Carib Scope

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  • Grande health centre closed on Christmas Day

    Grande health centre closed on Christmas Day

    The Eastern Regional Health Authority (ERHA) has confirmed temporary service adjustments at the Sangre Grande Enhanced Health Centre during the holiday period. In an official announcement, the health authority disclosed that the general practitioner’s clinic facility will be non-operational on Christmas Day, December 25th.

    Patients requiring medical attention during this temporary closure have been directed to utilize the Emergency Department services available at the Sangre Grande Hospital Campus, which remains fully operational to handle healthcare needs. The proximity of these facilities ensures continued access to medical services for community members.

    Normal operations at the Enhanced Health Centre will recommence on December 26th at 9:00 AM, following the Christmas holiday closure. The ERHA has formally expressed regret for any potential inconvenience resulting from this seasonal service adjustment.

    Minister of Health Dr. Lackram Bodoe’s oversight ensures that such operational decisions align with the national healthcare strategy. The authority emphasized its ongoing commitment to maintaining the highest standards of healthcare delivery while managing necessary temporary service modifications during public holidays.

  • No licenced firearms allowed at Junkanoo

    No licenced firearms allowed at Junkanoo

    Bahamian authorities are implementing extraordinary security measures for Friday’s Boxing Day Junkanoo Parade, including a groundbreaking prohibition on licensed firearm carriers bringing handguns into downtown areas. This marks the first time in history that the Royal Bahamas Police Force has explicitly banned legally permitted firearms from the cultural festivities.

    Assistant Commissioner Earl Thompson announced the stringent protocols during a press briefing at Police Headquarters, revealing that designated zones surrounding Bay Street will be treated as “security restricted areas” to enhance operational efficiency and minimize violence risks. The comprehensive security strategy includes multi-layered screening checkpoints, specialized unit deployments, and coordinated patrols involving both uniformed and plainclothes officers working alongside private security personnel throughout the night.

    Notably, even off-duty police officers will be subject to the firearm restrictions, with no provisions made for weapon storage at checkpoints. The only exemption applies to active law enforcement personnel performing official duties. Senior Assistant Commissioner Roberto Goodman confirmed joint operations between the Royal Bahamas Police Force and Royal Bahamas Defence Force to secure both the Boxing Day and New Year’s Day celebrations.

    Additional preventive measures include mandatory weapon scanning for all attendees, restrictions on selling alcoholic beverages in bottles or cans, and recommendations for merchants to serve drinks exclusively in cups. Authorities have also issued parking advisories, urging spectators to utilize designated parking areas while avoiding vulnerable locations and removing valuables from vehicles.

    Road closures affecting multiple downtown arteries are already in effect, including sections of Shirley Street, Navy Lyon Road, Bay Street, Parliament Street, and Prince George Wharf, with surrounding areas also subject to transportation restrictions as parade preparations intensify.

  • Regional private sector group re-affirms commitment to Caricom

    Regional private sector group re-affirms commitment to Caricom

    BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – The Caribbean Community (Caricom) Private Sector Organisation (CPSO) has forcefully reiterated its dedication to regional unity and the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME) framework. This declaration comes during a period of heightened diplomatic friction among Caribbean leaders regarding the strategic orientation of the 15-nation bloc.

    As an officially recognized associate institution within Caricom, the CPSO emphasized its collaborative efforts with private enterprises and business associations to propel initiatives aligned with the CSME’s foundational goals. This economic arrangement guarantees the unrestricted movement of goods, services, labor, and skills across member states. The organization highlighted the CSME’s demonstrable successes, citing its role in boosting intra-regional commerce, fortifying regional supply networks, and generating substantial foreign exchange revenues and economic stimulation across member nations, including Trinidad and Tobago.

    This corporate endorsement emerges against a backdrop of recent diplomatic discord. Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister, Gaston Browne, publicly challenged Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, to substantiate her claims that Caricom nations had aligned themselves with Venezuela’s ‘Maduro narco government.’ Persad-Bissessar had accused the regional body of endorsing a ‘fake zone of peace narrative’ to facilitate the withdrawal of U.S. military presence, thereby consolidating Nicolás Maduro’s regime—a government she labeled dictatorial and responsible for widespread civilian oppression and threats against Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago.

    In contrast, the CPSO’s statement, representing a coalition of at least seven national private sector bodies, underscored the immense value of both intra-Caricom trade and the community’s robust external trade partnerships, notably with the United States—Caricom’s primary external trading ally. The organization posited that these relationships are not mutually exclusive but are fundamentally complementary, enhancing economic resilience and diversification.

    The CPSO concluded with a cautionary note, asserting that in an era of mounting global economic instability and isolationist tendencies, the confidence, stability, and cooperative dialogue fostered by Caricom and the CSME are indispensable for the collective sustainability and prosperity of the Caribbean region. The phrase ‘stronger together’ was emphasized as particularly pertinent, framing Caricom as the essential platform for unified resilience and strategic global integration.

  • Angostura Founders Reserve 1824 gets artistic with packaging

    Angostura Founders Reserve 1824 gets artistic with packaging

    ANGOSTURA Ltd has launched an exclusive collection of artistically designed packaging for its premium Founders Reserve 1824 rum, blending Trinidad and Tobago’s vibrant cultural heritage with premium spirits craftsmanship. The initiative features collaborative designs from four distinguished local artists—Sara Knights, Nicholas Huggins, Shawn Chong-Ashing, and Bianca Peake—each interpreting national identity through unique visual narratives.

    Shawn Chong-Ashing’s contribution captures the evolution of Trinidadian dance traditions, illustrating the seamless flow of cultural expression through depictions of a belé dancer and a masquerader. Meanwhile, Bianca Peake employs her signature watercolor technique to explore themes of national identity and self-perception, creating a visual declaration of Trinbagonian heritage.

    CEO Ian Forbes emphasized that this limited release honors both the company’s longstanding legacy and contemporary artistic innovation. “Each box transcends conventional packaging to become a collector’s item appealing to both rum aficionados and fine art enthusiasts,” Forbes stated in the December 24 announcement.

    The specially packaged rum is currently available at select Angostura retail locations including Solera Wines and Spirits outlets in Chaguanas, Marabella, Port of Spain, Laventille, and Trincity. Additionally, the collection will debut in duty-free stores nationwide beginning next week, offering international travelers a taste of Trinidad’s artistic and distilling excellence.

  • Health ministry recalls blood-pressure drug

    Health ministry recalls blood-pressure drug

    The Ministry of Health of Trinidad and Tobago has issued a voluntary medication recall through its Chemistry, Food and Drug Division, targeting specific production batches of combined bisoprolol fumarate and hydrochlorothiazide tablets. This generic pharmaceutical product is primarily prescribed for hypertension management.

    The recall affects medication from lots numbered 17232401 (with expiration November 2025) and 17240974 (expiring May 2026). The regulatory action follows quality control testing that revealed trace contamination with ezetimibe, a cholesterol-lowering medication that should not be present in the blood pressure treatment.

    This safety initiative originated from Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc. in coordination with the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Routine quality assessment procedures identified potential cross-contamination during manufacturing, prompting the voluntary recall of 11,136 medication bottles distributed to pharmacies.

    Although the FDA has classified this recall as Class III—indicating that exposure to the trace contaminant is unlikely to cause adverse health consequences—the Ministry recommends precautionary measures. Consumers who have purchased medications from the affected lots should immediately discontinue use and return the products to their point of purchase.

    The Ministry emphasizes that patients should not abruptly stop antihypertensive treatment without consulting healthcare professionals. Individuals with health concerns are advised to seek immediate guidance from their medical providers to ensure continuous proper management of their blood pressure conditions.

    For additional information, concerned citizens may contact the Office of the Director of the Chemistry, Food and Drugs Division via email at cfdd@health.gov.tt or by telephone at 217-4664 extension 13101.

  • Piparo mud volcano erupts

    Piparo mud volcano erupts

    The Piparo mud volcano in Trinidad erupted unexpectedly on December 24th, triggering immediate emergency response protocols. According to confirmed reports, the volcanic activity occurred without warning, prompting the Disaster Management Unit of the Couva/Tabaquite Regional Corporation to dispatch assessment teams to the site.

    The eruption marks another significant event in the geological history of the region, where mud volcano activity has periodically affected local communities. These natural phenomena occur when underground layers of pressurized mud and gases force their way to the surface, creating distinctive cone-shaped formations and occasionally discharging substantial quantities of sediment.

    Emergency management authorities are currently evaluating the situation’s severity and potential impact on surrounding areas. While mud volcanoes typically don’t produce lava flows like traditional volcanoes, they can still pose substantial risks including ground instability, gas emissions, and potential damage to infrastructure.

    Local residents have been advised to remain alert for official updates as the situation develops. The Disaster Management Unit is expected to provide detailed assessments regarding evacuation protocols or safety measures should they become necessary. Historical data indicates that previous eruptions in the area have required temporary relocations and mitigation efforts to protect nearby populations.

    The timing of the eruption during the holiday season adds complexity to response efforts, though authorities have confirmed that emergency services remain fully operational. Scientists and geologists specializing in volcanic activity are monitoring the site for further developments.

  • Bethlehem celebrates first festive Christmas since Gaza war

    Bethlehem celebrates first festive Christmas since Gaza war

    BETHLEHEM, Palestinian Territories — After enduring more than two years of subdued observances overshadowed by conflict, Bethlehem witnessed a vibrant resurgence of Christmas festivities on Wednesday. Under crystalline skies, scout parades marched through the ancient city as celebrations returned to the biblical birthplace of Jesus Christ with renewed vigor.

    The atmosphere stood in stark contrast to previous Christmases during the Gaza war that commenced with Hamas’s October 2023 offensive against Israel. While a fragile truce holds in Gaza where hundreds of thousands face winter in temporary shelters, Bethlehem’s Manger Square buzzed with energy as drums and bagpipes filled the air with Christmas carols.

    Crowds gathered around a magnificent Christmas tree adorned with red and gold ornaments that sparkled beside the fourth-century Church of the Nativity, built above the grotto traditionally identified as Jesus’ birthplace. Hundreds participated in parades along Star Street, with both young and old Christians joining the festivities that had been absent during conflict years.

    ‘Today is full of joy because we haven’t been able to celebrate because of the war,’ expressed 17-year-old Milagros Anstas, wearing the distinctive yellow and blue uniform of Bethlehem’s Salesian scout group.

    The celebrations carried symbolic significance for the local Christian community. ‘It gives us hope that there’s still Christians here celebrating and we are still keeping the traditions,’ remarked 18-year-old scout member Katiab Amaya, highlighting the importance of maintaining cultural and religious presence in the region.

    Concurrently, Pope Leo XIV prepared to deliver his first Christmas Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica following his election in May after Pope Francis’s passing. The new pontiff, known for his discreet and conciliatory approach compared to his charismatic predecessor, has maintained continuity on key issues including immigration and social justice. He had previously called for ’24 hours of peace in the whole world’ ahead of the holiday celebrations.

    Globally, families commenced Christmas Eve gatherings while millions of children anticipated gift deliveries, creating a shared moment of celebration across international communities despite regional conflicts.

  • Bolt Foundation donates $900,000 to Mustard Seed children’s home for annual Christmas treat

    Bolt Foundation donates $900,000 to Mustard Seed children’s home for annual Christmas treat

    In a significant philanthropic gesture, Olympic legend Usain Bolt has collaborated with the Janet Richards Foundation to deliver nearly one million Jamaican dollars in support to the Mustard Seed Blessed Assurance Children’s Home in St. James, Jamaica. The joint initiative, formalized during a presentation ceremony last Saturday, represents a continued commitment to enhancing the lives of children and young adults with severe physical and intellectual disabilities.

    The substantial donation included both practical infrastructure and daily necessities: four patio tables with accompanying benches and umbrellas, a large tent, a portable swimming pool, essential toiletries, educational materials, and hot meals for both residents and staff members. Each caregiver at the facility additionally received personalized gift packages in recognition of their service.

    Janet Richards, founder and chairman of her namesake foundation, expressed profound gratitude for Bolt’s sustained involvement. She revealed that the partnership originated through direct communication with Winsome Wilkins, chairman of the Usain Bolt Foundation, who promptly approved the budget proposal. ‘All that you see here today represents approximately $900,000 in value,’ Richards stated during the ceremony, emphasizing the sprinter’s consistent generosity.

    The philanthropic vision extends beyond current contributions. Richards announced preliminary plans to develop specialized play areas for the children, noting that additional equipment such as slides would be incorporated to create environments for both recreation and relaxation.

    Cordell Howell Huie, administrator of the care facility, conveyed his appreciation for the ongoing support from both organizations. The Mustard Seed Blessed Assurance Children’s Home, situated in the Windsor Lodge/Adelphi region near Montego Bay, provides specialized care for individuals with significant disabilities, relying heavily on community support and philanthropic partnerships.

  • Princes Town couple get 29 yrs for ex-fireman’s murder

    Princes Town couple get 29 yrs for ex-fireman’s murder

    In a landmark sentencing at the San Fernando High Court, Justice Mauricia Joseph-Patrick has imposed a combined 29-year prison term on a Princes Town couple for the 2020 murder of the woman’s former abusive partner. Dwayne Baldeo and Renee Mohammed received individualized sentences following their guilty pleas under a felony murder agreement with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

    The case centered on the brutal killing of Christopher Hosein, a 45-year-old businessman and former fire service officer, whose charred remains were discovered on October 28, 2020, in the Ste Madeleine police district. The victim was found bound with a yellow rope around his neck, hands secured, and eyes covered with duct tape beside his burned Kia Sorento vehicle on a gravel road off M1 Tasker Road.

    Police investigation rapidly identified the perpetrators through comprehensive CCTV evidence, witness testimonies, and forensic analysis linking both defendants to Hosein’s apartment. Authorities intercepted Baldeo’s white Toyota Fielder wagon later that day, recovering personal items belonging to the deceased. Post-mortem examination revealed Hosein succumbed to multiple causes including asphyxiation, soot inhalation, severe burns, and blunt force cranial trauma.

    Justice Joseph-Patrick established a baseline imprisonment term of 33 years for both defendants before applying individualized adjustments. Baldeo received a three-year reduction for satisfactory conduct during incarceration and an additional ten-year deduction for his guilty plea, culminating in a final sentence of slightly over 15 years after accounting for nearly five years already served on remand. He was represented by senior counsel Rajiv Persad and attorney Ajesh Summesar.

    Mohammed received comparable sentencing considerations with a three-year reduction demonstrating remorse and positive prison behavior, supplemented by an additional year acknowledging her personal history and youthful indiscretion at age 23 during the offense. With a further nine-year, eight-month deduction for her guilty plea and credit for time served, she will serve just over 14 years imprisonment. Legal representation was provided by Public Defenders’ Department attorneys Michelle Ali and Kameika Peters.

    The court reviewed Mohammed’s affidavit detailing a traumatic background including childhood sexual abuse and a volatile relationship with Hosein that allegedly involved continued abuse during her recovery from previous injuries sustained in an assault by Baldeo. Mohammed acknowledged her role in planning the confrontation but maintained she never anticipated the fatal outcome, describing her five years in custody as “a nightmare” while expressing profound remorse for her actions.

  • Petrotrin must be upgraded

    Petrotrin must be upgraded

    The closure of Trinidad and Tobago’s Pointe-a-Pierre petroleum refinery in 2018 marked the end of an era when the nation served as a regional energy powerhouse. Formerly operational under Petrotrin, the facility once supplied Trinidad and much of the Caribbean with comprehensive refined petroleum products including LPG, unleaded gasoline, jet fuel, kerosene, diesel, fuel oil, bitumen, sulphur, and base lubricants, establishing national self-sufficiency and export capabilities.

    Current global energy transformations have revealed that modernizing the refinery represents not merely an option but a strategic necessity. Trinidad possesses the scientific and industrial foundation to develop high-value derivatives from its indigenous Pitch Lake resources. Lake Asphalt has already demonstrated this potential through exporting refined pitch and sealants—a niche, high-margin market that remains significantly underutilized despite its considerable value.

    A reactivated facility must be future-proofed to process Guyana’s light sweet crude, currently among the hemisphere’s most sought-after commodities. Failure to capitalize on this opportunity would allow other nations to profit from refining Guyanese crude. Simultaneously, the refinery should be engineered to handle Venezuelan heavy crude, leveraging Trinidad’s geographical advantage to achieve substantial freight savings, faster shipment turnarounds, and blending capabilities for regional distribution.

    Rather than observing competitors seize these opportunities, Trinidad should reposition the refinery as the Caribbean’s premier toll refining facility, blending hub, and finished product supplier. The nation has never lacked technical expertise, natural resources, or strategic location—only the political determination to reactivate this critical asset in alignment with evolving hemispheric energy dynamics and geopolitical realities.