focus on understanding the needs that underlie both parties’ position on the issue. This would help you find creative ways to satisfy seemingly competing interests.

• Be proactive and prepared It’s not enough to say that you deserve more money simply because you have been around for some ti me. When you’re an important asset to your company, negotiating a raise becomes easier – so be prepared to prove your value. Maintaining a record of your professional contributions, instances when you saved the company money, boosted sales or went above and beyond the call of duty, all add credibility to your request. If you obtained any recent training or credentials that will benefit your company, throw that into your toolbox as well. The key point here is to focus on your professional contribution. Remember this is a professional relationship, so never bring your personal financial situation into the discussion. Make sure that you are asking for a raise because you deserve it and not because you simply need more money.

• Conduct research It would go a long way to have a number in mind when you meet with your boss. Knowing what your position is paid in other companies would help you set a realistic request. Try getting some insights into the pay range for your field and position from colleagues, HR managers or recruitment fi rms.

• Determine your BATNA What’s a BATNA? It’s your Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement. Granting a raise may not be entirely in your boss’ hands, and in some cases a company may truly be unable to give one. Envisioning the kinds of objections your boss may have allows you to determine what your best alternative to a monetary increase would be before entering the meeting.

Perhaps you may want to consider alternatives such as, extra vacation days, flexitime, telecommuting, tuition reimbursement, a more prestigious job title, attendance at an international professional conference? Knowing your BATNA gives you greater negotiating power if your boss says no to a monetary raise.

• Find the perfect timing Think about the best time to approach your boss on the topic. Perhaps aft er a stellar performance review, or after taking on added job responsibilities? Maybe you recently won a professional award? Finding the perfect timing is all about keeping your value to the forefront of your boss’ mind, so that your case is easier to present. Avoid scheduling the meeting around busy periods when your boss may be under stress, or around periods of slow sales which would make it challenging for your boss to justify a raise.

• Practice, practice, practice! Practice helps you overcome any fear you may have about asking for a raise, and it gives you the opportunity to iron out any kinks in your case. Find a trusted friend and role play! • Approach the topic professionally Remember, your relationship with your boss is a professional one, and you want to keep it like that. Approach the meeting with your boss as two parties in a business agreement trying to reach a compromise.

• Respond professionally to a possible “No” There are many factors that management must consider before granting a pay increase.

Often times, employees are unable to see the bigger picture and organisational impact of these factors. If your boss says no then request professional feedback so that you would know what you need to do to get a “yes” the next time around. If the reason for the no is because of financial constraints, then consider suggesting a promotion – it is easier for your boss to rationalise a higher salary for higher level work. If your boss keeps up with a no, simply state that you understand his/her position and end the meeting.

Salary negotiations can be uncomfortable for your boss too. The most important thing you can do is to focus the meeting on your professional contributions – don’t compare yourself to co-workers. You also want to remain realistic in your request – don’t expect to go from a junior position to senior management with a heft y bonus.

However, if you are consistently doing an exceptional job, and your boss consistently says no, it may be ti me to start considering moving to a company that is willing to pay you what you deserve.

GOOD LUCK, AFETT.

AFETT is a not-for-profit organisation formed in 2002 with the goal of bringing together professional women and engaging in networking opportunities, professional training and business ideas.

ASK AFETT is a column meant to address issues and concerns of professionals seeking advice to assist in progressing in their careers. Today’s response was written by AFETT member, Donna Thomas – managing director at Enkindle Business Consultancy Ltd., director of Research & Public Advocacy at AFETT, business consultant, strategist and university lecturer.

Learn more about AFETT at www.afett .com, search for AFETT Events on Facebook, follow us @ AFETTEXECS on Twitter or contact us at 354-7130. Email us your career-related questions at admin.

afett @gmail.com.

Roach, in last season’s truncated 2016-17 calendar, became the youngest player in the history of the Pro League to finish top scorer, eclipsing Jason Scotland __ who held the feat since 2000 __ by months.

The 21-year-old Roach, a former Defence Force and Morvant Caledonia United attacker, netted 12 league goals from two rounds (18 matches) while shouldering adversity following the death of his mother Akeisha Roach (pneumonia), stepfather Sheldon Bernard (murdered), and grandparents Mura and Dobson Roach, all within the early months of 2016.

It is said that losing a parent, let alone the multiple losses for Roach, can be one of the most devastating things that can happen to a child or young adult. But, for some, the death of a mother or father is a spur, a propellant that sends them catapulting into life.

“It was very tough for me losing my mother and family so very close to me,” Akeem recollected.

“It all happened months apart. It was very hard, but although is still very hard to accept, it made me more focused in life: my career as a footballer, being closer to God and being a better person.

“My mother (always) wanted me to pursue my football dreams, so all I want to achieve is to make her proud.” Now one of the leading relatives in the life of his seven-year-old brother Azeem Roach, Cocorite resident Akeem Roach wants to also make his sibling proud.

“I try to be mother, father and brother to him (Azeem). And more importantly I want to be someone he can look up to and be very proud of.” Roach, in the past, had been encouraged to enrol in the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force through his footballing ability, but says while his heart isn’t shut on the Tetron Boys, his aspiration is to play at a higher level in Europe.

Roach has opted not to renew his status as a Sando player for the new 2017 season, which begins tomorrow, choosing to explore possible opportunities aboard as his local handler Dane Mapp, of Integrity Sport Management, is hoping to secure a trial in Norway, Sweden or even Azerbaijan.

The former East Mucurapo Secondary School student was a member of Trinidad and Tobago provisional training squad in Colorado, USA, preparing for FIFA World Cup 2018 qualifiers at the United States (today) and Costa Rica (June 13), hence Mapp’s decision to arrange trials after the international fixtures.

But an ankle injury, picked up in a 1-0 practice match win over Colorado side Boulder FC, resulted in him being left out of coach Dennis Lawrence’s 24-man squad.

“I am committed to working really hard,” explained Roach, who had continued training alongside his Sando teammates prior to jetting off to the US last month with the TT team.

“I had to (endure) a lot, maybe more than some or less than others, but thinking about everything that I’ve been through, pushes me to work harder and to push towards my dream of playing professionally abroad.

“Last season matured me a lot into understanding that hard work really pays off, and I believe the professional environment (aboard) will help improve my development as a player.” Mapp, who credits himself as a key player in the United States moves of TT internationals Kevin Molino and Cordell Cato, as well as Ataulla Guerra and Neveal Hackshaw at US club Charleston Battery, said, “He (Roach) made a big recovery last season following the deaths of his mother and stepfather to hit 12 (league) goals and eight assists. He wants to make it abroad. And, I can tell, it wasn’t an easy decision for him to turn down joining the Defence Force (as a member of the regiment).” Last February a trial at Charleston Battery went sour for Roach, now Mapp turns his attention to another continent.

Eve, meanwhile, has already begun adjusting for life without the talented Roach, who boasts speed, strength, skill, and of course the appetite for goals, which can be produced by either boot.

“We at Sando want the best for him (Roach) and any player who can make better for themselves abroad,” said Eve, a former TT captain. “We allowed him to continue training with us so that he can be available to (TT) coach Dennis Lawrence for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers as well as be ready for possible trials abroad.

We imagine he wouldn’t be with us for the new season so we have been preparing based on new adjustments.” Point Fortin Civic winger Akeem Redhead, Morvant Caledonia United midfielder Akim Armstrong, and, most recently, the experience of released San Juan Jabloteh trio – midfielder Keyon Edwards, winger Tyrone Charles and forward Jamal Gay have all been snapped up by Eve.

Adan Noel, a 22-year-old former W Connection youth player, has also been acquired by Sando and is another goal-scoring option for Eve, while Enrique Changiah goalkeeper has been added to the goalkeeping department.

For this season Eve has also recruited teenagers Kareem Blake Williams, Malique “Mosquito” Quow, Raygun Jawahir and former St Ann’s Rangers and TT Under- 20 forward Rushawn Murphy under his wings at Sando.

Former Guyana international Charles Pollard, a part-time assistant coach with the Golden Jaguars, has returned for another season as assistant coach to Eve while Michael Maurice has joined on as goalkeeper coach.

Sando will set the ball in motion for the 2017 Pro League season when they play Morvant Caledonia United in the opening game tomorrow, from 6 pm, at the Ato Boldon Stadium, followed by defending champions Central FC against San Juan Jabloteh from 8 pm.

(ttproleague.com)