Carib Scope

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  • Bar president sounds alarm on lack of criminal lawyers in Antigua (VIDEO)

    Bar president sounds alarm on lack of criminal lawyers in Antigua (VIDEO)

    The Antigua and Barbuda Bar Association has sounded alarm bells over a critical shortage of criminal lawyers, with its president Dr. Lenworth Johnson warning that the nation’s criminal bar is diminishing at an alarming rate. During the official funeral proceedings for the late Sir Gerald Watt KC, the esteemed former Speaker, Johnson revealed that fewer than a handful of legal practitioners in Antigua maintain substantial criminal practices—a situation posing severe implications for the judicial system’s functionality.

    Johnson characterized criminal law as an emotionally demanding field that requires specific psychological resilience, noting that most emerging attorneys demonstrate minimal interest in this practice area. Those who initially venture into criminal law frequently withdraw after brief exposure, creating a sustainability crisis within the legal profession.

    The Bar Association president proposed collaborative engagement with Attorney General Stedroy Benjamin, himself a distinguished former criminal attorney, to develop strategic solutions. Johnson emphasized that honoring Sir Gerald Watt’s legacy would be best achieved through concrete actions to revitalize criminal law practice.

    Sir Gerald Watt’s extraordinary six-decade career served as a benchmark for professional dedication, during which he filed over 180 High Court cases and made more than 500 criminal applications—many establishing landmark legal precedents. Johnson recalled Watt’s fearless advocacy, including a notable case where he successfully sued a fellow attorney for professional negligence after a client’s claim failed due to unpleaded legal doctrines.

    The Bar Association now aims to transform this concerning trend into an opportunity for generational inspiration, seeking to channel Watt’s exemplary legacy into motivating young lawyers to embrace criminal practice.

  • Coastal offshore races highlight Barbados Sailing Week 2026

    Coastal offshore races highlight Barbados Sailing Week 2026

    The coastal offshore races electrified the competition on the penultimate day of Barbados Sailing Week 2026, setting the stage for the event’s grand finale. A robust fleet of 31 vessels, manned by 239 sailors including 82 Barbadian nationals and 14 local yachts, has been battling for supremacy in Caribbean waters.

    Multihull division honors went to Robbie Yearwood’s commanding performance aboard Spirit of Everest, securing victory ahead of Lawrence Dunter’s Plaissir. The Club Class category witnessed James Adam’s Fadeaway claiming top position, followed by Gus Reader’s Glory Daze in second and Peter Hoad’s Less Stress in third. David Sparman’s Bella J emerged triumphant in CSA Racing competition, outperforming Jason Tindale’s A-Salt Weapon and Paul Johnson’s Rapajam.

    Attention now shifts to the championship events: the prestigious Mount Gay Rum Round Barbados Race and the challenging Coast to Coast Race. These culminating contests will be followed by the traditional Mount Gay Red Cap Party and Prizegiving ceremony at Barbados Cruising Club.

    Regatta Director Marianna Polacka, speaking during junior sailing awards, confirmed 22 boats are scheduled for Wednesday’s featured race. While acknowledging favorable wind conditions, Polacka noted significant swell challenges that might impact record-breaking attempts. “The wind looks light in the morning and should pick up later, but the swell is quite high,” she stated, leaving open the possibility of exceptional performances.

    The race course will see vessels departing Carlisle Bay near Hilton Hotel at 7:30 a.m., progressing along the West Coast for approximately two hours before reaching Animal Flower Cave between 8-9 a.m. Spectators are encouraged to gather at the Boardwalk in the afternoon to witness the spectacular downwind sailing with colorful spinnakers fully deployed.

    Polacka emphasized the home advantage enjoyed by local sailors, noting their intimate knowledge of coastal reefs and optimal sailing routes. The 60-nautical mile course (approximately 80 kilometers) demands both navigation expertise and endurance.

    The event has highlighted remarkable junior participation, with 25 young sailors demonstrating exceptional skill and courage in challenging conditions. “They were battling approximately a kilometer offshore in rough conditions,” Polacka recounted. “It was incredible what they can do on the water. Some capsized, some got hurt, but most recovered and continued racing.”

    Following substantial growth between 2024-2026, organizers anticipate further elevation of competition standards. Infrastructure developments including the redevelopment of Shallow Draught Marina and new moorings in Carlisle Bay have elevated the event to international status. “We can now offer what other Caribbean regattas offer,” Polacka noted, “but what they cannot offer is Barbados itself—the destination that captivates all who visit.”

    With enhanced capacity through partnership with Barbados Port Inc. and Barbados Sport Inc., organizers plan immediate post-event promotion to capitalize on the successful infrastructure upgrades and growing international reputation.

  • Flow Antigua and Barbuda Donates Laptops to JCI Antigua

    Flow Antigua and Barbuda Donates Laptops to JCI Antigua

    ST. JOHN’S, ANTIGUA – In a strategic move to enhance youth development initiatives, telecommunications provider Flow Antigua and Barbuda has donated two laptop computers to Junior Chamber International (JCI) Antigua. The technological contribution was formally presented to JCI Antigua President Collet Gordon and Secretary General Akilah Anderson during a ceremony on January 21, 2026.

    The equipment donation represents a significant enhancement to JCI Antigua’s operational infrastructure, directly supporting the organization’s administrative functions and community outreach programs. This technological infusion will enable more efficient execution of youth leadership projects throughout the nation.

    Wayne Hull, Country Manager of Flow Antigua and Barbuda, emphasized the company’s dedication to community development during the handover ceremony. “Our support for organizations like JCI Antigua demonstrates Flow’s commitment to initiatives that actively shape our communities,” Hull stated. “These devices will substantially strengthen JCI’s capacity to empower emerging leaders and generate tangible social impact.”

    JCI Antigua, established in 1960, possesses a distinguished legacy of advancing youth empowerment and leadership development. The organization has consistently worked toward community betterment through various programs and initiatives over its six-decade history.

    President Collet Gordon expressed profound appreciation on behalf of JCI Antigua’s leadership and membership. “This technological contribution arrives at a pivotal moment in our operational evolution,” Gordon noted. “These resources will dramatically improve our Secretariat’s efficiency as we continue our mission of cultivating the next generation of community leaders.”

    The partnership between Flow Antigua and Barbuda and JCI Antigua exemplifies how corporate-social organization collaborations can effectively drive national progress through targeted technological support and capacity building.

  • Why Gros Islet’s traffic problems won’t disappear overnight

    Why Gros Islet’s traffic problems won’t disappear overnight

    Residents along the Gros Islet to Castries corridor in Saint Lucia have grown accustomed to severe traffic congestion as part of their daily commute, but significant infrastructure improvements are poised to transform their travel experience. Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre recently announced that major highway reconstruction will likely commence within the first half of this year, bringing both temporary disruptions and long-term solutions.

    The comprehensive road improvement initiative encompasses two major projects totaling approximately $33 million in international funding. The centerpiece involves a three-kilometer upgrade transforming the Monchy to Gros Islet highway into a dual carriageway, featuring four modern roundabouts and four pedestrian bridges, financed through a $20 million OPEC Fund loan. Simultaneously, a $13 million Kuwait-funded project will expand the Choc Bridge to Marisule segment into a dual carriageway complete with enhanced drainage systems, culverts, and a new roundabout at the Marisule junction.

    Engineering experts note that strategic preparatory work has already been underway to mitigate construction impacts. Kurt Harris, President of the Association of Professional Engineers of Saint Lucia, highlighted that the deliberate widening of alternative routes like Vieux Secreux Road over the past decade will provide crucial alternatives during main highway construction. “People will have alternatives to come off the highway but still be able to get into the Castries area,” Harris told St. Lucia Times.

    The current traffic crisis has forced permanent adjustments to daily routines, with some northern residents leaving as early as 7 a.m. for essential errands in Castries. Bus drivers on the island’s busiest route have attempted adaptations through community shortcuts, though these detours have sparked safety concerns among residents and passengers alike.

    Harris explained the technical rationale behind the improvements: “The biggest challenge with the traffic on the Gros Islet highway is the number of right turns. From Union, you have at least 40 right turns before reaching Gros Islet. Each right turn breaks the traffic flow, requiring stops in both directions.” The engineered solution involves medians and roundabouts to minimize these disruptive maneuvers while increasing overall traffic capacity.

    While the government has not released a detailed construction timeline, officials acknowledge that temporary inconveniences are inevitable. Harris concluded: “Part of development is temporary inconvenience for improvement. Persons need to understand there will be inconveniences, so you try to mitigate them, but they may not be eliminated completely during construction.”

  • Healing of the Nation!!

    Healing of the Nation!!

    In a significant legislative development, Grenada’s Parliament has demonstrated unified concern for youth welfare while addressing cannabis decriminalization. During deliberations on the Drug Abuse (Prevention and Control) Amendment Bill on January 20, 2026, both government and opposition representatives reached consensus on relieving young people from criminal records for simple possession charges.

    Dr. Neals Chitan, an international crime reduction specialist who previously advised St. Kitts-Nevis on cannabis legislation in 2019, acknowledges the plant’s medicinal properties while emphasizing concerning neuroscientific findings. ‘Credible research indicates potentially devastating effects on the developing adolescent brain,’ notes Dr. Chitan, who holds a PhD in Social and Behavioural Sciences.

    The parliamentary discussion highlighted a paradigm shift toward addressing root causes rather than symptom management. Legislators recognized that emotional distress—stemming from dysfunctional homes, parental expectations, peer pressure, and various traumas—often drives youth toward marijuana’s temporary euphoria.

    Dr. Chitan warns of cyclical dependency: ‘The psychoactive effect temporarily rescues users from misery, but the subsequent crash leaves them craving another joint, creating an open door to addiction.’

    Instead of chemical relief, Grenada is pursuing substantive emotional health solutions. The Ministry of Mental Health and Religious Affairs is partnering with experts to launch a nationwide 2026 Emotional and Mental Health Community Empowerment Campaign across all 16 communities in Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique.

    This initiative represents what Dr. Chitan identifies as ‘true healing’—teaching evidence-based strategies to address trauma sources rather than masking symptoms. The approach aligns with modern medical practice’s increased emphasis on prevention before prescription, despite allegations of pharmaceutical conspiracies.

    The comprehensive program aims to create emotionally resilient youth through mental health empowerment, ultimately fostering productive citizens with winning attitudes beyond temporary chemical relief.

  • COMMENTARY: Hayley Matthews – Refreshed and ready for 2026

    COMMENTARY: Hayley Matthews – Refreshed and ready for 2026

    After an unprecedented eleven-year non-stop career, West Indies women’s cricket captain Hayley Matthews has emerged from a forced hiatus with revitalized energy and sharpened focus. The Barbadian all-rounder, who debuted as a teenager in 2014, underwent shoulder surgery last summer following an injury sustained during England’s tour, granting her the first substantial break of her professional life.

    Matthews described the recovery period as “a bit different but really enjoyable” time spent with loved ones, noting it provided valuable perspective on her career achievements while fueling her hunger for future challenges. Her rehabilitation culminated in a return to competition through India’s Women’s Premier League, where she joins compatriots Deandra Dottin and Chinelle Henry.

    While Matthews recuperated, her teammates underwent an intensive eight-week High-Performance camp in Antigua from October to December. The captain praised their dedication to skill development and fitness, emphasizing the camp’s role in strengthening team culture and dynamics ahead of a demanding schedule.

    The West Indies face a formidable 2026 itinerary featuring series against Sri Lanka, Australia, Ireland, Pakistan, and Zimbabwe across formats, with the T20 World Cup in England as the centerpiece. Matthews, whose match-winning performance secured the 2016 T20 World Cup title, believes her squad has evolved significantly since their semi-final finish in the last tournament.

    A historic milestone awaits the team with their first Test match since 2004, facing Australia exactly fifty years after their inaugural series. Matthews expressed particular excitement about this opportunity, noting it will be the first Test experience for every squad member and represents profound honor and growth potential.

    The captain also highlighted the importance of the new ICC Women’s Championship cycle, targeting crucial points against teams like Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, and Ireland. Now 27 and refreshed by her break, Matthews returns with clarified perspective and determination to lead West Indies women’s cricket into its next successful chapter.

  • J W Fletcher wins $7K in GFNC’s High School Snack Attack

    J W Fletcher wins $7K in GFNC’s High School Snack Attack

    In a celebration of youthful innovation and nutritional excellence, J W Fletcher Catholic Secondary School claimed top honors at the Grenada Food and Nutrition Council’s High School Snack Attack Competition on January 15, 2026. The triumphant team secured a $7,000 prize alongside a commemorative plaque for their outstanding performance.

    The competition, hosted at the Ministry of Finance Conference Room within Grand Anse’s Galleria Mall, showcased five secondary schools competing through culinary creativity and entrepreneurial vision. Fletcher Catholic’s winning entry, ‘Fruity Fusion Gummies,’ distinguished itself through exceptional presentation, strategic branding, and market-ready execution. The product featured 100% natural flavors and sweeteners, packaged in environmentally conscious orange-and-white recyclable containers bearing prominent ‘Product of Grenada’ labeling.

    GFNC CEO Lydia Browne characterized the event as profoundly rewarding, noting: ‘The demonstrated innovation and camaraderie exceeded expectations. Several products exhibit strong potential for commercial development beyond school environments to broader Grenadian markets.’

    The initiative aimed to transform youth perspectives on food—emphasizing creativity, cultural significance, and health benefits while promoting local agriculture and national identity. Students received guidance from educator Kaylee Redhead and GFNC mentor Masha Benjamin-Hunte, with team members Joshua Williams-James, Tai Alexander, Amaiyah Charles, John Hazzard, and Grace Charles delivering a professionally energetic sales pitch.

    Judging criteria encompassed ingredient quality, taste profiles, nutritional value, market viability, and production feasibility. The evaluation panel included Nekisha McDonald (Ministry of Finance), Amiesha Persaud (Grenada Bureau of Standards), TAMCC culinary faculty Rosamond Francis and Raquesha Peters, plus student judges Heavenly Primus and Tariq Noel.

    Adding democratic engagement, primary students from Grand Anse Private Academy and Calliste Government School served as impartial taste-testers. Presentation Brothers’ College secured the People’s Choice Award through combined paper ballot and digital QR code voting, earning an additional $1,000. Bishop’s College placed third with $1,500, while Grenada Boys’ Secondary School and Grenada Seventh-day Adventist Comprehensive School participated as finalists.

    The competition reinforces Grenada’s commitment to strengthening food security through youth engagement and nutritional education, aligning with GFNC’s ‘Eat Local’ initiative to enhance national food sovereignty.

  • Friends of Democracy aims to fill opposition gap, rejects coalition

    Friends of Democracy aims to fill opposition gap, rejects coalition

    A new political force has entered Barbados’ electoral arena as the Friends of Democracy (FOD) party announced its candidacy for the February 2026 general elections. The party’s central platform challenges what it describes as seven years of diminished democratic oversight under the ruling Barbados Labour Party’s uninterrupted governance.

    FOD President Karina Goodridge, in an exclusive interview following Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s announcement of the February 11 polling date, articulated her party’s mission to restore political equilibrium and institutional accountability. Despite the party’s recent formation, Goodridge emphasized their commitment to delivering a straightforward campaign message centered on governmental transparency and citizen representation.

    The political newcomer firmly rejected any potential coalition arrangements with other opposition groups, including the newly formed People’s Coalition for Progress alliance comprising the United Progressive Party, New National Party, and Conservative Barbados Leadership Party. Goodridge asserted that FOD’s philosophy is rooted in principle rather than political convenience.

    Goodridge highlighted the concerning democratic deficit resulting from the BLP’s consecutive electoral sweeps in 2018 and 2022, which left Parliament without an official opposition voice. She argued that this political monopoly has led to rushed legislative processes and inadequate public consultation on major bills, ultimately eroding public trust in governance institutions.

    The FOD leader outlined her party’s commitment to rigorous fiscal oversight, promising to ‘question every dollar spent’ and demand full disclosure on all major government projects. She emphasized that their approach would prioritize factual analysis and people-centered policies over political theatrics.

    Goodridge concluded that the upcoming election represents a critical juncture for Barbadian democracy—not merely about selecting a governing party but about reinstating balanced governance, protecting democratic institutions, and restoring citizens’ voices in the political process.

  • IN PICTURES: Happening Now- Official Funeral For Sir. Gerald Watt KC

    IN PICTURES: Happening Now- Official Funeral For Sir. Gerald Watt KC

    The Eastern Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda is observing a day of solemn remembrance as it bids an official farewell to one of its most distinguished legal minds, the late Sir Gerald Watt KC. The state-sanctioned funeral, currently in progress, is drawing a confluence of the nation’s highest dignitaries, judicial figures, and citizens united in grief and respect.

    Sir Gerald Watt’s legacy is etched into the very fabric of the region’s jurisprudence. His career, spanning several decades, was marked by an unwavering commitment to justice and legal excellence. He served with immense distinction as a former President of the Senate and as a long-serving Speaker of the House of Representatives, roles in which he was revered for his profound integrity, sharp intellect, and masterful command of parliamentary procedure. His contributions extended beyond the legislature into the courtroom, where he was a formidable and highly respected King’s Counsel, shaping landmark cases and mentoring generations of legal professionals.

    The official funeral ceremony, imbued with full state honors, reflects the magnitude of his service to the nation. The proceedings include solemn tributes, a gun salute, and the draping of the national flag over his coffin, symbolizing the country’s deep gratitude. Eulogies from the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition, and the Chief Justice are highlighting his pivotal role in strengthening the nation’s democratic institutions and his profound personal impact on all who knew him.

    This event transcends a mere funeral; it is a national moment of reflection on the values of service, principle, and dedication that Sir Gerald Watt embodied. His passing signifies the loss of a foundational pillar in the Commonwealth’s legal community, but his extensive work and ethical standards leave an indelible blueprint for future leaders in law and governance.

  • UWI Toronto Benefit Awards announces list of honorees for 2026

    UWI Toronto Benefit Awards announces list of honorees for 2026

    Toronto prepares to host the prestigious 17th annual University of the West Indies (UWI) Toronto Benefit Awards on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel. This year’s ceremony, themed “Unlocking Brilliance,” will recognize outstanding contributors who have supported scholarship opportunities for Caribbean students pursuing higher education.

    The black-tie gala, commencing at 5:30 PM EST, represents UWI’s ongoing commitment to fostering talent, leadership, and opportunity throughout the Caribbean and its global diaspora. Dr. Donette Chin-Loy Chang, Patron of the UWI Toronto Benefit Awards, emphasized the event’s significance: “This is a powerful night of purpose and pride. For 16 years, Canadians have supported ensuring Caribbean students fulfill their educational dreams. Now more than ever, we must stand firm in unity believing education will change the world.”

    The 2026 honorees include remarkable figures from various sectors. Mrs. Ayesha Curry receives the Luminary Award for her entrepreneurial achievements and health advocacy, while Ms. Tonya Williams, O.C., earns the same honor for her groundbreaking work promoting diversity in media. Mr. Sam Ibrahim will accept the G. Raymond Chang Award for his philanthropic community development efforts.

    Institutional recognition goes to the Black Opportunity Fund and Lifelong Leadership Institute (Chancellor’s Award), both celebrated for creating economic and educational opportunities. The Vice-Chancellor’s Award distinguishes The Honourable Marci Ien for her public service advocacy and The Honourable Justice Donald F. McLeod for advancing judicial equity. Sagicor receives the Patron’s Award for its longstanding educational support.

    Beyond scholarship funding, event chair Elizabeth Buchanan-Hind announced that portions of the 2026 proceeds will support Hurricane Melissa relief efforts in Jamaican communities. Since its inception, the benefit has awarded over 1,000 scholarships, maintaining its vital role in promoting educational access across the Caribbean region.

    The evening’s schedule includes a media session (6:00-6:30 PM), red carpet cocktail hour (5:30-7:00 PM), awards ceremony with entertainment (7:00-10:00 PM), and post-event celebrations continuing until midnight.