Labour Rights Clash: On Labour Day, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar defended the 2026 Vesting Bill and legislation restoring Oilfields Workers’ Trade Union (OWTU) rights after Petrotrin’s 2018 restructuring, accusing Opposition MP Stuart Young and the PNM of union-busting and “union busting” tactics, while NATUC and other labour voices pushed for faster backpay and fair wages. Backpay Pressure: TTUTA said $900m earmarked for teachers’ 2025 backpay has “disappeared” and urged clarity, warning it will pursue lawful options if funds remain missing. Housing Procurement Reset: The Housing Development Corporation cancelled its controversial $3.4b Design-Build-Finance housing programme, saying it will re-tender to avoid delays and disputes. Crime Plan & Emergency Tools: TTPS Commissioner Allister Guevarro defended the state of emergency as adding tools to existing crime-fighting plans, citing preventive detention and warrantless entry powers. Digital Scam Warning: The Finance Ministry warned of a deepfake video falsely showing Minister Davendranath Tancoo endorsing forex schemes, urging the public not to share it. Ratings & Growth Signals: Moody’s upgraded T&T’s outlook from negative to stable, citing improved external prospects and debt management. Water & Wastewater Works: WASA launched a TT$20m wastewater pipeline replacement project in Beetham Gardens to tackle long-standing sewerage issues. Business & Payments: CIBC Caribbean cards can now be added to Google Wallets across several territories including Trinidad, boosting digital payment convenience.