Carib Scope

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  • 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.

  • Caribbean-American legislator denounces ICE’s latest fatal shooting

    Caribbean-American legislator denounces ICE’s latest fatal shooting

    NEW YORK – Caribbean-American New York State Assemblyman Brian Cunningham has issued a forceful condemnation following the second fatal shooting involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Minneapolis within a fortnight. The incident, which resulted in the death of ICU nurse Alex Pretti during a public demonstration against ICE’s immigration tactics, has ignited profound concern over the agency’s operational conduct.

    Cunningham, a representative of Brooklyn’s 43rd Assembly District and son of Jamaican immigrants, characterized the event as a national wake-up call. “News emerging from Minneapolis this week should halt every American in their tracks,” he stated in an interview with the Caribbean Media Corporation. He emphasized that the shooting of Pretti, an American citizen, occurred amidst escalating tensions surrounding federal immigration operations, closely following another ICE-related fatality involving Renee Good in the same city.

    The assemblyman argued that lethal force must not become standardized within immigration enforcement frameworks, irrespective of political viewpoints. He articulated grave concerns about democratic integrity, noting that communities experiencing federal presence as occupation rather than protection represent a critical test for governance.

    Cunningham highlighted the tangible repercussions beyond immigrant communities, asserting that unregulated federal enforcement creates societal ripple effects. “When immigration operations operate without robust oversight, immigrant populations bear the initial impact, but the ramifications ultimately extend to all citizens,” he explained. The climate of fear alters fundamental behaviors—deterring school attendance, discouraging hospital visits, and inhibiting crime reporting—which ultimately compromises public safety for all residents.

    As co-sponsor of the New York for All Act, Cunningham advocates for legislative measures restricting state and local agencies from indiscriminate immigration status inquiries and information sharing with federal authorities. He contends that minimizing such collaborations is essential to prevent abuses and maintain community trust in public institutions. The assemblyman concluded by framing the Minneapolis shootings as symptomatic of broader national challenges rather than isolated state-specific incidents.

  • Bishop Garth Minott elected new president of Jamaica Council of Churches

    Bishop Garth Minott elected new president of Jamaica Council of Churches

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Council of Churches (JCC) has undergone a significant leadership transition with the election of Suffragan Bishop of Kingston Garth Minott as its new President. Bishop Minott will commence his two-year term this month, succeeding Bishop Christine Gooden-Benguche who completed her tenure after serving the organization for the past two years.

    The ecclesiastical body announced its newly elected leadership cadre following its annual convening last month. Bishop Minott will be supported by three regional Vice-Presidents: Rev’d Pauline DaCosta of St John’s Methodist Church in Montego Bay (Cornwall), Most Rev’d John Persuad, Bishop of Mandeville (Middlesex), and Rev’d Karen Kirlew of the Greater Portmore Circuit of Baptist Churches (Surrey).

    Beyond his diocesan responsibilities overseeing Kingston, Bishop Minott provides episcopal supervision to the Cayman Islands and multiple Jamaican parishes including Clarendon, St Catherine, St Andrew, St Thomas, St Mary, and Portland.

    Bishop Minott brings extensive theological expertise to his new role, having served as Deputy President and lecturer at the United Theological College of the West Indies (UTCWI) since 2003 prior to his ordination and consecration on June 11, 2022. He additionally coordinated the Doctor of Ministry program offered by Columbia Theological Seminary in Decatur, Georgia.

    His academic portfolio includes instruction in practical theology, covering Introduction to Ministry, Christian Ethics, and Christian Worship. Before his academic career, Bishop Minott served as Rector of the Browns Town Cure following his ordination as deacon in 1992 and priest in 1993.

    Bishop Minott holds a MPhil degree from the University of the West Indies focusing on the Church’s role in social justice and HIV/AIDS response, complemented by an MA in Theology from McGill University. His professional development extends to specialized training in Instructional Design, Research Skills, and Clinical Supervision. He has contributed significantly as a consultant on HIV/AIDS curriculum integration, served as a Voluntary Counselling and Testing provider, and participated on multiple ethics committees including those of the UWI Medical Faculty and National Bioethics Committee.

    Bishop Minott is married to Dr. Denise Minott, and together they are parents to two sons, Mark and Stephen.

  • Leon Bailey features as Aston Villa beat Newcastle to stay in title hunt

    Leon Bailey features as Aston Villa beat Newcastle to stay in title hunt

    The English Premier League witnessed a significant shift in its competitive landscape this Sunday, headlined by Aston Villa’s commanding 2-0 away victory over Newcastle United. This crucial win narrows the gap between Villa and the league summit to a mere four points, dramatically reigniting their campaign following a surprising home defeat to Everton the previous weekend.

    The match at St. James’ Park, a venue where Villa had not triumphed since 2005, was decided by two decisive moments. Argentine midfielder Emi Buendia broke the deadlock with a spectacular long-range strike in the 19th minute, setting Unai Emery’s squad on a path to victory. The win was sealed in the closing moments by English striker Ollie Watkins, who expertly headed home a cross from Lucas Digne.

    Newcastle, hampered by the absence of injured captain Bruno Guimaraes, struggled to find creative solutions, suffering a damaging blow to their Champions League qualification hopes. The match also featured the season debut of Villa winger Leon Bailey, who entered as a substitute and nearly scored shortly after his introduction.

    In simultaneous action, Chelsea secured a vital 3-1 victory against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, propelling them into the coveted top four positions. The Blues’ dominance was showcased through Brazilian talents Estevao and Joao Pedro, who contributed significantly to the scoreline before Enzo Fernandez converted a penalty to secure three points. Palace’s dismal situation worsened with Adam Wharton’s dismissal, extending their winless streak to eleven matches and raising serious concerns about their Premier League status.

    Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest significantly boosted their survival prospects with a impressive 2-0 win against Brentford, moving five points clear of the relegation zone with goals from Igor Jesus and Taiwo Awoniyi.

    As the title race intensifies, league leaders Arsenal maintain control with an opportunity to extend their advantage to seven points when they host Manchester United in the weekend’s final fixture.

  • Nearly 700 students placed in ‘host schools’ after Melissa – Morris Dixon

    Nearly 700 students placed in ‘host schools’ after Melissa – Morris Dixon

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – In response to the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa, Jamaican educational authorities have successfully relocated approximately 680 students from severely affected regions to functional host institutions. The Category 5 hurricane, which made direct landfall last October, caused substantial damage to educational infrastructure across multiple northwestern parishes including Westmoreland, St James, St Elizabeth, Hanover, and Trelwany, with additional damage reported in Manchester and St Ann.

    Education Minister Senator Dr. Dana Morris Dixon confirmed the implementation of the ministry’s host school policy, designed to ensure educational continuity for displaced students. The strategic relocation effort has placed affected students into reputable high schools within the Corporate Area, with prominent institutions such as Alpha Academy, Wolmer’s Schools, Campion College, and Kingston College participating in the program.

    The minister’s statements came during a Senate session on Friday, specifically addressing inquiries from Opposition Senator Lambert Brown regarding educational continuity measures. Minister Morris Dixon notably acknowledged Opposition MP Damion Crawford’s constructive suggestions regarding host school placements, stating: ‘I applaud MP Crawford for aligning with the ministry’s direction on host schools – this initiative has proven tremendously beneficial for our children’s educational stability.’

    The host school policy, activated immediately following the hurricane, represents a coordinated effort between government agencies and educational institutions to mitigate disruption to students’ academic progress while damaged facilities undergo reconstruction and repairs.

  • Man charged with murder of young mother in southern France

    Man charged with murder of young mother in southern France

    A profound sense of grief has enveloped the French city of Nice following the brutal murder of a 23-year-old woman, identified only as Lizabete, who was fatally shot multiple times while her infant daughter sat unharmed in the vehicle. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday at a city intersection, has prompted swift legal action, with a primary suspect now facing murder charges.

    According to official statements from prosecutor Damien Martinelli, the alleged perpetrator—a 45-year-old Portuguese national—has been placed in pre-trial detention after being formally charged with murder on Sunday. Investigators believe the suspect was previously involved with Lizabete’s stepmother, adding a layer of domestic complexity to the tragedy.

    The attack unfolded when the assailant, riding a scooter, approached Lizabete’s car at point-blank range near a local high school and fired repeatedly into the vehicle. Despite the immediate response of emergency services, the young mother could not be revived. Miraculously, her seven-month-old daughter, Ayla, secured in a baby seat beside her, emerged physically unscathed.

    Notably, the suspect had recently been in police custody for aggravated assault against his former partner and was under a court order to avoid contact with her. He was rearrested Saturday afternoon on the outskirts of Grasse, approximately 40 kilometers from Nice.

    In response to the killing, the Nice municipal government held a public vigil on Friday to honor Lizabete’s memory. The city has also committed to granting her daughter ward-of-the-state status, ensuring support and care throughout her upbringing.

  • Atletico down Mallorca to tighten grip on third

    Atletico down Mallorca to tighten grip on third

    In a dominant La Liga display, Atletico Madrid secured a decisive 3-0 victory against Mallorca at the Metropolitano stadium on Sunday. The comprehensive win solidifies their hold on third place in the standings, simultaneously narrowing the gap with front-runners Real Madrid to a mere seven points.

    The triumph gains additional significance following Real Madrid’s defeat of fourth-placed Villarreal the previous day. Under Diego Simeone’s strategic guidance, Atletico capitalized on this development, establishing a crucial three-point buffer over their closest Champions League qualification rivals.

    Norwegian striker Alexander Sorloth initiated the scoring in the 22nd minute, capitalizing on a saved attempt from Marcos Llorente to net his seventh league goal this season. This achievement places him alongside Julián Álvarez as the team’s joint-top scorer. The hosts’ advantage expanded fortuitously in the second half when David López inadvertently directed Llorente’s cross into his own net. Argentine midfielder Thiago Almada concluded the scoring late in the match, expertly converting from a corner kick situation.

    Atletico’s offensive dominance was evident from the opening whistle, forcing Mallorca goalkeeper Leo Román into making a remarkable triple save early against Sorloth, Giuliano Simeone, and Pablo Barrios. Midfielder Llorente emphasized post-match that the comfortable victory before home supporters represents “the path to follow” for the Madrid-based club.

    The result intensifies the title race as Barcelona prepared to face bottom-placed Real Oviedo later Sunday, with an opportunity to reclaim the league leadership.

  • CSO on the ground to get data for census

    CSO on the ground to get data for census

    The Central Statistical Office (CSO) under Trinidad and Tobago’s Ministry of Planning, Economic Affairs, and Development has initiated a comprehensive nationwide Geospatial Data Update Exercise (GDUE) starting January 26. This ambitious digital mapping project represents a fundamental modernization of the country’s census preparation methodology, transitioning from traditional paper-based systems to fully digitized data collection protocols.

    Trained field personnel equipped with digital technology are deploying across targeted communities in Trinidad, including Champs Fleurs, Manzanilla, and Kelly Village, to gather precise geo-located information on all structures, households, commercial establishments, institutions, and agricultural holdings. Tobago will commence fieldwork operations at a subsequent scheduled date.

    This technological advancement serves as the foundational pillar for the CSO’s innovative bimodal digital census strategy. The initial phase will enable Computer-Assisted Web Interview (CAWI) capabilities, permitting citizens to complete census questionnaires online via personal devices at their convenience. Subsequently, the Computer-Assisted Personal Interview (CAPI) methodology will deploy field enumerators to assist those requiring in-person support, with all data securely captured through tablet devices.

    Approximately 120 rigorously trained enumerators and supervisors, identifiable through official CSO-issued identification badges and branded high-visibility vests, will conduct the exercise with strict adherence to ethical data collection standards. The ministry emphasizes that safeguarding public trust and security remains paramount throughout the process.

    Minister Kennedy Swaratsingh endorsed the initiative, highlighting its critical role in advancing evidence-based policymaking for national development. The CSO has encouraged full public cooperation in selected communities, noting that the collected data will directly inform the upcoming Population and Housing Census and shape future developmental planning. Verification channels including telephone (226-0180) and WhatsApp (252-9899) have been established for citizen inquiries.

  • PNM to honour stalwarts at 70th anniversary celebration

    PNM to honour stalwarts at 70th anniversary celebration

    The People’s National Movement (PNM), Trinidad and Tobago’s pioneering political party, is set to commemorate its 70th anniversary with a prestigious gala event at Queen’s Hall in Port of Spain on January 26. The celebration will honor several party stalwarts who have contributed to the organization’s enduring legacy since its official founding by the nation’s first prime minister, Dr. Eric Eustace Williams, on January 24, 1956.

    Current PNM Political Leader Pennelope Beckles, who also serves as Opposition Leader and Arima MP, will deliver the feature address at the anniversary program. In a recent Facebook post, Beckles reflected on the party’s historical significance, noting that the PNM emerged as “TT’s first major political party with a continuous organization and a clear national program” committed to building “a stronger, fairer and more united nation.”

    The event promises to blend historical reflection with cultural entertainment, described in party communications as “fantastic presentations and top local entertainment” that will punctuate the historically significant program.

    Beckles, who made history herself by becoming the PNM’s fifth political leader and first woman to hold the position on June 22, 2025, acknowledged the leadership legacy she inherited. She specifically recognized the four leaders who preceded her: founding leader Dr. Eric Williams; George Chambers, who assumed leadership following Williams’ death in 1981; Patrick Manning, who led from 1987 and shaped “a defining era of leadership and national development”; and Dr. Keith Rowley, who served as political leader until April 30, 2025.

    The Opposition Leader emphasized her commitment to steering the party forward with “humility, resolve, and unwavering commitment,” stating she remains “fully committed to the PNM and ready to chart a strong, united and purposeful way forward” for the movement that has significantly shaped the nation’s political landscape for seven decades.

  • Energy Ministry: Block TTUD-1 seismic survey among largest in TT

    Energy Ministry: Block TTUD-1 seismic survey among largest in TT

    In a significant development for Trinidad and Tobago’s energy sector, senior government officials conducted an inspection tour of the specialized seismic vessel Amazon Warrior on January 23rd at Port of Chaguaramas. The high-level delegation included Energy Minister Dr. Roodal Moonilal, Energy Ministry representative Ernesto Kesar, and Land and Legal Affairs Minister Saddam Hosein, who oversees the Chaguaramas Development Authority.

    The Amazon Warrior, operated by Shearwater GeoServices, has been contracted by ExxonMobil TT Deepwater Limited to execute an extensive 3D seismic survey across Block TTUD-1. The ministerial tour included briefings from Dr. Bram Willemsen, ExxonMobil’s TT Operations Manager, and Benjamin Pentecote, Shearwater’s Party Manager aboard the vessel.

    Remarkably, the vessel’s deployment occurred just five months after the signing of the Production Sharing Contract (PSC) on August 12th, demonstrating exceptional efficiency in project execution. Both ExxonMobil and Shearwater GeoServices commended the streamlined processes that enabled this rapid timeline from contract signing to operational deployment.

    The upcoming seismic survey represents one of the most extensive geological mapping initiatives ever undertaken in Trinidad and Tobago’s waters. Ministry officials emphasized that this accelerated progress stems from effective collaboration between government agencies, energy stakeholders, and regulatory bodies.

    This coordinated approach aligns with the government’s strategic objective to enhance business facilitation mechanisms and attract efficient investment operations within the country’s vital energy sector, potentially signaling a new era of expedited energy development for the nation.