Carib Scope

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  • Brianna Lyston is back

    Brianna Lyston is back

    Jamaican sprint sensation Brianna Lyston marked her highly anticipated professional track debut with a impressive second-place finish in the 60-meter dash at Saturday’s New Balance Indoor Grand Prix in Boston. The 21-year-old clocked 7.11 seconds, finishing just behind British Olympic medalist Dina Asher-Smith who claimed victory in 7.08 seconds. Trinidad and Tobago’s Leah Bertrand secured third position with a time of 7.32 seconds.

    Lyston’s appearance marked her return to competition after an 11-month hiatus following her decision to forgo remaining NCAA eligibility at Louisiana State University and transition to professional athletics with a sponsorship agreement from Adidas. The young sprinter, now training under veteran coach Launce Brauman at Pure Athletics in Florida, represents the next generation of Jamaican sprint talent expected to fill the void left by retired legends Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Elaine Thompson, and Shericka Jackson.

    Her athletic prowess first captured international attention at just 12 years old when she set a world age-group record in the 200m (23.72 seconds) while representing St Jago High. Lyston boasts personal bests of 7.03 seconds in the 60m, 10.91 seconds in the 100m, and 22.31 seconds in the 200m, all achieved during her remarkable 2024 season.

    During her collegiate career at LSU, Lyston established herself as one of the fastest sprinters in NCAA history, capturing the 2024 NCAA Indoor 60m title with a time of 7.03 seconds—then the second-fastest in collegiate history and an LSU school record. Her accolades include multiple Southeastern Conference individual titles and six USTFCCCA First Team All-American honors. Lyston also claimed gold in the 200m at the 2022 World Athletics U20 Championships in Cali, Colombia, further cementing her status as track and field’s rising star.

  • UAE delegation visits Tobago

    UAE delegation visits Tobago

    Tobago’s leadership extended a formal welcome to a high-level delegation from the United Arab Emirates on January 25th, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations between the Caribbean nation and the Middle Eastern powerhouse. The UAE contingent, spearheaded by Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, arrived in Tobago following substantive discussions with Trinidadian officials the previous day.

    Chief Secretary Farley Augustine personally orchestrated the reception committee at ANR Robinson International Airport, accompanied by key cabinet members including Minister of Works and Infrastructure Jearlean John, Minister of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence Dominic Smith, and Assemblypersons Zorisha Hackett and Trevor James. The carefully curated itinerary showcased Tobago’s developmental potential while honoring its cultural heritage.

    The delegation’s first engagement featured a comprehensive tour of the historic Fort King George, where visitors experienced Tobago’s rich cultural tapestry through the ‘Ah Taste of Tobago’s Heritage’ performance. This cultural immersion preceded substantive discussions regarding strategic investment opportunities across the island’s infrastructure and development sectors.

    This diplomatic exchange represents a reciprocal gesture following TT’s proactive investment outreach to the UAE in November 2023. That previous mission, led by Minister John alongside Foreign Affairs Minister Sean Sobers and Legal Affairs Minister Saddam Hosein, laid the groundwork for the current negotiations. The UAE delegation’s inspection of major Trinidadian investment sites—including Invaders Bay, the Port of Point Lisas, and Couva Children’s Hospital—demonstrates the comprehensive nature of these bilateral economic discussions.

  • UNC celebrates 16 years of Kamla’s leadership

    UNC celebrates 16 years of Kamla’s leadership

    The United National Congress (UNC) has officially commemorated Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s sixteen-year tenure as party leader, marking the occasion with an official statement issued on parliamentary letterhead by Minister of People, Social Development and Family Services Vandana Mohit on January 25.

    The release highlighted Persad-Bissessar’s groundbreaking 2008 ascension to leadership as a historic milestone for both the party and Trinidad and Tobago’s political landscape. The statement emphasized that her leadership style—characterized by visionary yet pragmatic governance—has fundamentally redefined political leadership in the nation.

    According to the document, Persad-Bissessar’s approach combines decisive action with profound compassion, demonstrating that effective governance requires both strength and empathy. Her administration has prioritized social protection programs, educational accessibility, democratic institutional integrity, and people-centered policy-making throughout her tenure.

    The statement particularly noted the gender-specific challenges Persad-Bissessar has navigated as a female political leader, describing how she transformed gendered expectations into purposeful leadership. Rather than conforming to traditional political paradigms, she has established a model of governance that balances resoluteness with compassion, creating expanded opportunities for women in political leadership.

    Minister Mohit, reflecting on Persad-Bissessar’s legacy, acknowledged the significant pathway the Prime Minister has carved for female parliamentarians. The release concluded that Persad-Bissessar’s commitment to consultation, institutional respect, social justice, and protection of vulnerable populations represents the core philosophy that continues to guide the current government’s approach to governance.

  • PNM to open nominations for local government elections

    PNM to open nominations for local government elections

    The People’s National Movement (PNM) has formally commenced its electoral preparations by opening candidate nominations for impending local government elections. This strategic move was unveiled by PNM Political Leader Pennelope Beckles during the party’s monthly general council gathering at Balisier House in Port of Spain on January 24.

    The nomination process will prioritize constituencies currently not under PNM control, with official submissions opening February 23 at 8:00 AM. Prospective candidates must obtain nomination packages and adhere to the party’s established procedures through official channels including party groups, youth leagues, and women’s leagues.

    Beckles emphasized the party’s unwavering commitment to national development, stating the PNM remains dedicated to serving Trinidad and Tobago while encouraging qualified individuals to participate in the democratic process.

    The announcement follows the closely contested 2023 local elections where both PNM and United National Congress (UNC) secured seven borough corporations each. Notably, UNC achieved a higher popular vote with 173,961 ballots compared to PNM’s 130,868, despite a notably low voter turnout of merely 30.3% participation across the electorate.

  • Almost half of French real estate agents enable racism — study

    Almost half of French real estate agents enable racism — study

    A groundbreaking investigation by French anti-discrimination organization SOS Racisme has exposed systemic racial bias within the nation’s real estate sector. The study, conducted through meticulous undercover testing, reveals that approximately 48% of property agencies actively participate in or facilitate housing discrimination based on ethnic background.

    Researchers contacted 198 real estate agencies across France while posing as property owners with explicit racial preferences. The test scenario involved requesting ‘European’ tenants to allegedly avoid ‘neighborhood problems.’ Among the agencies surveyed, 24.2% (48 agencies) directly agreed to implement such discriminatory screening practices. An additional 48 establishments permitted or encouraged the supposed landlords to conduct their own racially-biased tenant selection.

    The findings demonstrate that 102 agencies (51.5%) maintained ethical standards by refusing discriminatory requests and explicitly opposing racial criteria. However, the prevalence of compliant agencies highlights a severe institutional problem within the housing industry.

    French Equality Minister Aurore Berge responded to the alarming data by announcing mandatory anti-discrimination training for all real estate professionals. Current regulations only require licensing for fewer than half of practicing agents. Minister Berge confirmed that an official decree implementing comprehensive training requirements would be issued within weeks.

    This 2025 study mirrors previous investigations conducted in 2019 and 2022, showing no improvement in discriminatory practices over time. The consistent findings indicate deeply entrenched biases that persist despite existing legal prohibitions. SOS Racisme president Dominique Sopo has urgently called upon legislators to publicly condemn these practices and strengthen enforcement mechanisms.

  • Renovation works intensifying at Noel Holmes Hospital after Melissa damage

    Renovation works intensifying at Noel Holmes Hospital after Melissa damage

    HANOVER, Jamaica — With approximately one month remaining until project completion, renovation efforts at Hanover’s Noel Holmes Hospital are advancing in a meticulously controlled manner, successfully avoiding patient overcrowding issues that have plagued other medical facilities. Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton confirmed the positive progress following his comprehensive inspection tour this past Saturday.

    Minister Tufton, engaging with press representatives after evaluating the institution, emphasized the hospital’s exceptional operational management. “Among the facilities I’ve recently assessed, this one demonstrates remarkable control with no signs of patient overcrowding, as consistently reported by both clinical and administrative leadership,” Tufton stated.

    The ministerial visit formed part of a broader evaluation initiative covering six medical institutions impacted by previous catastrophic weather events, including Mandeville Regional Hospital, Black River Hospital, Savanna-la-Mar Public General Hospital, Cornwall Regional Hospital, and Falmouth Public General Hospital. The 60-bed Noel Holmes Hospital presents a stark contrast to Savanna-la-Mar Hospital, which, despite its original 218-bed capacity, currently accommodates 298 patients between its primary structure and temporary field hospital.

    Critical emergency services at Noel Holmes remain fully functional, with Tufton noting that the Accident and Emergency department maintains comfortable operations, managing approximately 40 patient cases daily. This efficiency is bolstered by collaborative support from a Spanish-based non-governmental organization, which has established an emergency field unit complete with operational theater capabilities and supplementary bed capacity.

    Renovation activities are concurrently advancing across multiple hospital sectors, including comprehensive upgrades to nursing quarters, dietary service facilities, and maternity ward infrastructure. Construction teams have successfully executed roof removal and structural reinforcement procedures, with concrete slab installation scheduled for imminent implementation.

    Additionally, Minister Tufton provided progress updates regarding the nearby Lucea Health Centre, where roofing replacement has been finalized. Healthcare staff are anticipated to resume primary care services within the facility during the upcoming week, despite minor outstanding roofing requirements in limited sections.

    — Anthony Lewis

  • Only 72 per cent of students attending school in Region 4

    Only 72 per cent of students attending school in Region 4

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s education system faces a significant challenge in restoring regular school attendance following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa, with the most severely affected parishes reporting attendance rates as low as 72%. Education Minister Senator Dr. Dana Morris Dixon revealed these concerning figures during a Senate session on Friday, highlighting particular difficulties in engaging teenage male students who have prioritized supporting their families’ recovery efforts over education.

    The statistical breakdown illustrates the hurricane’s disruptive impact across different regions. Region 4, encompassing the hardest-hit parishes of St. James, Westmoreland, and Hanover, demonstrates the most pronounced attendance decline at just 72%. Region 2, comprising Portland, St. Thomas, and St. Mary, maintains an 80% attendance rate, while Region 3 (St. Ann and Trelawny) reports 82% attendance. These figures remain substantially below pre-hurricane levels despite the official resumption of classes on January 14.

    Minister Morris Dixon identified a troubling pattern of absenteeism particularly concentrated among adolescent males. ‘The situation is especially acute with our teenage boys who are opting to assist their families with reconstruction rather than attend school,’ she explained to legislators. ‘When they witness their homes destroyed, helping their families becomes their immediate priority, displacing educational commitments.’

    The Ministry of Education has implemented a multi-faceted response strategy involving guidance counselors working collaboratively with community institutions, including churches, to emphasize education’s importance while addressing practical recovery needs. The ministry systematically tracks attendance weekly, recognizing from pandemic-era data that extended absences dramatically increase the risk of permanent school dropout.

    ‘While current numbers remain unsatisfactory, our meticulous tracking enables targeted intervention,’ Morris Dixon stated. ‘Our guidance counselors are actively visiting communities to locate and re-engage absent students, understanding that deliberate, sustained effort is essential to prevent long-term educational disruption.’

  • VPA delivers medical care, counselling and relief to Rocky Point residents

    VPA delivers medical care, counselling and relief to Rocky Point residents

    CLARENDON, Jamaica — A comprehensive community outreach initiative in Rocky Point has delivered critical support to residents grappling with economic hardship and social challenges. Spearheaded by the Violence Prevention Alliance (VPA) in collaboration with local partners, the program integrated healthcare services, psychological support, and material assistance for vulnerable populations.

    The intervention featured medical examinations administered by healthcare professionals from Luminary Health Medical Centre, alongside therapeutic ‘reasoning’ sessions under VPA’s Big Man Ting program. These discussions addressed themes of positive masculinity, gender-based violence prevention, and adaptive family dynamics in post-hurricane recovery contexts. Practical aid included distribution of essential care packages and warm meals provided by Sakura Express Restaurant.

    Project Coordinator Colleen Wint Bond explained the strategic selection of Rocky Point emerged from the community’s severe hurricane-related losses, particularly among fishing communities who suffered equipment destruction and livelihood disruption. The initiative specifically prioritized homebound elderly residents and individuals with disabilities through targeted deliveries.

    Participant Carlton Golding described the counseling sessions as “timely and beneficial,” noting that “the more time you get to reason, the better it is for you.” Fellow resident Randolph Williams observed the discussions prompted reevaluation of traditional gender roles and community responsibilities.

    Supported by Canada’s government through the We Talk Project, this marks VPA’s third intervention following similar programs in Westmoreland and St. Elizabeth parishes. Member of Parliament Pearnel Charles Jr endorsed the initiative as exemplifying “what Jamaica and Jamaicans should be doing” during hurricane recovery periods.

    Despite limited resources, Wint Bond emphasized the program’s effectiveness stems from leveraging existing community relationships and trust networks, with Clarendon remaining a priority zone for future violence prevention and resilience-building interventions.

  • One-third of beds active at Falmouth Hospital despite Hurricane Melissa damage

    One-third of beds active at Falmouth Hospital despite Hurricane Melissa damage

    FALMOUTH, Trelawny — Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton has confirmed that Falmouth Public General Hospital continues to provide critical services despite sustaining substantial damage from Hurricane Melissa. Currently, only 57 of the facility’s 140 beds remain operational, representing approximately one-third of its total capacity.

    During a comprehensive assessment tour this past Saturday, Minister Tufton evaluated repair progress and consulted with administrative and clinical staff. He reported that two-thirds of the hospital’s bed capacity had been compromised by the hurricane, creating significant operational constraints.

    The hospital administration has implemented adaptive measures to maintain emergency services, including relocating the Accident and Emergency (A&E) department to a previously unused COVID-19 ward that underwent rapid repairs. This temporary solution ensures continued emergency care availability despite the ongoing reconstruction efforts.

    Among the most severely damaged areas is the A&E department, which requires complete roof replacement. Construction crews are elevating and reinforcing the roof structure with concrete slabs to enhance future storm resistance. The dietary department also suffered substantial roof damage, though temporary arrangements have been established while repairs continue.

    Minister Tufton emphasized the importance of utilizing primary healthcare facilities during this recovery period, urging Trelawny parish residents to visit local health centers for non-emergency care. “I appeal to citizens to recognize the inconveniences and utilize health centers as first stops unless facing absolute emergencies,” he stated, while assuring that emergency medical services remain available at the hospital.

    The Ministry of Health has targeted March for full completion of repairs, though officials are encouraging contractors to accelerate the timeline where possible. The ongoing situation presents temporary challenges for healthcare delivery throughout the parish as recovery efforts continue.

  • Arsenal title bid dented by dramatic Man Utd defeat

    Arsenal title bid dented by dramatic Man Utd defeat

    In a dramatic Premier League showdown at Emirates Stadium, Manchester United delivered a seismic blow to Arsenal’s championship aspirations with a last-gasp 3-2 victory on Sunday. The result throws the title race wide open, reducing Arsenal’s previously comfortable lead to a precarious margin.

    The match began with Arsenal asserting dominance, capitalizing on defensive errors to take the lead through Lisandro Martinez’s unfortunate own goal in the 29th minute. United’s response came before halftime when Bryan Mbeumo pounced on a catastrophic backpass error to equalize.

    United emerged transformed after the interval, with Patrick Dorgu unleashing a spectacular 20-yard strike to claim the lead. Just as Arsenal seemed to have salvaged a point through Mikel Merino’s 84th-minute equalizer from a set-piece, Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha delivered the decisive blow with a magnificent 25-yard drive three minutes from time.

    This defeat marks Arsenal’s first loss in 13 matches across all competitions and their initial home defeat in 18 games. The ramifications extend beyond this single result, with Manchester City and Aston Villa both securing victories to narrow the gap to just four points behind the league leaders.

    Under interim manager Michael Carrick, United have demonstrated remarkable resilience, securing consecutive victories against both Manchester City and now Arsenal. Carrick’s tactical adjustments, including deploying Dorgu in an advanced role, have produced immediate dividends, lifting United to fourth position in the standings.

    The match encapsulated Arsenal’s recent struggles, having failed to win in their last three league appearances. Manager Mikel Arteta faces renewed scrutiny as his team confronts familiar questions about their capacity to maintain a title challenge following similar collapses in previous seasons.