Purpose: To present a descriptive framework that will provide the foundation for future exploratory research on the socioeconomic impact of Chronic Non‐Communicable Diseases…
Abstract
Purpose: To present a descriptive framework that will provide the foundation for future exploratory research on the socioeconomic impact of Chronic Non‐Communicable Diseases (CNCDs) in Trinidad and Tobago. The paper also attempts to initiate discussions regarding the placement of greater emphasis on preventative health care. Methodology: Time series data was used to paint a picture of the changing epidemiological profile within the country. Secondary data was also utilised to illustrate changes in policy within the country. Data was obtained from various key stakeholders inclusive of Government Ministries and the Central Statistical Office of Trinidad and Tobago. Findings: CNCDs are the leading cause of death in Trinidad and Tobago and attempts have been made to address these issues. Recurrent expenditure continues to constitute the majority of health sector spending with programmes like the Chronic Disease Assistance Programme (CDAP) directly targeting the rise of CNCDs. However, at the time of writing, there appeared to be very few linkages between the various relevant stakeholders to facilitate the combination of their expertise which would undoubtedly aid in reducing the impact of CNCDs on the economic earning potential and social fabric of Trinidad and Tobago.
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Reshma Mahabir and Dindial Ramrattan
– The purpose of this paper is to examine the presence of a gender wage gap in Trinidad and Tobago and its possible influences.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine the presence of a gender wage gap in Trinidad and Tobago and its possible influences.
Design/methodology/approach
Investigation of the issue utilised data from the 2008/2009 Household Budget Survey. A combination of linear regression and Oaxaca-Blinder decomposition analysis permits segregation of wage differences into explained and unexplained.
Findings
At the aggregate level, there is a significant difference between male and female wages. Investigation showed that the demographics with the highest levels of discrimination were in the age groups 35-44, income levels $3,000-$5,999 and private sector employment vs public sector.
Originality/value
The results of this research can serve as a useful tool for more gender-sensitive employment policies in Trinidad and Tobago, and possibly the wider Caribbean region.
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Karen Anne Roopnarine and Dindial Ramrattan
The purpose of this paper is to investigate empirically some of the factors which influence the ability and/or desire of women to join the labour force in Trinidad and Tobago.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate empirically some of the factors which influence the ability and/or desire of women to join the labour force in Trinidad and Tobago.
Design/methodology/approach
The methodology used is based on a probit model employing variables such as education, age and earnings to estimate the probability of participation. Additionally, the influence of country‐specific qualitative factors, such as ethnicity and religion, were also considered.
Findings
The results of the model revealed that the level of schooling, age, household headship, and being single have positive influences on female participation in Trinidad and Tobago. Conversely, the presence of children in the household, accessing social security programmes, and chronic illness had negative effects on participation.
Social implications
National surveys such as the Survey of Living Conditions (SLC) and the Household Budget Survey (HBS) have revealed a higher incidence of poverty among women compared to men in Trinidad and Tobago. One possible reason for this is the corresponding lower labour force participation rate of women when compared to men.
Originality/value
This research is particularly unique since it included both economic and non‐economic variables (religion and ethnicity) specific to the Trinidad and Tobago economy to investigate female participation in the labour market. Furthermore, the results of this research can serve as a useful tool for more gender‐sensitive policy formulation in Trinidad and Tobago, and possibly the wider Caribbean region.