Carib Scope

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  • Man shot in Merricks, St Philip

    Man shot in Merricks, St Philip

    A violent afternoon shooting in the Merricks area of St Philip has left a 25-year-old male victim hospitalized with gunshot wounds, according to official reports from the District ‘C’ Police Station.

    The incident unfolded at approximately 2:25 PM on Wednesday when unidentified assailants opened fire on a group of individuals congregating outside a local business establishment. Preliminary investigative findings indicate that the perpetrators arrived at the scene in a motor vehicle, discharged multiple rounds toward the gathering, and subsequently fled the area before law enforcement could respond.

    Emergency medical services promptly transported the wounded man to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital via ambulance, where he currently remains under medical supervision. Authorities have not disclosed the victim’s current condition or the severity of his injuries.

    Law enforcement officials have initiated a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Police are actively seeking witnesses and any individuals with relevant information that could assist in identifying the suspects and determining the motive behind the attack.

    The Barbados Police Service has issued a public appeal for information, urging community members to come forward with any details regarding the incident. Confidential tips can be provided through multiple channels including the Crime Stoppers Hotline at 1-800-8477, the Police Emergency line at 211, or directly contacting the District ‘C’ Police Station at 416-8200 or 416-8204.

  • Pres Ali announces Christmas bonus for Joint Services

    Pres Ali announces Christmas bonus for Joint Services

    In a significant pre-Christmas announcement, Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali declared a substantial financial bonus for the nation’s Disciplined Services personnel during a ceremony at the Guyana Defence Force’s Base Camp Stephenson on December 18, 2025.

    The presidential decree guarantees a full month’s tax-free salary bonus for all approximately 13,000 members across multiple security sectors, including the police force, military personnel, prison service staff, and firefighters. This generous holiday gesture represents a total financial injection of GY$2.1 billion into the hands of those serving on the nation’s frontlines.

    President Ali emphasized the administration’s consistent recognition of the security forces’ invaluable contributions to national stability and border protection. “Over the past five years, we have not only restored the one month tax-free bonus to the Disciplined Services, but we have also increased salaries, adjusted pay scales, accelerated promotions, and expanded training opportunities,” stated Dr. Ali during his address.

    The President further highlighted the government’s comprehensive investment strategy for security personnel, which has exceeded GY$6 billion over the past five years. Beyond immediate financial compensation, the administration is focused on long-term professional development through educational initiatives like the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) and the Ministry of Education’s Guyana Digital School program.

    Dr. Ali praised the courage and sacrifice of security personnel, acknowledging their role in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and protecting Guyanese citizens. The bonus initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to both immediate financial recognition and long-term career development for those serving in essential security roles.

  • Audit Department wants legal changes to submit reports directly to Parliament

    Audit Department wants legal changes to submit reports directly to Parliament

    Grenada’s Audit Department has initiated a significant campaign to overhaul its reporting procedures, seeking to bypass ministerial channels and submit audited financial statements directly to Parliament. This proposed constitutional and legislative reform aims to address chronic delays in the tabling of crucial financial documents.

    Gary Walters, Director of Audit, revealed that his department is advocating for amendments to the Audit Act that would eliminate the current requirement for audited statements of statutory bodies and government-supported agencies to be routed through the Minister for Finance. Instead, these documents would proceed directly from the Audit Department to Parliament.

    ‘The existing constitutional framework mandates that the Director of Audit submits reports to the Minister for Finance, who then tables them in Parliament,’ Walters explained during a Public Accounts Committee awareness seminar. ‘The persistent challenge has been that reports delivered to the Ministry of Finance frequently fail to be presented to Parliament in a timely manner.’

    The seminar, chaired by Opposition Leader Emmalin Pierre, brought together members of both parliamentary houses to clarify institutional roles, reduce misunderstandings, and foster a culture of accountability through improved record-keeping, financial controls, and reporting practices.

    Walters emphasized that the proposed change would eliminate perceptions of Audit Department inefficiency while ensuring greater transparency. ‘Such a significant adjustment will not only require legislative changes but also Constitutional Reform,’ he noted, adding that the modification would serve Grenada’s best interests by preventing lengthy delays in the presentation of public fund audits.

    The current legal framework requires statutory bodies to submit financial and annual reports to the Audit Department by the end of the first quarter, with parliamentary tabling mandated by June each year. However, compliance with these deadlines has been consistently inadequate across most statutory bodies over recent years.

  • “Not Even I Was Aware”: PM Responds to Late Supplementary Budget Approval

    “Not Even I Was Aware”: PM Responds to Late Supplementary Budget Approval

    Prime Minister John Briceño of Belize has firmly rebutted allegations of governmental misconduct concerning the belated submission of supplementary budget approvals to Parliament. This controversy emerges amidst comparisons to similar practices previously condemned during ex-Prime Minister Dean Barrow’s tenure.

    When confronted with accusations that his administration had replicated these fiscal missteps by authorizing expenditures without prior parliamentary consent, Briceño delivered an unequivocal response: “I would not accept that.”

    The Prime Minister attributed the delay to the transitional phase following national elections, characterizing it as an inevitable period of governmental reorganization. “As we approached elections… certain expenditures were incurred, though nothing excessive,” Briceño clarified. He emphasized that upon assuming office, the primary focus shifted to establishing the new administration’s operational framework.

    In a notable admission, Briceño revealed his initial unawareness of pending financial obligations. “The matter only came to my attention when brought forward by the financial secretary,” he stated. “I must confess, even I was unaware of these outstanding issues. My immediate directive was to resolve them promptly.”

    While acknowledging a procedural delay spanning several months, Briceño maintained that the situation was ultimately rectified through proper channels. “Ideally, this should have been addressed immediately,” he conceded, “but within months of the delay being identified, we completed the necessary approvals.”

    The development occurs alongside the reappointment of Nestor Mendez as Belize’s Representative to the Organization of American States, signaling continued stability in the nation’s diplomatic corps amidst domestic fiscal scrutiny.

  • PM Skerrit says latest partial travel ban will not affect ‘very good’ Dominica-U.S. relations

    PM Skerrit says latest partial travel ban will not affect ‘very good’ Dominica-U.S. relations

    Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica has publicly addressed the recent imposition of partial U.S. travel restrictions on his nation, asserting that the measure will not undermine the fundamentally positive relationship between the two countries. During a live broadcast on the state-owned radio station DBS on Wednesday, Skerrit provided a detailed assessment of the current state of diplomatic engagement.

    Contrary to what the travel advisory might suggest, Skerrit revealed that communication and collaborative efforts with the current U.S. administration have intensified. “The extent of our contacts and regular engagement on a multitude of shared issues has, in fact, been more substantial with the Trump administration compared to the previous Biden administration,” the Prime Minister stated.

    Highlighting the tangible benefits of this strengthened partnership, Skerrit pointed to a marked increase in U.S. investment into Dominica’s national security apparatus. He clarified that even after the conclusion of the formal U.S. Aid program, support has continued unabated and in full. This assistance extends beyond financial backing to include critical infrastructural projects, specialized training programs, and provision of essential materials.

    Skerrit praised the operational effectiveness of the bilateral channels, noting that access to key U.S. institutions like the State Department, the Treasury, and the local U.S. Embassy has been highly efficient at every level of dialogue. Concluding his remarks, the Prime Minister emphatically dismissed any notion of diplomatic strain, stating, “The relationship, in my mind, between Dominica and the current Trump administration has been very good. Therefore, I do not perceive this development as adversely affecting our relations in any manner.”

  • 65th Anniversary of Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples

    65th Anniversary of Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples

    The United Nations commemorated a dual milestone on December 18, 2025, simultaneously observing the 65th anniversary of the Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples and inaugurating the first International Day against Colonialism in All Its Forms and Manifestations. Assistant Secretary-General for Peacebuilding Support Elizabeth Spehar delivered a landmark address acknowledging both the progress made and the substantial work remaining in the global decolonization movement.

    The 1960 declaration, co-sponsored by 43 Asian and African nations including all 17 territories that achieved independence that year, represented a watershed moment in UN history. This instrument served as a guiding framework for liberation, enabling over 60 territories comprising more than 80 million people to pursue self-determination and emerge as sovereign states. The current membership of 193 nations stands as testament to this transformative process.

    However, Spehar presented a candid assessment of unfinished decolonization work, noting that 17 Non-Self-Governing Territories remain under colonial administration. Beyond these official designations, she identified more subtle but equally impactful colonial legacies embedded within global power structures. International institutions including the Security Council and financial systems continue to reflect antiquated power dynamics from an imperial era rather than contemporary equality principles.

    These structural imbalances actively undermine trust, impede progress, and contravene the foundational UN principles of equality, sovereignty, and self-determination. The address connected current governance challenges to the original 1945 UN mandate to save future generations from conflict while advancing human rights and freedom.

    Spehar concluded with a call to action, urging renewed commitment to building a world where power is distributed equitably rather than concentrated, institutions serve all populations fairly, and freedom becomes a universal entitlement rather than a privileged exception.

  • PLH Road Proposal for Barbuda Estimated at US$12m

    PLH Road Proposal for Barbuda Estimated at US$12m

    A significant infrastructure proposal for the sister island of Barbuda has been unveiled, with cost estimates reaching approximately US$12 million. The project centers on the development of a new road network, formally known as the PLH Road Proposal, which is intrinsically linked to the broader Plum Lodge Holdings (PLH) development initiative on the island.

    The substantial financial allocation is intended to fund the construction of modern roadway systems designed to improve connectivity and access across Barbuda. Proponents of the plan argue that this infrastructure is a critical prerequisite for future economic growth, particularly in the tourism and real estate sectors championed by PLH. The development is positioned as a catalyst for creating local employment opportunities and stimulating long-term investment on the island.

    However, the proposal has ignited a complex debate among residents and observers. A central point of contention revolves around the balance between modernizing the island’s infrastructure and preserving its unique ecological and cultural character. Critics have raised concerns regarding the potential environmental footprint of such a large-scale construction project, questioning its impact on Barbuda’s pristine landscapes and fragile ecosystems.

    Furthermore, the discussion extends to the broader implications of large private developments driving public infrastructure agendas. The project places a spotlight on the ongoing socio-economic evolution of Barbuda, as it navigates the interplay between ambitious development goals and the imperative of sustainable, community-inclusive planning. The US$12 million price tag makes it one of the most substantial single infrastructure investments proposed for the island in recent years, marking a pivotal moment in its development trajectory.

  • First flight lands on reconstructed Aishalton airstrip

    First flight lands on reconstructed Aishalton airstrip

    A new era of aviation connectivity has dawned for Guyana’s hinterland communities as the first aircraft successfully touched down on the completely reconstructed Aishalton Airstrip on Thursday, December 18, 2025. The landmark event, announced by President Irfaan Ali, represents the culmination of a community participation model project that transforms regional transportation infrastructure.

    According to Aviation Minister Deodat Indar, the comprehensive upgrade required an investment of just over GY$1 billion. The newly operational facility boasts a substantial 2,500-foot rigid concrete runway capable of handling regular air traffic. The modernization includes a dedicated parking apron with capacity for two aircraft simultaneously, alongside state-of-the-art safety enhancements comprising precision runway lighting, professional markings, and comprehensive signage systems.

    This achievement forms part of a broader governmental initiative to revolutionize transportation access in remote regions. The administration has allocated GY$2.5 billion specifically for the rehabilitation and completion of multiple hinterland airstrips, including strategic locations at Apoteri, Chenapou, Jawalla, and Sand Creek. The Aishalton project serves as a flagship demonstration of this infrastructure development program.

    The enhanced airstrip is projected to significantly improve emergency response capabilities, economic opportunities, and social connectivity for the Aishalton community. By reducing isolation and facilitating reliable transport links, the infrastructure upgrade promises to transform healthcare access, educational resources, and commercial exchange for residents who previously faced substantial travel challenges.

  • Small craft, high surf advisory remains in effect as rough seas persist

    Small craft, high surf advisory remains in effect as rough seas persist

    Barbados continues to face substantial marine hazards as meteorological authorities extend safety advisories amid persistently dangerous ocean conditions. The Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) maintains its Small Craft and High Surf Advisory through Saturday morning, warning of sustained Atlantic swells measuring 2.5 to 3.0 meters that are creating treacherous coastal environments.

    The intensified sea conditions, generated by a robust Atlantic high-pressure system producing winds of 20-30 knots, present multiple threats to marine operations and coastal infrastructure. Small craft operators face particularly hazardous operating conditions with difficult navigation and elevated capsizing risks. Coastal regions, especially along northern, eastern, and southern shorelines, remain vulnerable to significant beach erosion and temporary submersion during high tide cycles.

    Authorities have issued stern warnings regarding potential safety consequences, including the possibility of serious injury or fatalities if precautionary measures are disregarded. The National Conservation Commission has joined meteorological officials in urging extreme caution for marine users and beachgoers alike.

    The BMS indicates these agitated sea conditions will gradually diminish over the weekend, with current models projecting improvement by Saturday, December 20, at 6:00 AM, though earlier termination remains possible if conditions improve unexpectedly. Residents and visitors are advised to continuously monitor updates through official channels including the Department of Emergency Management and Barbados Government Information Service for real-time safety information.

    For detailed updates, the public may access the Barbados Meteorological Services website or utilize their emergency hotline at 976-2376.

  • Six-part finance literacy book series for children launched by Dominican finance company

    Six-part finance literacy book series for children launched by Dominican finance company

    In a significant advancement for early childhood education, Finance Focus Inc. has introduced an innovative financial literacy book series specifically designed for young learners in Dominica and the Eastern Caribbean region. The six-part collection, titled “Making Sense of Dollars – Money Lessons for Little Learners,” represents a pioneering approach to teaching fundamental money management skills through culturally relevant content and engaging storytelling.

    The series made its official debut on December 6, marking what educators are calling a transformative moment in financial education for Caribbean youth. The curriculum addresses the critical need for early financial literacy, positioning money management as an essential life skill comparable in importance to reading and mathematics.

    Currently available are the first two installments: “Earn It – Work, Earn and Play” introduces children to the concept that money is earned through effort, creativity, and responsibility, while “Save It – The Power to Plan” emphasizes the importance of saving, patience, and goal-setting. Both books feature vibrant illustrations, Caribbean-inspired characters, and incorporate actual Eastern Caribbean currency to create practical, familiar learning experiences.

    The comprehensive series will expand with four additional titles releasing progressively: “Spend It” will focus on thoughtful spending choices, “Share It” will teach generosity and community values, “Grow It” will introduce basic investment concepts, and “Borrow It” will cover responsible borrowing practices.

    Created by financial educator Luana Laurent, the series emerged from recognizing that money habits typically form by age seven. Laurent emphasizes proactive financial education, stating: “Financial literacy should not begin after mistakes are made, it should begin before they are possible. These books exist to interrupt that cycle and give our children the clarity, confidence, and calm we wish we had earlier.

    The books are accessible through multiple channels including Amazon Store, Kindle platforms, and locally through ShopDM & Jay’s Bookstore, with availability beginning December 22. Laurent envisions the series becoming an educational staple throughout Dominica and the Eastern Caribbean, ultimately contributing to building a more financially resilient and empowered society.