Carib Scope

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  • BTL Cuts Out the Middleman, Offers Severance Directly to Worker

    BTL Cuts Out the Middleman, Offers Severance Directly to Worker

    In a significant corporate development, Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL) has announced it will voluntarily provide severance packages to all qualifying former employees, including those whose claims technically fall outside the statutory six-year limitation period. The company’s legal representative, Kileru Awich, confirmed this decision during a press briefing on February 26, 2026.

    Awich emphasized that while BTL maintains its legal position regarding statutory limitations, the telecommunications provider has chosen to extend payments as a gesture of good faith. This move comes despite the complete breakdown of negotiations with the Belize Communication Workers for Justice (BCWJ) union, primarily due to disagreements over interest calculations on back payments.

    The company’s counsel revealed that over 500 severance requests are currently being processed under Section 183 of Belize’s Labour Act. This provision covers employees with at least five continuous years of service terminated without cause, plus those with ten years who resigned and qualify for gratuity-equivalent payments.

    Awich notably stated that the decision represents no admission of liability by BTL, but rather a practical resolution to benefit former workers. The announcement follows sustained protests by BCWJ outside BTL’s headquarters demanding severance payments, with additional demonstrations expected due to the collapsed negotiations.

    The legal counsel shared that some union-represented workers have independently contacted BTL expressing willingness to accept the company’s terms, highlighting divisions within the former employees’ group regarding the negotiation strategy.

  • Fisheries Department Levels Up with High-Tech Data Training

    Fisheries Department Levels Up with High-Tech Data Training

    The Belize Fisheries Department has completed a comprehensive 10-day training initiative marking a significant technological advancement in marine resource management. The specialized program, “R Studio Training for Fisheries Data Analysis,” represents a strategic shift toward data-driven conservation approaches in the face of mounting environmental challenges.

    Conducted through a collaborative partnership between the Ministry of Blue Economy and Marine Conservation and the University of Belize, the training was led by Dr. Arlenie Rogers, an assistant professor specializing in marine affairs and fisheries science. Participants gained practical expertise in utilizing R programming language to process complex fisheries datasets, perform sophisticated statistical analyses, and generate advanced visualizations for monitoring marine ecosystem changes.

    This capacity-building initiative addresses critical pressures including climate change, habitat degradation, and increasing fishing activity in Belizean waters. The transition from basic record-keeping to advanced computational analytics enables more transparent, science-informed policymaking for sustainable fisheries management.

    Financial support for the program was provided through the Government Strategic Allocation project, with funding mechanisms from the Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future and additional backing from the Blue Bond and Finance Permanence Unit. This investment underscores the national commitment to strengthening marine governance frameworks and developing comprehensive Marine Spatial Plans for long-term ecological preservation.

  • Trump acknowledges US campaign has damaged fishing industry

    Trump acknowledges US campaign has damaged fishing industry

    President Donald Trump’s declaration during his State of the Union address has revealed unintended consequences of U.S. maritime security operations, acknowledging significant damage to Caribbean fishing industries while touting successes in drug interdiction. The president credited his administration’s military campaign with virtually eliminating aquatic drug trafficking routes into the United States, but simultaneously noted the collateral impact on regional fishing activities.

    The remarks arrive during a period of heightened anxiety among Caribbean fishing communities, particularly in Saint Lucia where recent drone strike incidents have resulted in fatalities including two Saint Lucian nationals. Local fishermen now operate under increased apprehension, with many reconsidering their traditional livelihood due to safety concerns.

    Caribbean fishing practices—which frequently involve pre-dawn operations and multiple engines for safety—are being misinterpreted by security authorities as suspicious behavior, creating dangerous ambiguities for legitimate workers. Generations of maritime tradition now face unprecedented pressure as enforcement tactics designed for criminal networks increasingly affect ordinary fishermen.

    While the administration frames these operations as essential for combating drug cartels, terrorism, and foreign interference in the Western Hemisphere, the practical implementation raises serious humanitarian questions. The designation of cartels as terrorist organizations and characterization of fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction have justified intensified surveillance, but potentially at the cost of civilian welfare.

    The situation has prompted calls for Caribbean governments to seek clarified operational protocols and assurances from Washington regarding the protection of innocent maritime workers. The central concern remains whether security measures adequately distinguish between illegal trafficking and legitimate economic activities that sustain coastal communities.

  • This is a pivotal moment for CARICOM, says Chairman Drew

    This is a pivotal moment for CARICOM, says Chairman Drew

    Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis Dr. Terrance Drew, serving as Chair of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), has declared the region stands at a critical juncture amid escalating global challenges. Addressing fellow leaders at the 50th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government on February 24, Dr. Drew outlined a precarious international landscape defined by geopolitical strife, volatile energy markets, supply chain disruptions, climate-induced disasters, and economic instability.

    The CARICOM Chairman issued a stark warning that small island developing states face unprecedented risks of marginalization and fragmentation in this turbulent environment. He articulated a central philosophy guiding the regional body: “In such a world, fragmentation breeds vulnerability. By contrast, togetherness generates resilience.” This principle formed the foundational theme for high-level discussions throughout the week-long summit.

    Dr. Drew emphasized that Caribbean resilience cannot be achieved through isolated national efforts but requires disciplined cooperation and unified determination. He highlighted that CARICOM’s core tenets—collaboration, functional integration, economic coordination, and collective self-reliance—were specifically designed to shield smaller nations from global shocks.

    With persistent supply chain uncertainties and mounting external pressures, the Prime Minister asserted that deeper regional integration has evolved from desirable to absolutely vital. He called for deliberate collective action to enhance food and energy security, strengthen regional security partnerships, and coordinate economic strategies.

    Drawing on historical precedent, Dr. Drew reminded attendees that the Caribbean has previously confronted and overcome adversity by leveraging shared institutions and maintaining a unified voice in international affairs. The 50th Regular Meeting served as a working session focused on substantive coordination, collective problem-solving, and reinforcing CARICOM’s structures for the benefit of all Caribbean citizens.

  • Skelet aangetroffen langs zijweg van Javaweg in Lelydorp

    Skelet aangetroffen langs zijweg van Javaweg in Lelydorp

    Authorities in Lelydorp have launched a comprehensive investigation following the grim discovery of human skeletal remains on Wednesday afternoon. The finding occurred approximately 300 meters along a private roadway branching off Javaweg, marking a significant development in local law enforcement activities.

    Police units responded to an urgent notification regarding potential human remains in the vicinity of address number 188 along Javaweg. Upon arrival at the specified location, officers encountered a complete human skeleton with a particularly disturbing feature—the skull was deliberately covered with a sweater, adding an unsettling dimension to the discovery.

    The immediate perimeter was secured as a controlled crime scene, with forensic specialists and relevant authorities promptly notified to initiate detailed examination procedures. The comprehensive forensic investigation aims to determine crucial details including cause of death, approximate time since death, and potential identification markers.

    Current investigations face significant challenges as the individual’s identity remains completely unknown. The circumstances surrounding the placement of the remains and the distinctive characteristic of the covered skull have prompted investigators to consider various possibilities, including criminal activity.

    Local law enforcement officials have confirmed the ongoing nature of the investigation, emphasizing their commitment to utilizing all available scientific and traditional investigative methods to establish the facts surrounding this case. The community awaits further developments as authorities work to unravel the mystery behind these unsettling remains.

  • Shepard Joe honours homeland with new patriotic single

    Shepard Joe honours homeland with new patriotic single

    California-based Saint Lucian musician Shepard Joe has unveiled his latest musical tribute to his Caribbean homeland with the release of the single “Saint Lucia.” The track serves as an auditory celebration of the island’s natural wonders and cultural richness, specifically drawing inspiration from its iconic Pitons mountains, expansive rainforests, pristine beaches, and distinctive culinary traditions.

    Crafted as an uplifting musical escape, the composition merges smooth vocal delivery with vibrant, rhythmically engaging instrumentation. The artist characterizes his creation as “a moment of joy” intended to capture the magical essence of Saint Lucia. Through his music, Shepard Joe aims to transport global listeners to the island’s relaxing and beautiful atmosphere regardless of their physical location.

    The artist, born Rudy Joseph in the Dennery region, initially rose to prominence through notable achievements in musical competitions. His career breakthrough included securing second place in the 2004 Guinness Original Song Competition, followed by a similar accomplishment in the 2008 Guinness Freestyle Competition held in Richfond.

    Currently operating from his Shepard Production Studios in California, the artist continues to develop his musical portfolio with a focus on reggae and dancehall genres. His latest release represents both an artistic homage to his origins and a strategic step in expanding his international audience. The single is now accessible across all major digital streaming platforms, including YouTube where it has been made publicly available.

  • Leo Club of St George’s celebrates 56 years of service

    Leo Club of St George’s celebrates 56 years of service

    The Leo Club of St. George’s marks a historic milestone this year, celebrating 56 years of continuous community service and youth development under the theme “56 Years of Service, Honouring the Past, Serving the Future.” As one of the Eastern Caribbean’s most enduring Leo Clubs, this Grenada-based organization has established itself as a cornerstone of social development through generations of leadership training and community outreach.

    Club President Leo Danika Baptiste (2025-2026) expressed both honor and responsibility in leading during this anniversary year. “Serving as President during our 56th year is both a privilege and a responsibility I hold with great pride,” Baptiste stated. “As we honour the past and serve the future, I am grateful for the leaders who paved the way and inspired by the members who continue to strengthen our impact.”

    The anniversary celebration encompasses two months of diverse activities demonstrating the club’s multifaceted approach to service. These initiatives include religious observance through an Annual Church Service at St. George’s Baptist Church, where members joined with their parent organization, the St. George’s Lions Club, in thanksgiving for 56 years of fellowship.

    Substantive service projects form the core of the celebration. Members conducted youth outreach at Queen Elizabeth Home for Children, engaging residents through recreational activities, hair braiding sessions, and motivational character-building talks. The Brighter Futures School Support Initiative, developed in partnership with Grenadian Published Authors Inc., brought reading engagement and school supply donations to kindergarten and first-grade students at St. George’s Methodist School.

    Future environmental initiatives include Project Beach Clean across St. George parish scheduled for March, aligning with Lions International’s global environmental protection cause, and Pawsitive Impact, a collaboration with the Grenada Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GSPCA) to support sheltered animals.

    The anniversary program also emphasizes member development through capacity-building workshops. A Virtual Communications Workshop on February 11th featured training facilitator and communications strategist Roslyn Douglas, while a February 21st Project Management workshop was conducted by specialist Johnny Calliste.

    Social cohesion receives attention through the Colours Picnic Social on February 28th, where members will gather wearing designated colors and sharing corresponding snacks, fostering unity and camaraderie within the organization.

    Throughout its history, the Leo Club of St. George’s has implemented significant initiatives including Back-to-School Supplies Drives, Annual World Cleanup Day coastal cleanups, Christmas food hamper distributions for vulnerable families, youth leadership workshops, drug prevention programs, and the beautification of the Sendall Tunnel.

    The club’s legacy includes nurturing generations of young leaders who have emerged as prominent figures in Grenada’s business and community sectors. As the organization celebrates this milestone, it reaffirms its commitment to addressing evolving community needs while maintaining the spirit of service that has defined its 56-year history.

  • Hope calls for peak performance against India

    Hope calls for peak performance against India

    West Indies captain Shai Hope has issued a stark assessment of his team’s performance following a decisive nine-wicket defeat to South Africa, emphasizing that flawless execution is now imperative for their must-win encounter against defending champions India this Sunday. The loss at Kensington Oval significantly complicates the Caribbean side’s pathway to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup semifinals.

    The mathematical reality became clear following India’s 72-run victory over Zimbabwe in the subsequent match, confirming South Africa’s advancement to the final four. This sets up a virtual quarterfinal showdown in Kolkata, where the winner between West Indies and India will claim the remaining semifinal berth from the group.

    Reflecting on the team’s collapse to 83-7 before a partial recovery to 176-8, Hope acknowledged critical shortcomings in their gameplay. “It always boils down to execution,” the captain stated during his post-match press conference. “We failed to adapt and assess conditions with sufficient speed, which left us playing catch-up throughout the match. Given the quality of the batting surface, I believe we fell 40-60 runs short of a competitive total.”

    Despite the disappointing performance, Hope defended his team’s aggressive approach, noting that the strategy itself wasn’t flawed but rather the implementation. He praised the lower order’s effort in reaching 170-plus from a precarious position, suggesting the top order’s dismissal while pursuing big shots was understandable on such a favorable pitch.

    The captain framed the upcoming challenge as precisely what tournament cricket demands. “This is how it’s supposed to be at the Super Eight stage,” Hope remarked. “Every game presents a serious challenge because these are the best teams competing. We must now produce our best cricket when it matters most and ensure we turn things around quickly against a formidable Indian side.”

  • IICA Grenada Delegation commissions new office in St George’s

    IICA Grenada Delegation commissions new office in St George’s

    The Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) celebrated the official commissioning of its new Grenada headquarters on February 25, 2026, signaling a strengthened commitment to regional agricultural development. The ceremony at 594 Concordia House in St. George’s gathered high-ranking officials from Grenada’s Ministries of Agriculture and Climate Resilience, alongside representatives from partner organizations and agricultural stakeholders.

    Gregg Rawlins, IICA Representative for the Eastern Caribbean States, emphasized the symbolic significance of the relocation, characterizing it as the beginning of a new chapter built upon four decades of collaboration with the Grenadian government. “This marks more than just a change of address,” Rawlins stated. “It represents our renewed dedication to advancing technical cooperation, innovation, and sustainable agricultural growth as we celebrate 45 years of service to Grenada’s agricultural sector.”

    Technical Specialist Gregory Delsol detailed the practical applications of IICA’s work, highlighting ongoing initiatives in agricultural health, food safety, and value chain strengthening. Key programs include African Swine Fever preparedness, EU-funded SPS projects, and support for micro, small, and medium enterprises to enhance trade readiness. Additional efforts focus on territorial development through sea moss processing, irrigation upgrades, white potato research, and apiculture development—all aimed at boosting climate resilience and food security.

    The facility will also serve as headquarters for the Partnership Initiative for Sustainable Land Management (PISLM), enhancing collaborative efforts toward environmental sustainability. Dr. Ronen Francis, Executive Director of PISLM, described the opening as evidence of “institutional maturity and political confidence” that signifies “a decisive step forward for Caribbean cooperation on land, soil and climate resilience.”

    Grenada’s Minister for Agriculture, Hon. Lennox Andrews, commended IICA’s longstanding contributions and emphasized the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for partner organizations. “Physical presence matters,” Minister Andrews asserted. “When our partners are here, accessible and integrated, collaboration becomes easier, coordination improves, and implementation accelerates. We see them as integral partners in achieving our national agricultural objectives.”

  • Small Craft Advisory Issued for Antigua, Barbuda and Northern Leeward Islands

    Small Craft Advisory Issued for Antigua, Barbuda and Northern Leeward Islands

    Multiple Eastern Caribbean territories are currently under official small craft advisories as intensified easterly winds create dangerous maritime conditions throughout the region. The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service has issued warnings for Antigua, Barbuda, Anguilla, and the British Virgin Islands, with varying effective timeframes through Friday.

    Meteorological authorities report that moderate to fresh easterly winds reaching 28-37 kilometers per hour (15-20 knots) are generating hazardous sea conditions, particularly along Atlantic-facing coastlines. Wind gusts have been recorded up to 57 km/h (31 knots), creating significant wave activity with seas reaching 2.1-3.1 meters (7-10 feet) and occasionally peaking near 3.7 meters (12 feet). Wave periods are measured between six to nine seconds, creating particularly challenging conditions for maritime operations.

    According to Forecaster Letitia Humphreys, the combination of wind waves and swells presents substantial risks to marine traffic. The advisory specifically applies to waters extending approximately 20 nautical miles offshore from the eastern sides of the affected islands.

    Maritime officials have emphasized the serious safety implications, noting that current conditions could potentially lead to vessel capsizing, significant damage to small crafts, and even loss of life. The meteorological service warns that both fisheries and marine transportation sectors may experience operational disruptions, possibly resulting in economic impacts for the region.

    Authorities are strongly advising inexperienced mariners and small vessel operators to avoid navigation in affected areas until conditions improve. The public is urged to monitor ongoing developments through official meteorological service channels and local media outlets for updates on the evolving situation.