The symposium was held at Hilton Trinidad and Conference Centre, St Ann’s. In addressing the group comprised of medical professionals from across the region, Deyalsingh said, “We have to start to introduce into the national conversation a new disease called the sitting disease and you have to start to talk to your patients about this sedentary lifestyle… We drive to work, sit down whole day, your children sit down to play video games…The fact is we sit too much.” “And what I have noticed, our elderly who suffer and those who have hypertension, they feel that when they wake up on a morning and take their tests, they have done their part for the day in treating their conditions. And you know what they do for the rest of the day? They sit. We have to tell our people, the young and the elderly, that sitting is probably the most dangerous thing you can do for your health.” He called on the professionals to join with him and the ministry to, “recalibrate the way we think with respect to addressing issues like hypertension, diabetes and gestational-diabetes.” Deyalsingh added that the ministry also wanted to start a national conversation on TT’s diet.

He said humans did not evolve to the extent that a diet of 2,500 calories was necessary.

Food marketers, he added, would have people believe that people needed 2,500 calories per day or that 3,000 calories per day is necessary.

Part of the ministry’s plan is to change the way people looked at food and called on the medical professional to be advocates of this change.

He also called on the society to join with the ministry to formulate a national policy to tackle paediatric obesity. He added that for the first time in 2016 there were zero maternal deaths at the Mt Hope Women’s hospital after being criticised for comments made on the matter last year.

“In 2016, for the first time, Mt Hope Women’s Hospital recorded zero maternal deaths because someone paid attention to the data and put measures in place.” Sharing statistics on the patients who visited and interacted with medical professionals at Eric Williams Medicals Sciences Complex, Deyalsingh said, “Total inpatient ward admissions for Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex (EWMSC/MT Hope), is 23, 730. Adult A&E, some of them there because of endocrine disorders is 58,641.

Paediatric A&E, 53,460 patients. Outpatient Clinics, 117,565 patients in Eric Williams alone.

This is not San Fernando where the burden of endocrine diseases are.

It is higher. Surgery, 6, 626 patients. Giving you a grand total of patient Interactions at EWMSC of 260, 072 patients.

“Prescriptions filled at EWMSC alone was 229, 564. How much of that is due to diabetes and hypertension,” he asked.

“Radiological services, 143,883; laboratory investigations, 2,136,267 at EW MSC. Measure that, manage that and a lot are due to endocrine disorders,” he said.

At 8 am, the church was filled to capacity while others who could not get in, stood inside tents pitched nearby as Archbishop of Port-of- Spain Joseph Harris officiated at the Mass.

A statue of the Virgin Mary, kept in the church, has become famous as it is worshipped by Hindus and Catholics alike on Good Friday and has been christened ‘Suparee Mai’ by Hindus. Harris called on the congregation to unite as one and to have complete faith in God at all times. “This is the only way to deal with any kind of difficulties in life,” he said.

At noon worshippers carried the statue on a make-shift platform on to a vehicle and it was ready for a parade through the streets of Siparia. The feast of La Divina Pastora is celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Easter. A large crowd followed the procession by foot from the Church on La Pastora Street, through Mary Street and onto Daisy Voisin Street and High Street. They then turn into La Pastora Street and back into the church. the procession took one hour to complete.

During the Mass yesterday, dozens of people including children gathered on the pavement near the church waiting for alms from worshippers which has become part of annual devotions to ‘Suparee Mai’.

This is the time of year to look out for many new releases. If you haven’t taken the plunge into Japanese literature, you might want to check out Six Four by Hideo Yokoyama.

The Japanese have mastered the art of literary surrealism, and their detective novels, edgy and often downright strange, penetrate the seedy, Japanese underworld that remains invisible to the tourist. In this novel, Yokoyama, who is the John Grisham of Japan, investigates a kidnapping that evokes memories of one of his botched cases.

While we’re on the subject, one of my favourite Japanese writers, the surrealist writer Haruki Murakami has a new book out: Men Without Women.

Set for release on May 9, Men Without Women promises to be a collection of humorous short stories.

Haruki is best known for his novels – my favourite being the Wind-up Bird Chronicle, but his short stories are a short, wild, literary ride into memorable surrealism.

Every novel Murakami has written seems to have been a practise run for Wind-up Bird Chronicle If you enjoyed The Girl on the Train, one of the best psychological thrillers I have ever read, then you’ll want to check out Paula Hawkins new novel: Into the Water.

Hopefully, Hawkins’ novel about a single mother and teenage girl who are found dead at the bottom of a river will register the same suspense as The Girl on the Train, a riveting read to the final page.

May also brings the release of Rising Star: The Making of Barack Obama by David J Garrow. Early reviews have been mixed with some critics saying there is not much new information about the former US President in this biography, but Internet stories claiming Obama had lived with and proposed to an American woman of Japanese/Dutch descent perked up interest in the book.

House of Names by Irish author Colm T?ib?n, also released in early May, retells the story of Clytemnestra, who ruled ancient Mycenae in her husband King Agamemnon’s absence.

Like all good Greek stories, there’s plotting and intrigue galore as Clytemnestra plots to kill her husband when he returns from Troy. T?ib?n’s historical writing is vivid and compelling.

He’s a masterful storyteller.

I loved The Master, T?ib?n’s novel of American writer Henry James, who is one of my favourite writers.

Everyone is talking about the newly released Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann, a staff writer for the New Yorker. Grann brings the excitement and detailed research of New Yorker investigative pieces to this true story set in the 1920s. This is the horrific story of a sinister plot that resulted in the murders of Osage Indians in the 1920s, when someone discovered their reservation happened to be sitting on a fortune.

Young Adult (YA) literature just keeps getting better and the new release everyone is talking about is And We’re Off, a light travel/romance novel about a travelling team of mother and daughter by Dana Schwartz. It’s good to have a funny YA novel for a change.

In October, 2017 historian Ron Chernow will release a new biography. The author of the hugely successful biography Hamilton, which inspired the Broadway play by Lin Manuel Miranda, will examine the life of Ulysses S Grant, head of the Union’s army during the Civil War in a biography simply entitled Grant.

Many new books will be released in time for the long holiday so be on the lookout for great, new reads.

The two-day string music festival was hosted by the Court Street Chamber Orchestra in San Fernando under the musical direction of Swedish-born violinist Gunilla Tang Kai.

This year’s festival theme was “Positive Energy with Strings Attached.” Boodram, 16, a Form Five student and violinist with Court Street Chamber Orchestra, copped the challenge trophy in the 16-19 age group, ensembles division.

He was accompanied by Anup Maharaj on the tabla drums. Over 130 musicians from throughout the country participated in this year’s festival.

Only first-place winners received trophies and cash awards.

Second place winners received certificates of participation from adjudicators John Wineglass and Latoya Patterson.

Other winners were: Tyler Chamberlain, playing Vlatva – Smetana on cello; Mark Haynes – concerto – (double bass); Aamir Nabbie – My heart will go on (guitar). Under 9 winners were: Lisdra Anne Ramlal (cello) and Katelyn Lochan (violin). Winners in the 12 – 15 category were: Jemina Cyrus (violin), Neylan Cassim, Nerya Cassim, Nathaniel Cassim and Tyler Chamberlain (cello).

Rushworth Street Instrumental Ensemble won the large ensemble prize with a piece titled, “You are my hiding place.” Marina Gayah (violin) and Mawasi Warner (double bass), won in the adults category.

Three-time Emmy Awards winner Wineglass is from the United States and was the chief adjudicator and was also a special guest artiste.

Other guest performers were Eleanor Ryan and Simon Browne who are two music professors at the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT).

In presenting the prizes, Wineglass, who conducted the theme music for the movie “Superman”, said: “Students today must not think about what they would become but engage in what they can do.

A police report stated that shortly before 5 pm, a man went to the home of Nicholas at Lazarie Road in Poole Village, Rio Claro, and called out to him.

Relatives responded that Nicholas was inside and the man walked past them, entered the house and opened fire. Relatives scampered for safety and the man walked off.

The police report added that relatives later discovered Nicholas’ body with a gunshot wound to the neck. Officers of the Rio Claro Police Station and Homicide Bureau visited the scene. Police said that only on Wednesday last, the father of two was released from prison.

He had several matters pending for robbery and larceny-related offences, police said. An autopsy is expected to be performed today at the Forensic Science Centre in St James. No arrest has been made and investigations are ongoing.

There is much to be gained from caregiving. It can be very rewarding, satisfying and pleasurable, but it is also a complex and burdensome role which society believes should be faced with fortitude, stoicism and an air of disaffectedness. But that’s misplaced bravado because between 40 percent to 70 percent of caregivers have symptoms of clinical depression, and co-existing anxiety disorders.

Most of those who care for a family member with low-functioning ASD would have found themselves suddenly thrust into an unfamiliar and intimidating role. Nonetheless, it’s one done with sterling devotion even to the detriment of their own mental wellness.

ASD caregiving is often a longterm commitment fraught with difficulties and personal sacrifices, that sometimes leads to emotional burnout. Yet, most ignore the link between their own mental health frailty and their caregiving role.

There are many intervening variables in low-functioning ASD caregiving which can make it emotionally onerous, such as coping with the complexities of the disorder with little or no appreciation from the affected individual. This usually happens because those with the disorder are generally not aware of other peoples’ feelings, and they can be prone to giving inappropriate or insensitive emotional responses to situations. They may also struggle with understanding intention, and with expressing empathy.

This can frustrate the carer who is also being denied the emotionally enhancing effects of receiving overt expressions of gratitude. In other words, there are times when caregiving can feel like a thankless chore.

The mental well-being of caregivers (especially if they are of an old age) may also be affected by their co-morbidity of chronic physical ailments such as hypertension, diabetes or heart disease. Additionally, if the caregiver is a family member unable to work due to the responsibility, the ensuing financial burden can undoubtedly exacerbate mental discomfort. There are also carers who may have forfeited financially and psychologically rewarding careers or made other social sacrifices to look after a family member, and though they may sometimes feel resentful of the situation, they do their best to maintain a fa?ade of being unaffected.

Other societal factors also impact on the mental well-being of caregivers, such as those instances of discrimination when unkind or cruel comments are made about the person with ASD. Prejudice and stigma have an emotional impact on the entire family, not just the affected person.

Those factors coupled with the caregiver’s constant worry about whether or not they are providing the right quality of care, will invariably impact on their mental health and self-efficacy.

Therefore, they need to be aware of their own vulnerabilities and pay attention to their psychological wellness by: Looking out for signs and symptoms of exhaustion, anxiety, stress or depression, and seek appropriate support and early interventions.

As difficult as it may be, it is important that caregivers remind themselves that they are not superhuman, and everyone has limitations.

On those occasions when feelings of guilt, resentment or anger emerge, the key is to acknowledge them, accept them, and refrain from self-chastisement – they are just natural emotional responses to difficult circumstances.

Finding relief in respite by taking time out to refresh, renew and re-energise makes for more effective caregiving. Reaching out to others and asking for help can be difficult, but it is vitally important that carers attend to themselves and their own needs, and indulge in pleasurable things from time to time.

It is well documented that when caregiving is performed with kindness, love and loyalty, those connections can release mood-enhancing hormones that improve mental health, and by carrying out the duties with a continued sense of admirable devotion, while also finding time to laugh, will decrease stress hormones and enhance emotional wellness.

Dr Yansie Rolston FRSA is a UK-based disability and mental health specialist advisor. She is a social strategist and trainer who works internationally at various levels of government, business and civil society. Contact her at yr@efficacyeva.com

The children are required to undergo a psycho-educational assessment which is done by a private entity and can be quite costly. This assessment is used to analyse the mental processes underlying each child’s educational performance.

The balance of the contribution is channelled into attendance at a private special education school for two of the children, as well as medical assistance and facilities maintenance as needed.

Manager of the home Sr Annunciata de Souza in expressing her gratitude for the support said in a media release: “We are ever so grateful for the contribution that Massy Foundation has given and continues to give. Because of this we are able not only to afford supplemental education for our children but to meet other needs within our institution as well. May God continue to bless the work that they do.” Gregory Sloane- Seale, Massy Foundation director said: “The Foundation recognises the immense financial strain that is often put upon establishments such as this one. It is our hope that with our continued annual support, the Christ Child Convalescent Home will be in a better position to meet the needs of these children who require special care and protection.” The home was established in 1946, when its original function was to provide care for children recuperating from surgeries associated with rheumatic fever and heart conditions.

At that time, the young patients were sent to the home due to the lack of beds at the hospital.

Over the years, there was a shift in the services provided, with the Carmelite Sisters who managed the home changing their focus to the critical need of providing a “home” for at-risk children. It was then that the Christ Child Convalescent Home took on the daunting challenge of providing a safe and loving environment for these children to thrive.

Residents’ ages range from two to ten years and they receive round-the-clock care and supervision by dedicated staff.

The home, located in Diego Martin, caters to 33 children who have been abandoned, abused or sent there through the court system and the Children’s Authority of Trinidad and Tobago.

Since the home relies on the generosity of organisations and concerned citizens to assist in meeting their financial needs, donations and volunteerism are always appreciated.

Christ Child ensures that all of the funds received are spent specifically on the children, the release stated.

Other approved increases included $149,491,000; $21,857,680; $10 million; $751,100 and $4,920,270 for the National Security Ministry; Elections and Boundaries Commission; Parliament; Tax Appeal Board and the Service Commissions.

Indicating that further details will be provided next Wednesday, when the Mid-Year Review will be presented, Finance Minister Colm Imbert said the strategic threat assessment project dealt with issues such as, “strategic threats to critical installations, strategic threats to national security.” National Security Minister Edmund Dillon said this built on the existing threat assessment centre, through capacity building. Dillon stressed that too many details could not be provided for security reasons. During discussion on the increase for his ministry, Dillon disclosed that a US$89 million contract which the former People’s Partnership (PP) government entered into with Chinese telecommunications company, got National Security Council approval but, “it was discovered there was never Cabinet approval for the expenditure.” As Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar expressed surprise, Dillon said US$59,918,500 had been paid to date on this contract and Government is rectifying the situation. Imbert said there was no need for the increased monies to National Security Ministry to be used to pay backpay for police officers or compensate the families of officers killed in the line of duty, as those matters had already been taken care of.

Regarding Parliament’s expenditure, Imbert said the Parliament would determine which constituency offices were high risk and allocate security accordingly. He said it was the “obligation of every MP” to report break ins at their constituency offices to the Parliament and the House Committee was a forum to do so. Oropouche East MP Dr Roodal Moonilal quipped, “the House Committee is not the police station.” Leader of Government Business Camille Robinson-Regis then reminded MPs about a situation where an Opposition MP allowed a police officer to use his constituency office under questionable circumstances.

Benny and Flowers beat 28 other finalists who were tested over the weekend by Manchester United Soccer School coaches Mike Neary and William Miller who were joined yesterday by United legend and national Sports Ambassador Dwight Yorke.

Benny, a classy midfielder, known for his dead-ball delivery and ability to use both feet, impressed not only Yorke and the Manchester United coaches but turned the heads of other Caribbean coaches present including Jamaican Albert Burkett who said he was sure he would be picked.

Speaking to the media after he was named among the top two, Benny declared: “Dreams come true, Manchester’s my side man.

That was my dream to go and support (United midfielder Paul) Pogba and them…I expect to go there and see good players play, Paul Pogba there and Juan Mata my favourite players and hope I get to touch him and get a training session with them.” Benny, a student of St Anthony’s College, admitted the weekend’s drills and games were difficult but said he just had to step up and fight for his country.

It was clear to all that it was no weekend vacation for the 30 youngsters in the finals with cotton helping clot the bloody nose of Flowers, players limping prodigiously and a weary look on some players’ faces.

Yorke reminded the aspiring footballers that nothing will be achieved without hard work. The former national captain, speaking prior to the announcement of the winners, urged the youngsters who were not selected to not give up on their football dream despite being obviously disappointed.

“We know today was a bit difficult for some of you, we’ve seen some of the players walking around hobbling. But that’s why it’s called the Flow Ultimate (Experience). It means you’ve been tested in all departments of the game…This is not going to be easy. It’s never going to be easy for anyone but if you have the desire and the determination to succeed no matter where you come from, you can do it,” he said.

York congratulated all the footballers for making the finals and commended them on their overall demeanour to the weekend’s activities and challenges.

“I love the attitude of the players.

It’s been very challenging, I know the pitch wasn’t great for you guys but you got on and didn’t moan about it…I have to say looking from the outside, you did yourself very proud and not just yourself but your family and the country that you represent,” he added.

Sports Minister Darryl Smith congratulated Flow for their vision in hosting the venture, saying that they’ve seen the future of the region and have invested in it.

He urged the young footballers to take all they’ve learned over the weekend and use it to continue improving and also share their knowledge with their peers.

Batting first, Queen’s Park’s middle and lower order were rallied by Daron Cruickshank (70) and Terrence Hinds (73) that lifted them to 280 all out in 49.5 overs. Hinds was particularly severe on Central Sports’ bowlers with five fours and five sixes in his knock which came off 49 balls. Cruickshank was less aggressive but was still quite potent with his 70 coming off 82 balls with two fours and five sixes. Royston Crandon (4/56), Shazan Babwah (2/46) and Rakesh Maharaj (2/49) were among the wickets.

Central Sports, who lost the national T20 final on Friday, struggled badly in their chase, slipping to 77 for eight inside 20 overs.

Babwah, batting at number eight, brought some respectability to the score with a quick-fire 57 from 65 balls as Central Sports were eventually bowled out for 146. Medium pacer Kevon Cooper (4/23) did the early damage for Queen’s Park. Meanwhile, Tableland lost by default against Merry Boys after pulling out the tournament on Saturday.

Other scores: POWERGEN 291/5 – Evin Lewis 127, Jason Mohammed 59; Sanjiv Gooljar 3/61 vs VICTOR IA SC 222/8 – Garey Mathurin 90, Farrel Jugmohan 45 not out; Mark Deyal 2/40, Akeil Cooper 2/42.

CLARKE RO AD UNITED 239/9 – Jyd Goolie 91, Gregory Mahabir 81 not out; Rayad Emrit 3/58, Bryan Charles 2/33, Imran Khan 2/30 vs ALESCON COMETS 101 – Imran Khan 35; Kerwyn Sirju 3/15