Carib Scope

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  • Residents Decry Late-Night Bar Noise in St John’s Rural South

    Residents Decry Late-Night Bar Noise in St John’s Rural South

    A mounting public outcry over nocturnal noise pollution is intensifying in the St. John’s Rural South community of Antigua, where residents are demanding rigorous enforcement of existing sound ordinances. The core of the grievance targets local bars and entertainment venues, accused of generating excessive noise levels that severely impair residential tranquility and quality of life.

    Community members voiced their frustrations during a recent town hall assembly, detailing the profound impact on their wellbeing. One attendee reported music audibly blaring as late as 2:30 a.m., highlighting the potential consequences of chronic sleep deprivation, including deteriorated mental health and diminished professional performance.

    Adding a deeply personal dimension to the issue, another resident shared her particular challenges. As an individual recuperating from a surgical procedure while simultaneously caring for two children with autism, she described an unbearable situation. Weekend noise disturbances, she noted, frequently commence as early as 5 p.m. and persist until 3 a.m., including Sunday evenings, critically disrupting essential rest before the weekly commencement of work and school.

    In response to these escalating concerns, high-ranking government officials have committed to intervention. Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin and Prime Minister Gaston Browne publicly pledged to engage law enforcement agencies. Their objective is to ensure strict adherence to the legal statute mandating a significant reduction in music volume after 11 p.m. PM Browne further issued a direct appeal to the business community, urging proprietors to exercise greater consideration and social responsibility towards their residential neighbors’ fundamental need for undisturbed rest.

  • Government to Address Travel Concerns of Dominican Permanent Residents

    Government to Address Travel Concerns of Dominican Permanent Residents

    The government of Antigua and Barbuda has committed to addressing significant immigration concerns raised by its Dominican community regarding re-entry difficulties despite holding valid permanent residency status. The issue came to light during a town hall meeting in the St. John’s Rural South constituency on Thursday evening, where residents revealed that individuals carrying official residency stamps were being subjected to additional visa requirements when returning from international travel.

    Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin formally acknowledged the administrative and legislative shortcomings causing these disruptions. He characterized the situation as a ‘legislative flaw’ within the current system and confirmed that the Cabinet plans to establish a definitive policy to resolve the matter at its upcoming session.

    In a statement addressing community fears, Benjamin emphasized, ‘Many of our friends from the Dominican Republic are apprehensive about traveling abroad, as their hard-earned residency status currently provides no guaranteed re-entry. We are committed to rectifying this injustice. Once an individual has legally acquired residency, they must be afforded the right to both work and move freely.’

    The Attorney General confirmed that a considerable number of Dominican nationals have been adversely affected by these procedural inconsistencies. He provided assurances that the government would implement corrective measures to uphold the integrity of the residency system and ensure the protection of migrants’ rights, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to fair and transparent immigration practices.

  • PAHO/WHO and Antigua and Barbuda sign Multi Country Cooperation Strategy 2026–2031

    PAHO/WHO and Antigua and Barbuda sign Multi Country Cooperation Strategy 2026–2031

    In a significant move for public health collaboration, Antigua and Barbuda has formally ratified the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) Multi-Country Cooperation Strategy (MCCS) for the period 2026–2031. The signing ceremony, held in St. John’s, marks a national commitment to a unified regional agenda designed to enhance health outcomes and tackle development challenges across Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean nations.

    The Hon. Sir Molwyn Joseph, Minister of Health, Wellness, Environment and Civil Service Affairs, executed the official endorsement on behalf of the Antiguan and Barbudan government. The event was witnessed by Dr. Amalia Del Riego, the PAHO/WHO Representative for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Countries, signaling a strengthened partnership between the nation and the international health body.

    This national ratification follows a broader regional launch event convened in Washington, D.C., in September 2025, where health ministers from across the Eastern Caribbean collectively pledged their support for the strategic framework.

    Forged through comprehensive dialogue between governmental authorities and PAHO technical experts, the MCCS 2026–2031 establishes a cooperative blueprint to confront pressing health issues. Its core objectives are structured around five pivotal pillars: reinforcing health governance and leadership; combating the spread of communicable diseases; mitigating the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health conditions; driving the transformation of national health systems; and developing health infrastructures resilient to climate change impacts.

    The ceremony was attended by key national figures, including Sen. Michael Joseph, the Junior Minister of Health, Dr. Kamaria De Castro, Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Teri-Ann Joseph, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, and personnel from PAHO’s decentralized office in Antigua and Barbuda.

    Dr. Del Riego praised the nation’s proactive leadership, stating, “This formal endorsement by Antigua and Barbuda solidifies our mutual dedication to constructing more robust, equitable, and climate-resilient health systems. PAWHO anticipates ongoing cooperation to achieve tangible, sustainable improvements for the well-being of all citizens.”

  • LVV bespaart SRD 30 miljoen door werkzaamheden in eigen beheer

    LVV bespaart SRD 30 miljoen door werkzaamheden in eigen beheer

    The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries (LVV) in Suriname has achieved significant cost savings of at least SRD 30 million over the past six months by implementing an innovative in-house maintenance approach. Rather than outsourcing repair and maintenance projects, the ministry has strategically handled numerous operational tasks internally, including critical maintenance of irrigation channels and drainage ditches.

    Minister Mike Noersalim revealed that his department has successfully resolved between 30 to 40 emergency situations through this method. By utilizing ministry-owned machinery and coordinating fuel supplies, LVV has demonstrated substantial efficiency gains. This operational model, which has proven financially advantageous, will now be expanded across all districts nationwide.

    During a recent inspection tour of Saramacca district, Minister Noersalim identified widespread deferred maintenance issues affecting both infrastructure and ministry facilities. Numerous agricultural machinery and equipment were found in poor condition, though many require only simple interventions to become operational again. A malfunctioning pumping station in La Poule was specifically noted for causing flooding in residential areas during rainfall.

    In response, LVV has established a collaborative framework involving district commissioners, private sector representatives, and local entrepreneurs. DNA member and business leader Jayant Lalbiharie has committed to restoring tractors to working condition, while District Commissioner Aniel Ramautar will facilitate the repair of thirteen bridges crucial for farmers accessing their agricultural lands. The ministry will provide necessary materials for these infrastructure projects.

    This cooperative approach not only addresses immediate operational challenges but also establishes a sustainable partnership model where government agencies, district authorities, and private entities share responsibility for agricultural infrastructure maintenance. Minister Noersalim emphasized that this strategy will continue for smaller-scale projects, while acknowledging that major complex initiatives will still require public tender processes.

  • Cabinet Reviews New Governance Structure for Festivals Commission

    Cabinet Reviews New Governance Structure for Festivals Commission

    In a significant move to transform its cultural governance framework, the national Cabinet convened a special session with key stakeholders to establish a new operational structure for the Festivals Commission and Ministry of Creative Industries. The high-level meeting brought together senior officials from the creative ministry, festival commission representatives, and Treasury delegates to deliberate on a comprehensive reorganization plan.

    The proposed architecture represents a strategic division of responsibilities, with the Festivals Commission being designated as the primary authority for planning and executing major national productions and flagship cultural events. Concurrently, the Ministry of Creative Industries will maintain administrative oversight of smaller-scale cultural activities, including national observances and community-based events.

    This structural reform emerges from the government’s broader initiative to enhance management transparency, professional execution of cultural events, and economic development within the creative sector. The reorganization specifically addresses persistent concerns regarding financial accountability, procurement practices, and bureaucratic efficiency that have historically plagued large-scale cultural productions.

    Officials emphasized that the new framework will implement strengthened financial controls, improved documentation protocols, and more transparent engagement mechanisms with service providers. These measures are designed to prevent budget overruns while ensuring technical and professional oversight commensurate with large-scale productions.

    The government’s commitment extends beyond administrative restructuring, encompassing substantial investments in modernizing performance venues and training facilities. A cornerstone of the new approach involves comprehensive training and professional development programs within the creative arts.

    Furthermore, the strategy emphasizes deepened collaboration between cultural institutions and the tourism industry, including the packaging of cultural experiences for visitors and hotel partnerships. This synergy aims to enhance visitor experiences while expanding economic opportunities for local entertainers, vendors, and service providers.

    The holistic framework ultimately seeks to position the cultural sector as a sustainable and meaningful contributor to national development through transparent, efficient, and professionally managed cultural productions.

  • West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation Donates Second Upcycled Plastic Bench to Newfield Primary School

    West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation Donates Second Upcycled Plastic Bench to Newfield Primary School

    In a significant environmental milestone, Newfield Primary School in Antigua and Barbuda has received its second bench constructed entirely from recycled plastic bottle caps. This donation forms part of the West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation’s expanding Ocean Love NO Plastic NO Waste School Program, launched in February 2026.

    The initiative represents a dual-purpose mission: combating plastic pollution across the Caribbean nation while simultaneously engaging young students through practical environmental education. The program transforms discarded plastic materials into functional school furniture, creating tangible symbols of sustainability for participating institutions.

    International collaboration has been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition. Financial backing from the SGP GEF Small Grants Programme established the necessary workshop infrastructure, while the French Embassy to the Eastern Caribbean States, Barbados, and the OECS, based in Saint Lucia, provided crucial support for the program’s 2026 season launch.

    The Antigua and Barbuda Waste Recycling Corporation (ABWREC) plays a vital role as the supplier of recycled plastic materials used in crafting these innovative benches and related products.

    Currently offered at no cost to chosen public schools throughout Antigua and Barbuda, the program incorporates a comprehensive environmental curriculum. Each participating institution completes an educational journey that culminates in the donation of a recycled bench, serving as a permanent reminder of their waste-reduction commitment.

    This latest donation follows the Foundation’s inaugural bench presentation to Sea View Farm Primary School on February 9th, marking continued expansion of their ecological efforts within the educational sector.

  • Gros Islet Youth advance, Monchy unbeaten in Bay Bay Cup

    Gros Islet Youth advance, Monchy unbeaten in Bay Bay Cup

    In a thrilling display of football prowess, Gros Islet Youth Lions clinched their place in the semifinals of the Kenson Casimir Bay Bay Cup tournament following a decisive 5-2 triumph over Dominators FC on Wednesday, February 11. The match, held at Francis Baba Lastic Grounds, saw the young Lions overcome a challenging first-half performance to secure qualification with an impressive second-half offensive surge.

    The victory carried significant stakes as Gros Islet Youth needed to win by at least three goals to eliminate GMC United from tournament contention. Despite leading just 2-1 at halftime through goals from Sanick Theodore (25th minute) and Devonte Howell (45th minute), the Lions faced intense pressure after Rahym Cenac’s equalizer for Dominators in the 37th minute.

    The second half witnessed a remarkable transformation as Kendrick Antoine broke through in the 52nd minute before youth international Shevon Byron delivered a spectacular brace within eleven minutes (56th and 67th). Byron’s fifth seasonal goal provided crucial breathing space, rendering Selwyn Boyce’s 72nd-minute consolation goal irrelevant to the final outcome.

    In parallel Group B action, Monchy United secured top position with a commanding 4-1 victory over Gros Islet Veterans. Jahlil Evans opened scoring in the 20th minute before Troy Greenidge doubled the advantage in the 37th. Despite Darlan Cenac pulling one back for the Veterans two minutes later, Evans struck again in the 76th minute before Raphael Joseph sealed the victory in the 79th minute.

    The tournament now advances to Sunday’s playoff matches at Baba Lastic Grounds, where Gros Islet Youth Lions will face Monchy United while defending champions Northern United take on guest team New Generation FC in what promises to be an electrifying semifinal showdown.

  • PM Browne Moves to Sue Croif Emmanuel, Joan and Crusader Radio for Defamation

    PM Browne Moves to Sue Croif Emmanuel, Joan and Crusader Radio for Defamation

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda has formally engaged legal counsel to pursue substantial defamation claims against political adversaries and a broadcasting entity. The head of government disclosed through official channels that he has retained attorney Warren Cassell to file proceedings seeking $2.5 million in damages from multiple defendants associated with the opposition United Progressive Party (UPP) and an unspecified radio station.

    While the precise nature of the allegedly defamatory statements remains undisclosed, the Prime Minister’s social media communication indicated the legal action targets specific individuals within opposition circles and media personalities. The development marks a significant escalation in the nation’s political tensions, potentially setting precedent for high-stakes litigation involving public figures.

    In a characteristically vivid conclusion to his statement, Browne issued a stark warning to potential critics: “Don’t violate the Rasta Dreadman – Seen!!” This rhetorical flourish echoes his established political persona while underscoring the seriousness with which he views the purported defamation.

    The targeted parties have not yet issued public responses to the Prime Minister’s announcement. Legal observers note that such defamation proceedings involving sitting heads of government against opposition members represent increasingly common but legally complex phenomena in Caribbean politics, where media regulation and free speech boundaries continue to evolve.

  • Mia Mottley: ‘Onze missie is armoede bestrijden en onrecht aanpakken’

    Mia Mottley: ‘Onze missie is armoede bestrijden en onrecht aanpakken’

    Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley has achieved an unprecedented political triumph, securing her third consecutive term in office after her Barbados Labour Party (BLP) captured all 30 parliamentary seats in Thursday’s general elections. The comprehensive victory solidifies Mottley’s leadership position in the Caribbean nation and represents one of the most decisive electoral mandates in the country’s history.

    Addressing jubilant supporters clad in the party’s signature red colors, the 60-year-old leader articulated her administration’s core mission: “Our primary objective is to eradicate persistent poverty and combat global injustices, thereby creating equal opportunities for all citizens.” She reaffirmed her commitment to enhancing infrastructure, healthcare systems, and road safety measures, declaring, “We did not merely assume office—we came to transform Barbados and elevate living standards for every citizen.” The government has designated Friday as an official public holiday to commemorate this extraordinary electoral achievement.

    During her inauguration address, Mottley reflected on the significantly altered global landscape since her initial 2018 victory, emphasizing Barbados’s dedication to progress through unity and innovation. The Prime Minister has gained international recognition for her pioneering work in debt restructuring for climate-vulnerable nations, particularly through innovative debt-for-climate adaptation agreements. Under her stewardship, Barbados has successfully reduced its debt-to-GDP ratio to below 100% for the first time in over a decade, following the nation’s 2018 sovereign default.

    The Democratic Labour Party opposition gracefully conceded defeat, acknowledging the “clear electoral mandate” bestowed upon Mottley’s administration. Opposition leader Ralph Thorne was notably absent from the voting process due to registration complications in his constituent district.

    Election monitoring conducted by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) identified concerns regarding electoral roll inaccuracies but ultimately validated the voting process as legitimate and transparent. With approximately 283,000 inhabitants, Barbados stands as the easternmost Caribbean nation, occupying roughly half the land area of Singapore.

    The United States extended formal congratulations through Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who emphasized continued bilateral cooperation in regional security matters, particularly combating transnational crime and narcotics trafficking. This diplomatic exchange occurs alongside expanded U.S. military presence throughout the Caribbean, including recent port access agreements with the Dominican Republic and Trinidad and Tobago.

    This electoral outcome empowers Mottley to advance her comprehensive agenda for Barbados’s social, economic, and international development, positioning the island nation as a emerging leader in climate finance and sustainable development initiatives.

  • New wage-sharing framework to improve long-term viability of STEP

    New wage-sharing framework to improve long-term viability of STEP

    The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis has announced significant structural reforms to its Skills Training and Empowerment Programme (STEP) aimed at enhancing long-term viability while improving employment prospects for participants in the private sector. Deputy Prime Minister Honourable Dr. Geoffrey Hanley unveiled the new framework during a National Assembly sitting on February 12, 2026.

    The revised program introduces a wage-sharing model requiring businesses that continue to benefit from STEP participants’ services to assume 50 percent of salary obligations. This marks a substantial shift from the previous arrangement where the government fully funded all trainee compensation.

    Dr. Hanley explained that the program, originally launched in 2012 as the People Empowerment Programme (PEP), was designed as a short-term skills development initiative. The intended trajectory involved participants gaining valuable experience before transitioning to full-time employment either with their host organizations, other employers, or through entrepreneurial ventures.

    However, the Deputy Prime Minister revealed that some individuals have remained in the program for over a decade with the same businesses, creating unsustainable financial pressures. The government currently allocates approximately $1.5 million weekly to cover participant wages.

    Following extensive consultations with a specially formed review committee and stakeholder engagements with businesses, the administration developed the cost-sharing approach. Dr. Hanley reported positive reception from many private sector entities, with some immediately agreeing to the 50-50 arrangement while others proposed gradual implementation through 60-40 partnerships.

    The reforms specifically target businesses that have maintained STEP workers for extended periods, with the dual objectives of program sustainability and expanded beneficiary reach. Government officials emphasized that no current participants would be terminated from the program, though some may be reassigned within the public sector where appropriate.

    Dr. Hanley characterized the changes as fostering ‘stronger partnerships’ between government and industry while continuing to invest in national human resource development.