Carib Scope

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  • STATEMENT: UN Secretary General on International Day of Persons with Disabilities

    STATEMENT: UN Secretary General on International Day of Persons with Disabilities

    In a powerful global affirmation, the recently adopted Doha Political Declaration has established that sustainable development remains unattainable without the full inclusion of persons with disabilities. This landmark document, ratified during last month’s World Summit for Social Development, underscores a fundamental truth: meaningful progress requires the active participation of all community members.

    Across the globe, individuals with disabilities are driving transformative societal changes—spearheading innovation, shaping policy frameworks, and advocating for justice. Their contributions have already yielded significant benefits for broader society, including enhanced disaster preparedness protocols, expanded access to inclusive education and employment opportunities, and more effective humanitarian interventions that prioritize those most vulnerable.

    Remarkably, many technological innovations that have become ubiquitous in daily life originated as disability-focused solutions. Everyday conveniences such as text messaging and voice-activated technologies trace their origins to adaptations initially created by and for people with disabilities.

    Despite these demonstrated contributions, persistent systemic barriers continue to exclude over one billion people with disabilities worldwide. Discrimination, economic marginalization, and inaccessible infrastructure and services remain substantial obstacles to full participation.

    On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, there is a renewed call for collaborative action. The challenge is to work alongside people with disabilities—in all their diversity—as equal partners in development. When societies achieve genuine inclusion, the benefits extend to all citizens, creating more resilient communities where every individual can thrive and contribute to collective advancement.

  • St Michael man to answer murder, firearm charges today

    St Michael man to answer murder, firearm charges today

    A 27-year-old resident of St. Michael, Barbados, is set to appear before the District ‘A’ Criminal Court today to answer to a series of serious charges stemming from a fatal shooting incident last month. Garendra Alexander Thomas, residing at Yearwood Land in Bank Hall, faces prosecution for his alleged involvement in the November 19 shooting that claimed the life of Jabaree Carrington.

    The comprehensive charges brought against Thomas include murder in the death of Jabaree Carrington, four counts of endangering life, illegal use of a firearm, possession of a firearm without authorization, possession of 15 rounds of ammunition, and two counts of criminal damage to property. The case has been developed through collaborative efforts between the Major Crime Unit and the Criminal Investigations Department based in Black Rock, demonstrating coordinated law enforcement action against violent crime.

    This court appearance marks a significant development in the judicial process addressing gun violence in the community. The multiple charges reflect the seriousness with which authorities are treating firearm-related offenses and their commitment to pursuing comprehensive legal action against alleged perpetrators. The case represents ongoing efforts by Barbadian law enforcement to combat violent crime and ensure accountability through the judicial system.

  • Casimir breaks two-decade pattern, wins Gros Islet by record margin

    Casimir breaks two-decade pattern, wins Gros Islet by record margin

    In an unprecedented electoral triumph, Gros Islet has returned Kenson Casimir of the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) to parliament with a record-breaking margin of victory. Official results confirm Casimir secured 8,175 votes, surpassing United Workers Party (UWP) challenger Marcella Johnson by 4,314 votes—the largest victory margin in the constituency’s history and the first back-to-back win since Mario Michel’s tenure (1997-2006).

    The landmark result came during Saint Lucia’s December 1 general election that saw the SLP secure 14 parliamentary seats alongside two independents and UWP leader Allen Chastanet. Casimir’s victory speech, broadcast via livestream as he toured the celebrating constituency, acknowledged the historic nature of the mandate: “Thank you for making history today! A margin of over 4,000 votes—never before in Saint Lucia’s history.”

    His opponent, Marcella Johnson, conceded gracefully in a social media statement, reflecting that while unsuccessful, her campaign had built “something far greater than a simple victory or defeat.” She extended sincere well-wishes to Casimir, expressing hopes that “God guide your decisions, strengthen your purpose and bless your service to Gros Islet.”

    The electoral outcome followed Casimir’s first term that delivered substantial infrastructure improvements including upgraded sporting facilities (Baba Lastic Grounds, Monchy playing field), road repairs, bus shelters, a new commercial center, expanded Gros Islet Polyclinic, Police Headquarters construction, and the Gros Islet Beach Park development. The constituency has also attracted significant tourism investment, notably the A’ila Resorts project.

    Campaign debates centered on traffic congestion along Rodney Bay Highway and rising living costs, with Johnson pledging coastal reconstruction to stimulate business activity. Casimir faced—and denied—opposition allegations regarding real estate acquisitions, dismissing them as a “smear campaign.” His platform emphasized continuing development initiatives, with major road works and dual-carriage expansions scheduled to address the rapidly growing district’s congestion issues.

  • From Barbados to the world: Earl Maynard at 90 reflects on Independence, success, and giving back

    From Barbados to the world: Earl Maynard at 90 reflects on Independence, success, and giving back

    Earl Maynard, the celebrated Mr Universe titleholder, professional wrestler, and Hollywood actor, recently commemorated his 90th birthday while reflecting on an extraordinary journey that carried him from humble beginnings in Barbados to international stardom. In an exclusive interview with Barbados TODAY, Maynard recounted departing his native island at age 17 with merely $25 and a one-way ticket to England, vowing that success would eventually bring him back home.

    Maynard’s career trajectory reads like a screenplay. After achieving bodybuilding supremacy in competitions across England and the United States, he transitioned into acting with roles in Hollywood action films. He fondly recalled filming experiences in Israel and working on the 1978 martial arts fantasy film ‘Circle of Iron’ (also known as ‘The Silent Flute’). On set, director Richard Moore initially instructed him to be swiftly defeated by co-star David Carradine, but Maynard’s professional execution of the scene instead enhanced Carradine’s performance. This display of professionalism earned him an unexpected $16,000 bonus and industry respect.

    Beyond cinematic achievements, Maynard dedicated himself to assisting fellow Barbadians abroad, helping secure employment opportunities in Bermuda and establishing valuable connections for his compatriots. He attributes his success to spiritual foundation and personal relationships, stating, ‘I’m happy with the things I’ve accomplished… and I give God thanks because I always put God first.’ Maynard emphasizes the importance of resilience, noting that ‘every day above the ground is a good day,’ and credits his loving wife as a crucial component of his happiness.

    The nonagenarian offers counsel to aspiring youth, advocating for education as the primary pursuit alongside ambition: ‘Education first. If you are an athlete… you can get an injury. It may hurt your career, but you’re going to fall back on education. Then choose the path where you want to excel and listen to people with experience.’

    For Maynard, Barbados’ Independence represents both national freedom and personal inspiration. ‘No matter where I travelled, I never forgot Barbados,’ he affirms. ‘The Independence of our country inspires me to keep striving, not just for myself, but to create opportunities and open doors for others back home.’ His narrative embodies the Independence spirit—courage to depart, determination to succeed, and commitment to community upliftment. As Barbados reflects on its national journey, Maynard’s life demonstrates the powerful synergy between individual ambition and national pride.

  • Freedom in every stroke: Artist inspires new voices of Barbados

    Freedom in every stroke: Artist inspires new voices of Barbados

    As Barbados commemorates its 59th year of independence, celebrated artist Sherridean Carmichael has transformed the national celebration into a powerful movement of creative liberation and spiritual expression. The multiple NIFCA award winner, renowned as the youngest recipient of the prestigious Goddard Enterprises Purchase Award, recently hosted a profoundly moving exhibition at the Inspirational Fine Art Gallery that united emerging talents and established creators under a shared vision of artistic freedom.

    Carmichael’s gallery—recognized as Barbados’ first and exclusively faith-based art space—originated from what she describes as a divine inspiration. Initially conceived as a personal prayer for studio space, the vision expanded into a sanctuary where artists pursue growth, community, and spiritual grounding. ‘People need spaces where they can relax, remember their special qualities, and rediscover hope,’ Carmichael told attendees during the emotionally charged exhibition.

    The artist’s bold, expressionistic works have long served as vessels for hope, healing, and spiritual contemplation. However, this year’s independence celebration carried particular significance for Carmichael, who views creative expression as fundamental to national identity. ‘Freedom transcends mere absence of restraint,’ she articulated. ‘It represents the liberty to authentically express oneself, to heal, to create, and to experiment without fearing external judgment.’

    During a poignant segment of the evening, participants contemplated symbols of freedom, with responses ranging from birds and wind to open spaces. Carmichael shared her childhood dreams of flight, interpreting them as early reminders of the boundless promise she believes God provides. ‘Even during rainfall, birds continue singing,’ she observed. ‘Nature constantly reminds us that we were born for freedom.’

    Beyond inspirational words, Carmichael demonstrates commitment through action via her organization, Creative Art Well, where she mentors both young artists and individuals rediscovering dormant talents. The exhibition’s impact became evident when one participant phoned Carmichael in tears, expressing how the experience had restored her hope and creative possibilities.

    The evening reached an emotional climax when Carmichael presented her original poem ‘In My Room,’ composed in her personal sanctuary of creation, prayer, and teaching. The piece, which speaks to gratitude, inspiration, and miracles unfolding in quiet spaces, received such powerful responses that attendees suggested incorporating it into future exhibitions.

    Emerging artists like Khalani Ward shared how the environment helped overcome creative blocks and rediscover confidence. Others described the gallery as providing essential space to breathe, recommence, and envision new possibilities—precisely what Carmichael hopes her establishment will continue offering.

    The exhibition, running through December 19 at the Sugar Cane Mall on Roebuck Street, features debut works by Amanda Escamilla, Ashleigh Williams, Patricia Cadogan, Nicolette Gibbons, Jeriah Walcott, Carol-Ann Mason, Khalani Ward, and Fran Downey-Smith alongside Carmichael’s pieces. Together, these artists contribute unique voices to Barbados’ evolving creative narrative, embodying Carmichael’s conviction that ‘possibility only exists with attempts’ and that everyone possesses something waiting to emerge.

  • New linear accelerator brings ‘world-class cancer care’ to QEH

    New linear accelerator brings ‘world-class cancer care’ to QEH

    Barbados has entered a transformative phase in oncology treatment with the operational launch of Queen Elizabeth Hospital’s state-of-the-art Halcyon 4.0 Linear Accelerator (LINAC), marking a significant advancement in the Caribbean’s healthcare landscape. The $10 million radiation therapy system, inaugurated Tuesday, represents the initial step in what Health Minister Senator Jerome Walcott describes as “the transformation of Barbados’ healthcare” system.

    The cutting-edge technology arrives as Barbados confronts a substantial public health challenge: non-communicable diseases and cancer account for approximately 80% of adult deaths, with cancer specifically responsible for 25% of mortality. The system specifically targets prostate, breast, and colon cancers that disproportionately affect the population.

    Medical Physicist Corey Drakes explained the technological breakthrough: “The Halcyon LINAC introduces high-quality CBCT imaging for precise tumor localization. Through intensity-modulated radiation therapy, we can precisely conform radiation to lesions while preserving surrounding healthy tissues, significantly enhancing safety protocols for both patients and medical staff.”

    For patients, this translates to multiple benefits: radiation beams can be shaped more accurately around cancerous areas, minimizing exposure to healthy organs and skin. Treatment sessions become shorter and more comfortable, with reduced side effects. Crucially, patients can now receive world-class radiotherapy without leaving Barbados, remaining close to family support systems during treatment.

    QEH Chief Executive Officer Neil Clarke reported immediate practical benefits, including a dramatic reduction in waiting times for initial oncology consultations from 140 days to under 30 days. “This is life-saving,” Clarke emphasized, noting that six patients have already received treatment through the new system, with plans to address a backlog of over 100 cases within six months.

    The installation positions Barbados as a regional leader in cancer care, with capacity to support Caribbean collaboration, training, and standardized high-quality treatment. Drakes, who underwent specialized training in Washington alongside a radiation therapist, credited the achievement to international partnerships including the International Atomic Energy Agency, Varian Medical Systems, Global Medica, and Washington University Hospital.

    With approximately 150 patients currently dependent on radiotherapy at QEH and ten new cases monthly, the Halcyon system represents both a medical and symbolic victory. As Drakes concluded: “This is a celebration of patients and their courage. Today we begin a new chapter of precision, compassion, and innovation.”

  • Landslide near Three Rivers on road to Rosalie

    Landslide near Three Rivers on road to Rosalie

    A significant landslide has severed a crucial transportation artery in the vicinity of Three Rivers, leading to the community of Rosalie. The geological event transpired in the pre-dawn hours, according to initial reports, sending substantial volumes of earth and debris cascading across the roadway.

    Visual evidence, including photographs and video footage from the scene, depicts a severe obstruction completely blocking the passage. The incident has resulted in the complete stranding of westbound commuters attempting to depart the area. Early indications suggest that vehicular traffic has been brought to a standstill, with no immediate timeline for clearance established.

    The landslide’s impact extends beyond mere inconvenience, effectively isolating residents and disrupting local economic and social activities that depend on the route. Emergency response teams and infrastructure crews are presumed to be mobilizing to assess the stability of the hillside and initiate a complex debris removal operation. The priority remains ensuring the safety of both the stranded motorists and the workers tasked with reopening the vital corridor. Further assessments are required to determine the exact cause of the slope failure, which could be attributed to recent weather patterns or underlying soil conditions.

  • Foreign Affairs Minister Calls for Greater Hotel Cooperation Ahead of CHOGM 2026

    Foreign Affairs Minister Calls for Greater Hotel Cooperation Ahead of CHOGM 2026

    Antigua and Barbuda’s Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene has issued a stern directive to hospitality industry leaders, demanding closer collaboration with government planners for the upcoming 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). The minister’s remarks came during a National Task Force assembly on Tuesday, where he confronted concerning reports about accommodation sector practices.

    Minister Greene addressed what government officials characterize as unreasonable demands from certain hotel operators, alongside plans for substantial room rate increases during the international summit. He explicitly condemned these approaches as “unacceptable,” emphasizing that such tactics undermine national interests. The government’s ongoing efforts to secure major international events ultimately generate substantial revenue for the hospitality industry, creating a symbiotic relationship that requires responsible cooperation.

    “Government is the entity attracting thousands of visitors who will fill those rooms,” Greene stated, framing CHOGM as a national endeavor rather than a political event. He articulated the sector’s obligation to support this collective effort, asserting that hoteliers must contribute actively to ensuring the summit’s success rather than pursuing short-term profit maximization.

    Scheduled for November 1-4, 2026, CHOGM is projected to draw between 5,000 and 7,000 distinguished visitors to Antigua and Barbuda. The anticipated attendees include numerous heads of government, high-ranking officials, and representatives from various royal families, marking one of the most significant international gatherings in the nation’s recent history.

  • Former SVG PM Ralph Gonsalves to attend Pierre’s swearing-in

    Former SVG PM Ralph Gonsalves to attend Pierre’s swearing-in

    In a significant display of regional political unity, former Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines Ralph Gonsalves has formally accepted an invitation to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister-elect Philip J. Pierre. This confirmation follows the decisive victory of the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) in the December 1 general election, where they secured a commanding 14-1 parliamentary majority.

    The invitation was extended personally during a conversation between the two leaders, as documented in a public Facebook post by Gonsalves. “This morning, I spoke with my brother and comrade, Hon. Philip J Pierre,” Gonsalves stated. “In conversation, Philip extended an invitation, which I’ve accepted, to be at his swearing in ceremony on Friday December 5th. Labour stays together!”

    The ceremony will mark a historic moment for Pierre, who has now achieved a record seventh consecutive term as Member of Parliament for Castries East. Following his electoral triumph, Pierre addressed supporters from his constituency office in Marchand, striking a tone of gratitude and forward-looking determination. He specifically acknowledged the “special relationship” with his constituents that made this victory possible.

    While celebrating the overwhelming mandate, Prime Minister Pierre immediately shifted focus to governance priorities. He announced immediate plans including a VAT-free day and back pay for civil servants, demonstrating his administration’s commitment to economic relief measures. In a gesture of political reconciliation, Pierre also extended congratulations to United Workers Party leader Allen Chastanet, who emerged as his party’s sole successful candidate.

    The new administration is expected to be formally sworn in by week’s end, with a complete Cabinet implementation anticipated by next week as the country moves forward on what Pierre described as “the right trajectory.”

  • Mayor’s Office Commemorates 44th Independence of Antigua and Barbuda with Inaugural Flag-Raising Ceremony

    Mayor’s Office Commemorates 44th Independence of Antigua and Barbuda with Inaugural Flag-Raising Ceremony

    In a historic display of diplomatic camaraderie and cultural celebration, New York City Hall’s Mayor’s Office orchestrated the inaugural flag-raising ceremony at Bowling Green Park in Manhattan on December 1, 2025, commemorating the 44th independence anniversary of Antigua and Barbuda. The event symbolized the strengthening of international relations and honored the significant Caribbean nation’s sovereignty.

    The ceremony, meticulously organized through the collaborative efforts of multiple mayoral agencies, was conceived by NYC Commissioner of the Department of Corrections, Mrs. Lynelle Maginley-Liddle, an Antiguan native. Operational execution was led by US Diaspora Liaison Dr. Dave Ray alongside the Consulate Affairs team, with Mrs. Joy Wehner serving as the event’s host.

    Reverend Elouise Hill-Challenger commenced proceedings with a solemn invocation, establishing a reflective yet celebratory atmosphere. Dignitaries delivering addresses included Arthur Piccolo, Chairman of the Bowling Green Association; John Matthews, Financial Secretary of the Antigua and Barbuda Progressive Society; and The Hon. Marsha D. Michael, NYC Appellate Court Associate Judge also of Antiguan heritage.

    Deputy Commissioner Dilipkumar Chauhan from the Mayor’s Office of International Affairs and Dr. Ray from the Consul General Office of Antigua and Barbuda provided additional remarks. The New York State Assembly delegation, represented by Mrs. Sandra Reid, presented an official citation to Dr. Ray in recognition of his diplomatic contributions.

    UN Ambassador The Hon. Dr. Walton Aubrey Webson delivered a historically significant address, tracing bilateral relations between New York and Antigua and Barbuda to the 16th century. He highlighted the islands’ former status as one of the Caribbean’s wealthiest territories under Dutch control, supplying sugar and indigo to New York prior to American independence.

    The ceremony featured vibrant musical performances by Barbudan trumpeter Trevaughn Thomas and his ensemble. Color Guards and Honor Guards from Corrections Law Enforcement provided formal honors, while the national flag of Antigua and Barbuda will remain displayed at the park for one to two weeks.

    The event attracted substantial attendance from the Antiguan and Barbudan diaspora community and members of the CARICOM Consular Corps, including representatives from Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, and Grenada. This gathering fostered a powerful sense of Caribbean unity and shared heritage, with organizers confirming intentions to establish the ceremony as an annual tradition.