Carib Scope

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  • Tearful PM at councillor’s funeral: ‘Romona, a daughter of my heart’

    Tearful PM at councillor’s funeral: ‘Romona, a daughter of my heart’

    In a deeply moving ceremony at Irwin Park, Siparia on Thursday, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar delivered an emotional eulogy at the funeral of murdered United National Congress councillor Romona Victor, describing the deceased as “a daughter of my heart.” The Prime Minister struggled to maintain composure during her address, pausing to wipe away tears and placing her hand over her heart as she remembered the 36-year-old public servant.

    The tragic circumstances of Victor’s death on November 23 cast a somber shadow over the proceedings. According to police reports, she was fatally beaten by her common-law husband, 45-year-old Rodney Ramsumair, who subsequently ingested poison. Their bodies were discovered in the bedroom of their Coora Branch Road residence in Siparia.

    Persad-Bissessar praised the bravery of Victor’s parents, Francis and Laura, for speaking openly about their daughter’s tragic passing while emphasizing that her life should not be defined by its final chapter. “Behind this councillor was a woman who faced private struggles while still showing up for others with smiles, hope, and love,” the Prime Minister stated.

    The funeral, held within walking distance of the Siparia Borough Corporation where Victor represented the interests of Siparia East/San Francique constituents, became a platform for addressing broader societal issues. The Prime Minister used the occasion to highlight the importance of support systems for those experiencing domestic violence, reaffirming her government’s commitment to strengthening crisis intervention mechanisms.

    Persad-Bissessar also reflected on Victor’s professional accomplishments, noting her recent appointment to the Heritage Petroleum board and her rise from modest beginnings in Syne Village, Penal. She recalled encouraging Victor to enter public life due to her sincerity and strong community connections. Victor is survived by her parents, siblings, and son Sheldon Zion, whom she frequently described as her greatest motivation. Following the service, she was laid to rest at the Siparia public cemetery.

  • PNM Tobago wants disclosure on US military presence in Tobago

    PNM Tobago wants disclosure on US military presence in Tobago

    Tobago’s political landscape has been rattled by escalating concerns over unexplained United States military activities at the ANR Robinson International Airport, prompting demands for full governmental transparency. The controversy emerged on November 26 when residents reported being awakened by the thunderous departure of a US military aircraft at approximately 5:53 AM, with the unexpected event also disturbing local wildlife.

    The situation intensified when Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and Tobago Chief Secretary Farley Augustine provided conflicting accounts regarding the military presence. While the Prime Minister characterized the operations as mere ‘roadworks’ associated with the new airport development, Augustine initially claimed awareness only of a refueling stop by a US Air Force craft, expressing no knowledge of troop deployments.

    Further complicating matters, eyewitnesses reported spotting equipment resembling advanced radar systems typically utilized by the US Marine Corps, fueling additional speculation about the nature of the military activities. This discovery has raised particular concern given the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the United States and Venezuela in the region.

    The PNM Tobago Council, led by Minority Leader Kelvon Morris, has taken a firm stance against what they describe as secretive operations conducted without proper consultation or transparency. During a press conference held adjacent to the new airport terminal, Morris revealed he had been inundated with calls from concerned citizens demanding answers about potential military installations.

    Former Chief Secretary Ancil Dennis amplified these concerns, accusing both central government and Tobago House of Assembly leadership of engaging in clandestine activities that bypass proper democratic processes. Dennis emphasized the need for Tobagonians to unite in expressing their discomfort with the situation and demand greater accountability from their representatives.

    The emerging controversy occurs against the backdrop of upcoming THA elections, with the PNM Tobago Council preparing to challenge Augustine’s Tobago Peoples Party, adding political dimensions to the escalating transparency dispute.

  • Johann Layne shines with 3/33 in Windies warm-up match

    Johann Layne shines with 3/33 in Windies warm-up match

    Emerging Barbadian fast bowler Johann Layne delivered an impressive performance on the final day of West Indies’ two-day warm-up match against a New Zealand XI at Bert Sutcliffe Oval, Lincoln University. The 22-year-old paceman claimed three wickets for 33 runs, helping restrict the hosts to 264 all out in response to the visitors’ declaration at 346 for five.

    The practice encounter concluded in a predictable draw on November 27, but Layne’s post-tea bowling spell particularly stood out, likely earning approval from head coach Daren Sammy and bowling coach Ravi Rampaul. The New Zealand XI faced early trouble at 4-2 after just four overs, losing openers Scott Janett (1) and Jesse Frew (3) to experienced campaigners Kemar Roach (1-55) and Anderson Phillip (1-27).

    Layne broke a developing partnership when he dismissed Sam Cassidy for a brisk 28 off 26 deliveries with the score at 45-3. The home team recovered through a substantial 126-run stand between Muhammad Abbas (61) and Cam Paul (91), reaching 144-3 at the tea interval. Following the break, Layne’s double strike in quick succession removed both Abbas and wicketkeeper-batsman Marco Alpe (0), with both caught behind by Tevin Imlach.

    The middle-order collapse continued as Paul’s excellent knock ended at 91 when he offered a simple return catch to off-spinner Roston Chase (1-40). Left-arm spinners Kavem Hodge (2-32) and vice-captain Jomel Warrican (2-45) then combined to claim the final four wickets, bowling the New Zealand XI out 82 runs short of the Caribbean side’s total.

    Despite the encouraging performance, concerns emerged regarding allrounder Justin Greaves, who required assistance leaving the field after pulling up injured during his fourth over. The West Indies will begin their three-match Test series against New Zealand on November 1 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch.

  • COP30 again sounds climate alarm

    COP30 again sounds climate alarm

    BELEM, BRAZIL – The recently concluded COP30 United Nations Climate Summit has reignited global concerns about the accelerating pace of environmental degradation, with small island developing states (SIDS) including Trinidad and Tobago expressing particular alarm about climate impacts. Delegates from vulnerable nations highlighted the interconnected crises of ocean system disruption, biodiversity collapse, increasing natural disasters, and food insecurity that collectively threaten human welfare worldwide.

    Despite decades of international environmental conferences dating back to the 1992 Rio Earth Summit, global responses remain critically inadequate. Observers consistently identify insufficient funding and lack of political commitment as primary obstacles to implementing meaningful climate action.

    Trinidad and Tobago’s delegation, led by the Minister of Planning, Economic Affairs and Development, emphasized the necessity for coordinated action across all levels, with particular focus on climate financing mechanisms. The minister outlined national mitigation efforts including electric vehicle promotion, residential solar water heater installation, transition to green hydrogen energy, and implementation of a National Adaptation Plan.

    A compelling case was made for accelerated forest development as a cost-effective climate strategy. Forests serve as the planet’s primary terrestrial carbon sinks, working in tandem with oceanic systems to maintain atmospheric balance through carbon sequestration. Trinidad and Tobago maintains significant forest coverage spanning approximately 25% of its land area, providing critical ecosystem services including watershed protection, wildlife conservation, ecotourism opportunities, rural employment, and public health benefits.

    However, these vital ecosystems face persistent threats from unauthorized development, illegal squatting, and unregulated quarrying activities that have left thousands of hectares degraded and abandoned without restoration efforts.

    Global reforestation initiatives offer promising models for emulation, including Africa’s Great Green Wall project aiming to restore 100 million hectares across 11 nations, Brazil’s Amazon rainforest restoration efforts, and similar programs in Australia and India. Such investments in preventive conservation rather than costly recovery represent economically prudent pathways, with potential carbon credit revenues providing additional financial incentives for developed nations to support these initiatives.

    Collaboration between governmental forestry agencies, civil society organizations, and private sector stakeholders will prove essential to preserving Trinidad and Tobago’s environmental legacy for future generations.

  • Kia kindness

    Kia kindness

    In an innovative blend of corporate philanthropy and product introduction, Kia Jamaica unveiled its all-new Tasman pickup through a humanitarian mission at King’s Primary & Infant School in Westmoreland on November 22, 2025. The initiative, part of the ‘Kia Cares Hurricane Melissa Relief’ program, brought together approximately 55 company volunteers who joined forces with Sandals Foundation, Wisynco Group’s M-POWA brand, and Team Rubicon USA to assist in post-hurricane recovery efforts.

    The devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa had left the educational institution severely damaged, with classrooms filled with debris that threatened to disrupt academic activities—particularly for grade six students preparing for critical Primary Exit Profile (PEP) examinations. Serving 150 students from Longhill and surrounding communities, the school required immediate intervention to restore operational capacity.

    Kia’s leadership team emphasized the strategic decision to replace a traditional vehicle launch with community service. Allamish Creightney, Sales Manager for Kingston, explained: ‘Instead of allocating resources to a conventional marketing event, we chose to demonstrate our commitment to Jamaican communities by directly supporting recovery efforts. The Tasman’s first public appearance was thus dedicated to transporting volunteers and supplies to the affected school.’

    The Tasman pickup itself represents a significant milestone for the automaker—their first entry into the pickup truck market. Engineered with body-on-frame construction and a 2.2-liter turbo-diesel engine generating 210 horsepower, the vehicle boasts substantial towing (7,716 lbs) and payload (2,242 lbs) capabilities. Practical features include interior console tables, bed side storage, panoramic displays, and best-in-class rear seating space, with pricing starting at approximately $12 million Jamaican dollars.

    Kelly Nunes, Project Manager at Sandals Foundation, which has maintained a long-term partnership with the school including computer lab development, expressed profound appreciation: ‘We are super appreciative of all their help today. This collaborative effort was essential for restoring educational continuity.’

    Principal Marcia Tatham-Miller noted the significance of the intervention: ‘I am overwhelmed by the support. Thanks to this collective effort, we will be ready to accommodate our examination-bound students next week.’

    Kia Jamaica has indicated that this event marks the beginning of ongoing relief initiatives, with additional corporate social responsibility projects planned throughout the coming months.

  • BATTLE TO THE SUMMIT

    BATTLE TO THE SUMMIT

    Jamaican football stalwart Konya Plummer is poised to make history once again as she joins the Reggae Girlz in their qualifying campaign for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. The team begins its Group B Concacaf qualifiers against Dominica this Saturday at St. Lucia’s Daren Sammy Cricket Ground, with further matches against Guyana, Nicaragua, and Antigua and Barbuda.

    Plummer’s path back to professional football exemplifies extraordinary resilience. The 28-year-old defender, who captained Jamaica to their first World Cup appearance in 2019, faced a career crossroads upon discovering her pregnancy. During a recent interview with the Jamaica Football Federation, Plummer revealed her initial struggles: “There were several times I wanted to quit football. The news was unexpected, and I thought I was too young.”

    The athlete described the emotional turmoil of receiving offers from prominent European clubs while simultaneously learning about her pregnancy. “I thought, ‘This is the end of my career.’ I believed I would never reach such heights again,” she confessed.

    Her perspective transformed dramatically when Jamaica qualified for their second consecutive World Cup in 2023. “Learning about our qualification changed everything,” Plummer explained. “It ignited something within me—I knew I had to work toward returning.”

    Motherhood unveiled previously untapped reservoirs of strength for the athlete. “Having a son became my greatest motivation—it makes me push harder for everything in life,” Plummer stated. Despite the challenges of an eight-hour time difference separating her from her child, who remains with family in Jamaica, her determination never faltered.

    Beyond athletics, Plummer has channeled her experiences into philanthropic endeavors. She established the Konya Plummer Community Grant, an initiative born from spiritual reflection and a commitment to social upliftment. “This was God’s inspiration,” she noted. “I wanted to create opportunities for those without resources, just as coaches and mentors once supported me.”

    The charity represents Plummer’s dedication to leaving a legacy beyond sports. “Football might not last forever, but making a meaningful impact does. Giving back is about being part of something greater than oneself,” she affirmed.

    As the Reggae Girlz commence their qualifying journey, Plummer’s story stands as a powerful narrative of athletic excellence, maternal strength, and profound social consciousness.

  • Predators active

    Predators active

    Jamaica faces an unprecedented child protection crisis in the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, with experts warning of heightened risks of abuse and victimization surpassing even pandemic-era dangers. Professor Zoyah Kinkead-Clarke of The University of the West Indies has issued a stark warning to caregivers, urging extreme vigilance and what she describes as necessary “paranoia” in supervising vulnerable children.

    The Category 5 hurricane that made landfall on October 28 has left approximately 156,000 dwellings damaged—including 24,000 complete losses—while devastating educational infrastructure across 679 schools and 21 tertiary institutions. This destruction has displaced protective barriers both literally and figuratively, eliminating the safe spaces that traditionally shield minors from harm.

    During the recent Regional Colloquium on Early Childhood Education hosted at UWI in collaboration with multiple organizations including the Jamaica National Foundation and Early Childhood Commission, experts revealed disturbing parallels to pandemic-era risks. Professor Kinkead-Clarke emphasized that schools serve as crucial protective factors, and their absence creates conditions for increased victimization similar to extended summer breaks but magnified by widespread homelessness.

    Education Minister Senator Dr. Dana Morris Dixon confirmed the monumental impact on education, with over 111,000 students and 5,000 staff members experiencing complete disruption of their academic routines. The physical destruction has been particularly severe in seven parishes including St. Ann, Trelawny, and St. James.

    Allison Montgomery, Programme Officer at the School of Education Mona, characterized the current crisis as surpassing COVID-19’s challenges, noting that while children remained in homes during the pandemic, many are now completely without shelter. The compounded mental health strain on parents and caregivers further compromises their ability to provide protection, creating a multidimensional emergency requiring creative community-based solutions.

    The consensus among experts emphasizes that child protection must become a communal effort involving churches, community centers, and extended families. With legal systems already overwhelmed by pandemic-era cases that remain unresolved years later, the urgency for establishing functional safe spaces and addressing mental health needs for both children and caregivers has reached critical levels unprecedented in Jamaica’s recent history.

  • Bondholders issue Lee-Chin US$94-m ultimatum

    Bondholders issue Lee-Chin US$94-m ultimatum

    Jamaican billionaire Michael Lee-Chin confronts a definitive December 31, 2025 deadline to settle a $94 million payment to bondholders or risk forfeiting his crown jewel—a controlling 1.024-billion share stake in NCB Financial Group (NCBFG) that secures his corporate debts. This ultimatum forms the cornerstone of a rigorously negotiated forbearance agreement brokered by a unified committee of Jamaica’s financial elite.

    The payment comprises $19.1 million in overdue interest and a $75 million principal installment. A special committee chaired by Sagicor Group CEO Christopher Zacca engineered the agreement after investors overwhelmingly rejected Lee-Chin’s previous workout proposals. The pact features an automatic enforcement mechanism absent from prior negotiations—a response to what Zacca described as unfulfilled promises. “In the past, the promises to pay have not been honoured. I don’t want to be kicking the can down the road,” Zacca stated.

    The agreement’s most critical provision mandates that should Lee-Chin’s companies—AIC (Barbados), Portland (Barbados) Limited, and Specialty Coffee Investment Company Limited—fail to meet the December deadline, trustee JCSD Trustee Services must immediately initiate share seizure procedures within 45 days. “This does not give the trustee any flexibility or discretion,” Zacca emphasized. “After a total of 45 days, if the money not paid, boom.”

    The potential enforcement presents market stability concerns, as dumping 1.024 billion NCBFG shares—representing 40% of the financial giant—could crater the stock price. Zacca acknowledged the committee would devise a sophisticated disposal strategy rather than trigger a fire sale. Alternatives include distributing shares directly to noteholders, though this would require navigating legal complexities.

    Despite the high stakes, Zacca revealed Lee-Chin has personally “assured us that he has the funds.” The agreement further stipulates that NCBFG dividends will cover interest payments through 2027, with the full debt balance due by December 31, 2027.

    The resolution faces its next critical test during 14 separate noteholder meetings scheduled December 2-10, requiring a 75% super-majority approval for each note series. While Jamaica’s five major brokerages advocate approval, they collectively hold 50-75% of debt, making smaller noteholders decisive. The trustee and brokerages are proactively mobilizing voters to ensure quorum.

  • McKenzie: Homes for the indigent to be relocated or repaired and improved

    McKenzie: Homes for the indigent to be relocated or repaired and improved

    The Jamaican government is initiating a strategic reassessment of its social care infrastructure following the devastation wrought by Category 5 Hurricane Melissa, with particular focus on relocating infirmaries from flood-prone zones. These facilities, which provide essential care for destitute and vulnerable citizens lacking familial or financial support, suffered significant structural damage during the October 28 storm.

    Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie, after conducting extensive facility assessments, identified multiple institutions requiring urgent intervention. The St. Ann Infirmary, situated perilously close to the coastline, has been flagged for potential relocation despite sustaining minimal damage. Meanwhile, authorities have secured safer ground for the Trelawny Infirmary in Falmouth, where the complete destruction of facilities has left residents without adequate accommodation.

    Minister McKenzie revealed immediate measures including the deployment of four retrofitted containers to serve as temporary housing for Trelawny’s indigent population. “Within another four weeks I am hoping that we will be able to complete the process,” McKenzie stated during cleanup operations at Santa Cruz Infirmary, emphasizing the urgency to provide proper housing before Christmas celebrations.

    The catastrophic event has underscored systemic vulnerabilities in Jamaica’s elder care infrastructure. Minister McKenzie acknowledged that approximately 90% of the nation’s infirmaries exceed century-old construction, necessitating comprehensive modernization. “Time has come to replace some of these buildings and put up new structures that will be able to cope,” he declared.

    Beyond structural concerns, the hurricane exposed critical operational challenges. Emergency relocations during Melissa highlighted the impossibility of moving vulnerable residents during active storms, prompting policy revisions regarding early evacuation protocols. Minister McKenzie confirmed that advance evacuation instructions issued three days prior to landfall potentially saved numerous lives.

    The human dimension of the disaster emerged through accounts of extraordinary staff dedication at Santa Cruz Infirmary, where caregivers waded through waist-high waters to evacuate residents. Matron Bianca Mitchell-Smith’s emotional response during the minister’s visit highlighted the traumatic experiences endured by both caregivers and residents.

    Looking forward, Minister McKenzie is assembling expert teams to develop flood mitigation strategies for facilities like Santa Cruz Infirmary, located near the Upper Black River Morass. The government plans to collaborate with municipal corporations to enhance technical assessment capabilities and prioritize infrastructure upgrades that address both immediate needs and long-term climate resilience.

  • Gonsalves loses St Vincent and the Grenadines election

    Gonsalves loses St Vincent and the Grenadines election

    In a historic political shift for the Caribbean nation, St Vincent and the Grenadines has elected its first new prime minister in over two decades. The ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP), led by veteran leader Ralph Gonsalves, suffered a decisive defeat in Thursday’s general election, ending his remarkable 23-year tenure.

    The opposition New Democratic Party (NDP), under the leadership of Dr. Goodwin Friday, achieved a commanding parliamentary majority by securing at least 11 of the nation’s 15 parliamentary constituencies according to reports from the St Vincent Times. This outcome represents a dramatic reversal from the 2020 election when the ULP maintained control despite losing the popular vote.

    Gonsalves, aged 79, ranked among the world’s longest-serving democratically elected leaders since assuming office in 2001. His defeat concludes one of the most enduring political administrations in Caribbean history and marks a significant generational transition in Vincentian politics.

    The incoming administration, led by Dr. Friday as the nation’s seventh prime minister since gaining independence in 1979, has proposed substantial policy changes. These include establishing a citizenship-by-investment program to boost national revenue and reconsidering diplomatic relations with Taiwan in favor of strengthening ties with mainland China—a significant departure from the ULP’s longstanding positions.

    National attention now turns to how the NDP administration will address the country’s economic and social challenges while implementing its proposed policy initiatives in this new political era.