Carib Scope

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  • Unstoppable Jn Baptiste victorious at Laborie Girls

    Unstoppable Jn Baptiste victorious at Laborie Girls

    Jn Baptiste House delivered a commanding performance at the Laborie RC Girls’ Primary School track championships held Tuesday at Phillip Marcellin Ground, establishing an insurmountable lead that left other houses competing for secondary positions. According to school principal Donna Peter-Joseph, the athletic showcase commenced punctually and concluded ahead of schedule, with Jn Baptiste accumulating a remarkable 712 points through exceptional performances across multiple age divisions.

    The competition for second place intensified during the afternoon relay events, where Jn Panel House narrowly surpassed Roland House in the final relay to secure runner-up position with 520 points. Roland House finished third with 510 points, marking another disappointing result for the team.

    Jn Baptiste’s victory was propelled by outstanding performances in the Under-13 and Under-7 categories, complemented by Kishanie O’Reilly’s dominant showing in the Under-11 division. Despite Jn Panel’s sweeping victories in both Under-11 and Under-9 categories, Jn Baptiste maintained consistent excellence throughout the competition.

    In senior events, Amirah St Aimee led Jn Baptiste to victory in the 80m and 150m races, while Roland’s Eleanor Emmanuel claimed gold in the 300m. The 600m event saw Roland’s Leona Edward withstand fierce competition from Jn Baptiste athletes Leannie Francois and Jeanique McFarlane. Relay events were split between houses, with Jn Panel taking the 4×75 and Jn Baptiste securing the 4×300.

    The Under-11 division featured intense rivalry between O’Reilly (Jn Baptiste) and L’Anore Belasse (Jn Panel), with each athlete claiming multiple medals. Meanwhile, Jn Panel’s Saige Edward and Danielle Jn Charles dominated the Under-9 category, while Louisiana Simeon achieved double gold for Jn Baptiste in the Under-7 division.

    The event concluded successfully at 2:45 PM following the traditional parents’ relay, marking another incident-free edition of the annual championships.

  • STATEMENT: CARICOM Election Observation Mission to the general election of Barbados

    STATEMENT: CARICOM Election Observation Mission to the general election of Barbados

    The CARICOM Election Observation Mission (CEOM) has formally endorsed the credibility and transparency of Barbados’ February 11, 2026 General Election, concluding that the electoral outcome authentically represents the democratic will of the Barbadian populace. This three-member delegation, comprising senior electoral officials from Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, and Jamaica, conducted comprehensive oversight activities following an official invitation from the Barbadian government.

    During pre-election assessments, the Mission engaged in extensive consultations with key national stakeholders including Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley, Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne, leaders of minority political parties, civil society representatives, and electoral authorities. These discussions revealed several systemic concerns regarding voters’ list accuracy, accessibility for disabled citizens, campaign financing mechanisms, and media access equity. Despite these challenges, the Mission acknowledged the Electoral and Boundaries Commission’s concerted efforts to address logistical issues preceding election day.

    On February 11, CEOM monitors observed electoral proceedings across nineteen constituencies, noting generally peaceful and orderly voting conditions. Polling stations opened punctually at 6:00 a.m. with adequate security presence and properly trained staff. While voter enthusiasm was evident, turnout rates appeared notably subdued throughout the day. The Mission documented inconsistencies in polling station configurations and identified accessibility barriers for elderly and disabled voters, though assistance protocols were generally implemented when required.

    The vote counting process, though transparent and legally compliant, revealed operational inefficiencies due to centralized ballot transportation that prolonged result tabulation. The Mission witnessed ballot boxes being transported under police escort to counting centers where tallying occurred simultaneously in the presence of party agents, with results subsequently transmitted to media outlets.

    In its preliminary assessment, the CEOM recognized the professional conduct of polling staff and security personnel while recommending three key improvements: enhanced physical accessibility at polling stations, decentralized counting procedures to accelerate result announcements, and comprehensive voters’ list management reforms. A detailed final report will be submitted to the CARICOM Secretary-General for distribution to Barbadian authorities and relevant stakeholders in the coming weeks.

  • Officials cheer JetBlue’s added Boston-Saint Lucia flight

    Officials cheer JetBlue’s added Boston-Saint Lucia flight

    Saint Lucia’s tourism sector receives significant connectivity boost as JetBlue announces the introduction of a second weekly nonstop flight from Boston to the Caribbean destination. The new service, scheduled to commence on February 15, 2026, will operate every Saturday at 11:40 AM through April 25, effectively doubling air access from the Massachusetts region.

    Tourism authorities have identified insufficient airlift capacity as a critical constraint amid growing visitor numbers. Louis Lewis, CEO of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, emphasized that this expansion provides travelers from Boston and surrounding areas with twice the opportunities to experience the island during the peak winter season. The development addresses mounting concerns about meeting escalating demand while combating shortages in both flight availability and accommodation.

    The airline’s decision follows successful negotiations during last year’s strategic roadshow initiative, where tourism officials presented destination performance metrics to major carriers including JetBlue, Delta, and American Airlines. According to Business Intelligence Manager Javan Lewis, the expansion directly correlates with strong yield indicators and demonstrated demand from the Boston catchment area.

    Marketing efforts have played a pivotal role in driving this growth. Dexter Percil, Head of Global Marketing, attributed the successful early implementation of the “Come to Your Senses” campaign to accelerated booking patterns observed between September and December. The promotional strategy emphasizes Saint Lucia’s dual appeal as a romance destination and soft adventure hub, with enhanced wellness tourism promotions planned as new resort properties become operational.

    While celebrating improved air connectivity, officials acknowledge that hotel capacity remains an ongoing challenge. The anticipated opening of new properties, including LifeCo by A’ila, is expected to gradually alleviate accommodation constraints and support the island’s sustainable tourism development.

  • APUA Addresses environmental conditions at the Roberts Building in Cassada Gardens

    APUA Addresses environmental conditions at the Roberts Building in Cassada Gardens

    The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) has issued a formal response to public concerns regarding environmental conditions at its former headquarters, the Roberts Building in Cassada Gardens. In an official statement, the utility provider clarified that despite public speculation, the presence of mold within the facility has not been scientifically verified through multiple independent assessments.

    Over a two-year period spanning from 2023 to 2025, APUA commissioned several comprehensive environmental evaluations to address employee and public concerns. These investigations included testing requested by the Aviation Department through the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), supplemented by two additional independent assessments initiated by APUA management.

    The PAHO assessment, while not detecting mold presence, identified moisture accumulation within a baseboard area. The recommended remediation involved removing twelve inches around the affected section, which was promptly completed. Another independent evaluation identified localized fungus within sheetrock materials, which was subsequently addressed through professional remediation protocols including enhanced ventilation systems, sealing of central air ducts, and thorough cleaning of air conditioning units.

    As part of ongoing maintenance efforts, deep cleaning of the entire Roberts Building was conducted in February 2025, with an additional specialized cleaning of the Planning Department completed in December 2025 following further environmental testing. Current improvement works are progressing according to schedule and are expected to conclude within the next two to three weeks. Upon completion, a final comprehensive cleaning will be performed, followed by an independent reassessment to verify the building’s environmental condition.

    APUA officials noted that some visible discoloration observed within the facility has been attributed to moisture accumulation related to the aging infrastructure of certain fixtures, particularly during periods of intense heat. These occurrences have been characterized as sporadic and limited in scope rather than widespread issues.

    The Authority emphasized that employee and customer health safety remains its highest priority, confirming that all professional recommendations received to date have been fully implemented. APUA maintains its commitment to continuous monitoring and responsible management of environmental conditions across all its facilities.

  • STATEMENT: Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force, rules for Carnival saftey

    STATEMENT: Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force, rules for Carnival saftey

    The Commonwealth of Dominica has unveiled detailed regulatory measures for the upcoming Carnival 2026 celebrations, emphasizing the importance of responsible participation while preserving cultural traditions. Scheduled for February 16-17, 2026, the festivities will operate within strictly defined hours to ensure public safety and orderly conduct.

    Official carnival operations will commence at 4:00 a.m. on Monday, February 16th, continuing until 11:00 p.m., with Tuesday’s celebrations running from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Authorities have mandated that all participants maintain decent attire and orderly behavior throughout the designated periods.

    Specific regulations address traditional carnival costumes, particularly rope and sensay outfits. Individuals wearing these costumes must complete registration with the Dominica Festival Commission by February 9th, 2026, and display their registration number visibly at all times during events. The government has explicitly stated that unregistered costume wearers will not be considered decently clothed.

    Mask-wearing permissions will be limited to daytime hours between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. during carnival days. An exception exists for Jouvert celebrations, where participants may use paint and coloring matter exclusively during the early morning hours of February 16th from 4:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.

    Prohibited items include weapons, lighted torches, fireworks, glass bottled drinks along carnival routes, and military-style uniforms. Noise restrictions prohibit loud music or instruments outside carnival hours and within 25 meters of critical facilities including police headquarters, fire stations, hospitals, and designated noise abatement zones.

    Law enforcement personnel and Special Constables retain authority to arrest without warrant, detain offenders for up to 48 hours, and maintain order by recording details of disorderly individuals. Violators face substantial penalties including fines up to $1,000 or imprisonment for six months.

    The Dominican government concludes with an appeal for collective responsibility, encouraging citizens to celebrate within legal boundaries while honoring the cultural significance of carnival traditions.

  • Minimum Wage, Pay For Established Non-Established and Pensioners To Increase

    Minimum Wage, Pay For Established Non-Established and Pensioners To Increase

    In a significant move aimed at enhancing the financial well-being of its workforce and retired citizens, the government has officially sanctioned a broad increase in remuneration and pension benefits. The new policy mandates an upward adjustment to the national minimum wage, alongside salary enhancements for both established and non-established public sector employees. Furthermore, pensioners are set to receive a corresponding boost to their benefits.

    The decision, emerging from extensive deliberations between government officials, labor unions, and economic advisors, is framed as a strategic response to prevailing economic pressures, including the rising cost of living and inflationary trends. The wage hikes are designed to bolster household incomes, stimulate consumer spending, and provide a more sustainable standard of living for a substantial segment of the population.

    For employees, the distinction between ‘established’—typically those with permanent, pensionable positions—and ‘non-established’ workers is a critical one in public sector compensation structures. This initiative ensures that both categories are included in the financial uplift, promoting greater equity within the civil service. The simultaneous increase in pension payments acknowledges the ongoing financial challenges faced by retirees, ensuring their benefits keep pace with the economic environment.

    Economic analysts are monitoring the potential macro-economic implications of this decision, which includes its effect on national expenditure, potential inflationary pressures, and broader economic vitality. The government has stated that these measures are a cornerstone of its commitment to social welfare and economic stability, with implementation schedules and exact percentage increases to be detailed in an upcoming official circular.

  • Fourth year of Mandarin programme begins for local police

    Fourth year of Mandarin programme begins for local police

    Saint Lucia’s law enforcement personnel are expanding their linguistic capabilities through a specialized Mandarin training program, now entering its fourth consecutive year. The initiative, which simultaneously celebrated the graduation of one cohort while launching another, represents an ongoing collaboration between Saint Lucia and Taiwan.

    The ceremonial event highlighted the completion of an intensive eight-week course in Vieux Fort while announcing the forthcoming session scheduled to commence February 16 in Castries—marking the third iteration of the program in northern Saint Lucia’s capital city.

    Taiwan’s Ambassador to Saint Lucia, Nicole Su, commended the dedication of participating officers during her address. ‘I’m profoundly impressed by your commitment throughout these thirty-two hours of instruction last year,’ Ambassador Su remarked. ‘Balancing professional responsibilities with the acquisition of a completely new language demonstrates remarkable discipline.’

    The incoming cohort of twenty-five officers will undertake the same comprehensive curriculum that combines language immersion with cultural education. Ambassador Su emphasized the program’s broader significance: ‘This training transcends mere language acquisition—it creates new opportunities for professional development, enhances international cooperation, and strengthens the bilateral relationship between Taiwan and Saint Lucia.’

    Police officer Carlene Charles, a program participant, shared her transformative educational journey. She described the initial challenge of deciphering Chinese characters as ‘encountering abstract art with rules,’ noting how the experience reshaped her perception of language learning. ‘This experience demonstrated that our roles as police officers don’t limit our potential for growth,’ Charles reflected. ‘It taught us that effective law enforcement relies not only on authority but equally on cultural understanding.’

    Instructor Yu-Chin Peng praised participants’ enthusiasm and expressed hope that the program had provided officers with meaningful insights into Taiwanese culture and traditions. The initiative continues to bridge cultural divides while equipping Saint Lucian officers with valuable skills for international engagement and community policing in multilingual environments.

  • Matthew mounts firm defence of immigration Amnesty likely to commence in March

    Matthew mounts firm defence of immigration Amnesty likely to commence in March

    The Canadian federal government is preparing to initiate a sweeping immigration regularization program, with official sources indicating a targeted commencement date in March. This ambitious initiative, designed to grant permanent residency status to hundreds of thousands of undocumented migrants, represents one of the most significant immigration policy shifts in recent Canadian history.

    Immigration Minister Marc Miller has emerged as the program’s most vocal advocate, mounting a vigorous defense against growing political opposition. In recent parliamentary sessions and public appearances, Minister Miller has articulated a multifaceted justification for the amnesty, emphasizing both humanitarian imperatives and economic pragmatism.

    “Regularizing the status of undocumented individuals who contribute to our society and economy isn’t just morally sound—it’s economically prudent,” Minister Miller stated during a press conference. “These individuals already form an integral part of our communities, our labor force, and our social fabric. Providing them with permanent status will enhance their productivity, increase tax compliance, and strengthen social cohesion.”

    The program’s architecture reportedly includes stringent eligibility criteria requiring demonstrated economic contribution, clean criminal records, and established community ties. Implementation is expected to occur through a phased approach, prioritizing long-term residents with verifiable employment histories and family connections in Canada.

    This policy initiative has ignited intense debate across the political spectrum. While civil society organizations and immigration advocates have welcomed the announcement as a landmark victory for human rights, opposition critics have raised concerns about potential strain on public services, the message it sends regarding immigration enforcement, and procedural fairness to those pursuing conventional immigration pathways.

    The March implementation timeline suggests the government aims to establish the program’s operational framework before potentially entering a new election cycle, positioning immigration policy as a defining element of its political agenda.

  • Dainisha Eusebe of Grand Bay is Miss Dominica 2026

    Dainisha Eusebe of Grand Bay is Miss Dominica 2026

    In a dazzling ceremony at Windsor Park Sports Stadium, Dainisha Eusebe from Grand Bay emerged victorious as Miss Dominica 2026, sponsored by Kingdom Bank Corporation. The competition, themed ‘Bouyon Bloom’ in celebration of Dominica’s vibrant music culture, featured five exceptional contestants vying for the prestigious title.

    Eusebe distinguished herself by capturing an impressive five major awards: Best Response to Question, Best Platform Community Project Video, People’s Choice Award, Best Performing Talent, and Best in Swimwear. Her winning platform, ‘Animal Welfare: Advocating for humane treatment of animals,’ resonated strongly with both judges and audience members.

    The first runner-up position was secured by Sheraine Mills, representing Jimmit and St Joseph, while Sanchia Tyson from Crayfish River in the Kalinago Territory earned second runner-up honors. Tyson additionally received the Chairperson’s Award for Best National Spectacular Wear Creation and Best in National Spectacular Wear Creation.

    Other notable award recipients included Darna Eugene, also representing Grand Bay, who won both Best Evening Wear and Best in Evening Wear Awards. Daina Graneau from the Atkinson/Kalinago Territory received the Best Swimwear Award.

    The Bouyon Bloom theme provided a colorful backdrop to the evening, celebrating Dominica’s rich musical heritage and the artists who contribute to this dynamic genre. The pageant showcased not only beauty and poise but also intellectual depth and social awareness through its various competition segments.

  • New agro-producing facility may be coming to Dominica, says PM SKerrit

    New agro-producing facility may be coming to Dominica, says PM SKerrit

    The Dominican government has unveiled ambitious plans to construct a state-funded agro-processing facility specifically designed to support local beekeepers and pepper sauce producers. Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit made the significant announcement during a recent stakeholder engagement session, highlighting the administration’s commitment to addressing critical infrastructure challenges within the agricultural processing sector.

    Prime Minister Skerrit identified several persistent obstacles facing small-scale agro-processors, emphasizing that access to appropriate infrastructure remains a fundamental constraint. “The requirements for proper processing, bottling, storage, quality testing, and standards compliance demand facilities that individual small producers cannot reasonably develop independently,” Skerrit explained during his address.

    In a groundbreaking commitment, the government revealed plans to fully finance and equip a modern processing center that will serve the specialized needs of both honey and pepper sauce producers. The facility will provide comprehensive services including production space, bottling capabilities, packaging solutions, and quality assurance infrastructure.

    “We are prepared to invest substantial resources into establishing a national production facility that will be available to producers at no cost,” Skerrit declared, underscoring the government’s willingness to shoulder the entire financial burden of the project. This initiative represents a significant intervention in Dominica’s agricultural value chain development, potentially transforming the economic prospects for small-scale agro-processors across the nation.

    The proposed facility aims to enhance product quality, improve market competitiveness, and increase export potential for Dominican honey and pepper sauce products. By centralizing processing operations, the government expects to achieve economies of scale while maintaining stringent quality standards that meet international market requirements.