March 7, 2024:- The Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries (MALF) has conducted a comprehensive investigation into the welfare of the Red Kangaroo housed at the Emperor Valley Zoo. A specialised team led by MALF’s Chief Technical Officer (Ag), Denny Dipchansingh, and Director of Animal Production and Health, Dr Michelle Mellows, was deployed to the zoo to assess the conditions and health of the animal in question.
Upon thorough examination, the team determined that the animal, which was the subject of concern, is in fair health. Veterinary experts found the kangaroo to be bright, alert, and responsive to stimuli. The assessment report indicated that the animal moves with ease within its enclosure, indicating a satisfactory level of physical activity.
It should be noted that the Zoo does not only house wildlife for public display. In different sections of the facility, the Zoo keeps animals seized by Game Wardens and used as Court Exhibits; it houses wildlife rescued or recovered from around the country and it houses wildlife surrendered to the Zoo by keepers who cannot continue to maintain the wildlife. This wildlife are in different physical condition and every effort is made to care for them and improve their condition.
The Red Kangaroo was brought in January 2023 with physical issues from another facility to the Zoo. Based on the MALF team’s observations, the kangaroo is estimated to be between 15 and 20 years old, which is consistent with the expected level of muscle loss at that age. The enclosure which the animal is housed in was deemed adequate for the animal’s movement and activity, ensuring its well-being.
Furthermore, the investigation revealed that since the kangaroo was brought to the Zoo, it has been provided with a wholesome diet consistent with standard care. This diet includes fresh vegetables and specially formulated chow supplemented with minerals. Routine checks for parasites are conducted, with all tests returning negative results. Environmental enrichment tests are also regularly performed to assess the animal’s responsiveness to its environment.
Key officials from the Ministry, including Chief Technical Officer, Denny Dipchansingh, Director of Animal Production and Health, Dr. Mellows, and Dr. Lisa Musai, along with other veterinary officers, were present during the assessment. Representatives from the Zoo also participated, ensuring transparency and collaboration in our efforts to uphold animal welfare standards.
In light of these findings, Senator Kazim Hosein, Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring the welfare and well-being of all animals under its care and supervision. “The health and safety of the animals in our care are of utmost importance to us,” stated Senator Hosein. “We will continue to monitor the situation closely and take appropriate action to address any concerns that may arise.”
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March 4th, 2024:- The Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries acknowledges the public’s concern regarding recently circulated photographs depicting a Red Kangaroo housed at the Emperor Valley Zoo. We want to assure the public that we take all matters concerning animal welfare seriously and are deeply committed to the well-being of the animals under our care.
Upon receiving reports of the photograph, the Ministry immediately investigated the matter. We can confirm that the Kangaroo in question came into the care of Emperor Valley Zoo in 2022 following the closure of another facility. At that time, the animal was reported to be between 15 and 20 years old. Red Kangaroos typically live up to ten years in the wild; they can live up to 25 years in captivity.
Since the animal’s arrival, a dedicated team of zoo administrators has diligently worked to provide the necessary care and support for all animals at the Emperor Valley Zoo. This includes regular health checks, proper nutrition, and enrichment activities tailored to the kangaroo’s needs.
Earlier today, the Ministry deployed a veterinary team to assist the personnel of Emperor Valley Zoo in assessing the kangaroo’s health and well-being. Based on their recommendations, appropriate measures will be taken to ensure the animal’s welfare is properly addressed.
The Ministry wishes to reassure the public that we are fully committed to upholding the highest standards of animal welfare. We will take swift and decisive action, as necessary, to ensure the welfare of all animals under the state’s care.
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March 2nd, 2024:- Senator the Honourable Kazim Hosein, Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries urges members of the public to refrain from starting bushfires as it causes harm not only to humans but also wildlife.
The Wildlife Section of the Forestry Division along with Game Wardens, has been diligently investigating and patrolling the Rahamut Trace Woodland area on a daily basis. After assessing the situation, the Forestry Division has determined that the increase in bird population is a result of temporary migration caused by the low water table and the abundance of food sources, alongside heightened safety measures.
Regarding wildfires, their impact on flora and fauna can be profound in various ways. One of the most severe consequences is the physical harm and potential loss of life among animals directly affected by the fires. The flames themselves pose a significant threat, as does the smoke and smog, which can disorient organisms by irritating their eyes and hindering their breathing. These factors often prompt animals to flee to nearby residential and commercial zones. Moreover, the effects of wildfires can extend beyond the immediate event. Surviving animals may suffer injuries and find themselves without habitat. Even those not physically harmed may face challenges due to the loss of their food sources, leading them to search for alternatives and potentially bringing them into contact with human settlements, increasing vulnerability to new predators and hazards such as vehicle collisions.
During disasters like wildfires, it is not uncommon to observe wildlife in unexpected locations, including residential and commercial areas, as they scatter in search of resources and refuge.
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March 1st, 2024:- Senator the Honourable Kazim Hosein, Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, wishes to notify the public of the closure of the 2023-2024 Hunting Season effective March 1st, 2024.
Minister Hosein reiterates his commitment to preserving this country’s ecological balance, stating, “I am deeply committed to safeguarding our precious wildlife and preserving their habitats for present and future generations. We must recognise the critical importance of ensuring the sustainability of our diverse ecosystems.”
In light of this commitment, the Minister is urging strict adherence to the regulations set forth for the closure of the hunting season. He says, “These regulations are not mere guidelines but essential safeguards to protect our environment and the well-being of our invaluable wildlife.”
Minister Hosein wishes to remind the public that failure to comply with these regulations will result in legal consequences, “The Ministry is steadfast in upholding the laws that protect our natural heritage.”
The following regulations apply during this period:
I. Hunting Prohibition: Hunting activity of game animals must cease on all lands of Trinidad and Tobago.
II. Carcass Disposal Deadline: Persons have until March 31st, 2024, to dispose of Game Animal carcasses (or any part thereof) from their property or possession.
III. Data Return Requirement: Holders of Hunting Permits purchased for the 2023-2024 Hunting Season must submit the Mandatory Data Return Forms on or before May 31st, 2024.
IV. Enforcement of Regulations: Failure to comply with the completion and return of data forms by May 31st, 2024, may result in a summary conviction with a penalty of Five Thousand Dollars (TT$5000.00) per form.
V. Penalties for Non-Compliance: Members of the public are kindly asked to refrain from hunting during the closed season as perpetrators will incur a fine of One Hundred Thousand Dollars (TT$100,000.00) as amended by Legal Notice 275 of 2020.
Mandatory Data Forms can be submitted to any of the following stations:
District Revenue Office, Tunapuna: 868-662-2797
Forestry Office, Rio Claro: 868-225-3743
District Revenue Office, Chaguanas: 671-4773
Forestry Division, Long Circular Road, St. James: 225-3861
Forestry Division, Balisier Avenue, Pleasantville, San Fernando: 225-3777 / 3774 / 3772
Forestry Division, Sangre Grande: 225-3728
Department of Natural Resources & Forestry, Milshirv Administrative Complex, Corn. Milford and Shirvan Road, Tobago: 868-639-2273
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February 29th, 2024:- The Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries (MALF) would like to remind the public that the annual sea turtle nesting season begins tomorrow, March 1st, and will continue until August 31st, in Trinidad and Tobago. During this crucial period, the MALF emphasizes the importance of preserving sea turtle habitats and urges vigilance in beach activities to minimize disturbance to nesting sites.
Beachgoers are urged to exercise caution and refrain from engaging in activities that may disrupt sea turtle nesting behaviors. This includes refraining from biking, driving vehicles, building sand castles, or mining beach sand, as well as avoiding the use of flambeaus, fires, headlights, or any bright lights along the shoreline. Such activities can disorient sea turtles, leading to potential abandonment of nesting sites or disorientation of hatchlings.
To ensure the protection of sea turtles and their nesting sites, the public is encouraged to follow these guidelines:
– Refrain from sitting on turtles, as this can cause serious harm to their organs and may result in death.
– Reduce marine debris, such as plastics and fishing gear, to prevent entanglement of sea turtles.
– Participate in coastal clean-up efforts to remove debris and minimize hazards to marine life.
In cases of witnessing any harm to sea turtles, turtle eggs, or hatchlings, members of the public are urged to report such incidents to the Forestry Division, the Environmental Management Authority (EMA), or the Trinidad & Tobago Police Service for immediate action.
It’s important to note that all five species of marine turtles visiting Trinidad and Tobago’s shores, including the Leatherback turtle, Green Turtle, Loggerhead, Olive Ridley, and Hawksbill, are protected by law under Legal Notice No.89, Vol.53, No.37. The penalties for causing harm to sea turtles include a fine of TT$100,000 and a two-year jail term, as stipulated by the Conservation of Wild Life Act (CoWA).
For those interested in turtle viewing, permits can be obtained at designated Forestry Division and District Revenue offices during regular business hours, Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays). Permits are required for entry into Prohibited Areas, including the main nesting beaches at Fishing Pond, Matura, and Grande Rivière. Strict adherence to guidelines provided by authorized tour guides and cooperation with law enforcement officers is essential at all times.
Permit Locations and Contact Information:
– Forestry Division, Long Circular Road, St. James, Phone: 225-3861
– Forestry Division, Pleasantville, San Fernando, Phone: 225-3777 / 3774 / 3772
– Forestry Division, Damarie Hill, Sangre Grande, Phone: 225-3728
– District Revenue Office, Ramsaran Street, Chaguanas, Phone: 671-4773
– District Revenue Office, Tunapuna, Phone: 662-2797
The Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries thanks the public for their cooperation in safeguarding our marine biodiversity and ensuring the conservation of sea turtles during the nesting season.
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23rd February 2024:- Senator the Honourable Kazim Hosein, Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, distributed over $5 million in cheques to 50 farmers today. These farmers were all recipients of the Agricultural Finance Support Programme (Agro-Incentive Grant), which was introduced in 2018 and disbursed over $25 million to more than 200 stakeholders. The program seeks to empower farmers to modernise their facilities, adopt new technologies, and improve efficiency and safety in their agricultural practices. It has been highly influential in achieving its goals.
During the 6th cycle of the Agricultural Finance Support Programme distribution ceremony, which took place on February 23rd, 2024, at the City Hall Auditorium in San Fernando, Minister Hosein urged the farming community to make use of the various services offered by the Ministry. He confidently stated that “the grants and services offered through the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries are specifically designed to engage and empower farmers and fisherfolk, and have proven to be highly effective in promoting sustainable agricultural practices. By doing so, the region can take a significant step towards reducing its food import bill and achieving greater food security.”
During his address, Minister Hosein also outlined other initiatives under the Ministry’s comprehensive approach to agricultural development, including the Agricultural Incentive Programme (AIP), which offers cash rebates in 92 categories to support the development of agricultural practices. The Minister explained to the audience that, “these categories include vehicle purchases, integrated pest management systems, advancements in livestock, tree crops, and agro-processing, and have been carefully designed to meet the diverse needs of the agricultural community.”
He also took the opportunity to highlight the Flood Relief Compensation program, which provides essential support to farmers affected by natural disasters. He encouraged stakeholders to access the resources available through the Ministry’s website to support their agricultural endeavours, stating that “we are committed to ensuring that our farmers have the support they need to succeed, and we will continue to work tirelessly to promote sustainable agricultural practices and achieve greater food security for our region.”
Today’s event was also attended by the Honourable Foster Cummings, Minister of Youth Development and National Service and the Honourable Symon De Nobriga, Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister – Communications, His Excellency Imam Edy Mulyono, Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Trinidad and Tobago, Senator the Honourable Avinash Singh, Minister in the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries and other key stakeholders in the sector.
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February 19th, 2024:- Three individuals are anticipated to be charged under the Firearms Act after a joint operation led by officers of the Game Wardens Unit and the Estate Management and Business Development Company (EMBD) resulted in the discovery of three homemade shotguns and ammunition in their possession on Sunday, February 18, 2024.
The primary objective of this operation, spanning TPD Road, Navet, Charuma, Tabaquite, and the Central Range Game Sanctuary, was to rigorously enforce wildlife conservation regulations and combat the pervasive threat of illegal hunting, which poses a grave danger to our invaluable wildlife and fragile ecosystems.
During the patrol, officers encountered a parked vehicle adjacent to a hunting camp in the Charuma area. Upon hearing gunshots, the team intensified surveillance efforts, leading to the apprehension of three individuals approaching the hunting camp, each armed with firearms. Subsequent search and apprehension operations uncovered three homemade shotguns and a significant quantity of 12-gauge ammunition in their possession. None of the individuals held a valid Firearm User’s License or were exempted under the Firearms Act. Consequently, they were promptly detained and are currently undergoing processing at the Rio Claro Police Station.
Senator the Honorable Kazim Hosein, Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries, stresses the critical importance of adhering to legislation aimed at protecting our natural resources. He affirms, “The seizure of these illegal firearms serves as a stark reminder of the government’s unwavering dedication to preserving our environment and ensuring public safety. We remain steadfast in our commitment to taking decisive action against those who flout our laws and endanger the integrity of our ecosystems.”
The Minister urges members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to illegal hunting or firearm possession to the appropriate authorities.
The operation was conducted under the vigilant supervision of Conservator of Forests, Mr. Denny Dipchansingh, and Game Warden II Richard Ramlogan, who led a joint patrol to monitor and deter illegal hunting activities. The Ministry emphasizes its unwavering stance: illegal hunting will not be tolerated, and decisive action will be taken against anyone engaging in this criminal activity.
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