The key points are temporarily unavailable. You can still read the full Story below.
Main Points
Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander issued a public apology yesterday for the prolonged delays in processing passport applications, noting that some citizens are scheduled for appointments as far out as mid‑2027. Alexander said the government is working toward an electronic passport system, with a target launch at the beginning of 2027. He explained that the transition and modernization of the Immigration Division would inevitably cause some inconvenience, but that new technology would ultimately streamline the process. Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles pressed the minister for answers, pointing to reports of appointment dates stretching into 2027 and concerns over a shortage of machine‑readable passport booklets. Alexander responded that the division’s problems were inherited from previous administrations and compared the challenges to those faced by the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service. In July, the ministry announced that 50,000 booklets were received in October 2025 and another 12,000 in June 2026, with an additional 48,000 expected in September. Despite these shipments, the ministry averages fewer than 6,000 passports issued per month and has not disclosed a firm cost or selection date for the e‑passport provider. Alexander urged citizens to remain patient during the transition, assuring that “all will be well” as the government works to modernize the passport system and reduce delays.
Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander issued a public apology yesterday for the prolonged delays in processing passport applications, noting that some citizens are scheduled for appointments as far out as mid‑2027.
Alexander said the government is working toward an electronic passport system, with a target launch at the beginning of 2027. He explained that the transition and modernization of the Immigration Division would inevitably cause some inconvenience, but that new technology would ultimately streamline the process.
Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles pressed the minister for answers, pointing to reports of appointment dates stretching into 2027 and concerns over a shortage of machine‑readable passport booklets. Alexander responded that the division’s problems were inherited from previous administrations and compared the challenges to those faced by the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service.
In July, the ministry announced that 50,000 booklets were received in October 2025 and another 12,000 in June 2026, with an additional 48,000 expected in September. Despite these shipments, the ministry averages fewer than 6,000 passports issued per month and has not disclosed a firm cost or selection date for the e‑passport provider.
Alexander urged citizens to remain patient during the transition, assuring that “all will be well” as the government works to modernize the passport system and reduce delays.
News Desk is the editorial publishing account for Tringlobe Media News, covering breaking news, public affairs, entertainment, community developments and regional stories across Trinidad and Tobago, the Caribbean and internationally.
