Carib Scope

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  • Archbishop wants laws to protect children: ‘Social media more addictive than alcohol’

    Archbishop wants laws to protect children: ‘Social media more addictive than alcohol’

    In a groundbreaking appeal, Archbishop Charles Jason Gordon has called for comprehensive legislation to shield children from social media’s addictive dangers, drawing parallels to substance abuse regulations. Speaking at a January 19 press conference, the religious leader emphasized that digital platforms are deliberately engineered to foster dependency through sophisticated algorithms.

    Archbishop Gordon’s proposal directly references Australia’s pioneering ban prohibiting children under 16 from accessing major platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. His intervention comes just two days after Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar announced sweeping age restriction reforms for alcohol, cannabis, and gambling activities.

    The Australian model—currently under global scrutiny—represents the world’s first comprehensive youth social media prohibition. Under these regulations, minors cannot establish new accounts while existing profiles face deactivation. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s administration justifies this radical measure based on government-commissioned research revealing alarming statistics: 96% of Australian children aged 10-15 actively use social media, with 70% exposed to harmful content including violence, misogyny, and self-harm promotion.

    Archbishop Gordon specifically praised Trinidad and Tobago’s recent disciplinary measures, including increased traffic fines and the proposed age restriction hikes. ‘We have become an undisciplined society,’ Gordon observed, characterizing these policy shifts as crucial ‘national building levers’ rather than mere revenue-generation tactics.

    The proposed Trinidadian legislation would mirror Australia’s three-pronged criteria for identifying regulated platforms: services primarily facilitating online social interaction, enabling user-to-user communication, and allowing content posting capabilities. This framework potentially affects ten major platforms currently accessible without restrictions in the Caribbean nation.

    Gordon’s endorsement adds significant moral weight to the government’s broader protective agenda, creating unusual alignment between religious and governmental institutions on public welfare policy. The archbishop’s characterization of social media as ‘more addictive than alcohol’ echoes recent Congressional testimony from tech executives acknowledging their platforms’ dependency-building design philosophies.

  • Bahamian family on Family Feud

    Bahamian family on Family Feud

    In a remarkable display of cultural pride and familial unity, the Beneby family recently brought Bahamian representation to the national stage of Family Feud Canada after residing in Toronto for nearly sixteen years. Shalah Beneby characterized their participation as an electrifying and surreal journey that commenced when entertainment industry producers identified her brother Sherod’s dynamic audition tape. The selection process culminated in their family being chosen from thousands of applicants following a comprehensive Zoom interview. The experience unfolded within the CBC Broadcasting studios where the family quickly adapted to the production’s rapid pace, live audience energy, and intricate behind-the-scenes mechanics while proudly displaying the Bahamian flag throughout the recording. Their episode aired on January 15, 2026, featuring a competitive matchup against a two-time champion team. Although the family didn’t secure the monetary prize, Ms. Beneby emphasized that their selection alone constituted a significant victory. The appearance reinforced their tradition of family game nights while creating an enduring memory that highlighted their distinctive personalities, shared humor, and profound familial bonds. For Canada’s emerging Bahamian community, this representation carried profound cultural significance, demonstrating how heritage transcends geographical boundaries through media platforms.

  • Bowen leaving NCB, Martin appointed interim CEO

    Bowen leaving NCB, Martin appointed interim CEO

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — National Commercial Bank Jamaica Limited (NCBJ) has initiated a carefully orchestrated leadership transition with CEO Bruce Bowen set to depart in February 2026 following the successful completion of the institution’s turnaround strategy. The board confirmed this planned succession aligns with the bank’s governance framework and strategic evolution from stabilization to sustainable growth.

    Effective January 19, 2026, Chief Operating Officer Sheree Martin will assume the role of interim CEO, bringing her extensive 15-year financial services expertise and proven track record in organizational transformation. Martin’s tenure as COO has seen her oversee critical operational and technology functions while driving execution discipline and operational resilience throughout the organization.

    Bowen, who took leadership in 2023 specifically to steer the bank through its turnaround phase, will officially depart on February 28, 2026, to pursue other professional interests. The board emphasized that the restructuring objectives have been largely achieved, setting the stage for the next growth chapter.

    Robert Almeida, NCBFG’s Group Chief Executive Officer and NCBJ Board Chairman, affirmed the strategic continuity stating: ‘Our fundamental strategy, priorities, and commitments to stakeholders remain unchanged. We continue to focus on disciplined execution, consistent value creation, and shared accountability as we build upon the progress of the past two years.’

    The leadership transition reflects the institution’s commitment to stability during its progression from stabilization to sustainable expansion, with Martin’s appointment ensuring continuity in strategic direction and operational excellence.

  • Valentino, Italy’s fashion king, dies at 93

    Valentino, Italy’s fashion king, dies at 93

    ROME — The fashion world mourns the passing of Italian design maestro Valentino Garavani, who died Monday at 93 in his Roman residence surrounded by close companions. His foundation confirmed the news through social media channels, announcing funeral arrangements scheduled for Friday in the Italian capital with public viewings preceding the service.

    Known mononymously as Valentino, the visionary designer spent nearly five decades defining luxury aesthetics for generations of style icons. His signature ‘Valentino red’ creations became sartorial symbols for international aristocracy and Hollywood royalty alike—from Jacqueline Kennedy and Princess Diana to Elizabeth Taylor and contemporary stars like Julia Roberts.

    Born May 11, 1932, in Voghera, Lombardy, Valentino developed an early obsession with refined aesthetics. “I have had this illness since childhood,” he told Elle Italia in 2007. “I only like beautiful things.” His journey began at 17 when he departed for Paris to study fashion, immersing himself in the transformative post-war elegance of Christian Dior’s revolutionary designs.

    After apprenticeships with Jean Dessès and Guy Laroche, Valentino established his eponymous maison in 1960’s Rome—a city then thriving as ‘Hollywood on the Tiber.’ His 1962 Florence debut collection introduced the world to his now-iconic crimson hue, but his 1964 encounter with Jacqueline Kennedy proved transformative. The future First Lady’s choice of his ivory lace gown for her marriage to Aristotle Onassis catapulted Italian design onto the global stage.

    Business partner and former lover Giancarlo Giammetti played a pivotal role in scaling the brand internationally, recalling in the 2008 documentary ‘Valentino: The Last Emperor’ that managing the designer’s genius “required a lot of patience.” Their collaboration built a fashion empire spanning Roman palazzos, Swiss chalets, and a 50-meter yacht—all reflecting Valentino’s philosophy of uncompromising glamour.

    The designer’s retirement in January 2008 after his final Paris show marked the end of an era celebrated for sensual, figure-enhancing designs. “I love a woman who eats food, who has a body,” he told The New Yorker in 2005, rejecting extreme thinness in favor of voluptuous femininity. His legacy continues through the Valentino Garavani Virtual Museum—the fashion industry’s first digital museum launched in 2011—ensuring future generations can experience his pursuit of beauty through immersive technology.

  • Newsday’s winding-up petition adjourned to January 23

    Newsday’s winding-up petition adjourned to January 23

    The High Court has postponed the critical winding-up petition against Daily News Ltd, publisher of Trinidad and Tobago’s Newsday newspaper, until January 23 following a brief hearing on January 19. Justice Marissa Robertson granted the adjournment request after company attorneys cited procedural requirements under the Companies Act.

    Legal representatives Gregory Pantin and Miguel Vasquez of Hamel-Smith and Co. appeared before the court, explaining that the petition filed on December 31 was officially gazetted on January 15—later than initially anticipated. This timing complication affected the company’s ability to meet the mandatory seven-day statutory period for advertisement in both the Gazette and at least one local daily newspaper before the hearing.

    Pantin clarified that the delay prevented the company from filing its certificate of compliance with the court registry. He further noted that no creditors or contributories had submitted notices of intention to appear at Monday’s hearing, despite the published invitation for interested parties to support or oppose the winding-up order.

    Justice Robertson reviewed her judicial calendar before scheduling the rescheduled hearing for 10 am on January 23. The proceedings mark a pivotal moment for Newsday, which launched on September 20, 1993, as the youngest among the nation’s three daily newspapers. The outcome could determine whether the publication ceases operations after more than three decades of service.

  • Illegal charters warned: ‘We’re coming for you’

    Illegal charters warned: ‘We’re coming for you’

    The Bahamas is escalating its maritime enforcement operations against a proliferation of unlicensed foreign fishing charter vessels, with authorities warning that hundreds of illegal operators are now under investigation. This aggressive stance follows last week’s apprehension of the Rayne Check, a vessel allegedly conducting unauthorized sports fishing charters in Bahamian waters—marking the third such seizure within 13 months.

    Mike Cenci, a senior law enforcement advisor with WildAid and veteran investigator with three decades of experience combating illegal fishing practices, revealed that the scale of unauthorized charter operations has reached critical levels. “It’s out of control,” Cenci stated, emphasizing that systematic enforcement would require sustained effort to effectively reverse the trend. The recent seizure operation, which involved multiple government agencies including the newly established Maritime Revenue Unit, signals a coordinated approach to maritime law enforcement.

    The financial impact of these illegal operations is substantial. The Rayne Check was reportedly charging clients $45,000 for five-day fishing excursions, translating to approximately $9,000 daily. After accounting for operational expenses, investigators estimate profit margins could reach $6,500 per day for unauthorized operators. More significantly, the cumulative effect of hundreds of such vessels operating without licenses potentially costs the Bahamian economy millions annually in lost revenue and fisheries value.

    Paul Maillis, Secretary of the National Fisheries Association, characterized the enforcement actions as “an exciting time for Bahamian fishermen,” noting that the consistent application of maritime laws represents a significant shift in policy implementation. Beyond economic considerations, Maillis highlighted the damage to The Bahamas’ international reputation when visitors participate in illegal charters without consequence.

    Environmental sustainability concerns are equally pressing. Cenci warned that the sophisticated equipment employed by these charters enables unsustainable harvesting levels that threaten marine resource viability. “Remove the healthy marine resources,” he cautioned, “and it becomes Haiti in terms of the likely economic and social fall-out.”

    Enforcement strategies have evolved to include monitoring social media platforms where illegal charters advertise services. Authorities confirmed active surveillance of Instagram and Facebook posts to identify vessels promoting unauthorized Bahamian fishing trips before they even clear customs.

    The government’s reinforced approach has garnered support across multiple ministries—national security, finance, and agriculture and marine resources—demonstrating political commitment to addressing the issue. Both Cenci and Maillis encouraged public participation through reporting suspicious operations, emphasizing that continued vigilance and cooperation are essential to preserving The Bahamas’ marine ecosystem and protecting legitimate local fishing industries.

  • UB, Disney extend Leading LIGHT programme to Abaco

    UB, Disney extend Leading LIGHT programme to Abaco

    The University of The Bahamas, in collaboration with Disney Cruise Line, is expanding its Leading LIGHT tourism and hospitality training initiative to Abaco next month, marking the program’s second phase implementation. This development follows the program’s successful inaugural launch in Eleuthera in February 2024.

    The 10-week intensive program, administered through UB’s Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning (CeLEARN) division, aims to enhance leadership capabilities and workforce preparedness within the hospitality sector. This strategic expansion occurs as The Bahamas experiences sustained growth in tourism arrivals.

    University officials confirmed the dual-island rollout during a recent press conference. UB President Dr. Robert J Blaine III highlighted the tangible outcomes from the Eleuthera cohort, noting that graduates acquired critical job-readiness skills and accessed new economic opportunities. He emphasized the institution’s dedication to national development, particularly through educational investments in the Family Islands.

    Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Ms. Maria Woodise-Oriakhi explained that the program’s second phase deliberately focuses on the personnel who shape the tourism experience. She stressed that quality visitor interactions fundamentally influence both guest impressions and how effectively local communities benefit from tourism-driven economic growth.

    Initial results from the Eleuthera launch demonstrated significant impact, with 120 participants gaining essential hospitality competencies. Many graduates subsequently secured new employment, achieved promotions, or launched entrepreneurial ventures.

    Disney Cruise Line regional public affairs director Mr. Joey Gaskins characterized the initiative as part of the company’s comprehensive commitment to investing in port community development. He expressed gratitude for the partnership with UB in strengthening Bahamian professional capacity.

    The program curriculum encompasses technology integration, customer service excellence, and soft skills development. Each island cohort will accommodate 25 participants through live, synchronous learning sessions. Training specialist Dr. Willisa Nyobi Mackey confirmed that participants will receive completion certificates, a fully-funded educational experience courtesy of Disney Cruise Line, and a stipend acknowledging their program commitment.

  • Transport Authority investigating video which captures officer pulling gun on civilian

    Transport Authority investigating video which captures officer pulling gun on civilian

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s Transport Authority (TA) has initiated an internal investigation following the viral circulation of a video showing one of its officers brandishing a firearm during a roadside operation. The incident, which unfolded during an attempted vehicle seizure, has prompted swift organizational response and raised questions about protocol adherence.

    The controversial footage captures escalating tensions between TA officials and civilians during an enforcement operation. Visual evidence shows a heated exchange between a civilian and a TA officer, culminating in the officer drawing his weapon while issuing commands to ‘step back.’ The situation intensified when the civilian challenged the armed officer by placing a stone under the vehicle’s tire and daring the official to shoot him. The confrontation continued with the subsequent involvement of a police officer who emerged from the operational vehicle.

    In an official statement released Monday, the Transport Authority explicitly distanced itself from the depicted actions, emphasizing that such conduct ‘does not form any part of its training protocols’ and violates established standard operating procedures and public interaction policies. As an immediate disciplinary measure, the involved officer has been removed from frontline duties pending investigation.

    The authority has engaged both the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and the Firearm Licensing Authority (FLA) to ensure comprehensive review of the incident. Reaffirming its commitment to proper conduct, the TA emphasized expectations that all employees uphold organizational values including courtesy, professionalism, quality customer service, and respect for Jamaican citizens.

    Despite the incident, the authority maintains its dedication to providing efficient, safe, and reliable public transportation services while addressing this breach of operational standards.

  • Portmore Community College appoints new principal

    Portmore Community College appoints new principal

    ST CATHERINE, Jamaica — In a significant leadership transition, Portmore Community College (PCC) has announced the appointment of Reverend Dr. Austin Wright as its new principal. The college’s board of directors confirmed the decision through an official statement released on Monday, highlighting Dr. Wright’s exceptional qualifications and decades of service to Jamaican education.

    Dr. Wright brings to the position an extraordinary depth of experience, having served as principal at multiple educational institutions across Jamaica. His administrative leadership includes tenures at Mount James All-Age School, Greenwich All-Age School, Constant Spring Primary and Junior High School, and a remarkable 16-year period as Principal of José Martí Technical High School.

    Beyond his principal roles, Dr. Wright’s distinguished career encompasses significant contributions to teacher education and policy development. He has served as an education officer within Jamaica’s Ministry of Education and has lectured at several prestigious teacher training institutions, including St. Joseph’s Teachers’ College, The Mico University College, and the International University of the Caribbean. Additionally, he brings over 27 years of experience as chief external assessor for teacher education programs.

    The newly appointed principal holds certification from Jamaica’s National College for Educational Leadership (NCEL), underscoring his professional preparedness for institutional leadership. His exemplary service has been recognized with numerous awards, most notably the Golden Torch Award from the Jamaica Teachers’ Association, which honored his 38 years of outstanding contribution to education.

    Donmayne Gyles, Chairman of PCC’s Board, expressed strong confidence in the appointment, stating: ‘We are confident that Dr. Wright’s vision, experience and servant-leadership approach will further strengthen Portmore Community College and advance its mission of providing equal educational opportunities.’ Gyles emphasized that Dr. Wright’s values-driven leadership philosophy aligns perfectly with the college’s commitment to accessible, quality education.

  • Holness says Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore was a cultural ambassador in truest sense

    Holness says Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore was a cultural ambassador in truest sense

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican music community is in mourning following the sudden passing of legendary musician Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore at age 69. The co-founder and musical director of iconic reggae band Third World died on Sunday, leaving behind an indelible legacy in the nation’s cultural landscape.

    Prime Minister Andrew Holness publicly honored Coore’s extraordinary contributions, characterizing him as a monumental figure in Jamaica’s cultural history and a fundamental architect of the country’s global musical identity. Through an official statement on social media platform X, Holness emphasized how Coore’s work with Third World created a distinctive sound that transported Jamaica’s rhythm, spirit, and message to international audiences worldwide.

    “His artistic approach combined technical mastery with profound cultural awareness,” Holness noted, “producing music that remains both eternally relevant and distinctly Jamaican in character.”

    The Prime Minister further highlighted Coore’s role as a genuine cultural ambassador who represented Jamaica with exceptional dignity, excellence, and national pride. His pioneering contributions to the creative arts, Holness stated, significantly enriched Jamaica’s national identity while inspiring multiple generations of musicians both within the country and across the global music scene.

    Recognizing Coore’s previous honor of receiving the Order of Distinction for his cultural contributions, Holness extended official condolences on behalf of the Jamaican government and its citizens. The Prime Minister specifically addressed sympathies to Coore’s wife Lisa, his children, grandchildren, family members, fellow bandmates, and the international community of admirers whose lives were profoundly impacted by his artistic work.

    “May his musical legacy endure as a perpetual reminder of our national identity,” Holness concluded, “and demonstrate the unique power of Jamaican creativity to foster global unity through artistic expression.”