Carib Scope

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  • The Dominica Calypso Association publishes results of December 13 Calypso Eliminations show

    The Dominica Calypso Association publishes results of December 13 Calypso Eliminations show

    ROSEAU, DOMINICA – The Dominica Calypso Association has officially released the roster of artists progressing to the next stage of the national competition following a decisive elimination show held on December 13, 2025. The announcement marks a pivotal moment in the island’s prestigious cultural calendar, setting the stage for the upcoming performances.

    The twelve qualifying calypsonians, announced in a randomized listing to maintain competitive impartiality, are: Haxey, Jerd, Mighty D, Royette, Sandy, Mystrie, Jamma B, Liberator, Redz, Mighty Omee, Kalpha P, and Inoah. This diverse group of performers will now advance to compete for the highly coveted calypso crown.

    Furthermore, the Association has designated three reserve artists to ensure the seamless continuation of the competition should any unforeseen circumstances arise. The reserve performers, listed in order of priority, are Myka, Lulu, and Nini. This structured approach highlights the organization’s commitment to a well-managed and professional event series.

    The calypso elimination show is a traditional and critical fixture in Dominica’s entertainment landscape, serving as a platform for artistic expression and social commentary through music. The Association has encouraged public engagement and inquiries, providing dedicated contact numbers (1-767-235-0573 and 1-767-618-3794) for further information on the event schedule and ticket availability.

  • Broken Bottle Attack Sparks Debate Over Alcohol Consumption

    Broken Bottle Attack Sparks Debate Over Alcohol Consumption

    A violent familial altercation in San Antonio Village, Toledo District, has culminated in the detention of a 27-year-old woman following a brutal attack on her two brothers with a broken bottle in the early hours of Sunday, December 15th, 2025. The incident, now under active investigation by local police, has ignited a fervent public discourse on the societal impact of alcohol consumption.

    According to official reports, the conflict originated from a social gathering that escalated into a heated argument. Roberto Pop, one of the victims, informed authorities that when he and his brother attempted to depart the premises, their sister obstructed them. The situation deteriorated rapidly, culminating in the alleged assault with the shard of glass. Police discovered one brother unconscious with significant neck injuries, while the other sustained severe facial wounds. Both received immediate medical attention.

    The case has provoked intense reactions on social media platforms, with many commentators drawing connections to broader issues of alcohol-related violence within communities. A poignant testimony from a Facebook user highlighted a generational pattern, stating, ‘Two drinks and my father, a Maya man, would be stone drunk and want to fight anybody and anything.’ The user further reflected on a troubled past, noting that correctional facilities were frequently occupied by individuals from his community engaged in alcohol-fueled conflicts, often reconciling shortly thereafter. This incident has served as a catalyst for a deeper examination of the socio-cultural dynamics surrounding alcohol and familial violence in the region.

  • Why do libraries still matter today? Part 1

    Why do libraries still matter today? Part 1

    In an era dominated by digital information, the enduring relevance of libraries faces renewed scrutiny. This examination, the first in a four-part series exploring library significance, traces the institution’s remarkable evolution from ancient origins to contemporary community centers.

    Historical records reveal libraries have existed for over five millennia, originating in Mesopotamia where clay tablets and papyrus scrolls contained humanity’s earliest documented knowledge. Access remained restricted to scribes, religious figures, and government officials during these formative periods, with royalty maintaining private collections. This historical context demonstrates civilization’s long-standing recognition of knowledge preservation—a fundamental need that persists despite technological transformation.

    The digital revolution has fundamentally altered information access patterns. Where libraries once served as primary repositories for physical materials, modern society now experiences constant information saturation through portable devices. This paradigm shift has introduced new challenges including information overload, misinformation proliferation, and digital inequality.

    Contemporary libraries have responded by transforming into dynamic community institutions that transcend their traditional roles. They now provide critical digital literacy training, facilitate lifelong learning opportunities, and actively bridge the digital divide. The International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), representing 1,500 members across 150 nations, exemplifies this global transformation through initiatives like their 2025 theme “Uniting Knowledge, Building the Future.”

    At the T.A. Marryshow Community College (TAMCC) Library, this evolution manifests through innovative programs including the Gilda Campos Outreach initiative serving schools and senior facilities, Storytime @ TAMCC Library promoting local culture through artistic expression, and an upcoming student-led Book Club integrating community service requirements. These programs collectively address reading promotion while strengthening community bonds.

    Despite operating with limited resources, libraries continue adapting to societal needs. Their continued evolution suggests these institutions will remain essential as long as information requires curation, accessibility, and contextualization within communities.

  • Attorney General Says Bill Coming to Change Oath of Allegiance Pledge To British Monarch

    Attorney General Says Bill Coming to Change Oath of Allegiance Pledge To British Monarch

    In a landmark parliamentary address, Attorney General Sir Steadroy “Cutie” Benjamin declared that Antigua and Barbuda will introduce legislation to eliminate its constitutional oath of allegiance to the British monarchy, marking a significant step toward full republican status. The proposed bill, scheduled for presentation later in the parliamentary session, seeks to replace the pledge to the monarch with a commitment to national sovereignty.

    Benjamin passionately argued that maintaining loyalty to a foreign sovereign fundamentally contradicts the nation’s independent status, achieved in 1981 after three centuries of colonial rule. “How long are we going to swear allegiance to His Majesty? How long are we going to do that?” the Attorney General challenged lawmakers during his Tuesday presentation.

    The constitutional reform initiative represents part of a broader movement toward redefining national identity in the post-colonial era. Benjamin emphasized that true independence must extend beyond governance to encompass national symbols and pledges, questioning whether the Caribbean region has become “unconcerned about our independence.”

    As the government’s chief legal officer, Benjamin framed the proposed legislation as both his constitutional duty and a necessary evolution in the nation’s journey toward complete self-determination. He explicitly called for initiating formal discussions on transitioning to a republic, urging the Prime Minister and administration to “at least invite the talk. Have discussions on those matters.”

    The Attorney General’s announcement signals a growing momentum toward constitutional revision across Caribbean Commonwealth realms, with several nations reconsidering their historical ties to the British monarchy in contemporary geopolitical contexts.

  • NDMD Conducts Island-wide Simulation Exercise to Strengthen Community Emergency Preparedness across Nevis

    NDMD Conducts Island-wide Simulation Exercise to Strengthen Community Emergency Preparedness across Nevis

    The Nevis Disaster Management Department (NDMD) has successfully executed a full-scale, island-wide emergency simulation, marking the culmination of its 2025 Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Training initiative. Conducted across all five parishes on December 12, the intensive drill was meticulously designed to replicate realistic disaster scenarios, rigorously testing community-level emergency preparedness and response capabilities.

    This comprehensive exercise represents a strategic component of NDMD’s broader mission to fortify disaster resilience at both national and grassroots levels. CERT volunteers were immersed in high-pressure environments that demanded swift decision-making, cohesive teamwork, decisive leadership, and effective crisis communication under strict adherence to established emergency protocols.

    Critical operational competencies were evaluated throughout the simulation, including: advanced scene assessment and situational analysis; coordinated search and rescue operations across varied conditions; medical triage procedures and life-saving interventions; inter-team command structure and communication efficiency; and emotional resilience management during traumatic scenarios. The data collected on response times, safety protocol compliance, and leadership dynamics will directly inform future training enhancements and strategic planning.

    Multiple simulated emergencies unfolded simultaneously, requiring volunteers to manage crowd control, execute victim extraction, provide emergency medical care, and coordinate evacuations while maintaining seamless communication with national response agencies. The exercise concluded with structured debriefing sessions where participants and evaluators collaboratively identified operational strengths and areas requiring improvement.

    NDMD officials emphasized that all activities were carefully controlled simulations posing no public safety risk, with regular emergency services remaining fully operational throughout the event. The department extended commendations to all volunteers, facilitators, and partner agencies for their exceptional professionalism and commitment to community safety, while also acknowledging public cooperation and support as essential components of building collective disaster resilience.

  • FAO and partners help Grenada to use One Health Approach

    FAO and partners help Grenada to use One Health Approach

    Seventy-two officials from public health, agriculture, and environmental sectors across four Eastern Caribbean nations have completed a groundbreaking series of workshops to combat emerging health threats. Conducted in Grenada, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Lucia, and St Kitts and Nevis, these sessions focused on prioritizing zoonotic diseases using advanced methodological frameworks.

    The initiative received substantial technical backing from major international organizations, including the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) and the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO). Specialized support was provided through PANAFTOSA (The Pan American Centre for Foot-and-Mouth Disease and Veterinary Public Health) and PAHO’s Eastern Caribbean office.

    Participants engaged in a comprehensive evaluation of 40 zoonotic diseases utilizing PANAFTOSA’s adapted prioritization methodology. The assessment incorporated multiple critical factors: human transmissibility patterns, animal-to-human transmission potential, severity indicators, public health consequences, economic ramifications, surveillance feasibility, climate sensitivity, and impacts on vulnerable populations. This evidence-based approach enabled each nation to identify their most concerning zoonotic threats, establishing a robust foundation for policy development within the One Health framework.

    The workshops produced concrete action plans featuring strengthened multisectoral surveillance systems, harmonized case definitions, improved information-sharing protocols, and enhanced private veterinarian engagement. Additional priorities include developing national emergency response plans and implementing long-term initiatives such as simulation exercises and integrated surveillance infrastructure.

    Dr. Frédérique Dorleans, PAHO/WHO Advisor for Social and Environmental Determinants for Health Equity, emphasized the workshops’ critical importance: “This collaborative effort represents a significant advancement in regional preparedness against emerging infectious threats. The project establishes common ground for strategic activities targeting surveillance, prevention, and optimized resource allocation.”

    Tania de Getrouwe Hoost, FAO’s Lead Technical Officer for the project, highlighted the technical rigor of the methodology: “The prioritization exercises applied an evidence-based approach integrating epidemiological, environmental, and socioeconomic criteria to guide national decision-making. This process represents a crucial technical step toward operationalizing the One Health approach at national levels.”

    These workshops constitute a vital component of the broader “Strengthening Prevention, Preparedness and Response to Health Emergencies in the Eastern Caribbean Countries” project, supported by the Pandemic Fund and implemented through collaboration between national governments, PAHO/WHO, FAO, and the World Bank.

  • FC Player Latrell Middleton Apologises For Kicking Dog

    FC Player Latrell Middleton Apologises For Kicking Dog

    Progresso FC footballer Latrell Middleton has issued a formal public apology following a widely circulated video that captured him intentionally kicking a dog during a Premier League of Belize playoff match on Saturday evening. The incident occurred at a championship event in the Cayo District, sparking immediate outrage across social media platforms.

    In a digitally published statement, Middleton expressed remorse directed toward “the public, animal lovers, Progresso FC supporters, and the broader football community.” The athlete acknowledged his regrettable decision, explicitly stating that “there exists no justification for causing harm to an animal” and emphasizing his personal stance against animal cruelty in any manifestation.

    The Football Federation of Belize (FFB) responded decisively on Sunday, formally condemning the player’s actions as “unacceptable and fundamentally incompatible with the core values and ethical principles of football.” The federation has initiated official proceedings by referring the matter to its Disciplinary Committee for comprehensive review and potential sanction determination.

    The viral footage triggered substantial digital backlash, with numerous commentators highlighting persistent animal welfare concerns in Belize. Critics additionally questioned event management protocols, with one social media user describing the unsupervised presence of an animal at a professional championship match as “a severe operational failure and lapse in organizational responsibility.”

  • Dominica appoints four CARICOM Youth Ambassadors

    Dominica appoints four CARICOM Youth Ambassadors

    The Government of Dominica has officially unveiled its newly appointed representatives to the Caribbean Community’s Youth Ambassador program following an extensive selection process. Four exceptional young leaders have been chosen to serve as CARICOM Youth Ambassadors for the 2025-2027 term, marking a significant step in regional youth engagement.

    Abigail Christmas has been designated as the primary female ambassador, while Eamon Clifford Gibbons will serve as the male ambassador. Supporting them will be alternates Jonathan Eddison Lewis Jones (male) and Angel S. Joseph (female). Their two-year tenure will commence on August 1, 2025, extending through July 31, 2027.

    The selection initiative, administered by the Ministry of Culture, Youth, Sports, and Community Development through its Youth Development Division, attracted substantial interest from across the island nation. Over thirty aspiring young Dominicans submitted applications during the July 2025 application window, demonstrating remarkable enthusiasm for regional leadership and Caribbean integration.

    Candidates underwent a rigorous two-tier evaluation process beginning with a written application assessment based on predetermined criteria including leadership capabilities, community involvement, communication proficiency, and advocacy skills. This initial screening identified ten semifinalists who advanced to interview rounds conducted in September 2025 by a specially appointed ministerial panel.

    The interview phase thoroughly evaluated candidates’ readiness through situational judgment scenarios, regional awareness assessments, public speaking demonstrations, and problem-solving exercises. Particular emphasis was placed on diplomatic acumen and comprehension of CARICOM’s youth development objectives.

    Following the successful completion of all evaluation stages, the Permanent Secretary formally issued appointment letters to the four selected ambassadors on November 14, 2025. The newly appointed ambassadors will receive comprehensive training and technical support coordinated by the CARICOM Secretariat to effectively execute their duties, represent youth interests, and contribute meaningfully to regional policy dialogues and youth-focused initiatives.

    The Ministry has extended congratulations to the successful candidates while reaffirming its dedication to empowering young people as essential partners in both national and regional development endeavors.

  • Vacancy: Finance Officer

    Vacancy: Finance Officer

    The Grenada Council for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (GCTVET) has announced a career opportunity for qualified finance professionals to join the Grenada National Training Agency (GNTA) as Finance Officer. This senior position represents a critical role within the organization’s financial infrastructure, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer.

    The successful candidate will assume comprehensive responsibility for all financial management, disbursement procedures, accounting operations, and audit-related matters. The position demands expertise in maintaining meticulous financial records while ensuring strict compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Key functional areas include financial record management, regulatory compliance, and sophisticated financial reporting and analysis.

    Core responsibilities encompass preparing quarterly financial reports, annual financial statements, and donor-specific financial documentation. The officer will maintain regular communication with management and staff to facilitate accurate financial information exchange while keeping leadership informed of significant financial developments.

    The role requires advanced proficiency in accounting systems and internal controls, including journal entry preparation, payment processing, and monthly bank reconciliation. Additionally, the Finance Officer will contribute to budget and cash flow projection development under CEO supervision, evaluate project proposal costings, and manage payroll processing with accurate statutory deductions.

    Applicants must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance from an accredited institution, or equivalent NVQ/CVQ Level 4 certification. Professional accounting qualifications such as CAT certification or intermediate progression toward ACCA, CGA, or CPA designations are mandatory. The position requires minimum five years of general accounting experience with demonstrated expertise in IFRS and computerized accounting systems.

    Essential qualifications include comprehensive knowledge of accounting software, governmental accounting standards, and advanced proficiency in spreadsheet applications and financial data analysis. Critical abilities include exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and the capacity to meet strict deadlines while exercising independent judgment within established procedural guidelines.

    Interested candidates must submit applications with supporting documentation via email to gnthr.stgeorges@gov.gd addressed to the Chairman of GCTVET. The application deadline is December 31, 2025, at 4:00 PM local time.

  • ABHTA Concludes 2025 Training Series with Successful Supervisory and Maintenance Courses

    ABHTA Concludes 2025 Training Series with Successful Supervisory and Maintenance Courses

    The Antigua & Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) has successfully concluded its 2025 Professional Learning Series with two comprehensive training programs that have significantly enhanced sector-wide capabilities. The initiative featured a 6-Week Supervisory Management Leadership Development Course and an 8-Week Maintenance Course focusing on Electrics & Basic Maintenance, delivering substantial professional advancement for participants across the tourism and hospitality industry.

    The virtual Supervisory Management Leadership Development Course, expertly facilitated by veteran tourism and hospitality trainer Ms. Shirlene Nibbs with over three decades of industry experience, provided six weeks of immersive instruction. The curriculum addressed critical leadership domains including effective communication strategies, workplace relationship management, performance evaluation techniques, and essential supervisory competencies. Participant Zorah Beazer, Claims Manager at State Insurance Company Limited, reported transformative learning outcomes: “This experience provided invaluable perspectives on workplace challenges and significantly enhanced my problem-solving capabilities. Ms. Nibbs’ exceptional facilitation encouraged multidimensional thinking through both expert guidance and peer exchange.”

    Ms. Nibbs reflected on the program’s exceptional outcomes: “This year’s record participation demonstrated remarkable engagement and dedication. Participants exhibited sustained motivation throughout the six-week journey, culminating in creative final presentations that evidenced substantial behavioral and professional development. The administrative excellence of Ms. Anthea Watkins and her support team was instrumental in achieving these results.”

    Concurrently, the 8-Week Maintenance Course: Electrics & Basic Maintenance conducted at the Sandals Merrick Fray Training & Development Centre provided hands-on technical education under the guidance of Mr. Kim Burdon, an aircraft maintenance engineer with 35 years of cross-industry expertise. The comprehensive curriculum covered fundamental electricity principles, motor theory, control systems wiring, refrigeration fundamentals, and practical troubleshooting methodologies.

    Donald Bennett, Maintenance Technician at Curtain Bluff Antigua, attested to the program’s effectiveness: “The course delivered exceptionally informative content highly relevant to my technical role. Mr. Burdon’s hands-on teaching methodology and encouragement to advance our skills created engaging and clear learning experiences that warrant future advanced training.”

    Mr. Burdon expressed his teaching philosophy: “Maintenance represents a fascinating multidisciplinary field. These past months have been immensely rewarding through knowledge sharing with dedicated professionals. I remain committed to knowledge transmission across diverse maintenance specializations before that expertise is lost to time.”

    The ABHTA extended gratitude to all facilitators, Sandals Grande Antigua management and staff, particularly Carlene Spencer for maintenance course support, and all participating members and properties. The Association reaffirmed its commitment to expanding professional development opportunities in the coming year, with training inquiries directed to 462-0374 or 4928.

    As the collective voice of Antigua & Barbuda’s hospitality sector, the ABHTA continues to advance industry standards through education, advocacy, and promotional initiatives that enhance visitation and economic benefits while serving member interests across hotels, restaurants, airlines, and tourism-related enterprises.