Carib Scope

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  • Participants Complete GARD Center Soap-Making Rehabilitation Programme

    Participants Complete GARD Center Soap-Making Rehabilitation Programme

    The GARD Center recently marked the successful completion of its intensive soap-making training program with a formal closing ceremony, celebrating inmates who demonstrated exceptional commitment to personal transformation. Running from November 4th, 2025, the program combined scientific principles with artisanal craftsmanship under the expert guidance of tutor Mrs. Cheryl Samuel.

    Participants engaged in comprehensive hands-on training, mastering chemical formulations, natural additive integration, scent development, and various production techniques. Beyond technical skills, the curriculum intentionally fostered discipline, collaborative teamwork, self-confidence, and emotional resilience—qualities essential for successful societal reintegration.

    The ceremony’s distinguished attendees highlighted institutional support for rehabilitation initiatives. Notable figures included Bishop Juan Miguel Simson (Board Chairman), Dame J.M. Eusalyn Lewis (Vice Chairman), Col. Trevor Pennyfeather (Prison Superintendent), and Ms. Janice Micheal (Permanent Secretary for Public Safety and Labour). Their collective presence signaled strong governmental and institutional endorsement for vocational training as a credible alternative to recidivism.

    Graduates honored included Kenworth Charles, Jay Marie Chin, Akeem Henry, Brittany Jno-Baptiste, Lindell Matthew, Corey Mills, George Thomas, and Kenisha Whyte. The program operates on the evidence-based principle that structured skills development, while not erasing past actions, provides tangible alternatives to previous behavioral patterns. By equipping participants with marketable skills and reinforced self-worth, such initiatives disrupt cyclical incarceration patterns and create meaningful pathways toward constructive citizenship.

  • UWI economist raises fresh concerns over Economic Diversification Bill

    UWI economist raises fresh concerns over Economic Diversification Bill

    A significant policy divergence has emerged in Barbados as Professor Don Marshall, Director of the Sir Arthur Lewis Institute of Social and Economic Studies (SALISES), has raised substantive concerns regarding the government’s newly passed Economic Diversification and Growth Fund Bill. The legislation, approved by the House of Assembly last Friday, establishes a dedicated fund with an initial allocation of $225 million from the Consolidated Fund, distributed in $75 million annual installments over three years, supplemented by parliamentary resolutions and external grants.

    The fund’s stated objective is to provide financial support to selected companies aiming to enhance employment opportunities, increase foreign exchange earnings, and stimulate overall economic growth. However, Professor Marshall contends that subsequent clarifications by Prime Minister Mia Mottley reveal the bill primarily focuses on adjusting tax rates for foreign corporations seeking investment opportunities in Barbados, creating a fundamental misalignment with its purported diversification goals.

    The political economist emphasized that effective economic diversification legislation typically anchors foreign investment incentives within a comprehensive industrial policy framework. He noted the current bill conspicuously lacks critical elements including innovation mechanisms, value-added intentions, or clearly delineated target sectors for capital development. This absence of strategic direction, Marshall argues, undermines the legislation’s capacity to achieve genuine economic transformation.

    Drawing from three decades of economic data, Marshall demonstrated that previous foreign direct investment inflows have predominantly reinforced Barbados’ commercial dealing economy rather than driving diversification. Most investments have concentrated in real estate speculation and import distribution networks, generating temporary employment spikes during construction phases but ultimately straining foreign reserves through substantial import dependencies for project components and maintenance.

    The academic proposed that tax rate adjustments could be more appropriately addressed through amendments to existing international business legislation rather than conflating them with diversification initiatives. He emphasized that successful economic transformation depends less on tax incentives and more on strategic state posture, including negotiated relationships with investors, ministerial capacity, civil society engagement, and government steering mechanisms toward priority sectors.

    The legislation defines qualifying companies as those maintaining substantial economic presence outside Barbados while engaging in, or intending to engage in, significant economic activities within the country.

  • Clinics across the island set for repairs in 2026

    Clinics across the island set for repairs in 2026

    The government of Antigua and Barbuda has unveiled an extensive public building rehabilitation initiative that will significantly expand in 2026, with health clinics receiving prioritized attention. This infrastructure enhancement program specifically targets critical issues including leaking roofs, moisture infiltration, and mold proliferation that have compromised air quality in medical facilities nationwide.

    Budget deliberations revealed that clinical facilities have been incorporated into a broader infrastructure rehabilitation agenda focused on creating safer environments for both healthcare professionals and patients. The comprehensive strategy involves systematic roof-sealing operations and remediation of persistent leaks identified as primary contributors to indoor humidity problems and fungal growth in public buildings.

    Building upon previous successful interventions at major government structures, the 2026 phase will concentrate on ensuring all publicly accessible buildings meet operational standards for safety and dryness. Ministry officials emphasize that these practical improvements are crucial not merely for structural integrity but fundamentally for public health protection.

    The clinical infrastructure upgrades constitute one component of a multidimensional approach encompassing public building maintenance, climate resilience adaptation, and sustainable facility management. The program aims to safeguard medical equipment integrity while establishing healthier environments for workers and citizens dependent on clinical services across the island nation.

  • Housing workers now building roads as government changes how projects are managed

    Housing workers now building roads as government changes how projects are managed

    In a strategic shift toward optimized infrastructure management, the government has implemented a novel approach to housing development by establishing a dedicated Roads Division within National Housing. This innovative program enables construction workers to be dynamically reassigned between housing projects and road construction tasks based on real-time workflow requirements.

    During the recent Budget Debate, Housing Minister Maria Browne detailed how this operational restructuring addresses the chronic issue of workforce idleness during transitional phases between housing construction cycles. Rather than maintaining workers on standby, the ministry now redeploys them to accelerate road infrastructure development within housing communities.

    This cross-functional workforce deployment model specifically targets the persistent challenge of delayed road completion in residential areas. By maintaining continuous employment for construction teams across complementary infrastructure projects, the government achieves dual objectives: maximizing labor efficiency and eliminating bottlenecks that traditionally leave new communities with unfinished access roads.

    The program has already demonstrated tangible progress in multiple housing developments. Construction crews have completed or are actively working on road networks in Cedar Valley and Pearns, addressing long-standing complaints from residents about inadequate road access to their communities.

    Government officials emphasize that this integrated approach eliminates bureaucratic delays associated with separate contracting processes for road construction. The in-house Roads Division enables National Housing to respond immediately to infrastructure needs without undergoing external procurement procedures.

    This initiative represents a fundamental rethinking of public works coordination, ensuring synchronized development of housing and supporting infrastructure. The model is projected to continue through at least 2026 as part of the government’s comprehensive infrastructure and housing development agenda.

  • Sharks end 2025 on high note at Lucian Grand Prix

    Sharks end 2025 on high note at Lucian Grand Prix

    The Sharks Swim Club emerged victorious at the 2025 Lucian Grand Prix swimming championship, held December 5-7 at Rodney Heights Aquatics Centre, capping off the aquatics season with an impressive display of team dominance and individual excellence. Competing against five rival teams, Sharks secured the overall title with 1,277 points, narrowly edging out Sea Jays Swim Club who finished second with 1,197 points.

    The victory was characterized by exceptional team depth and several record-breaking performances. The Sharks women’s squad demonstrated particular strength, accumulating 635 points compared to Sea Jays’ 356, while the men’s team contributed 606 points to secure the overall victory despite finishing behind Sea Jays’ male swimmers.

    Individual standouts included Zoe Fortune, who dominated the 9-10 division with four gold medals and 55 points, leading four teammates in the top five rankings. The team’s depth was further evidenced by four swimmers in the Under-9 girls top ten and seven in the top eight for the 13-14 age group. Veteran swimmer Tamykh Bryan, at 22 years old, contributed 27 points as the sole competitor in the 18-and-over female category.

    Keyanno Elibox continued his impressive form by winning three of his six events to top the Under-9 boys division with 63 points, fresh from his recent success at the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States Swim Championships.

    The championship witnessed significant record-breaking achievements, including one senior national record and three age-group marks. Jayden Xu set a new national record in the 25-meter short-course men’s 200m with a time of 2:16.09, shaving 0.14 seconds off the previous record set by Christopher Phillips in 2016.

    Sapphire Parks established herself as a rising star by setting three new age-group records in the 11-12 category. The CARIFTA Aquatics Championships standout remained unbeaten throughout the competition, setting new benchmarks in the 100m freestyle (1:02.25), 200m backstroke (2:33.33), and 200m breaststroke (2:54.19).

    Head coach David Peterkin praised the collective effort, stating: ‘Our swimmers fought throughout the Grand Prix weekend, swimming many best times, and our coaches prepared them down to the final taper. Our officials, technical staff, timers, and marshals were essential to making this meet happen. The team’s battle cry, ‘Let’s go, Sharks!’ truly resonated throughout the competition.’

    The final team standings saw Lightning Aquatics finish third with 536 points, followed by RR Aquatic Swim Club (361), Southern Flying Fish (255), and Rodney Heights Aquatics Club (155).

  • New roofing material adopted after earlier sealant failed to stop leaks

    New roofing material adopted after earlier sealant failed to stop leaks

    In a significant policy shift, the government has overhauled its approach to repairing leaking roofs on public buildings after an initially deployed specialized sealant failed to meet performance expectations. The disclosure came from Housing and Works Minister Maria Browne during the recent Budget Debate, where she addressed ongoing concerns about mold and air quality issues plaguing government facilities.

    The ministry’s initial intervention involved applying a specific sealant compound to combat water intrusion identified as a primary contributor to moisture accumulation and mold proliferation. However, post-application assessment revealed the material’s performance was unsatisfactory, failing to provide the durable barrier required for long-term protection.

    This operational setback triggered a comprehensive review process that ultimately led to the adoption of a fundamentally different sealing compound. Technical experts within the Ministry of Works have endorsed the new material as substantially more effective in creating watertight seals that prevent moisture penetration. The upgraded compound has now been standardized across all government roof repair and remediation initiatives.

    The material substitution represents a critical component of the broader Public Sector Building Enhancement Programme, which aims to systematically address structural deficiencies and environmental hazards in government-owned properties. Rather than pursuing repetitive temporary patches, the revised protocol emphasizes sustainable solutions that extend structural longevity and improve indoor environmental conditions.

    With the 2026 infrastructure work programme approaching, officials emphasize that the revised methodology incorporates valuable lessons from previous repair campaigns. The adaptive approach demonstrates the government’s commitment to evidence-based maintenance strategies and continuous improvement in public asset management.

  • Government focus in 2026 is on building homes instead of just selling land

    Government focus in 2026 is on building homes instead of just selling land

    The Antiguan government has initiated a transformative policy shift in its housing strategy, moving from primarily distributing land parcels to directly constructing completed homes for citizens. Housing Minister Maria Browne announced this fundamental reorientation of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHAPA) during the recent Budget Debate, signaling a new approach to addressing the nation’s housing challenges.

    This strategic pivot responds to a persistent problem where numerous working families acquired land through government programs but found themselves unable to build homes due to financial constraints. Skyrocketing construction expenses, restricted access to affordable financing, and prohibitive interest rates have left countless distributed plots undeveloped despite years of land allocation efforts.

    Minister Browne emphasized that CHAPA has recognized land ownership alone cannot resolve housing inadequacies. While property acquisition represented progress, the absence of viable construction options meant many families remained without adequate shelter. The new methodology specifically targets middle-income residents who fall between eligibility for heavily subsidized housing programs and ability to finance private construction.

    This policy evolution represents a concerted effort to bridge the gap between property ownership and habitable housing, particularly benefiting long-term renters seeking stability but facing market barriers. Government officials indicate the revised approach aims to align housing initiatives more directly with citizens’ actual living conditions—focusing not merely on land possession but on delivering functional residences.

    The housing strategy overhaul is anticipated to integrate into a comprehensive 2026 national housing plan, featuring innovative low-cost home designs and expanded construction initiatives across multiple communities. This holistic approach addresses both infrastructure development and financial accessibility, potentially establishing new benchmarks for affordable housing solutions in the Caribbean region.

  • Chili staat voor scherpe ruk naar rechts bij presidentsverkiezingen

    Chili staat voor scherpe ruk naar rechts bij presidentsverkiezingen

    Chile stands at a pivotal political juncture as citizens head to the polls today for a decisive presidential runoff election that could mark the most significant rightward shift since the end of military dictatorship in 1990. The contest pits radical right Republican Party leader José Antonio Kast against left-wing governing coalition candidate Jeannette Jara of the Communist Party.

    Approximately 15.6 million eligible voters are participating in Chile’s first mandatory-vote presidential election, introducing additional uncertainty about the final outcome. Polling stations will close at 6:00 PM local time, with preliminary results expected shortly thereafter.

    Despite finishing second in the first round, Kast has gained momentum through consolidated support from eliminated right-wing candidates. Analysts project he may surpass the 50 percent threshold required for victory. Jara, who won the initial round, faces diminishing prospects due to fragmentation among left-wing factions and growing voter dissatisfaction.

    The election campaign has been dominated by crime and security concerns, transforming public discourse despite Chile remaining one of Latin America’s safer nations. Increased organized criminal activity and illegal immigration have propelled these issues to the forefront. Kast has capitalized on these anxieties with a hardline security agenda promising to restore “order and trust.

    These themes have burdened incumbent leftist President Gabriel Boric, who struggles with low approval ratings. His administration’s measures—including additional police resources and military deployment along the northern border—have failed to satisfy many constituents.

    Financial markets have responded favorably to Kast’s potential victory, with investors anticipating market-oriented reforms, deregulation, and pension system adjustments. Following the first round, both the Chilean peso and stock market recorded gains.

    However, critics warn of societal consequences should the radical right candidate prevail. Political analysts interpret his rise as reflecting profound distrust in traditional politics and escalating demands for security. With a substantial portion of voters still undecided or considering blank ballots, the outcome remains uncertain until the final moments. What remains clear is that Chile faces a political crossroads that could determine the nation’s trajectory for years to come.

  • Clash of views over Economic Diversification and Growth Fund Bill

    Clash of views over Economic Diversification and Growth Fund Bill

    A significant political controversy has emerged in Barbados regarding the Economic Diversification and Growth Fund Bill, pitting legal experts against government officials in a heated debate over fiscal management and economic development.

    Former senator and prominent attorney Tricia Watson has launched scathing criticism against the proposed legislation, characterizing it as fundamentally flawed and inadequate for managing public resources. Watson specifically condemned the bill’s vague terminology, particularly the undefined parameters of what constitutes ‘real and substantial economic presence’ and ‘real and substantial economic activity’ for qualifying companies. She emphasized that the legislation’s lack of precise definitions creates substantial loopholes that could enable misuse of public funds.

    The controversial bill, which underwent parliamentary debate last week, proposes allocating $225 million from the Consolidated Fund over a three-year period, with annual disbursements of $75 million. Watson highlighted multiple deficiencies in the proposed framework, including insufficient oversight mechanisms, absence of financial disclosure requirements for applicant companies, and questionable provisions granting ministers authority to enter into funding agreements without standard contractual safeguards.

    In a robust defense of the legislation, Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs Kirk Humphrey presented the bill as essential for Barbados’ economic future. Humphrey outlined specific eligibility criteria, noting that companies must commit to creating at least 100 sustainable jobs for Barbadians maintained for a minimum of seven years. The Minister emphasized that funding would be contingent on measurable outcomes, including foreign exchange generation, tax compliance, and long-term operational commitment to Barbados.

    Humphrey addressed concerns about ministerial authority by explaining that decisions would be guided by a multi-agency committee comprising key economic officials, including the Director of Finance and Economic Affairs, the Central Bank Governor, and CEOs of Invest Barbados and Export Barbados. He characterized the $225 million allocation as a targeted, time-bound investment designed to strengthen economic resilience rather than an open-ended commitment.

    The debate has raised fundamental questions about balancing economic development needs with transparent governance practices, with both sides appealing to public interest while offering contrasting visions of responsible fiscal management.

  • PM Warns Police Will Act if Unrest Erupts in Old Road

    PM Warns Police Will Act if Unrest Erupts in Old Road

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne has delivered a firm directive to residents of Old Road, cautioning that law enforcement will swiftly intervene should any form of civil unrest or unlawful behavior emerge in the community. The Prime Minister emphasized that while peaceful protest remains a protected democratic right, his administration will not tolerate actions that jeopardize public order or critical national infrastructure.

    During his appearance on the Browne and Browne radio program broadcast by Pointe FM, the leader articulated a clear distinction between lawful expression and dangerous incitement. “We cannot allow people to become lawless and to destroy our country,” Browne stated, specifying that acts of obstruction, vandalism, or violence would elicit immediate police response.

    The Prime Minister contextualized his warnings within what he described as an escalating pattern of political provocation. He contended that inflammatory rhetoric creates conditions that embolden criminal behavior, noting that “when you incite people and encourage confrontation, you create an environment in which lawlessness can flourish.” Browne stressed that such instigation places both communities and public assets at significant risk.

    Addressing recent enforcement operations in the Old Road and Morris Bay regions, the Prime Minister dismissed allegations of political motivation behind these actions. He asserted that planning and regulatory statutes apply uniformly to all citizens, regardless of political affiliation. “No one is above the law,” Browne declared, emphasizing that both elected officials and ordinary citizens must adhere to development and public-order regulations.

    These statements arrive amid heightened political tensions following regulatory actions at Morris Bay and the suspicious fire that destroyed fiber-optic materials belonging to the Antigua Public Utilities Authority. While not directly attributing blame for the fire, Browne warned that incitement carries consequential accountability. “People must understand that words matter,” he remarked. “You cannot encourage disorder and then pretend you bear no responsibility for what follows.”

    The government’s foremost priorities, according to Browne, include maintaining public calm, safeguarding national infrastructure, and ensuring that disputes are resolved through lawful democratic channels rather than street confrontations.