Carib Scope

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  • GOB Wins Major Court Ruling

    GOB Wins Major Court Ruling

    In a decisive legal victory for public health regulation, the Supreme Court of Belize has dismissed a constitutional challenge brought by four pharmacies operating within the Fort Street Tourism Village in Belize City. The ruling, delivered by Justice Nadine Nabie, affirms the legality of the government’s August 2022 enforcement action that resulted in the closure and seizure of pharmaceutical products from these establishments.

    The case stemmed from an operation conducted on August 10, 2022, when inspectors from the Ministry of Health, accompanied by police personnel, executed regulatory measures against Pharmacy Express Limited and three associated businesses. During the intervention, authorities confiscated pharmaceutical inventory and mandated immediate cessation of operations.

    The plaintiffs had argued that these actions constituted violations of their constitutional protections against arbitrary search and deprivation of property. However, Justice Nabie’s thorough examination revealed a pattern of regulatory non-compliance dating back to 2017, when new licensing requirements were implemented. Court evidence demonstrated that inspection reports from 2017 through 2019 consistently documented the pharmacies’ failure to meet statutory obligations.

    Critical findings indicated that the establishments operated without mandatory business licenses, employed no registered chemists, and lacked necessary authorization to dispense controlled substances and antibiotics. While the pharmacies contested receiving formal notice, the court established that a ten-day closure advisory had been issued via letter dated August 3, 2022.

    The judgment notably addressed the government’s delayed enforcement timeline, stating that while the Ministry’s protracted inaction was ‘inexcusable,’ this administrative failure could not legitimize non-compliant operations. The ruling emphatically declared that ‘no person can have an expectation or right to the ultra vires relaxation of a statutory requirement.’

    As a consequential outcome, the court ordered the dismissed claimants to bear the government’s legal costs, reinforcing the precedent that regulatory compliance in pharmaceutical sales remains non-negotiable for public safety.

  • US Federal authorities aware of American woman missing in Guyana

    US Federal authorities aware of American woman missing in Guyana

    US federal authorities have become actively involved in the search for Mary A. Jones, a 69-year-old American citizen who disappeared during a trip to Guyana and failed to return home as scheduled. The case has drawn significant attention from both American and Guyanese authorities, with international cooperation underway to locate the missing New Jersey resident.

    According to official reports from Gloucester Township Police, Jones was last contacted by family members on October 3, 2025, and was formally reported missing on October 28, 2025. Investigation findings confirm she traveled internationally to Guyana and was expected to return during the week of January 12, 2026, but never arrived back in the United States.

    The situation has prompted high-level diplomatic inquiries, though Guyanese officials have maintained cautious responses regarding potential formal assistance requests. Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Todd stated he was unaware of any official US request for help through his ministry. Meanwhile, Deputy Police Commissioner Wendell Blanhum, head of Guyana’s Criminal Investigations Department, declined to comment on whether the US had sought assistance, citing confidentiality protocols in international law enforcement communications.

    Authorities have launched a public appeal for information regarding Jones’s whereabouts. The Gloucester Township Police Department is urging anyone with knowledge of her location to contact emergency services at 911, their direct line at 856-228-4500, or submit tips anonymously through their online portal at https://gtpolice.com/tips.

  • GTA highlights robust nautical calendar

    GTA highlights robust nautical calendar

    Grenada is strategically amplifying its status as a leading marine tourism destination through an ambitious portfolio of sailing and sportfishing events scheduled for its 2026 nautical season. The island nation’s comprehensive calendar, featuring competitive regattas, international rallies, and cultural heritage celebrations, demonstrates sustained expansion within this high-value tourism sector.

    The archipelago’s growing appeal within global sailing communities stems from its advantageous natural geography, state-of-the-art marina infrastructure, and established reputation as a secure and welcoming Caribbean port. With deep-water harbors, protected anchorages, and seamless connectivity between Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique, the tri-island destination has become increasingly favored by both competitive sailors and leisure mariners.

    Season highlights include the Pure Grenada Billfish Tournament (January 25-30, 2026), which enters a transformative phase with Pure Grenada assuming title sponsorship for the first time. This tournament, maintaining over five decades of operation as one of the Caribbean’s most prestigious sportfishing competitions, continues to attract international anglers while promoting the islands’ rich marine heritage and premium visitor experiences.

    Grenada Sailing Week will run concurrently from January 25-30, with inaugural events hosted in Carriacou, highlighting the expanding role of the Sister Isles within the nation’s tourism framework. This event combines competitive racing with cultural activities, encouraging prolonged visitor stays and deeper community engagement.

    The Workboat Regatta (January 31-February 1) spotlights traditional seafaring culture, celebrating Grenada’s historic boat-building and racing traditions. Local sailors from coastal communities across all three islands compete in handcrafted vessels, preserving an authentic maritime legacy central to the destination’s cultural identity.

    February welcomes the Vikings Explorer Rally, featuring an international cruising fleet whose participants typically remain for extended periods. Their presence generates substantial economic benefits through marina activity, local business patronage, and cultural exchanges, demonstrating the significant multiplier effect of nautical tourism.

    Tourism officials emphasize the strategic importance of these events. Stacey Liburd, CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority, noted: ‘Our decision to become title sponsor reflects our commitment to strengthening the sportfishing sector while reinforcing Grenada’s standing as a serious maritime destination.’

    Shanai St Bernard, Nautical Development Manager at the GTA, added: ‘From international rallies to community-rooted regattas, the nautical sector delivers sustained value, visibility, and authenticity for the destination.’

    This coordinated 2026 nautical calendar represents a balanced approach to marine tourism development that honors heritage while pursuing international exposure and long-term growth. As planning already advances for the 2027 season, Grenada continues to enhance its maritime identity and consolidate its position within the global sailing and sportfishing landscape.

  • Antigua and Barbuda U17 Women Head to Curaçao for CONCACAF Qualifiers

    Antigua and Barbuda U17 Women Head to Curaçao for CONCACAF Qualifiers

    ST. JOHN’S, Antigua — The future of women’s football in Antigua and Barbuda is set for an international test as the nation’s Under-17 Women’s National Team has commenced its journey to Curaçao for the highly anticipated CONCACAF Women’s Under-17 Qualifiers. This tournament represents a crucial developmental milestone for the young squad, offering them a platform to compete against regional counterparts.

    The team faces a demanding group-stage schedule designed to evaluate their skill and endurance. Their inaugural match is scheduled against Guyana on Sunday evening at 7 p.m. local time. Following this, the squad will confront Guatemala in an afternoon fixture on Tuesday at 4 p.m. The competition continues Thursday night with a prime-time matchup versus the Cayman Islands at 7 p.m., culminating in their final group-stage encounter against St. Lucia on Saturday at 4 p.m.

    These qualifiers are recognized as an essential proving ground for emerging football talent across the CONCACAF region. The tournament structure provides national youth teams with competitive international experience and the opportunity to secure advancement, positioning themselves among the confederation’s elite youth programs.

    The Antigua and Barbuda delegation approaches the tournament with strategic focus, aiming to deliver robust performances against a varied field of opponents. This participation is viewed as a fundamental component of the country’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its football program at the youth international level, building a foundation for future success in women’s soccer.

  • IMF releases 2025 Article IV Consultation Report on Grenada

    IMF releases 2025 Article IV Consultation Report on Grenada

    The Grenadian government has officially welcomed the International Monetary Fund’s conclusive 2025 Article IV Consultation Report, which received formal endorsement from the IMF Executive Board. This comprehensive assessment, initially conducted during an on-site mission to Grenada in October 2025, has now been fully published alongside a detailed Debt Sustainability Analysis (DSA) through IMF digital platforms and Grenada’s Ministry of Finance communication channels.

    The IMF’s evaluation presents an optimistic perspective on Grenada’s economic and fiscal direction, highlighting confidence in the nation’s near to medium-term growth prospects. This positive outlook is primarily driven by vigorous construction sector activity and the economy’s limited vulnerability to international trade volatilities.

    Critical findings from the Debt Sustainability Analysis affirm the continued sustainability of Grenada’s public debt, while acknowledging that the country’s debt distress rating—maintained since 2015—stems from unresolved external arrears with Trinidad and Tobago and Algeria. Grenadian authorities emphasized their ongoing good-faith negotiations to regularize these arrears and enhance the nation’s credit standing.

    Reaffirming its dedication to fiscal discipline, the government reiterated its commitment to the Fiscal Resilience Framework, which includes achieving a 60% debt-to-GDP benchmark by 2035. Concurrently, Grenada continues to advance strategic investment initiatives, notably Project Polaris, its flagship healthcare enhancement program.

    The administration remains steadfast in its pursuit of transparent economic governance and sustained collaboration with international financial institutions, including the IMF, to ensure sustainable and inclusive development across the Caribbean nation.

  • Hilaire: Talks with Uber yet to take place

    Hilaire: Talks with Uber yet to take place

    The highly anticipated launch of global ride-sharing giant Uber in Saint Lucia faces regulatory uncertainty as crucial discussions with Tourism Minister Ernest Hilaire remain unconvened. Despite preliminary correspondence indicating mutual interest in dialogue, no formal engagement has occurred between the company and government officials.

    Minister Hilaire confirmed the stalled communications during a January 19th pre-Cabinet briefing, acknowledging receipt of Uber’s written expression of interest but noting the absence of subsequent scheduling. “I agreed that we shall have a meeting in the new year,” Hilaire stated, “but no meeting has been held.” The minister emphasized he would await Uber’s formal presentation at the appropriate time.

    Complicating the potential market entry, the Saint Lucia National Taxi Union has submitted what the minister characterized as an ‘interesting’ letter outlining substantial concerns regarding Uber’s disruptive impact on traditional taxi services. Union President Terry Valcin has previously voiced strong opposition, labeling the proposed service as “potentially detrimental” to local operators, with multiple affiliated associations echoing this resistance.

    This stands in direct contrast to Uber’s own assessment of local receptiveness. In December 2025 statements to St. Lucia Times, company representatives reported being “encouraged by the positive response,” citing numerous driver and association sign-ups during preliminary outreach.

    Amid these conflicting perspectives, Minister Hilaire advocated for measured patience, clarifying that Uber’s launch currently falls outside the administration’s priority agenda. He urged stakeholders to maintain calm as future discussions develop, emphasizing that any formal negotiations would prioritize transparent dialogue between government entities, the taxi union, and Uber representatives.

    The minister further highlighted existing regulatory frameworks that restrict participation in transport services exclusively to licensed taxi drivers operating vehicles with official ‘TX’ license plates, establishing significant legal considerations for Uber’s proposed operations.

  • Community focus in St James North

    Community focus in St James North

    As Barbados approaches its February 11 general election, residents of St James North express broad acceptance of the early election call while using the campaign to advocate for community-specific improvements. Constituency interviews reveal a complex landscape where political support coexists with practical demands for enhanced infrastructure and social programs.

    Multiple voters acknowledged Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s prerogative in scheduling the early poll, with Marcia Jordan-Shepherd of Douglin Road noting, ‘She is the prime minister and she did what she had to do.’ This sentiment was echoed by Anderson Worrell of The Whim, who suggested the early election reflected Mottley’s political confidence despite initial surprise among some voters.

    The constituency’s current representative, Barbados Labour Party’s Chad Blackman, received significant praise for his accessible leadership style and tangible accomplishments. Jordan-Shepherd credited Blackman with road repairs and housing improvements, stating, ‘Since Mr. Blackman get in here, he done a lot.’ Elderly voter Grethal Smith of Rock Dundo highlighted Blackman’s responsiveness: ‘I can call Mr. Blackman anytime. He’s gonna turn up.’

    However, residents articulated specific concerns requiring attention. Safety measures dominated requests, with Jordan-Shepherd advocating for road humps and better lighting near a children’s park. Worrell, managing a local cricket club, emphasized the need for dedicated sports facilities to prevent youth from playing road tennis in dangerous areas.

    Infrastructure deficiencies emerged as another priority, with several residents noting that while some road patching had occurred, comprehensive repaving remained necessary. George Thornhill of Baird’s Road raised persistent flooding issues, noting his basement had been ‘washed out again’ during recent storms.

    Social programs for different demographics featured prominently in voter requests. Elderly residents sought increased opportunities for socialization and activities, while younger constituents desired structured programs like evening classes in practical skills such as hair braiding and weaving.

    Candidate Blackman framed his campaign within broader developmental objectives, stating, ‘This campaign is not just about the re-election of the party, but saying to the country, how do we now move forward in our development.’ He characterized constituency leadership as being ‘the chief servant’ while expressing confidence without complacency.

    The constituency has maintained strong BLP affiliations for most of the past four decades, with Blackman continuing the party’s dominance following his 2025 by-election victory. He faces challenges from Democratic Labour Party’s Charles Worrell and Steffanie Williams of Friends of Democracy in the upcoming election.

  • Windies salvage pride with final match win over Afghanistan

    Windies salvage pride with final match win over Afghanistan

    In a dramatic conclusion to their T20 International series, the West Indies cricket team secured a morale-boosting 15-run victory against Afghanistan in Dubai. Playing for pride after conceding the series in the first two matches, the Caribbean side demonstrated remarkable resilience to claim their first-ever win at the Dubai International Stadium.

    Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan’s decision to field first after winning the toss marked a strategic departure from previous matches, intended to test his squad under varying conditions ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup. The West Indies, sent in to bat, built their innings around captain Brandon King’s determined 47 runs from 35 deliveries. Despite struggling to maintain momentum through the middle overs, late explosive contributions from Matthew Forde (27 off 11 balls) and Shamar Springer (16 off 9 balls) propelled the team to 151/7—the highest total recorded in the series.

    Afghanistan appeared poised for a clean sweep when openers Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran established a solid 74-run partnership. However, the West Indies bowlers mounted a spectacular comeback through disciplined line and length, gradually stifling the scoring rate. The match turned decisively in the 19th over when Barbadian all-rounder Shamar Springer achieved a sensational hat trick, dramatically shifting momentum.

    With Afghanistan requiring 20 runs from the final over, young bowler Ramon Romario Simmonds delivered under immense pressure, expertly defending the total to secure a memorable victory. This triumph provides crucial momentum for the West Indies as they prepare to face South Africa on January 27 in their final bilateral series before the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup.

  • Denemarken: NAVO niet bevoegd om over Groenland te onderhandelen

    Denemarken: NAVO niet bevoegd om over Groenland te onderhandelen

    A complex geopolitical landscape is unfolding in the Arctic region as NATO members assert national sovereignty while addressing collective security concerns. The situation emerged following diplomatic exchanges at the World Economic Forum in Davos, where U.S. President Donald Trump met with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

    Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen clarified through social media that Secretary General Rutte cannot negotiate on behalf of Denmark or Greenland regarding the territory, while simultaneously praising his efforts to maintain alliance unity. Lund Poulsen established Denmark’s unequivocal position: “We will not cede sovereignty over any parts of the kingdom,” though he acknowledged the positive development of NATO’s increased focus on Arctic security.

    Polish President Karol Nawrocki expressed hope for a diplomatic resolution to the Greenland matter, suggesting talks between the Danish Prime Minister, U.S. President, and Greenland’s own authorities. This perspective contrasts with Greenlandic Vice Premier Mute Egede’s firm stance that any transfer attempts are “unacceptable,” emphasizing that “It is our land, we determine the future.”

    Amid these sovereignty discussions, U.S. General Alexus Grynkewich, NATO’s supreme commander in Europe, raised concerns about growing Russian-Chinese cooperation in the Arctic, including joint sea and air patrols. This development has prompted NATO to continuously explore methods to strengthen its Arctic positioning.

    Germany’s Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil proposed strategic dialogue with France regarding nuclear deterrence capabilities to enhance European security, clarifying this doesn’t question NATO’s nuclear umbrella but represents an appropriate response to current geopolitical realities.

    According to informed sources, the United States and Denmark will revise their 1951 defense agreement concerning Greenland, with European allies also committing to enhanced Arctic security. Crucially, any arrangements will not place U.S. bases on Greenland under American sovereignty. The existing Pituffik Space Base remains instrumental to U.S. missile defense systems.

    Russian President Vladimir Putin dismissed interest in Greenland’s ownership, stating the U.S. and Denmark must resolve matters bilaterally, while criticizing Denmark’s colonial history there as largely irrelevant today. Chinese Foreign Minister Guo Jiakun rejected what he termed “so-called Chinese threats” and condemned using China as pretext for self-interest.

    The Wall Street Journal reported that discussions between NATO’s Secretary General and Trump included potential U.S. preferential rights to invest in Greenland’s mineral resources, aiming to counter Russian and Chinese influence.

    French Finance Minister Roland Lescure welcomed Trump’s decision to withdraw tariff threats against European countries as “a first positive sign,” emphasizing de-escalation while maintaining vigilance.

    Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen called for constructive negotiations respecting Denmark and the EU’s territorial integrity: “We can discuss virtually everything: security, investments, economy. But our sovereignty is non-negotiable.” This followed Trump’s unexpected announcement withdrawing tariffs and abandoning military actions to acquire Greenland.

  • PRESS RELEASE: West Indies U19 secure super 6 spot with 55-run victory over South Africa

    PRESS RELEASE: West Indies U19 secure super 6 spot with 55-run victory over South Africa

    WINDHOEK, Namibia – In a decisive Group D finale at the HP Oval, the West Indies Under-19 cricket team clinched their place in the Super Six phase of the 2026 ICC Under-19 Men’s World Cup with a commanding 55-run victory against South Africa. The regional squad concluded the group stage with four points from three matches, having previously defeated Tanzania but fallen short against Afghanistan.

    The match unfolded with West Indies opting to bat after winning the toss. Openers Tanez Francis and Zachary Carter navigated the early overs steadily before Francis departed for 14 in the seventh over. Carter then seized control, delivering a spectacular display of power-hitting that featured eight fours and eight sixes on his way to a maiden Youth ODI century. Captain Joshua Dorne contributed 20 runs in a stabilizing 82-run partnership before the middle order briefly faltered.

    Jonathan Van Lange (29) and Shaquan Belle (18) provided crucial lower-order contributions to propel West Indies to a competitive total of 234 all out.

    In response, South Africa – who had posted 397 runs against Tanzania in their previous outing – were bowled out for 179, owing largely to a sensational bowling performance by Shaquan Belle. The paceman recorded tournament-best figures of 6-40, well-supported by Jakeem Pollard, Isra-el Morton, and Vitel Lawes, who each claimed a wicket. Jason Rowles top-scored for South Africa with 46, but the team struggled to build meaningful partnerships under sustained West Indian pressure.

    Zachary Carter earned Player of the Match honors for his match-defining century. Reflecting on his performance, Carter stated: “My intention was to maximize the powerplay, build momentum, and help secure the win. After a couple of low scores, this innings means the world – it proves that with fight and belief, we can go far in this tournament.”

    The West Indies now advance to the Super Six round, where they will face the first and third-placed teams from Group A. Their next match is scheduled for January 25 at the HP Oval, followed by a fixture at Harare Sports Club in Zimbabwe on January 28. Broadcast coverage will be available through ESPN Caribbean, Disney+, Willow TV, Sky Sports, and via global streaming on ICC.tv.