Carib Scope

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  • Housing minister Launches “The St. George” A low Income home starting at EC$117,000

    Housing minister Launches “The St. George” A low Income home starting at EC$117,000

    The Antigua and Barbuda government has launched an innovative affordable housing solution specifically designed to address the dual challenges of housing accessibility and climate resilience. Housing Minister Maria Bird-Browne presented ‘The St. George’ model during parliamentary budget debates, highlighting its significance for low-income families previously excluded from traditional housing programs.

    Priced at EC$117,000 (approximately US$43,300), this structurally advanced home represents a strategic approach to sustainable urban development. The minister emphasized that the design specifically targets citizens who fall below the EC$150,000 income threshold for conventional housing assistance but still require secure, permanent accommodation for their families.

    Engineered with cutting-edge construction technology, The St. George incorporates heavy steel reinforcement throughout its structure, making it both earthquake resistant and capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions. The model has undergone rigorous wind-tunnel testing to ensure durability in tropical climate scenarios.

    The two-bedroom, two-bathroom layout features modern architectural elements while maintaining practical functionality. Its modular design philosophy allows for future expansion as family needs evolve, creating what Minister Bird-Browne described as ‘a generational home that can grow alongside its inhabitants.’

    This initiative directly supports the government’s ‘People-Centered Growth and Development’ agenda, providing immediate availability for pre-approved applicants with budgets under EC$120,000. The housing solution represents a significant advancement in making climate-resilient architecture accessible to lower-income segments of the population.

  • Minister Browne unveils EC$130,000 starter home called Argenta

    Minister Browne unveils EC$130,000 starter home called Argenta

    The Antiguan government has introduced a new affordable housing solution targeting working families caught in a financial eligibility gap. Housing Minister Maria Bird-Browne unveiled ‘The Argenta’ during the 2026 Budget Debate—a two-bedroom, two-bathroom home priced at EC$131,000 (approximately US$48,500).

    Minister Bird-Browne identified a critical market failure affecting citizens who earn too much to qualify for government-assisted HAPPI programs yet insufficiently to afford existing market-rate housing. ‘Many residents simply don’t earn enough for the models we have on the market,’ she stated, highlighting that these individuals remain trapped in rental cycles despite stable employment.

    The Argenta represents the first of two new models launched by the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHAPA) to address this specific income bracket. Designed with climate resilience as a priority, the structure incorporates heavy steel stirrups tied throughout the framework to withstand extreme weather events. Minister Bird-Browne described the design as both ‘very beautiful modern’ and functionally durable.

    This initiative responds to persistent public demand for housing ownership rather than perpetual renting. ‘People want to own something so that, whatever they pay monthly, it becomes their asset in the long run,’ the Minister explained. The program immediately opens applications to Antiguans and Barbudans seeking stability through homeownership beneath conventional lending thresholds.

  • One Detained After Orange Walk Man Shot Dead

    One Detained After Orange Walk Man Shot Dead

    Authorities in Orange Walk Town have taken a person of interest into custody as part of an active homicide investigation following the deadly shooting of 45-year-old Beris Neemaya Anglin on Saturday night. The incident occurred late in the evening, with multiple neighbors reporting hearing a series of gunshots approximately at 11:00 p.m.

    According to Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith, Anglin’s common-law wife made the grim discovery of his body inside their residence, described as a white concrete house. Crime scene investigators documented substantial evidence, recovering multiple 9mm shell casings and projectiles from the premises.

    The victim sustained extensive injuries from the attack, with gunshot wounds documented across his face, right hand, left foot, abdominal area, upper right shoulder, and back. The investigation has revealed a significant development: Anglin had been formally charged earlier on Saturday for a drug-related offense. ASP Smith confirmed that the suspect had been granted station bail and was scheduled to appear before the magistrate court on the day following the shooting.

    While the investigation remains in its early stages, authorities acknowledge that no clear motive has been established at this time. Police officials indicate that interrogation of the detained individual will be crucial for determining potential connections to the crime and advancing the investigation. The case continues to develop as forensic analysis and witness interviews proceed.

  • Ceremony to Honour V.C. Bird Scheduled for Tuesday in St. John’s

    Ceremony to Honour V.C. Bird Scheduled for Tuesday in St. John’s

    Antigua and Barbuda will pay solemn tribute to its founding father Sir Vere Cornwall Bird during a commemorative wreath-laying ceremony scheduled for Tuesday morning. The National Festivals Office has organized the annual event to honor the enduring legacy of the nation’s architectural visionary.

    The ceremony will commence at 8:00 AM on December 9th at the prominent V.C. Bird Bust situated on Market Street. This strategically located monument serves as the traditional gathering point for official observances dedicated to the national hero.

    Government representatives, cultural ambassadors, and citizens from across the twin-island nation are expected to assemble in unified tribute. The event underscores Bird’s monumental contributions to shaping both the political framework and social fabric of modern Antigua and Barbuda.

    This annual observance forms an integral part of the nation’s calendar of official ceremonies, serving as a perpetual reminder of Bird’s pioneering role in steering the country toward independence and self-determination. The National Festivals Office has extended an open invitation to all residents to attend and witness this significant moment of national remembrance.

  • Pringle says UPP would remove all import taxes on electric and renewable-energy vehicles

    Pringle says UPP would remove all import taxes on electric and renewable-energy vehicles

    In a significant policy announcement during the 2026 National Budget debate, United Progressive Party (UPP) Leader Jamale Pringle declared that an opposition-led government would completely eliminate all taxation on new electric and renewable-energy vehicles. Pringle positioned this initiative as a central component of the party’s comprehensive clean-energy strategy, directly challenging the current administration’s environmental policy implementation.

    The opposition leader argued that excessive import duties and multiple layers of government-imposed costs are substantially hindering the nation’s transition to sustainable transportation. He noted that while many citizens are eager to adopt electric mobility solutions due to escalating fuel prices and growing environmental consciousness, financial barriers created by existing tax structures make such conversions prohibitively expensive for ordinary families.

    Pringle characterized the current taxation approach as fundamentally contradictory to the government’s publicly stated commitments on climate resilience and renewable energy adoption. He emphasized that the UPP’s proposed tax elimination would extend beyond symbolic gesture to deliver tangible benefits: dramatically reducing ownership barriers, stimulating competitive pricing among automotive dealerships, and positioning the nation to capitalize on global advancements in sustainable transport technology.

    The policy proposal was framed as particularly vital for a small island nation facing disproportionate vulnerability to climate change impacts while maintaining heavy dependence on imported fossil fuels. Pringle described electric vehicle incentivization as ‘common sense’ policy that would simultaneously address environmental concerns and reduce household energy expenditures.

    This automotive initiative forms part of a broader UPP renewable energy platform that includes removing restrictions on residential solar power systems and creating more favorable investment conditions for clean technology ventures. Pringle concluded that meaningful climate action must originate with practical, affordable pathways for citizens rather than international rhetoric unmatched by domestic policy implementation.

  • BEL Chairman Marshalleck Resigns After Five Years

    BEL Chairman Marshalleck Resigns After Five Years

    Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) has announced the forthcoming departure of its Board Chairman, E. Andrew Marshalleck, S.C., effective December 31, 2025. Marshalleck will conclude his five-year leadership tenure that witnessed substantial advancements in the nation’s power infrastructure.

    Appointed to the Board in December 2020, Marshalleck’s chairmanship was marked by significant strategic achievements. Under his guidance, BEL executed critical enhancements to the national grid, most notably expanding generation capacity by 30 megawatts and boosting transmission substation capacity by 92 MVA. These infrastructural investments yielded a dramatic improvement in system reliability, reducing network outages by more than 30 percent compared to pre-2021 performance metrics.

    A landmark accomplishment during his term was the finalization of Belize’s inaugural power purchase agreement for a utility-scale solar energy facility, signaling a strategic pivot toward renewable energy sources.

    In a formal statement reflecting on his service, Marshalleck expressed gratitude for his tenure, stating: ‘I am grateful for the opportunity to have served and for the chance to meet and work with many of the talented managers and employees of BEL … they, together with the people of Belize, deserve a truly successful BEL.’

    The company’s announcement did not specify reasons for the leadership transition. Marshalleck’s successor will be Lyn Young, the former Chief Executive Officer of the utility company.

  • Services, vehicles, guns, ammo excluded from VAT-free shopping

    Services, vehicles, guns, ammo excluded from VAT-free shopping

    The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) has unveiled comprehensive operational guidelines for the nation’s inaugural VAT Zero-Rated Day scheduled for this Friday, marking the New Democratic Party administration’s first implementation of this fiscal policy measure. This temporary tax suspension represents a significant consumer stimulus initiative targeting non-commercial purchases across multiple retail sectors.

    The tax exemption framework specifically applies to transactions involving VAT-registered businesses supplying eligible tangible goods to non-commercial consumers. Critical eligibility requirements mandate that all tax-exempt products must be physically present in merchant inventory at close of business on Thursday, with both sale and full payment processing occurring exclusively during Friday’s designated tax holiday period.

    Comprehensive eligibility categories encompass consumer electronics (televisions, computers, smartphones), household appliances (refrigerators, stoves, washing machines), food and beverages including alcoholic items, clothing and footwear, furniture selections, building materials, automotive parts excluding complete vehicles, cosmetics and toiletries, alongside general merchandise including toys, books and kitchenware.

    The exclusion list maintains several significant categories outside the tax relief program. All service-based transactions remain fully taxable, including tourism and hospitality services. Prepared meals and beverages from restaurants, hotels and similar establishments remain subject to standard VAT rates. Additional exclusions encompass motor vehicles, tobacco products, firearms and ammunition, with hire purchase arrangements similarly excluded from tax exemption benefits.

    The IRD has expressed anticipation for seamless implementation of this economic stimulus measure, encouraging public participation while emphasizing strict adherence to published guidelines for both retailers and consumers.

  • DSB opent feestmaand met vijfde editie van ‘Kresneti Fatu’

    DSB opent feestmaand met vijfde editie van ‘Kresneti Fatu’

    Suriname’s De Surinaamsche Bank N.V. (DSB) launched the festive December season in grand style with the fifth edition of Kresneti Fatu, an event made particularly significant by coinciding with the bank’s 160th anniversary celebrations. The festival emphasized community cohesion, joyful camaraderie, and the celebration of meaningful shared moments.

    The charitable dimension of the event saw proceeds from DSB’s food stands donated to Stichting SU Aid, which this year will direct its support to the hematology and oncology department of Sint Vincentius Hospital, providing crucial assistance to medical care in these specialized fields.

    Young attendees enjoyed a specially designed children’s area featuring creative craft activities, bounce houses, and dynamic dance workshops conducted by the Myztikals group. These young participants later showcased their newfound skills during the evening program, delivering proud moments for watching parents.

    The stage program presented a diverse array of performances blending dance, vocal presentations, and acts from both established and emerging artists. A particularly spontaneous and heartfelt moment occurred when the audience collectively sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to honor Father Esteban Kross. The festive evening culminated in a spectacular laser and fireworks display that illuminated the night sky.

    Looking ahead to New Year’s Eve, DSB has announced special year-end celebrations in keeping with its anniversary year. The bank will host a distinctive closing event at the facade of its headquarters building, promising various performances and a traditional pagara ceremony to bid farewell to the year in elegant style.

  • Minister Maria Browne Rebukes presentation from Opposition leader Jamale Pringle

    Minister Maria Browne Rebukes presentation from Opposition leader Jamale Pringle

    A significant political confrontation unfolded in Antigua and Barbuda’s Parliament as Minister Maria Browne delivered a stern reprimand to Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle regarding his conduct during legislative proceedings. The exchange, characterized by its intensity, highlighted the deepening political divisions within the nation’s governance framework.

    Minister Browne, representing the ruling administration, articulated strong objections to what she characterized as ‘unsubstantiated allegations and inflammatory rhetoric’ presented by the opposition leader. Her rebuke focused particularly on the manner of presentation rather than merely its content, suggesting Pringle’s approach undermined parliamentary decorum and the seriousness of the legislative process.

    The opposition leader’s presentation, which preceded Browne’s response, reportedly contained criticisms of current government policies and their implementation. While the specific policy domains under discussion remain unspecified in initial reports, the confrontation appears to reflect broader tensions between the governing and opposition parties regarding national direction and governance standards.

    Political analysts observe that such public confrontations between high-ranking government officials and opposition leadership typically indicate heightened political tensions that may influence upcoming legislative debates and potentially affect bipartisan cooperation on critical national issues. The incident marks another chapter in the ongoing political dialogue between Antigua and Barbuda’s major political factions.

  • GFNC: Farm to Table standards

    GFNC: Farm to Table standards

    Grenada is mobilizing a nationwide initiative to transform food safety from a health precaution into a comprehensive national strategy. This effort engages every segment of the food supply chain—from agricultural production to consumer practices—to safeguard public health, enhance export competitiveness, and protect the island’s vital tourism industry.

    At the production level, farmers and fishermen constitute the first defense line. Their adherence to hygienic handling of crops, livestock, and seafood establishes the foundation for everything that follows. The use of clean irrigation water and contamination-free storage methods is particularly crucial for Grenada’s signature exports, including spices, cocoa, and fresh fruits.

    Processing facilities—including bakeries, spice processors, and juice manufacturers—serve as critical intermediaries. These operations are implementing Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) principles to systematically identify and mitigate potential hazards before products reach markets. This adoption of international standards not only protects consumers but also positions Grenadian products favorably in global trade.

    The distribution and retail sector functions as the final checkpoint before food reaches consumers. Supermarkets and distributors bear responsibility for maintaining cold chains, ensuring proper storage conditions, and providing accurate labeling. Any failure in these areas can compromise the entire safety system, making retail establishments crucial guardians of public trust.

    Consumers complete the safety cycle through proper food handling practices in homes. Simple measures including thorough handwashing, adequate cooking, and adherence to storage instructions transform food safety from a regulatory requirement into a community-wide culture of protection.

    Grenada’s strategy incorporates internationally recognized frameworks including the European Union’s Regulation (EC) 852/2004 alongside HACCP methodologies. This integrated approach promises significant national benefits: reduced foodborne illnesses, strengthened export credentials for agricultural products, and enhanced reputation as a premium tourism destination. The Grenada Food and Nutrition Council (GFNC) spearheads this comprehensive effort, recognizing that food safety represents both a public health imperative and an economic investment in the nation’s future.