Carib Scope

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  • Teachers’ unions looking forward to reinstatement of long leave

    Teachers’ unions looking forward to reinstatement of long leave

    In a significant policy reversal, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley has declared the government’s intention to restore long leave benefits for educators beginning in 2026. The announcement, delivered during parliamentary proceedings on Tuesday, aims to resolve what the Prime Minister characterized as a “long and vexatious matter” that has plagued the education sector since the benefit’s suspension in 2014.

    The educational community has responded with measured optimism. Barbados Association of Principals of Public Secondary Schools (BAPPSS) President Robin Douglas expressed that administrators and teachers were “extremely encouraged” by the commitment, noting that the reinstatement would allow educators to “rest, recuperate, rejuvenate and return with greater inspired attention.” Douglas tempered expectations by acknowledging financial constraints would likely prevent implementation before the 2026 financial year.

    Retired educator Jeff Broomes, who served as teachers’ union vice-president during the initial suspension, welcomed the move as “long overdue” while emphasizing the reality of teacher burnout. Broomes advocated for prioritizing educators denied leave since 2014 and suggested reforming eligibility requirements from the previous 15-year threshold to 10 years for initial leave with five-year intervals thereafter.

    The policy restoration follows sustained advocacy from teachers’ unions and legal challenges including a 2017 judicial review and a High Court judgment in December 2023. Barbados Union of Teachers President Rudy Lovell has called for urgent consultations, expressing hope for resolution by January’s end. The move represents a substantial victory for Barbados’ educational professionals after nearly a decade of suspended benefits.

  • Caye Caulker Police Find 23 Parcels of “Suspected Cocaine”

    Caye Caulker Police Find 23 Parcels of “Suspected Cocaine”

    In a significant maritime drug interdiction operation, Belizean law enforcement officials have recovered twenty-three packages of suspected cocaine with a combined weight of 64.2 pounds (approximately 29.1 kilograms). The discovery occurred during an early morning mission conducted by Caye Caulker police units on Thursday.

    According to official reports, the narcotics were located approximately at 7:00 a.m. when officers identified a substantial plastic bag submerged on the ocean floor near the coastal region. The suspicious package was carefully retrieved and found to contain multiple sealed parcels of what preliminary testing indicates to be cocaine.

    The Belize Police Department has formally cataloged the seized materials as found property while launching a comprehensive investigation into the origins and intended destination of the substantial drug shipment. This operation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Caribbean nations in combating transnational drug trafficking networks that utilize maritime routes for narcotics transportation.

    Authorities have not disclosed whether the discovery led to any immediate arrests but confirmed that multiple agencies are collaborating to trace the supply chain behind the intercepted substances. The seizure represents one of the more significant drug recoveries in the region this year, underscoring the continued vigilance of Belize’s coastal security forces.

  • PISLM Executive Director calls on Jamaica’s Minister of Local Government

    PISLM Executive Director calls on Jamaica’s Minister of Local Government

    Senior officials from the Partnership Initiative for Sustainable Land Management (PISLM) convened with Jamaican government leaders on December 8, 2025, to strengthen collaborative efforts addressing environmental challenges. The delegation, led by PISLM Executive Director Dr. Ronen C.A. Francis and CSIDS SOILCARE Project Manager Trevor Thompson, met with Jamaica’s Minister of Local Government and Community Development Desmond McKenzie, Permanent Secretary Marsha Henry-Martin, and Senior Director of Hazard Mitigation Patrick Watson.

    The high-level discussions centered on accelerating implementation of the SOILCARE Project, enhancing drought resilience strategies, and supporting recovery initiatives in regions devastated by Hurricane Melissa. Particular attention was given to two critical land degradation zones—Holland Estate and Lowe River intervention sites—identified under Jamaica’s Land Degradation Neutrality Target Setting Programme.

    The meeting also addressed broader regional environmental initiatives endorsed at the June 2025 Ministerial Forum in Grenada, including the Caribbean Land Degradation Neutrality Transformative Project, Caribbean Drought Initiative, and Caribbean Sand and Dust Storms Initiative. Minister McKenzie highlighted growing concerns about intensifying dry season droughts and their impact on Jamaica’s water security, especially noting vulnerabilities in Kingston’s water supply infrastructure and agricultural drought effects.

    Representing civil society involvement, Reginald Burke of the Caribbean Youth Environment Network attended as part of the Global Water Partnership-Caribbean, demonstrating PISLM’s commitment to multi-stakeholder engagement. PISLM reaffirmed its dedication to supporting Jamaican farmers and collaborating with national and regional partners to address climate variability challenges.

  • ULP candidates file petitions against Friday, Bramble’s election

    ULP candidates file petitions against Friday, Bramble’s election

    In a significant political development, St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ opposition Unity Labour Party (ULP) has initiated legal proceedings contesting the parliamentary eligibility of two senior government figures. On Friday, the party filed formal election petitions questioning the validity of Prime Minister Godwin Friday’s representation for Northern Grenadines and Foreign Minister Fitz Bramble’s position as East Kingstown MP.

    The petitions, formally submitted by ULP candidates Carlos Williams (Northern Grenadines) and Luke Browne (East Kingstown), center on constitutional provisions regarding foreign allegiance. The challenge specifically cites Section 26(1) of the nation’s Constitution, which prohibits individuals ‘under any acknowledgement of allegiance, obedience or adherence to a foreign power or state’ from holding parliamentary office.

    The core argument maintains that both Friday and Bramble hold Canadian citizenship, which constitutes voluntary allegiance to a foreign state. The documentation notes that both politicians applied for and obtained Canadian citizenship voluntarily, subsequently using Canadian passports. This, according to the petitioners, creates an automatic constitutional disqualification despite their electoral victories in the November 27 general election.

    The controversy predates the recent polls, with formal objections being lodged during the nomination process on November 10. Pre-election notices circulated in media outlets warned constituents that voting for either candidate would constitute ‘a wasted vote’ due to their purported ineligibility.

    Legal opinion appears divided on the matter. Prominent Vincentian jurist Linton Lewis, though previously associated with the ruling New Democratic Party, has supported the validity of the challenge. Conversely, legal scholar Jason Haynes contends that the SVG Constitution contains peculiar provisions allowing Commonwealth citizens to contest elections, suggesting the challenge might ultimately fail.

    The outcome of these proceedings could significantly impact the nation’s political landscape, potentially affecting both the premiership and foreign ministry positions.

  • MBS Opens New Pharmacy at the Villa Polyclinic

    MBS Opens New Pharmacy at the Villa Polyclinic

    The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs has inaugurated a new Medical Benefits Scheme (MBS) pharmacy at Villa Polyclinic, significantly enhancing pharmaceutical service accessibility for Antigua and Barbuda residents. The facility was officially unveiled during a ceremonial event featuring key government and healthcare officials.

    Honourable Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph presided over the ribbon-cutting ceremony alongside Medical Benefits Board Chairman Sir Lionel Hurst, MBS CEO Mr. Kevin Silston, and Primary Health Care Permanent Secretary Mrs. Stacey Gregg-Paige. The collaboration between the Ministry and MBS represents a strategic advancement in the nation’s healthcare infrastructure.

    Minister Joseph emphasized the critical role of preventive healthcare in addressing the escalating prevalence of non-communicable diseases. The integration of pharmacy services within the primary healthcare facility ensures the Villa community receives comprehensive medical attention while reinforcing disease prevention strategies.

    Dr. Andre Bovell, Epidemiologist and Director of Pharmacy at MBS, highlighted the timely implementation of this service within the evolving healthcare landscape. He noted the particular importance of targeted care for the aging population and the growing challenge of chronic non-communicable diseases in the current medical environment.

    The newly established pharmacy will operate Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, providing same-day pharmaceutical services to patients. For additional information regarding the MBS Pharmacy services, residents can contact the Medical Benefits Scheme at (268) 481-6366/67.

  • Building climate resilience through Rainwater Harvesting regulations

    Building climate resilience through Rainwater Harvesting regulations

    Grenada is embarking on a groundbreaking initiative to establish its first-ever mandatory rainwater harvesting regulations, marking a significant advancement in climate resilience and water security for the island nation. The proposed legislation would require both new constructions and existing buildings exceeding specific size thresholds to install rainwater collection systems where technically feasible.

    This transformative policy emerges from an extensive collaborative framework involving the Physical Planning and Development Authority (PDA), the Ministry of Implementation and Infrastructure Development (MOIID), and the National Water and Sewerage Authority (NAWASA). The initiative operates under the Climate-Resilient Water Sector in Grenada (G-CREWS) Project, which receives substantial financial backing from the Green Climate Fund, Germany’s Federal Ministry for the Environment through its International Climate Initiative, and the Grenadian government.

    The regulatory development process commenced with a formal Memorandum of Understanding between PDA, MOIID, and the German Development Cooperation (GIZ), establishing a commitment to creating equitable, transparent, and implementable legislation. A dedicated Technical Working Group comprising representatives from NAWASA, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Legal Affairs, and the Grenada Bureau of Standards has spent months refining technical specifications, legal frameworks, and public health safeguards.

    Addressing Grenada’s escalating water demands and climate vulnerabilities, the regulations incorporate strategic provisions including a grace period for property owners to facilitate financial planning and compliance. The framework establishes comprehensive safety protocols covering approved roofing materials, water quality parameters, and sanitation measures to ensure public health protection.

    With technical preparations finalized, the government will conduct a final round of public consultations from February 19-25, 2026. Stakeholders can submit feedback through official channels until January 23, 2026, with all input being considered in the finalization of regulations aimed at creating a sustainable, climate-resilient water future for Grenada.

  • “I’m not sick”- Jagdeo

    “I’m not sick”- Jagdeo

    Guyana’s Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has publicly refuted widespread speculation about his health, explicitly denying claims that he is battling cancer. The senior official broke his unusual six-week silence from press engagements to directly address growing public conjecture about his physical condition.

    “No! I am not ill. I have not been diagnosed with cancer,” Jagdeo stated emphatically during his December 18, 2025 press conference when questioned by Demerara Waves Online News. The Vice President’s extended absence from his characteristic weekly marathon press briefings—which typically span three to four hours—had fueled rumors throughout November and December that he might be suffering from either prostate or throat cancer.

    Despite the circulation of social media conspiracy theories, including one alleging an impersonator named “Delip” had been paid to represent him, Jagdeo affirmed his authentic presence at recent governmental functions. Documentary evidence showed his participation in cabinet meetings, community council gatherings, and the launch of the Christmas village throughout the period of speculation.

    The political leader referenced the recent honor of having the US$260 million Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge named after him during its October inauguration. While notably absent from the ceremonial crossing event, Jagdeo maintains President Irfaan Ali’s continued confidence, having been described repeatedly as a key architect of modern Guyana’s development and the President’s trusted “confidante.”

  • CEO Williams: Houses Must Be Dismantled Before Transported

    CEO Williams: Houses Must Be Dismantled Before Transported

    In a decisive response to recent roadway tragedies, the Ministry of Transport has implemented stringent new regulations governing the transportation of oversized structures, particularly prefabricated houses. Chief Executive Officer Chester Williams announced that merely restricting transport to nighttime hours proved insufficient following two fatal accidents occurring during permitted nighttime movement periods.\n\nThe revised policy, enacted through formal written addendums to existing permits, now requires complete disassembly of all structures before highway transit. ‘While permission for oversized load transportation during nighttime hours remains,’ Williams clarified, ‘all structures, specifically houses, must be broken down into component parts to prevent hazardous overextension beyond vehicle parameters.’\n\nSupplementing these measures, the ministry has instituted mandatory escort protocols requiring all oversized transports to be accompanied by police or Department of Transportation vehicles equipped with prominent revolving warning lights. These visual alerts are designed to provide advanced notification to approaching motorists, enabling appropriate safety adjustments.\n\nThe Department of Transport confirmed the immediate implementation of these amendments through an official notice. The updated regulations maintain the previous 9:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. transportation window but now explicitly prohibit fully assembled houses on public roadways under any circumstances.

  • Leger des Heils deelt dit jaar fors minder kerstpakketten uit

    Leger des Heils deelt dit jaar fors minder kerstpakketten uit

    The Salvation Army in Suriname faces a significant reduction in its annual Christmas outreach program, distributing only 800 food parcels this holiday season compared to 1,400 last year. The organization had targeted a fundraising goal of SRD 1 million to support 1,500 packages for those in need but fell substantially short of this objective.

    Distribution commenced this morning at the Salvation Army’s Paramaribo headquarters, where over 600 recipients collected their packages. According to PR officer Guillermo Demon, the remaining 200 parcels will be distributed across the Para, Coronie, Saramacca and Nickerie regions.

    The event began with prayers and Christmas wishes before nearly descending into chaos as demand dramatically exceeded supply. Police intervention was required to maintain order and ensure the orderly continuation of the distribution process. Following the official allocation, a group of hopeful individuals remained on the premises in the vain expectation that additional packages might become available.

    Demon noted that hundreds of registered applicants ultimately faced disappointment. ‘Demand is increasing, but our resources and finances are diminishing,’ he observed. Despite the setback, Demon maintained a philosophical perspective: ‘This is indeed a decline. But as a Christian organization, we don’t complain or mourn. We prayed and worked toward this goal. Whatever the result, we thank the Lord. We will examine how to improve next year.’

  • No cash grant promise broken; more cash grants coming but “you have to earn too”- Jagdeo

    No cash grant promise broken; more cash grants coming but “you have to earn too”- Jagdeo

    Guyana’s Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has firmly refuted claims that his administration broke a promise to distribute cash grants before Christmas 2025. During a press briefing on Thursday, Jagdeo presented his party’s election manifesto to demonstrate that no specific pre-holiday payout commitment had been made.

    The Vice President explained that no funds have been allocated in the Treasury for such disbursements, emphasizing that implementing the cash transfer program would require parliamentary approval and several months of preparation. He recalled that earlier this year, the government needed five months to execute a similar program, which encountered challenges including attempted system exploitation.

    Jagdeo characterized President Irfaan Ali’s previous comments about potential Christmas payments as humorous remarks rather than policy commitments. “Jocularly, the President said if you’re good people… and this is what they are building their campaign on,” he stated, referencing opposition claims from We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) and A Partnership for National Unity (APNU).

    The Vice President confirmed that cash grants of GY$100,000 would be distributed following the approval of the 2026 National Budget early next year, with projected costs exceeding GY$60 billion. However, he cautioned citizens against developing dependency on government transfers, emphasizing that “You got to earn too. Cash grants should help supplement what you have.”

    Jagdeo outlined broader social programs including soft loans and grants for small business development through a planned US$200 million development bank, financial support for housing programs, and community improvement initiatives. He revealed plans for over GY$800 billion in housing investments for hundreds of thousands of families over the next five years, alongside increased support for children, pensioners, and workers.