Carib Scope

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  • Mona, KC, Charlie and St Catherine advance to Walker Cup semis

    Mona, KC, Charlie and St Catherine advance to Walker Cup semis

    The ISSA Walker Cup quarterfinals concluded on Monday with thrilling matches that set the stage for an electrifying semifinal round. Defending champions Mona High secured their progression despite extraordinary adversity, playing the majority of their match against Hydel High with only ten men after Devrahj Singh received a first-half red card for dangerous play.

    Mona’s victory (3-2) was characterized by resilience and strategic execution. Joenaldo Payne initiated the scoring in the fourth minute with a precise header from a corner kick. Despite being reduced to ten players, Mona demonstrated remarkable composure. Substitute Franklyn Mitchum reclaimed the lead in the 71st minute, followed swiftly by Sean Leighton’s clinical finish in the 74th minute, establishing a 3-1 advantage. Hydel mounted a late surge with Ackeem Ewan’s 77th-minute goal, creating tense final moments, but Mona’s defense held firm to secure advancement.

    In parallel action, nine-time champions Kingston College (KC) edged past fierce rivals Calabar High 2-1 in a match filled with historical significance. This victory carried added meaning as it provided a measure of redemption following Calabar’s elimination of KC from the Manning Cup competition. Defender Rohan Brown headed KC into an early lead in the eighth minute, though Calabar’s Payton Larmond equalized just six minutes later. The decisive moment came in the 16th minute when Shareef Ricketts secured the winning goal, maintaining KC’s pursuit of a record-extending tenth Walker Cup title.

    Other quarterfinal results saw St Catherine High deliver an offensive masterclass in their 5-2 victory over Vauxhall High, while Charlie Smith High demonstrated overwhelming dominance with a 6-1 triumph against Tivoli High.

    The semifinal pairings are now confirmed: Mona High will face Charlie Smith High on Wednesday at 2:00 PM, followed by Kingston College versus St Catherine High at 4:15 PM. Both matches will be hosted at Jamaica College’s Ashenheim Stadium, promising high-stakes football as these teams compete for a place in the prestigious Walker Cup final.

  • Westmoreland residents urged to treat all non-bottled water

    Westmoreland residents urged to treat all non-bottled water

    ST JAMES, Jamaica — In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, Westmoreland’s health authorities have escalated public health advisories concerning water safety. Dr. Marcia Graham, the parish’s Medical Officer of Health, has issued a critical directive for residents to consider all non-bottled water as potentially hazardous for consumption.

    Addressing the Westmoreland Municipal Corporation at a recent monthly assembly, Dr. Graham highlighted the severe degradation of local infrastructure and the unpredictable quality of water supplies, which have collectively elevated the threat of waterborne diseases. She emphasized that the current water conditions fall below safety standards, necessitating extreme caution. “We must treat all water sources as unsafe unless it is sealed bottled water that remains unopened,” she stated.

    The health expert detailed several approved purification techniques, identifying vigorous boiling as a paramount method. She instructed, “Achieve a rolling boil and maintain it for at least one full minute to ensure the water becomes safe for human use.” Additionally, Dr. Graham endorsed the application of bleach or chlorine tablets, underlining the necessity of precise measurement and a mandatory thirty-minute settling period for the chemicals to effectively neutralize pathogens.

    Beyond contaminated water risks, Dr. Graham raised alarms over a surge in leptospirosis exposure, a bacterial infection exacerbated by displaced wildlife and polluted water bodies. She cautioned that even minimal contact through small cuts or abrasions could lead to severe systemic illness. “Exposure to tainted water can rapidly result in renal failure, liver dysfunction, and other life-threatening conditions,” she warned, noting the parish has already documented fatal outcomes connected to post-hurricane diseases.

  • Venezuela cancels all energy deals with Trinidad and Tobago

    Venezuela cancels all energy deals with Trinidad and Tobago

    In a significant escalation of regional tensions, the Venezuelan government has announced the immediate termination of all energy contracts and negotiations with Trinidad and Tobago. The decisive action comes as a direct response to Caracas’ allegations that Port of Spain played a collaborative role in last week’s United States seizure of a Venezuelan oil tanker.

    Vice President Delcy Rodríguez, through an official statement on her Instagram platform, characterized the tanker interception as an act of piracy and a severe violation of international maritime law. The statement explicitly accused Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of maintaining a hostile agenda against Venezuela since assuming office, including the alleged installation of US military radar systems to monitor Venezuelan vessels.

    Rodríguez declared that President Nicolás Maduro’s administration views these developments as transforming Trinidad and Tobago into what she described as a US military outpost for attacks against Venezuela. Consequently, Venezuela has formally denounced the Energy Cooperation Framework Agreement previously established with its Caribbean neighbor.

    The Venezuelan government maintains full knowledge of Trinidad and Tobago’s participation in what it terms the theft of Venezuelan oil resources. The statement emphasized that Venezuela will not tolerate colonial entities or their vassals threatening the nation’s sovereignty and developmental rights.

    Meanwhile, the Guyanese maritime authorities have clarified that the seized vessel, identified as Motor Tanker SKIPPER, was improperly flying the Guyana flag without proper registration. This development occurs alongside increased US military presence in the Caribbean region, ostensibly targeting narcotics trafficking but viewed by regional analysts as part of broader geopolitical pressures on the Maduro government.

    The Trump administration has previously designated Maduro as a narco-terrorist and key figure in the Cartel of the Suns, with OFAC sanctions already in effect. US military operations in Caribbean and Pacific waters have reportedly resulted in numerous fatalities among alleged drug traffickers.

  • JCPD urges accessible rebuilding in aftermath of hurricane melissa

    JCPD urges accessible rebuilding in aftermath of hurricane melissa

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities (JCPD) is championing a transformative approach to reconstruction that prioritizes universal accessibility. Executive Director Dr. Christine Hendricks is calling on all rebuilding stakeholders to incorporate universal design principles, ensuring that rebuilt infrastructure serves all citizens, including those with disabilities.

    Dr. Hendricks emphasizes that the widespread destruction presents a unique opportunity to rebuild according to modern accessibility standards outlined in Jamaica’s building code. The JCPD provides detailed guidelines on its website, including specifications for proper ramp construction, doorway width requirements, and accessible bathroom design. These measures aim to eliminate physical barriers that traditionally exclude persons with disabilities from public spaces.

    The council has identified problematic practices such as placing utility poles and plant boxes in the middle of sidewalks, which effectively block mobility for wheelchair users and others with physical disabilities. Dr. Hendricks notes that such exclusionary design could constitute discrimination under Jamaican law, with potential complaints escalating to the Disabilities Rights Tribunal if unresolved through initial interventions.

    Beyond advocacy, the JCPD has launched extensive field operations across the most affected parishes, including Westmoreland, Hanover, Trelawny, St. James, and portions of St. Ann, Manchester and Clarendon. Since October 31, assessment teams have delivered care packages and documented extensive losses in communities like Lititz and Junction, where entire farms were destroyed and homes were flooded or lost roofs.

    The council is compiling comprehensive damage assessments, particularly focusing on persons with disabilities who lost homes and small businesses, to facilitate support through the Ministry of Labour and Social Security. The JCPD is also guiding eligible individuals through the National Housing Trust’s disaster relief application process.

    Collaborating with disability organizations including the Jamaica Society for the Blind, Jamaican Association on Intellectual Disabilities, and Caribbean Christian Centre for the Deaf, the council is working to reach approximately 675 deaf individuals affected by the hurricane through partner organization Ready to Sign.

    International support has been crucial to recovery efforts. UNICEF has committed $32 million to provide care packages and digital vouchers for 1,500 children with disabilities, while UNESCO is assisting with technical expertise to develop Jamaica’s first inclusive disaster risk management framework. Additional support comes from the Australian government (offering grants up to US$65,000), the Canadian High Commission, and various diaspora groups sending relief supplies.

    With verified reports of over 15,000 persons with disabilities residing in the hardest-hit parishes, the JCPD acknowledges the challenge of reaching all affected individuals. The council encourages relief workers to report encounters with persons with disabilities needing assistance via WhatsApp at 876‑447‑0444 or 876‑299‑7393, or by calling 876‑968‑8373.

  • Manchester United blow lead three times in 4-4 Bournemouth thriller

    Manchester United blow lead three times in 4-4 Bournemouth thriller

    In a Premier League spectacle characterized by offensive brilliance and defensive frailty, Manchester United were held to a dramatic 4-4 draw by a resilient Bournemouth side at Old Trafford on Monday. The result saw United miss a crucial opportunity to climb into fifth place in the league standings, as they repeatedly surrendered hard-earned advantages in a match that delivered eight goals.

    The contest began favorably for the hosts, with Amad Diallo capitalizing on a Djordje Petrovic error to nod into an unguarded net in the 13th minute. Despite United’s commanding attacking display, their defensive vulnerabilities were exposed just before halftime. Antoine Semenyo overpowered Luke Shaw to equalize, only for Casemiro to restore United’s lead in first-half stoppage time with a header that Petrovic should have saved.

    The second half commenced with a stunning Bournemouth blitz. Evanilson needed just 37 seconds to slot home his first goal since August, before Marcus Tavernier’s expertly drilled free-kick completed a rapid turnaround, putting the visitors ahead 3-2.

    United demonstrated characteristic resilience in response. Captain Bruno Fernandes unleashed a magnificent free-kick into the top corner, and Matheus Cunha then swept home to put United back in front at 4-3. However, the lead proved temporary once more. With six minutes remaining, Eli Junior Kroupi delivered a fine finish to secure a deserved share of the points for the Cherries. Bournemouth nearly snatched a sensational victory in stoppage time, but substitute David Brooks was twice denied by superb saves from United goalkeeper Senne Lammens.

    Post-match, United manager Ruben Amorim expressed frustration at more dropped points at home, though he acknowledged a superior performance compared to recent outings. The result leaves United sixth on goal difference, while Bournemouth move up to 13th, ending a seven-game winless streak.

  • Coach David Riley appointed to World Athletics Commission

    Coach David Riley appointed to World Athletics Commission

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—In a significant development for Caribbean athletics, Jamaican track and field expert David Riley has secured a prestigious appointment to the World Athletics Coaches’ Commission. The Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA) officially confirmed this elevation on Monday, marking a milestone for the nation’s sporting representation on the global stage.

    Riley, who serves as head coach at Excelsior High School while holding dual roles as World Athletics Global Calendar Liaison and deputy chairman of the Competitions Commission at JAAA, underwent an extensive vetting procedure before his nomination. The JAAA release emphasized that his selection directly recognizes his exceptional work in athletics coaching, educational programs for coaches, and athlete development initiatives spanning both national and international contexts.

    This appointment carries substantial implications for Jamaica’s role in international sports governance. Riley’s position will enable direct Jamaican input into the formulation of global coaching policies, the establishment of international standards, and the creation of athlete development frameworks. The move signals growing Caribbean influence within World Athletics’ decision-making processes.

    JAAA President Garth Gayle celebrated the appointment as a moment of national pride, stating: ‘Coach Riley’s placement on this commission reflects the extraordinary respect that Jamaican coaching professionals command worldwide. It validates the exceptional expertise within our coaching community and guarantees that Jamaica’s distinctive viewpoints and proven methodologies will actively inform the future trajectory of global athlete development and coaching excellence.’

  • Three killed in alleged confrontation with police in St James

    Three killed in alleged confrontation with police in St James

    ST JAMES, Jamaica — A deadly altercation erupted in the Rose Heights community of St James on Monday afternoon, resulting in the deaths of three individuals following an armed confrontation with security personnel. Preliminary reports indicate that members of the security forces were conducting operations in the area when they encountered a group of armed men. The situation escalated into an exchange of gunfire between the two parties. Upon securing the scene, authorities discovered three males sustaining critical gunshot wounds. Emergency medical services promptly transported the injured individuals to a nearby medical facility. Despite receiving urgent medical attention, all three suspects succumbed to their injuries and were pronounced dead at the hospital. The Jamaica Constabulary Force has launched a standard investigation into the incident, which represents the latest in a series of security operations aimed at combating escalating violence in the St James parish. The identities of the deceased remain undisclosed pending formal notification of next of kin. This incident occurs amid ongoing government efforts to address gang-related violence and criminal activities through enhanced security measures across troubled communities in western Jamaica.

  • SLB reports strong uptake of debt reset programme

    SLB reports strong uptake of debt reset programme

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—Jamaica’s Students’ Loan Bureau (SLB) has witnessed substantial engagement with its newly introduced debt relief initiative, with more than 6,000 borrowers successfully registering through the agency’s customer portal since its launch.

    Current data reveals that approximately 3,600 applicants have formally sought enrollment in the debt reset programme. Among these, 800 individuals have applied for arrears credit assistance, while 2,900 have requested the ‘good standing’ credit benefit amounting to $100,000.

    Cheryl Surjue, Director of Client Relationship Management Services, confirmed that nearly 25,000 borrowers are potentially eligible for relief under this temporary initiative designed for targeted loan accounts delinquent as of October 31, 2025.

    The comprehensive debt relief package includes full waiver of late fees and insurance charges, alongside a 50 percent reduction in interest arrears accumulated through October 31, 2025. To qualify for these benefits, borrowers must settle the remaining balance of outstanding arrears within the programme’s designated timeframe.

    During a recent Jamaica Information Service (JIS) ‘Think Tank’ session, Surjue announced that the good standing credit has already been successfully processed and applied to the accounts of onboarded applicants. “Borrowers can immediately verify this credit through their online portal accounts,” she stated.

    Surjue emphasized that programme participants must clear their principal arrears—either through lump-sum payment or scheduled installments—to activate the debt relief benefits. This structured approach enables borrowers to achieve financial reset and resume regular monthly payments.

    Owin Watson, SLB’s Debt Recovery Manager, clarified that borrowers must complete the digital onboarding process at register.slbja.com to access the portal and confirm benefit application. The registration requires Taxpayer Registration Number (TRN) verification and personal information submission including name, email, and telephone number.

    “Upon successful onboarding,” Watson explained, “borrowers gain immediate access to download updated loan statements displaying the applied credits visibly.”

  • Venezuela claims TT complicit in piracy, cancels gas deals

    Venezuela claims TT complicit in piracy, cancels gas deals

    Venezuela has abruptly severed all energy cooperation agreements with Trinidad and Tobago, escalating regional tensions following a disputed oil tanker interception by US forces. The decision was formally announced on December 15 through an official statement shared by Venezuelan Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez.

    The diplomatic rupture stems from Venezuela’s allegation that Trinidadian authorities had prior knowledge of the US military’s December 10 interception of the crude oil tanker ‘Skipper’ off the Venezuelan coast. The vessel, reportedly transporting Venezuelan oil to Cuba, was seized in what Caracas characterizes as ‘an act of piracy violating international law and principles of free navigation.’

    Venezuelan authorities explicitly condemned what they termed Trinidad’s transformation into ‘a US aircraft carrier to attack Venezuela,’ referencing Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s alleged ‘hostile agenda’ since her United National Congress party’s April election victory. The statement further referenced the October 27 termination of the Framework Agreement on Energy Cooperation between the nations.

    Trinidadian leadership has vigorously rejected these allegations. Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar dismissed Venezuela’s claims as ‘false propaganda,’ asserting that complaints should be directed toward the Trump administration rather than Trinidad. She emphasized the nation’s energy self-sufficiency, stating: ‘We have never depended on Venezuela for natural gas supplies. We have adequate reserves within our territory.’

    Energy Minister Dr. Roodal Moonilal echoed these sentiments, characterizing Venezuela’s statement as ‘hypocritical’ given Venezuela’s ongoing engagements with US energy giant Chevron. Both officials identified bureaucratic inefficiencies rather than international relations as the primary constraint on Trinidad’s energy development.

    Opposition leader Stuart Young expressed profound concern regarding the termination’s potential impact on critical cross-border energy projects, particularly the Loran-Manatee field unitization agreement and Shell’s development of the Manatee field scheduled for 2027 production. Young warned this development compounds existing challenges including Nutrien’s closure and the National Gas Company’s failure to negotiate new contracts.

    The incident occurs against the backdrop of Venezuela’s October declaration of Persad-Bissessar as persona non grata following her support for US military deployment in the Caribbean—a move she defends as necessary for combating drug trafficking, while Venezuela maintains US intentions center on regime change.

  • Arima Mayor on attending UNC dinner: Let’s stop the hate politics

    Arima Mayor on attending UNC dinner: Let’s stop the hate politics

    Arima Mayor Balliram Maharaj has publicly addressed the controversy surrounding his appearance at a United National Congress (UNC) fundraising dinner on December 13th, stating his presence was motivated by personal rather than political reasons. The prominent businessman, who was sworn into office in September 2023 as a member of the ruling People’s National Movement (PNM), found himself at the center of social media speculation after photographs emerged showing him alongside Phillip Alexander, Minister in the Ministry of Housing.

    In an exclusive interview, Mayor Maharaj revealed that his attendance stemmed from profound personal loneliness following the passing of his wife nearly five years ago. He attended as a guest of his nephew, who has been his primary companion and support system since becoming widowed. “I reside alone in a large house,” Maharaj explained. “He’s the only one who regularly takes me out. He treats me like a son and looks after my wellbeing.”

    The Mayor acknowledged that he only became aware of the event’s political nature upon arrival but expressed admiration for the organization and execution of the function. Between approximately 8:30 PM and 10:30 PM, he observed attendees questioning his presence given his PNM affiliation. Rather than apologizing, Maharaj used the opportunity to call for an end to divisive partisan politics in Trinidad and Tobago.

    “I believe it is time we move beyond this culture of political hostility,” Maharaj stated. “Political allegiance should not create divisions among our people. After sixty-three years of independence, it is imperative that we focus on building a unified nation where every creed and race occupies an equal place.” He articulated his vision for Trinidad as “one nation, one people, one love” where citizens can collectively enjoy the country’s cultural, religious, and recreational wealth.

    Regarding the controversial photograph with Minister Alexander, Maharaj clarified that the initiative came from the Minister himself. “I am not particularly familiar with him, but we exchanged greetings. He subsequently approached me suggesting we take a picture together, which I agreed to.”

    In a significant revelation, Mayor Maharaj disclosed he is contemplating resignation from his mayoral position to dedicate more time to family. He had initially committed to a two-year term when persuaded by former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley to contest the 2023 local government elections. Having served twenty-eight months, Maharaj indicated he would evaluate key developmental projects for Arima within the next six months before making a final decision.

    His completion criteria include the establishment of a new Town Hall building, operational Social Welfare and Inland Revenue offices, new facilities for the Election and Boundaries Commission, an administration building, and progress on an indoor sporting complex on O’Meara Road. He emphasized the economic efficiency of consolidating multiple services within existing infrastructure.

    Despite the political controversy, Maharaj continued his official duties by hosting approximately 2,000 children at the Arima Velodrome on December 14th for the Borough Corporation’s annual Christmas celebration. The event featured gift distributions, recreational activities, costume characters, complimentary barber services, and an educational police interaction booth.