Carib Scope

作者： admin

  • Cost of travel card system withheld

    Cost of travel card system withheld

    Trinidad and Tobago is poised to implement a fully digital immigration system this month, replacing traditional paper-based forms with an online Arrival/Departure Card (ADC) Platform. The new system, scheduled to become operational on March 17, will allow travelers to submit their information through a dedicated portal starting March 14. Despite the imminent launch, government officials have notably declined to disclose the financial investment behind this technological upgrade.

    At the platform’s unveiling at the International Waterfront Complex, Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander explicitly avoided questions regarding project costs, citing security concerns. “We don’t want to discuss the cost at this time,” Alexander stated, adding that “there cannot be a cost attached to improving the quality of life of citizens.” He indicated that financial details would only be revealed when deemed necessary.

    Minister of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence Dominic Smith echoed this position while attempting to reassure the public about governmental transparency. “Anything related to cost is no secret. There is a level of transparency and accountability across this Government that has not been seen in a very long time,” Smith claimed, though he similarly provided no specific figures. Both ministers instead directed attention toward the system’s anticipated benefits.

    The digital platform, developed in partnership with regional security organization Caricom IMPACS, represents a significant modernization effort for Trinidad and Tobago’s border management. The system will require passengers to complete digital forms, upload passport biodata pages, and present QR code receipts to immigration officials. Available in seven languages at launch, the platform aims to streamline border crossings while enhancing security measures.

    Government officials acknowledge that the transition may present challenges for some travelers. Permanent Secretary Dr. Wilson Henderson Jnr confirmed that assistance would be available at airports and entry points, particularly for elderly passengers or those less comfortable with digital technology. Additionally, constituency offices will help residents navigate the new system, and paper forms will remain temporarily available as a contingency measure.

    The implementation marks what Alexander described as a “long overdue” step toward digital governance, with plans for continuous improvement based on user feedback. Travelers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the system at www.travel.gov.tt before their upcoming journeys.

  • Curepe clash driver heads to Court

    Curepe clash driver heads to Court

    A 27-year-old maxi-taxi driver involved in a physical altercation with Licensing Authority officers in Curepe is scheduled to face judicial proceedings following his arrest. The incident, captured by a TV6 journalist, unfolded along Southern Main Road on Monday within the St Joseph police district jurisdiction.

    According to official reports, the confrontation began when Licensing officers conducted routine vehicle inspections near the East Grove Housing Development. The driver allegedly assaulted an officer by striking him twice in the face before brandishing a wheel spanner and pursuing the officials’ vehicle. The suspect subsequently fled the scene but was apprehended following police investigations.

    Legal representative Rajin Dominic Persad confirmed his client anticipates formal charges, stating they would “explore legal manoeuvres” if charges weren’t filed promptly. The defense team, which includes attorney Roland Bain, has maintained cautious restraint regarding potential charges and penalties pending official documentation.

    Background information reveals the driver previously held temporary employment at the Licensing Office, suggesting possible familiarity with the involved officials. Family members speaking anonymously described the driver’s longstanding perception of being “targeted” by both police and transportation authorities during his maxi-taxi operations.

    Psychiatrist Dr. Varma Deyalsingh provided expert analysis of potential contributing factors, citing “pent-up frustration” from perceived harassment, financial pressures, and domestic issues. “When individuals feel economically threatened and consistently disrespected before their passengers, this can manifest as explosive anger,” Deyalsingh explained, highlighting the psychological impact of public humiliation.

    The specialist proposed de-escalation techniques for enforcement encounters, suggesting officers emphasize vehicle safety concerns rather than punitive approaches. This incident reflects broader global trends identified by the World Economic Forum, which reports declining public trust in authoritative institutions and increasing civil intolerance toward regulatory bodies.

  • Debaters to Enjoy Full Slate of Cultural and Social Activities as LIDC 54 Gets Underway in Nevis

    Debaters to Enjoy Full Slate of Cultural and Social Activities as LIDC 54 Gets Underway in Nevis

    The Caribbean island of Nevis has officially commenced the 54th Leeward Islands Debating Competition (LIDC 54), welcoming intellectual delegations from across the region for a four-day convergence of rhetoric and cultural exchange. From March 12-15, 2026, the Nevis Island Administration, in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Nevis Literary and Debating Society, has orchestrated an immersive program blending competitive discourse with rich cultural experiences.

    Six participating territories include defending champions Antigua, alongside Anguilla, Montserrat, Sint Maarten, St. Kitts, and host nation Nevis. The event commenced with an official welcome reception hosted by Honourable Eric Evelyn at Malcolm Guishard Recreational Park, setting the tone for diplomatic engagement.

    Mrs. Kerilyn David, Deputy Principal of Nevis Sixth Form College, unveiled an extensive itinerary designed to complement the intellectual rigors of debate with cultural enrichment. Beyond the competitive sessions, delegates will experience Charlestown shopping excursions, karaoke socials, historical island tours, glow parties, beach picnics (‘beach-nic’), and dedicated cultural showcases where each team presents their island’s heritage.

    The competitive schedule features Montserrat versus St. Kitts in Thursday’s inaugural debate, followed by Anguilla challenging Sint Maarten on Friday. Saturday’s semifinals will pit Debate One’s winner against Antigua, while Debate Two’s victor faces Nevis. The championship final culminates on Sunday at 5:00 PM, followed by an elegant Masquerade Ball at Four Seasons Resort Nevis.

    Nevis, boasting eleven historical LIDC victories including 2024’s triumph, fields a six-member team from Nevis Sixth Form College: Kiara Barry, Rajaun Fyfield, Keyana Warner, Shirmia Thompson, Kijari Huggins, and Tahleya Phillip. All events at Nevis Performing Arts Centre (NEPAC) remain free to the public, encouraging community engagement with this celebration of youth oratory and regional camaraderie.

  • Amery: PM must explain US coalition

    Amery: PM must explain US coalition

    Opposition Senator Dr. Amery Browne has launched a substantive challenge against Trinidad and Tobago’s international security commitments, demanding clarity on the nation’s participation in the U.S.-led Shield of the Americas coalition. During a People’s National Movement press conference at the Opposition Office in Port of Spain, Browne highlighted that the public first learned of this arrangement through August 2025 announcements by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who identified T&T among Caribbean and Latin American partners combating narcotics trafficking toward the United States.

    Browne pressed Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar to clarify whether her recent reference to a coalition aligns with the previously announced initiative. He emphasized that this inquiry extends beyond academic interest, noting significant regional developments since the initial announcement. The senator further questioned whether the agreement underwent proper scrutiny by the Attorney General, Cabinet review, or received vetting from relevant ministers, specifically mentioning Minister Sobers’ potential advisory role.

    Critical issues raised include the apparent exclusion of drug source nations like Colombia, Peru, and Mexico from the coalition framework. Browne framed these concerns as ultimately reflecting a fundamental question of public trust in the government’s decision-making authority on behalf of Trinidad and Tobago’s citizens.

    The political controversy expanded to include foreign policy alignment, with Browne noting widespread concern among citizens, government members, and Muslim communities regarding the administration’s support of U.S.-Israeli military actions against Iran. He referenced how two Muslim government members—Senator David Nakhid and Minister Saddam Hosein—have publicly distanced themselves from the Foreign Ministry’s February 28 statement endorsing U.S. and Israeli operations in Iran and expressing solidarity with affected Gulf states.

    Browne concluded with a historical challenge, demanding evidence of any previous T&T government issuing official support for warfare in sovereign nations without United Nations Security Council authorization.

  • Video shows moment woman flung in hit-and-run

    Video shows moment woman flung in hit-and-run

    Authorities in California are actively pursuing the driver of a black Nissan Navara involved in a severe hit-and-run collision on Tuesday evening that left a Venezuelan national seriously injured. The incident unfolded at approximately 10:30 p.m. along the bustling Southern Main Road commercial corridor.

    According to security footage obtained from multiple local businesses, the sequence of events began when the Nissan Navara violently collided with another vehicle. This initial impact propelled the second car into a pedestrian, a local resident from nearby Sanford Street, who was walking in front of the Zheng Zheng Hao Supermarket. The force of the collision threw the victim several feet across the supermarket’s parking lot.

    Bystanders and local workers immediately rushed to aid the injured woman, who sustained head trauma and a fractured right arm. Emergency services transported her to a medical facility for treatment. Despite the rapid community response, the driver responsible for the initial collision fled the scene before law enforcement arrived.

    Water vendor Andrew Ashton, who witnessed the aftermath, revealed to reporters that he and his family had narrowly avoided being caught in the incident themselves. ‘We heard the tremendous impact just seconds after passing that exact spot,’ Ashton recounted. ‘I attempted to flag down the driver—a bald man wearing glasses—but he accelerated away despite apparent vehicle damage.’

    Ashton expressed deep concern about recurring traffic dangers in the area, noting this marked at least the second serious incident and referencing a previous fatal pavement accident. The frequency of such events has prompted local street vendors to reconsider their working locations for safety reasons.

    The eyewitness issued a heartfelt appeal both to the fleeing motorist and to the broader driving community: ‘I urge this driver to surrender to authorities and take responsibility for compensating this woman and her family. More broadly, all motorists must demonstrate greater care and courtesy toward pedestrians. We must work collectively to keep our communities safe.’

    Law enforcement officials are examining multiple security recordings as part of their investigation and have requested public assistance in identifying the suspect. Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to contact police at 555, 999, or 911, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-TIPS (8477).

  • Taiwan ICDF and the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis signed the Green Energy Transition Demonstration Project

    Taiwan ICDF and the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis signed the Green Energy Transition Demonstration Project

    In a significant move to advance sustainable energy infrastructure, the International Cooperation and Development Fund (TaiwanICDF) has formalized a partnership with the Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis through the signing of the Green Energy Transition Demonstration Project. The agreement, executed on March 9th, 2026, marks a strategic collaboration between the two island nations to address shared energy challenges.

    The signing ceremony featured high-level representation from both parties, with Hon. Minister Konris Maynard signing on behalf of Saint Kitts and Nevis and Deputy Secretary General Alex L. J. Shyy representing TaiwanICDF. This initiative builds upon existing developmental work conducted by TaiwanICDF in the Caribbean nation.

    The comprehensive project encompasses multiple critical components designed to strengthen national energy resilience. Technical assistance will include detailed power grid capacity analysis, specialized advisory services for energy policy development, and the establishment of a sophisticated smart microgrid demonstration system. These measures aim to significantly enhance renewable energy integration capabilities while fortifying the overall stability of the energy infrastructure.

    Both Taiwan and Saint Kitts and Nevis, as island nations, confront similar vulnerabilities regarding energy security and climate change impacts. This partnership facilitates the transfer of Taiwan’s advanced expertise in information and communication technologies (ICT) and renewable energy systems to support sustainable development objectives. The collaboration represents a practical model for South-South cooperation in green technology transfer and climate adaptation strategies, potentially serving as a blueprint for other small island developing states seeking energy transformation.

  • Abinader honors Minerva Mirabal’s legacy on centennial of her birth

    Abinader honors Minerva Mirabal’s legacy on centennial of her birth

    SALCEDO, Dominican Republic – President Luis Abinader presided over solemn centennial celebrations Thursday honoring revolutionary icon Minerva Mirabal, whose courageous resistance against Rafael Trujillo’s dictatorship continues to inspire democratic values nationwide. The commemorative events, held in Hermanas Mirabal Province, recognized Mirabal’s profound impact on the nation’s political evolution and her enduring symbol of freedom.

    During the ceremonial gathering, President Abinader unveiled an extensive year-long program of national and international activities designed to perpetuate Mirabal’s legacy. The president characterized her as both a visionary leader and fearless activist whose revolutionary actions fundamentally catalyzed democratic transformation in the Dominican Republic.

    In a poignant prelude to the main ceremony, President Abinader, accompanied by First Lady Raquel Arbaje and government officials, placed a commemorative wreath at the Mirabal Sisters House Museum – the final resting place of the three assassinated siblings. The president emphasized how Minerva maintained unwavering commitment to her ideals despite enduring severe persecution and imprisonment under the oppressive regime.

    Historical records document Minerva Mirabal’s pivotal role alongside her husband Manuel Aurelio Tavárez Justo in the clandestine June 14th Revolutionary Movement, where she operated under the codename ‘La Mariposa’ (The Butterfly). Her tragic assassination on November 25, 1960, alongside sisters Patria and María Teresa, transformed the Mirabal sisters into enduring symbols of anti-dictatorship resistance throughout Latin America.

    Minou Tavárez Mirabal, representing the Mirabal family, expressed gratitude for governmental support through Decree 117-26, which formally mandates nationwide initiatives celebrating Minerva’s multifaceted legacy as a political theorist, intellectual, and human rights advocate. The commemorative events included the announcement of national student competitions and the inauguration of the special exhibition ‘Mirabal Sisters: A Century Later,’ ensuring continued awareness across generations.

  • In Cienfuegos, powered by the sun

    In Cienfuegos, powered by the sun

    Cienfuegos province has positioned itself at the forefront of Cuba’s renewable energy revolution, implementing a multifaceted solar energy program that extends far beyond conventional photovoltaic parks. While four major solar farms form the backbone of this initiative, the true transformation manifests through decentralized applications improving daily life across urban and rural communities.

    The solar transformation encompasses critical infrastructure including water pumping systems that now serve over 20,000 residents across multiple municipalities. Beginning in San Marcos settlement, the program has expanded to include 63 pumping stations with motors under 10kW capacity, particularly benefiting regions like Lajas that historically faced severe water table challenges. The Real Campiña community hosts the largest system with 64 photovoltaic modules delivering 20 liters per second.

    International cooperation has accelerated progress, with Japan funding a €63,000 project providing potable water to 1,200 residents in Abreus municipality. Meanwhile, Swiss solidarity organizations have supported artistic communities in the Escambray Mountains through solar-powered pumps serving 87 families and sustaining community gardens.

    The provincial government has additionally launched a residential solar program benefiting 470 education and health sector workers through structured payment plans. This initiative has been met with widespread appreciation, recognized both for its practical benefits and as symbolic recognition of professional dedication.

    Urban infrastructure has similarly undergone transformation with 78 solar-powered street lights now illuminating key thoroughfares including San Fernando Boulevard and José Martí Park. These installations generate daily savings of 690 kWh, translating to approximately $65,000 in annual cost reduction.

    Looking forward, Cienfuegos continues expanding its renewable capacity with construction underway on a new 5 MW photovoltaic park in the CEN-Juraguá area, part of China’s 120 MW donation package. Provincial plans envision four additional 21.87 MW facilities, potentially bringing total large-scale installations to eight. Combined with existing smaller facilities, the province’s 127 MW solar capacity now saves an estimated 41,000 tons of fossil fuels annually, demonstrating renewable energy’s tangible economic and environmental benefits.

  • Iran waarschuwt voor olieprijs van $200 per vat terwijl het handelsvaartuigen aanvalt

    Iran waarschuwt voor olieprijs van $200 per vat terwijl het handelsvaartuigen aanvalt

    The Middle East faces a severe energy crisis as Iran threatens to drive oil prices to $200 per barrel amid escalating military conflicts. This warning comes as the International Energy Agency (IEA) recommends the largest-ever release of strategic oil reserves—400 million barrels—to mitigate one of the most significant oil shocks since the 1970s.

    The conflict, which began nearly two weeks ago with joint U.S.-Israeli airstrikes, has resulted in approximately 2,000 fatalities, primarily Iranians and Lebanese. The war has expanded into Lebanon and caused substantial disruption to global energy markets and maritime transport. Iranian Revolutionary Guard forces have targeted commercial vessels in the Gulf, with three ships struck recently after ignoring Iranian commands. A Thai-flagged bulk carrier was set ablaze, leading to crew evacuations and three missing persons.

    Despite intense aerial bombardments described by the Pentagon as the most severe since the war began, Iran demonstrated its capacity to retaliate with attacks on Israeli and Middle Eastern targets. Israel’s Defense Minister stated that military operations would continue “without time limits until all objectives are met,” while former President Trump suggested the campaign might be nearing its conclusion.

    The Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil export route, remains unsafe for shipping due to Iranian mine placements, strengthening the blockade. Iran warned that economic and trade centers in the region could become legitimate targets if attacks persist.

    Oil prices, which nearly reached $120 per barrel earlier in the week, fell to around $90 before surging nearly 5% on Wednesday due to renewed tensions. Wall Street’s major indices declined as investors grappled with the prospect of prolonged conflict.

    The U.S. State Department issued warnings about potential Iranian attacks on American oil and energy infrastructure in Iraq. Meanwhile, the FBI alerted the public to possible Iranian drone attacks on the U.S. West Coast, though Trump expressed confidence in U.S. defenses.

    Despite calls from Turkey and European nations for a ceasefire, both U.S. and Israeli objectives remain focused on crippling Iran’s regional power projection capabilities and nuclear program. Iranian military spokesperson Ebrahim Zolfaqari emphasized the country’s intent to inflict prolonged economic shock through oil market disruption.

    Internal dynamics in Iran show resilience despite external pressure. Mass funeral processions were held for fallen commanders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Tehran residents have adapted to nightly bombardments and environmental hazards, while Iranian authorities warned against domestic protests.

    Kurdish opposition leader Abdullah Mohtadi claimed tens of thousands of young Iranians are prepared to revolt if supported by the U.S., though Israeli officials privately acknowledge the regime’s likely survival.

  • Rashid Walker Wins Gospel Artist of the Year at National Music Awards

    Rashid Walker Wins Gospel Artist of the Year at National Music Awards

    In a triumphant celebration of musical excellence, gospel vocalist Rashid Walker secured the prestigious Gospel Artist of the Year award for the second consecutive year during Tuesday evening’s National Music Awards ceremony in Antigua and Barbuda. The event, which honors outstanding achievements across diverse musical genres, saw Walker prevail over a competitive field of fellow finalists.

    Upon receiving the distinction, Walker immediately directed gratitude toward his faith, stating, ‘Thank you. Thank you, Jesus Christ. I know there are a lot of great singers in the room tonight.’ His acceptance speech highlighted a profound acknowledgment of both divine inspiration and the collective talent within the nation’s music community.

    The artist extended appreciation to governmental and cultural institutions for their sustained backing of the arts, specifically thanking the Honorable Minister Daryll Matthew and the Ministry of Culture. Emphasizing the significance of cultural production, Walker issued a rallying cry to fellow gospel musicians to intensify their creative outputs in anticipation of upcoming national celebrations, noting, ‘I do encourage other gospel artists to release music this year so we can have some great music for independence coming up.’

    In reflective remarks, Walker attributed his success to spiritual devotion, explaining, ‘I put my faith in Jesus and the gift He has given me to write songs that glorify Him.’ He also recognized key collaborators—including his producer and accompanying musicians—as instrumental to his award-winning work, while thanking family, friends, and supporters for their unwavering encouragement.

    Concluding with a message of spiritual urgency, Walker added, ‘Jesus is coming soon let’s do all that we can for Him now. God Bless You.’

    The National Music Awards continue to serve as a vital platform for acknowledging the performers, producers, and creative contributors who drive the evolution and richness of Antigua and Barbuda’s music industry.