Carib Scope

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  • Ministry of Tourism Staff Surprise Minister Fernandez on His Birthday

    Ministry of Tourism Staff Surprise Minister Fernandez on His Birthday

    In a display of workplace camaraderie, the Honourable H. Charles “Max” Fernandez, Parliamentary Representative and Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, was greeted with an unexpected birthday celebration organized by his ministry staff earlier today. The surprise event, meticulously coordinated by the Ministry’s Staff Social Club under the leadership of Ms. Onesha Elvin, transformed the minister’s office into a festive venue adorned with balloons and accompanied by cheerful renditions of the birthday song.

    The heartfelt gesture included carefully selected gifts that reflected Minister Fernandez’s personal interests, demonstrating the staff’s thoughtful consideration. Visibly moved by the surprise, Minister Fernandez expressed profound appreciation for the effort, emphasizing that the personalized attention to gift selection particularly resonated with him.

    In his response, Minister Fernandez highlighted the significance of such moments in fostering organizational unity, stating: “I am truly grateful for this gesture. What touched me most was not just the gifts, but the thought and effort that went into choosing something you knew I would genuinely enjoy. It speaks volumes about the camaraderie and spirit of this team.”

    The minister further acknowledged the staff’s dedication and commitment to their ministerial duties, noting that such celebrations strengthen morale and reinforce familial bonds within the government department. Ministry staff concluded the celebration by extending their warmest wishes for the minister’s continued health, strength, and success in his leadership role serving Antigua and Barbuda.

  • Uber encouraged by ‘numerous’ local sign-ups

    Uber encouraged by ‘numerous’ local sign-ups

    Uber has reported an overwhelmingly positive response from Saint Lucia’s licensed taxi industry just over a week after opening its platform to local drivers. The ride-hailing giant, following its December 16 announcement, revealed significant registration numbers from both individual taxi operators and established associations throughout the island nation.

    The company emphasized its primary objective of providing accessible earning opportunities through its digital platform. “We are encouraged by the positive response we have already seen, with numerous sign-ups from both taxi drivers and associations in the past few days,” Uber stated in a recent communication.

    Addressing unique aspects of Saint Lucia’s taxi industry structure, Uber provided crucial clarifications regarding vehicle ownership and operation scenarios. The company specified that in cases where vehicle owners employ licensed drivers, the active operator must complete registration—provided they meet all requirements and submit necessary documentation.

    Uber’s system accommodates the common practice of shared vehicles by permitting multiple driver profiles to be associated with a single taxi registration number. However, the platform’s technical framework ensures only one driver can remain active on the app at any given time, maintaining operational integrity.

    For fleet owners managing multiple drivers, Uber offers specialized registration options that provide comprehensive visibility over all operations associated with a particular vehicle. This tailored approach demonstrates the company’s adaptability to local market conditions while maintaining its global service standards.

  • STATEMENT: Auto Trade Ltd on death of Jesse Bardouille

    STATEMENT: Auto Trade Ltd on death of Jesse Bardouille

    Auto Trade Ltd is mourning the profound loss of Mr. Jesse Bardouille, a valued team member who passed away after providing 14 years of dedicated service to the company. The announcement was made with immense sorrow, highlighting the deep personal and professional impact of his passing.

    Mr. Bardouille was widely recognized for his exceptionally warm spirit and congenial personality, traits that endeared him equally to colleagues and the broader public. His authentic affection for people and his innate ability to foster positive environments made him a cornerstone of the workplace community. Beyond his professional role, Jesse was a passionate sports enthusiast, channeling that same vigor and optimism he displayed in his personal interests into his daily interactions.

    The company’s statement extended its most sincere sympathies to his family, friends, and all who were close to him, acknowledging the significant void his departure creates. Colleagues at Team Auto Trade expressed that his absence will be deeply felt, and his memory will be cherished with great fondness by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

  • Agri Minister denies Azruddin Mohamed’s suggestions that house probably built with dirty money

    Agri Minister denies Azruddin Mohamed’s suggestions that house probably built with dirty money

    Guyana’s Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha has issued a formal rebuttal against corruption allegations made by opposition leader Azruddin Mohamed, who suggested the minister’s substantial residential property was funded through illicit means. The political confrontation emerged publicly on December 24, 2025, highlighting ongoing tensions between government and opposition figures.

    Minister Mustapha categorically denied the accusations through an official statement, explaining that his Bloomfield, Berbice residence was financed exclusively through legitimate banking arrangements and personal savings. “I hereby declare that the construction of the said house was funded and financed exclusively through a mortgage obtained from Demerara Bank Limited and personal savings accumulated through lawful employment,” the minister asserted. He further emphasized his compliance with transparency protocols, confirming he remains current with all declarations to Guyana’s Integrity Commission.

    The allegations originated from Mohamed, leader of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, who questioned how a government minister earning less than GY$1.2 million monthly could afford custom architectural features and luxury finishes. Mohamed contrasted the property’s current state with its condition four years prior, describing it previously as a “simple, wooden structure” comparable to neighboring homes. He additionally highlighted infrastructure disparities, noting the street containing the minister’s residence appeared uniquely developed compared to surrounding underdeveloped roads.

    Minister Mustapha defended his 35-year political career, referencing his service as parliamentarian, Regional Chairman for Region 6, and minister since 2020 as evidence of his commitment to ethical public service. The minister also addressed allegations concerning his son Javed Mustapha, characterizing Mohamed’s criticisms as a “personal vendetta” stemming from the younger Mustapha’s dissociation from the opposition leader due to alleged unethical conduct.

    While declaring reluctance to engage in “tit-for-tat” exchanges, Minister Mustapha revealed he has engaged legal counsel to explore defamation proceedings against Mohamed. The minister characterized the opposition leader’s statements as “completely untrue, fallacious, and devoid of merit,” alleging they were designed to damage his reputation and political standing.

    Mohamed’s criticisms extended beyond individual allegations to systemic concerns, suggesting the People’s Progressive Party Civic administration enables public officials to “rapidly accumulate immense wealth through corrupt means.” The opposition leader called attention to international observers, particularly urging US, British, and Canadian authorities to monitor what he characterized as exploitation of public office for personal enrichment.

    The controversy unfolds against the backdrop of Mohamed’s own legal challenges, including an ongoing extradition request from United States authorities addressing wire fraud, mail fraud, and money laundering charges in Florida federal court.

  • Ariza shares customers’ credit information with regional credit bureaus

    Ariza shares customers’ credit information with regional credit bureaus

    Grenada’s financial institutions are now formally implementing the Credit Reporting Act of 2017, with Ariza Credit Union becoming the second primary credit information provider to announce compliance with the legislation. In a public notice dated December 22nd, the credit union informed members that effective December 2nd, 2025, it will share customer credit data with licensed credit bureaus as permitted under the parliamentary-approved act.

    The legislative framework establishes a comprehensive credit reporting system designed to facilitate objective credit decisions through accurate information sharing. The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) serves as the exclusive licensing authority for credit bureaus, with EveryData ECCU Limited currently operating as the sole licensed credit reporting agency serving Grenada within the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union.

    Under Section 27 of the Act, credit information providers must furnish data to licensed bureaus from the date credit is provided to a data subject. The law defines ‘data subjects’ broadly to include anyone with contractual relationships with credit providers, loan applicants, guarantors, and those connected through other legitimate purposes.

    The legislation categorizes credit information providers into primary and secondary designations. Primary providers include banks, financial institutions, money services businesses, credit unions, insurance companies, and micro-finance institutions. The Central Bank may additionally designate secondary providers from sectors including telecommunications, utilities, and hire-purchase businesses when deemed in the public interest.

    Notably, existing customers of designated providers do not require separate consent forms for data sharing. Instead, institutions must display notices at physical business locations or on their websites. While credit providers may disclose both positive and negative credit information without prior consent, third parties must obtain explicit consent before inquiring about any data subject’s credit information.

    The fundamental purpose of this data collection initiative is to establish comprehensive credit histories and generate credit scores for individuals, ultimately enhancing the financial system’s integrity and decision-making processes.

  • (VIDEO PREMIER) Dominica News Online’s Christmas Special – ‘Christmas: Facts and Myths’

    (VIDEO PREMIER) Dominica News Online’s Christmas Special – ‘Christmas: Facts and Myths’

    A special radio program recently delved into the rich tapestry of Christmas traditions in the Commonwealth of Dominica, offering listeners a profound exploration of its historical roots and enduring cultural impact. The discussion, hosted by Tim Durand, featured a compelling dialogue between two esteemed guests: Monsignor William Jno Lewis, a prominent religious figure, and Delia Cuffy-Weekes, a cultural expert.

    The conversation moved beyond mere surface-level festivities to investigate the deeper origins of how Christmas is celebrated on the island. The panel examined the unique fusion of European colonial influences, introduced through Christianity, with resilient African traditions and the distinct spirit of the Caribbean. This blend has resulted in a celebration that is uniquely Dominican, characterized by specific culinary customs, musical expressions like traditional and contemporary carols, and community-centric events that define the holiday season.

    The analysis provided insight into how these traditions have evolved from their inception to the present day, shaping national identity and community bonds. The program highlighted Christmas not just as a religious observance but as a significant socio-cultural phenomenon that reinforces family ties, fosters communal harmony, and serves as an annual anchor for cultural preservation. The spirited exchange between the experts provided a nuanced understanding of how a global celebration is locally adapted and cherished, making Dominica’s Christmas a fascinating subject of cultural study.

  • Antigua, Barbuda welcome nearly 13,000 cruise passengers for second straight day

    Antigua, Barbuda welcome nearly 13,000 cruise passengers for second straight day

    The Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda is experiencing an unprecedented surge in its cruise tourism sector, with six vessels simultaneously delivering approximately 13,000 passengers to St. John’s and Falmouth harbors. This remarkable influx marks the second consecutive day of substantial tourist arrivals, signaling robust recovery and growth in the island’s maritime tourism industry.

    Five ships berthed at St. John’s Harbour while another docked at Falmouth, creating a spectacular maritime panorama. The fleet included renowned vessels such as Majestic Princess, Enchanted Princess, Insignia, MSC Divina, and the luxurious Explora I, representing some of the most prestigious names in the cruise industry.

    According to tourism authorities, this substantial passenger count ranks as the third-highest single-day arrival figure of the current cruise season. The data reveals that December 4 remains the season’s peak with 15,662 visitors, but projections indicate an even more significant milestone approaching. Industry forecasts predict an extraordinary arrival of over 17,000 cruise passengers on January 23, which would establish a new benchmark for single-day tourism arrivals in the nation’s history.

    The economic impact was immediately visible throughout the capital city, as the sudden population surge stimulated vibrant commercial activity. Taxi operators reported exceptional demand, while local vendors, retail establishments, tour companies, and restaurants all experienced substantially increased business volumes. The visitor distribution throughout urban centers and peripheral attractions created a comprehensive economic boost across multiple sectors, demonstrating the cruise industry’s significant multiplier effect on the local economy.

  • M 3.5 Earthquake Recorded East-Southeast of Antigua, UWI Reports

    M 3.5 Earthquake Recorded East-Southeast of Antigua, UWI Reports

    A seismic event registering 3.5 magnitude occurred in the Eastern Caribbean basin on Tuesday evening, as confirmed by initial readings from the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre (UWI-SRC). The tectonic activity manifested at 8:53 p.m. local time (00:53 UTC) on December 23, with its subterranean origin positioned at coordinates 16.55°N latitude and 59.49°W longitude. The hypocentral depth was calculated at approximately 27 kilometers beneath the seabed.

    Geospatial analysis placed the epicentral region approximately 230 kilometers east of Point-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe, while maintaining comparable distances of 252 kilometers northeast of Dominica’s capital Roseau and 269 kilometers east-southeast of St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda. The seismic monitoring agency has emphasized the provisional nature of these parameters, indicating potential revisions upon further seismological data processing.

    Preliminary assessments indicate no immediate reports of structural damage, casualties, or tsunami advisories across the Eastern Caribbean territories. The research institution has actively solicited public participation through its digital seismic feedback portal, encouraging residents who perceived ground vibrations to contribute their observations for enhanced seismic mapping and analysis.

  • Otis Jackson pleads guilty to firearm and ammunition possession

    Otis Jackson pleads guilty to firearm and ammunition possession

    A 29-year-old resident from Ottos, Antigua, faces impending sentencing after formally admitting to charges of illegal firearm and ammunition possession. Otis Jackson entered his guilty plea on Monday during proceedings before Senior Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel, concluding the evidentiary phase of his case.

    The charges originate from a December 11th incident when law enforcement officers on routine mobile patrol intercepted Jackson’s vehicle along Tindale Road approximately at 9 p.m. During a subsequent search operation, authorities uncovered a concealed 9mm Smith & Wesson pistol alongside seven corresponding rounds of ammunition.

    Following standard protocol, Jackson was immediately taken into custody while the confiscated weapon, ammunition, and his vehicle were transported to Police Headquarters for forensic examination and secure storage, where they remain as evidence. The judicial system has scheduled formal sentencing for December 29th, at which time the court will determine appropriate penalties under Antigua’s firearms legislation.

    This case highlights continued law enforcement efforts to combat illegal weapons circulation through proactive patrol strategies and vehicle inspections. The successful interception demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated policing measures in addressing weapons-related offenses within the community.

  • Grenada’s first retail bond failed to raise targeted amount

    Grenada’s first retail bond failed to raise targeted amount

    Grenada’s pioneering Retail Bond Programme has concluded its initial offering, generating EC$4.3 million in investments despite falling short of its EC$5 million fundraising objective. The landmark financial initiative, which ran from October 31 to November 21, 2025, marked the nation’s first attempt to engage retail investors through the Regional Governments Securities Market.

    The bond offering attracted participation from over 350 individual investors across the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) region. The securities were distributed on a first-come, first-served basis through brokers authorized by the Eastern Caribbean Securities Exchange (ECSE). Investment thresholds were set between EC$500 minimum and EC$50,000 maximum per investor.

    Kerry Pierre, Head of the Debt Management Unit at Grenada’s Ministry of Finance, characterized the auction as successful despite not reaching the full target amount. In a pre-recorded interview disseminated by the ministry, Pierre noted that while the EC$5 million goal wasn’t achieved, the initiative demonstrated significant public interest in government securities.

    “We have been very successful in the completion of the auction of the first pilot retail household bond,” Pierre stated during his conversation with Communications Manager Russell John. He acknowledged the learning curve associated with such pioneering financial instruments, explaining that investor participation accelerated as the auction period progressed despite initial cautious engagement.

    The two-year government-backed bonds offer investors a fixed annual interest rate of 4.25%, with semi-annual payments scheduled for May and November each year. The programme represents a significant step in financial inclusion, allowing everyday citizens to participate directly in government debt instruments previously accessible primarily to institutional investors.

    Pierre emphasized that the experience gained from this inaugural offering will inform future retail bond programmes, potentially paving the way for more successful implementations across the Eastern Caribbean region.