Carib Scope

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  • Bajans ‘to feel tax relief’ as gov’t moves to ease cost-of-living pressure

    Bajans ‘to feel tax relief’ as gov’t moves to ease cost-of-living pressure

    The Barbadian government has announced a significant fiscal intervention designed to alleviate economic pressure on households, with Finance Minister Ryan Straughn detailing a comprehensive package of tax reductions and credits. Effective from the 2025 and 2026 income years, the strategy targets low-to-middle-income earners and pensioners grappling with elevated living expenses.

    Central to the initiative is a one percentage point reduction in personal income tax rates for the 2026 fiscal period. Individuals earning between $25,000 and $75,000 will see their rate drop to 11.5%, while those above the $75,000 threshold will be taxed at 27.5%. Minister Straughn emphasized that these adjustments will collectively return approximately $26.1 million annually to working citizens, thereby boosting disposable income without compromising the nation’s progressive tax framework.

    Simultaneously, the reverse tax credit will be elevated from $1,300 to $1,700 for taxpayers with annual incomes up to $25,000 starting in 2025. Furthermore, eligibility for this credit will be expanded to include individuals earning up to $35,000, who will receive a $750 benefit—a measure expected to extend support to an additional 17,221 people at a cost of $12.9 million.

    The compensatory income credit will also see its income ceiling raised from $35,000 to $50,000, benefiting 18,415 taxpayers by allowing them to retain a larger portion of their earnings.

    Pensioners stand to gain substantially from the new provisions. A one-year cost-of-living cash credit of $100 per month will be introduced from April 1 for those with incomes under $50,000. Administered through the National Insurance and Social Security Service in coordination with the Barbados Revenue Authority, this support is available to recipients of contributory and non-contributory pensions, survivors’ benefits, and retired public officers. The payment frequency can be tailored to quarterly, semi-annual, or annual disbursements based on individual preference.

    Additionally, the taxable allowance for pensioners will increase from $50,000 to $75,000 effective in the 2025 income year. The program also extends to individuals who have not qualified for a pension due to insufficient contributions and those on welfare benefits.

    Minister Straughn acknowledged that global challenges—including geopolitical conflicts, supply chain disruptions, and inflationary trends—necessitated fiscal discipline, but affirmed the government’s commitment to providing further relief as economic conditions permit.

  • Farmers to get more help with heat stress, praedial larceny

    Farmers to get more help with heat stress, praedial larceny

    In a significant move to bolster national food security, Barbados’ Finance Minister Ryan Straughn has unveiled a sweeping agricultural support initiative during Monday’s Budget address to the House of Assembly. The comprehensive package addresses critical challenges facing the farming sector, including climate-induced losses, production costs, and persistent praedial larceny.

    The poultry industry receives particular attention following devastating heat-related losses that have crippled small-scale operations. Minister Straughn revealed that extreme temperatures annually claim hundreds of thousands of chickens, creating substantial economic damage for farmers with limited infrastructure.

    Effective April 1, qualifying small poultry farmers can access a 100% rebate—capped at $15,000—for implementing heat-reduction technologies such as specialized reflective paint in poultry housing. This enhanced support will remain in effect for two years before transitioning to a 50% rebate available every three years.

    Concurrently, the government is intensifying its battle against agricultural theft. Beginning April 2026, the farm security rebate ceiling will increase from $10,000 to $15,000, covering half the costs of approved surveillance systems including cameras and electronic monitoring equipment. These systems must comply with Barbadian legislation and meet Ministry of Agriculture specifications while forming part of broader enforcement strategies under the Protection of Agricultural Products Act, which will involve strengthened collaboration with the Barbados Police Service.

    The agricultural stimulus extends to sustainable farming practices with an annual $5,000 rebate for initiatives utilizing organic materials for fertilizer and plant/animal inputs, aimed at reducing dependency on imported chemical products and lowering long-term production expenses.

    Additionally, the apiculture sector gains substantial support through a 50% annual rebate—up to $5,000—on essential beekeeping equipment including hives, frames, smokers, and tools. The government will further facilitate the commercial distribution of locally produced honey and explore developing protective clothing for beekeepers in partnership with Export Barbados.

  • Polls Close in St. Philip North By-Election as Counting Set to Begin

    Polls Close in St. Philip North By-Election as Counting Set to Begin

    The St. Philip North constituency has completed a tranquil by-election day, marking the conclusion of voting to determine the successor to parliamentary veteran Sir Robin Yearwood. Polling stations across the district opened promptly at 6 a.m., with all seven locations operational as scheduled. Election authorities reported consistent voter participation at various intervals, though certain polling sites experienced quieter periods with slower foot traffic throughout the day.

    This special election became necessary following the resignation of Sir Robin Yearwood, whose distinguished parliamentary service extended across fifty years. The political contest features a direct competition between United Progressive Party’s representative Alex Browne and Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party’s contender Randy Baltimore. Both candidates demonstrated strong optimism about their prospects during pre-election activities.

    With the voting process now complete, election officials are preparing to commence the critical ballot counting phase. Supporters from both major political parties await with anticipation as the outcome of this strategically important by-election will determine parliamentary representation for the St. Philip North district. The election’s administration proceeded without significant disruptions, maintaining the integrity of the democratic process throughout the day’s operations.

  • Government Launches $300,000 Emergency Works as Monkey River Erosion Worsens

    Government Launches $300,000 Emergency Works as Monkey River Erosion Worsens

    The Belizean government has initiated a critical $300,000 emergency coastal stabilization initiative in Monkey River Village, Toledo District, responding to escalating erosion that jeopardizes residential properties, public utilities, and even a local cemetery. This intervention, launched in February 2026, marks the first direct governmental action following persistent appeals from residents witnessing the gradual encroachment of the sea upon their community.

    Prime Minister John Briceño expressed profound concern during the project announcement, stating, “Without immediate governmental intervention, this village faces existential threat.” He recounted the distressing sight of cemetery sections submerged by seawater, conveying feelings of both frustration and urgency that earlier measures had not been implemented to protect the vulnerable coastal settlement.

    The engineering strategy involves deploying rock barriers and strategic sand repositioning near the river estuary to dissipate wave energy and reinforce the deteriorating shoreline. Village Chairlady Eloydia Cuevas emphasized the multifaceted crisis, noting that erosion impacts extend beyond physical land loss to threaten the community’s economic stability, cultural heritage, and environmental security. “This isn’t just land—it’s our identity, our livelihood, and our home,” Cuevas affirmed.

    The project represents a critical test case for climate resilience in Belize’s coastal communities, with implications for future regional environmental policy and disaster mitigation planning.

  • STEMGuyana joins Eastern Caribbean Robotics and Innovation Association

    STEMGuyana joins Eastern Caribbean Robotics and Innovation Association

    In a significant advancement for Caribbean technological education, STEMGuyana has established a formal partnership with the Eastern Caribbean Robotics and Innovation Association (ECRIA) through a memorandum of understanding signed in February 2026. This strategic alliance creates a framework for enhanced collaboration in robotics, innovation, and STEAM education throughout the Caribbean region.

    The newly formed partnership enables STEMGuyana to participate as a member organization within ECRIA’s regional network, facilitating unprecedented opportunities for student engagement, knowledge sharing, and technological cooperation. The collaboration will be prominently featured at the ongoing OECS Super Regional Robotics Challenge in St. Kitts and Nevis (March 16-20), where Ms. Elsie Harry, STEMGuyana’s Board Member and Fundraising Coordinator, will deliver official remarks representing the organization.

    Ms. Harry, who also serves as STEMGuyana’s Liaison to ECRIA, emphasized the critical importance of regional cooperation in preparing Caribbean youth for the rapidly evolving global technology landscape. “Through this partnership with ECRIA, STEMGuyana looks forward to strengthening opportunities for students in Guyana to engage in robotics, innovation, and collaborative learning across the Caribbean while sharing our best practices in the STEM field with regional counterparts,” she stated in an official release.

    Although STEMGuyana will not field a competitive team in this year’s challenge, the organization has committed to sending Guyanese students to future Eastern Caribbean competitions as part of its expanding robotics education initiatives. The partnership represents a strategic move to create pathways for Guyanese students to participate in regional robotics competitions, collaborate with Caribbean peers, and access advanced STEAM learning opportunities.

    STEMGuyana, founded to promote equitable access to science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics education, has extensive experience working with youth across Guyana to develop technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and entrepreneurial thinking. Through robotics programs, coding workshops, and mentorship initiatives, the organization continues to empower young people with essential tools for participation in the digital economy.

    The collaboration signals a growing movement toward regional integration in technology education and youth development, positioning Caribbean nations to collectively cultivate the next generation of innovators, engineers, and technology leaders.

  • Customs get specialist training to curb illegal gun trafficking

    Customs get specialist training to curb illegal gun trafficking

    In a decisive move to strengthen border security, the Barbados Customs and Excise Department has initiated an intensive five-day training program for 20 officers focused on identifying and intercepting illicit firearms. The specialized course, launched in collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO), represents a critical step in regional efforts to curb the escalating threat of small arms trafficking across the Caribbean.

    Acting Comptroller of Customs Cheryl-Ann Cumberbatch emphasized the urgency of the initiative, stating, ‘The current surge in firearm usage necessitates enhanced detection and interdiction capabilities within our customs operations. This training arrives at a pivotal moment for our national security framework.’

    The curriculum, delivered through the WCO’s Project BOLT initiative, combines theoretical knowledge with practical exercises covering international legal frameworks, weapon identification techniques, smuggling methodologies, and post-recovery firearm management. Notably, this marks the first WCO-led training in the English-speaking Caribbean utilizing regionally certified instructors through the organization’s train-the-trainer program.

    Duncan Potter, Project BOLT coordinator for WCO, highlighted the program’s strategic importance: ‘This represents a fundamental advancement for Barbados’ border security capabilities. Our organization remains committed to delivering capacity-building initiatives that empower members to protect their societies.’

    The training supports implementation of the Caribbean Firearms Roadmap, a multinational agreement Barbados has endorsed to reduce weapons trafficking. Officials directly linked the initiative to combating rising gun violence fueled by illegal firearms, which Comptroller Cumberbatch identified as ‘a significant threat to public safety and national security.’

    The program reinforces existing collaboration between customs authorities and the Barbados Police Service through improved intelligence sharing and coordinated enforcement operations. Project BOLT operates in partnership with CARICOM IMPACS and receives support from the United States Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs.

  • Young Steel Pan Talents Take Top Honors at National Junior Solo Competition

    Young Steel Pan Talents Take Top Honors at National Junior Solo Competition

    Antigua and Barbuda’s cultural future shone brightly on March 15th, 2026, as fourteen extraordinary young musicians took center stage at The UWI Global Campus for the National Junior Solo Competition. The Department of Culture has officially announced the winners following an evening that redefined youthful artistic excellence in steel pan performance.

    The competition, segmented into two age categories, showcased a remarkable display of technical mastery and creative interpretation. In the 5-13 age bracket, Kaiya Casimir and Keiyanna Davis claimed joint first place, demonstrating unparalleled synergy and skill. Tianna Spencer secured third position with a distinguished performance that captivated both audience and judges.

    The 14-21 category featured intense competition, with Keshawn Benjamin emerging victorious through a combination of precision and emotional depth. Imani Quinland captured second place, while Zari Roach and Calique Thomas earned third and fourth places respectively, each bringing unique artistic vision to their performances.

    Critical support from corporate partners Glow Up, Square Deal Security Solutions, Firehouse Grill, and Books by Barbara, alongside cultural ambassadors Aubrey ‘Lacu’ Samuel and Curtis ‘CC’ Cochrane, provided essential infrastructure for this celebration of national heritage. Their demonstrated commitment to youth development through cultural preservation created an environment where emerging talent could thrive.

    The Department of Culture reaffirmed its dedication to cultivating Antigua and Barbuda’s artistic legacy through such initiatives, noting that events of this caliber not only recognize achievement but also reinforce the importance of cultural continuity between generations.

  • DNA-vergadering verdaagd voor verder overleg wetsvoorstellen rechterlijke macht

    DNA-vergadering verdaagd voor verder overleg wetsvoorstellen rechterlijke macht

    PARAMARIBO – Suriname’s legislative proceedings encountered a strategic pause on Monday as the National Assembly suspended its public session to enable deeper consultations on pivotal judicial reform legislation. Assembly Chairman Ashwin Adhin announced the deferral following intensive preliminary discussions with coalition and opposition faction leaders.

    The decision to postpone came after lawmakers addressed various current affairs, with Adhin revealing that the planned second reading of the judicial bills would not proceed as scheduled. This development follows substantial preparatory work involving both government and opposition parties collaborating extensively with the Court of Justice.

    ‘Significant progress has been achieved through concerted efforts,’ Adhin stated, ‘however, certain aspects require further refinement and alignment.’ The parliamentary leader emphasized that the current legislative proposals represent substantial work that demands careful consideration rather than hasty treatment.

    Multiple amendment proposals from coalition members have been submitted, with new perspectives continuing to emerge during deliberations. Adhin noted that additional time for consultation would ultimately yield more comprehensive and sustainable outcomes that enjoy broad parliamentary support.

    The Assembly has adjourned until an unspecified date while faction leaders continue negotiations with judicial authorities. This continuation of behind-the-scenes discussions aims to resolve outstanding issues before formal proceedings resume, ensuring the judicial reforms receive thorough examination and consensus-building.

  • This Is How Venezuelan Farmers Are Fighting Fusarium

    This Is How Venezuelan Farmers Are Fighting Fusarium

    Venezuelan agricultural communities have embarked on an extraordinary transformation in response to one of the most severe phytosanitary emergencies in recent history. The confirmation of Fusarium Tropical Race 4 (TR4) by Venezuela’s National Institute of Integral Agricultural Health (INSAI) in 2023 triggered a nationwide agricultural recalibration across key producing states including Aragua, Carabobo and Cojedes.

    This soil-borne pathogen, capable of persisting for over two decades, effectively decimated banana and plantain plantations that had sustained local economies for generations. In the Renacer community of Aragua, where farmers had cultivated 20 hectares of banana crops since 2018, the fungal invasion resulted in complete agricultural collapse within months.

    Farmer Lesbia Margarita García recounted the emotional devastation: ‘Witnessing our lifelong work deteriorate before our eyes was heartbreaking. We faced the painful necessity of removing entire groves of banana trees that represented years of dedication.’

    The crisis prompted an unprecedented collaborative response between national authorities and international organizations. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) implemented emergency intervention measures, supplying alternative crop seeds, advanced agricultural tools, biosecurity equipment and comprehensive technical training.

    Through the innovative INSAI-FAO partnership program, affected producers have successfully transitioned to cultivating corn, cassava, beans, chili peppers and pumpkin. This agricultural diversification strategy incorporates sophisticated crop rotation techniques and organic fertilization methods to restore soil vitality and create sustainable income streams.

    ‘Our corn harvests have demonstrated remarkable success, benefiting entire communities and proving the resilience of these lands,’ García noted with renewed optimism.

    The initiative represents a comprehensive national effort involving continuous farmer education, public awareness campaigns, and enhanced institutional coordination. Technologically, the program has deployed multispectral drones and advanced laboratory equipment to establish early detection systems and strengthen phytosanitary monitoring capabilities.

    Internationally, Venezuela’s experience has contributed to global knowledge sharing through FAO’s World Banana Forum and the Global Network on TR4, establishing new protocols for addressing agricultural emergencies in tropical regions worldwide.

  • QEH steps up fight against superbugs

    QEH steps up fight against superbugs

    Barbados is intensifying its frontline campaign against the escalating threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) through a strategic international partnership. The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) has launched an intensive training initiative, welcoming Canadian infectious diseases pharmacist Mark McIntyre to bolster the nation’s defenses against drug-resistant pathogens. This collaborative effort underscores a growing global health crisis that renders standard medications ineffective against evolving bacteria, viruses, and fungi.

    During a welcoming ceremony, QEH’s infectious disease specialist, Dr. Corey Forde, presented alarming data from the Global Health Research Group on Antimicrobial Resistance. The research forecasts a potential 39 million global fatalities between 2025 and 2050 if immediate action is not taken. The World Health Organisation’s 2019 figures, which attributed 1.27 million deaths directly to AMR and linked 4.95 million more to its effects, highlight the urgency of this health emergency. Dr. Forde emphasized that low- and middle-income nations with strained healthcare systems face the greatest risk.

    Barbados has emerged as an unexpected leader in the international arena against AMR. The nation partnered with Malta to table a political declaration on the issue at the 79th United Nations General Assembly, with Prime Minister Mia Mottley championing the cause through concrete actions rather than mere rhetoric. This diplomatic effort is supported by substantial domestic investment, including a $3 million government allocation for advanced microbiology equipment that enables faster pathogen identification and accelerated treatment initiation at QEH.

    Through Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) support, Barbados has enhanced its capacity as a regional center of excellence, extending technical assistance to Eastern Caribbean states. The hospital’s staff has received specialized training in molecular technology and whole genome sequencing, significantly strengthening surveillance capabilities for emerging infections. A landmark development in this comprehensive strategy is the creation of Barbados’ first antimicrobial stewardship pharmacist position, held by Deonne Jacobs, to oversee more prudent antibiotic usage.

    QEH Chief Executive Officer Neil Clark characterized AMR as “one of the most serious health challenges facing the world today,” noting its potential to undermine modern medical treatments and jeopardize health systems and economies globally. The current two-week engagement provides a crucial opportunity for medical practitioners to evaluate practices, identify deficiencies, and reinforce stewardship protocols to preserve effective medications for future generations.

    Newly appointed Minister of Health Senator Lisa Cummins, who is conducting a listening tour across the health system, committed to continuing the previous administration’s efforts. Her priorities include establishing a dedicated AMR center in partnership with the Best-dos Santos Lab and deepening regional and international collaborations.

    The campaign extends beyond clinical settings with planned public lectures and community engagement events. Dr. Forde encouraged public attendance at an expert-led session at the Daphne Joseph-Hackett Theatre on Saturday, emphasizing that simple preventive measures—including regular handwashing, avoiding antibiotic misuse for viral illnesses like flu, and completing prescribed antibiotic courses—can significantly curb resistance development.