Carib Scope

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  • France probes deaths of two babies after powdered milk recall

    France probes deaths of two babies after powdered milk recall

    BORDEAUX, France — A major health scare is unfolding across Europe’s infant nutrition sector, prompting widespread product recalls and triggering multiple investigations following the tragic deaths of two newborns. French health authorities have launched a probe to determine if contaminated powdered milk is responsible for the fatalities, which occurred in late December and early January.

    Health Minister Stephanie Rist moved to reassure the public on Friday, confirming that all suspicious infant formula batches had been removed from circulation. The crisis centers on potential contamination with cereulide, a dangerous toxin known to cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms including vomiting and diarrhea.

    The investigation involves two separate cases: a two-week-old infant who died January 8 in Bordeaux after consuming formula from subsequently recalled batches, and a 27-day-old who died December 23 in Angers. According to local prosecutors, the second infant’s mother recently came forward to report her child had consumed Nestle products from the affected lots.

    While French authorities emphasize that no causal link has been established between the formula and the deaths, the situation has triggered a domino effect of recalls across the industry. Nestle initiated withdrawals across several European markets on January 6, with the company stating it would fully cooperate with investigations while maintaining there is currently “no evidence” connecting their products to the infant fatalities.

    The recall wave has expanded to include other major manufacturers. Danone announced precautionary withdrawals of limited batches in specific markets on Friday, citing updated guidance from food safety authorities. Similarly, French conglomerate Lactalis recalled numerous batches on Wednesday over cereulide contamination concerns across multiple international markets including Australia, China, Spain, Mexico, and several other countries.

    The international scope of the recalls highlights the globalized nature of the infant formula supply chain, with affected products reaching consumers across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas as manufacturers scramble to contain the potential health risk.

  • Parents urged to reinforce peaceful conflict resolution and healthy behaviours among students

    Parents urged to reinforce peaceful conflict resolution and healthy behaviours among students

    Jamaican health authorities are issuing a compelling call to parents and guardians, urging them to actively foster peaceful conflict-resolution techniques and advocate for healthy habits among students to safeguard a secure and effective academic environment. Gerald Miller, Health Promotion and Education Officer for Westmoreland, emphasized in an interview with JIS News that although disagreements are a natural part of school life, resorting to violence as a solution is unacceptable and carries significant public health risks. He stressed the critical importance of children seeking adult intervention, particularly from teachers, when conflicts emerge, rather than attempting to handle disputes independently. Miller warned that student-initiated resolutions can rapidly intensify, resulting in severe injuries or fatalities, which subsequently burden the healthcare system with preventable medical cases. Beyond conflict, Miller reiterated the necessity of sustained vigilance against communicable diseases in educational settings. He highlighted fundamental hygiene practices—such as covering coughs and sneezes and maintaining thorough handwashing with soap and water—as vital measures to curb virus transmission. Miller also cautioned against touching the eyes, nose, or mouth with unclean hands to prevent direct germ transfer. Adherence to these protocols, he noted, is key to minimizing avoidable visits to medical facilities, thereby alleviating pressure on Jamaica’s health infrastructure and ensuring student safety throughout the school term.

  • Migrant registrations start on Monday with background checks

    Migrant registrations start on Monday with background checks

    Trinidad and Tobago has significantly accelerated the implementation of its Migrant Registration Framework (MRF), moving the launch date forward to January 26 instead of the previously announced January 30. The expedited timeline was confirmed through an official ministry statement on January 23, introducing additional security measures including mandatory fingerprinting requirements for all applicants.

    The digital registration phase will operate through the official portal migrantregistration.gov.tt until February 25, with adult applicants required to pay a $700 registration fee as previously stipulated. Following the online process, mandatory in-person verification will commence at the end of February 2026 across four designated sporting venues selected for their high-capacity capabilities: Hasely Crawford Stadium (Port of Spain), Larry Gomes Stadium (Arima), Ato Boldon Stadium (Couva), and Dwight Yorke Stadium (Tobago).

    Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander emphasized that this initiative differs fundamentally from previous registration exercises by encompassing all undocumented migrants regardless of nationality or previous registration status. The comprehensive vetting process will involve security screenings by police authorities, including fingerprint analysis and background checks, alongside health assessments conducted by Ministry of Health officials.

    Successful registrants will receive migrant registration cards providing legal authorization to reside and work in Trinidad and Tobago until December 31. The ministry issued a stern reminder that failure to participate in this registration exercise will result in deportation proceedings.

    Despite the accelerated timeline, the registration portal remained non-operational as of January 23, displaying a ‘coming soon’ message while encouraging prospective applicants to gather necessary documentation including birth records, passport details, vaccination records, and employment history.

    The current framework expands upon the 2019 initiative that initially registered approximately 16,000 Venezuelan migrants. Minister Alexander characterizes the updated program as a strategic measure promoting equity while strengthening national security protocols.

    However, migrant communities have expressed significant concerns regarding the registration cost and logistical challenges, particularly for single parents and individuals with irregular employment. Many remain apprehensive about potential mass deportations and seek clarification regarding various legal status scenarios, including those with existing deportation orders or previous registration cards.

  • OWTU supports end to STOW

    OWTU supports end to STOW

    The Oilfield Workers Trade Union (OWTU) has declared unwavering support for the Trinidad and Tobago government’s recent decision to eliminate the Safe to Work (STOW) certification program. The union characterized the Energy Chamber that administered the program as an elitist organization serving multinational corporations and privileged local contractors.

    In a strongly-worded statement, OWTU officials asserted that the chamber operated as a self-serving entity that systematically excluded smaller contractors through restrictive pricing mechanisms for certification. The union claimed this created an uneven playing field in the nation’s energy sector over the past decade.

    Union representatives praised Prime Minister Keith Rowley’s administration for responding to concerns raised by medium and small contractors alongside energy sector workers. They contrasted this approach with the previous government’s tenure, during which they allege the Energy Chamber received substantial financial and institutional benefits while experienced workers and smaller contractors were marginalized.

    The OWTU highlighted workplace safety concerns, pointing to fatal incidents that occurred despite STOW certification requirements. The statement specifically referenced the Paria diving tragedy that claimed four lives and another fatality at Heritage offshore Trinmar where the victim’s body remains unrecovered.

    The union concluded that authentic workplace safety cannot be achieved through checklist-based private certification schemes but requires comprehensive union representation and proper oversight mechanisms to protect workers in what they described as a highly dangerous and volatile industry.

  • High Court appoints liquidator, Newsday’s 32-year run nears end

    High Court appoints liquidator, Newsday’s 32-year run nears end

    In a landmark ruling that marks the end of an era for Trinidad and Tobago’s media landscape, the High Court has officially ordered the liquidation of Daily News Ltd, parent company of the Newsday newspaper, after 32 years of operation. Justice Marissa Robertson granted the winding-up petition on January 23, effectively terminating the publication’s print operations that began in September 1993.

    The court appointed Maria Daniel, a chartered financial analyst and partner at Ernst & Young Services Ltd, as liquidator tasked with assuming control of the company’s assets and managing debt repayment to outstanding creditors. The application faced no objections following its official publication in the Gazette on January 15.

    Legal representatives for Daily News Ltd, including attorneys Gregory Pantin and Miguel Vasquez of Hamel-Smith and Company, presented arguments highlighting the company’s insolvency and inability to meet financial obligations. Pantin specifically advocated against provisional liquidation, emphasizing the need for immediate commencement of the winding-up process to minimize additional risks.

    The petition cited Section 355(a) of the Companies Act as legal grounds for dissolution, stating shareholders deemed court-supervised liquidation “desirable and in the best interests of the company” given its unsustainable financial position.

    While Newsday published its final print edition on January 9, its digital operations continue pending the liquidator’s assessment of their viability during the proceedings. The hearing also addressed concerns regarding archival preservation, with interested party Brent Mark Bristol requesting formal safeguards for the newspaper’s historical records.

    Managing Director Grant Taylor previously characterized the closure as resulting from “a perfect storm of challenges” affecting print media globally. He cited multiple contributing factors including a 75% decline in print advertising revenue over the past decade, soaring production costs, changing reader preferences, and financial impacts from lengthy legal battles that left the company over $3 million out of pocket despite successful litigation outcomes.

    Taylor noted that even a minimal price increase from $2 to $3 prompted 40% of readership to abandon the publication, reflecting broader industry challenges in monetizing content. Despite the closure, Taylor expressed pride in Newsday’s legacy of “unwavering independence” and emphasized the critical role of media in maintaining democratic integrity.

  • Condolences pour in for pregnant Venezuelan gunned down in Arouca

    Condolences pour in for pregnant Venezuelan gunned down in Arouca

    The Venezuelan diaspora is united in grief following the tragic killing of Yamerlis Lopez, a young woman originally from La Guaira in Sucre State. The incident occurred on January 21st in Arouca, Trinidad, where Lopez was fatally shot while gathered with others under a garden shed along Garden Road.

    Social media platforms have become a virtual memorial as compatriots express their sorrow and solidarity. Numerous tributes describe her death as an ‘irreparable loss,’ with particular concern directed toward her mother Yaneisis and surviving siblings. One heartfelt message pleaded: ‘Father God, strengthen her family members and let the soul of Yamerlis rest in peace.’

    Adding to the tragedy, Lopez was seven months pregnant at the time of her death. Preliminary police investigations indicate she was not the intended target but was accidentally struck during an attack apparently directed at her boyfriend. The shooting occurred around 1 pm when an unidentified gunman opened fire on the group, causing others to scatter while Lopez was hit.

    Despite being rushed to Arima Hospital, Lopez was pronounced dead upon arrival. Law enforcement agencies including the North Central Division and Homicide Bureau of Investigations (Region Two) have collected evidence from the scene. An autopsy is scheduled at the Forensic Science Centre in St James as authorities continue their search for the suspect, who remains at large.

  • No major damage after Jan 22 flash flooding

    No major damage after Jan 22 flash flooding

    Multiple regions across Trinidad experienced significant flash flooding on January 22nd following intense rainfall, though waters receded rapidly without causing major damage according to official reports. The Ministry of Rural Development and Local Government confirmed incidents across several municipalities including Barrackpore, Diego Martin, Cocorite, Penal/Debe, and the capital city of Port of Spain.

    Minister Khadijah Ameen addressed the situation on January 23rd, noting that while the flooding occurred suddenly, the quick subsidence prevented substantial impacts on communities and infrastructure. The ministry had been monitoring conditions throughout the weather event and maintained communication with regional corporations.

    Specific areas affected included Clarke Road near Shiva Boys’ Hindu College, SS Erin Road adjacent to Bicks Auto, Lachoos Road, and the Lowkie Trace junction along SS Erin Road within the Penal/Debe Regional Corporation jurisdiction. The Port of Spain City Corporation reported water accumulation along major thoroughfares including Cipriani Avenue, Queen’s Park Savannah, and Wrightson Road.

    Additional flooding occurred in the Diego Martin Borough Corporation area, particularly along the Western Main Road approach to Port of Spain, and in the Cocorite district. The Princes Town Regional Corporation reported rising waters at Cumuto South Trace in Barrackpore.

    Minister Ameen has urged residents, particularly those in low-lying and historically flood-prone areas, to maintain vigilance and implement necessary safety measures. The ministry emphasized that the risk of localized flooding persists, especially during periods of heavy or prolonged rainfall, and advised citizens to exercise caution to protect both life and property.

  • WRHA expanding psychosocial support services across Westmoreland

    WRHA expanding psychosocial support services across Westmoreland

    Jamaican health authorities have launched an extensive psychosocial support network across Westmoreland parish to address the mental health needs of communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa. The Western Regional Health Authority (WRHA) is deploying trained mental health professionals to multiple locations to provide critical emotional support services during the recovery period.

    Gerald Miller, Health Promotion and Education Officer for Westmoreland, explained that this initiative represents a comprehensive response to the psychological trauma caused by the hurricane’s impact. The program establishes safe spaces where residents can openly discuss emotional challenges and receive professional counseling without stigma or barriers.

    The support network operates during weekend hours from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm across six strategically chosen locations to maximize accessibility. Petersfield Primary School serves the Petersfield community, while Whitehouse Field Clinic accommodates residents from the Whitehouse area. Additional services are available at Salem Primary for Beeston Spring, Darliston Field Clinic for Darliston residents, and Dundee Primary School serving the Berkshire and Dundee communities.

    Miller emphasized that the program extends beyond basic counseling to include specialized mental health assistance for those requiring more comprehensive support. “Trained experts are prepared to address various mental health concerns that may have been exacerbated or triggered by the hurricane’s devastation,” he stated.

    Health officials are actively encouraging community members to utilize these services, stressing that professional guidance can significantly improve coping mechanisms during what they describe as an exceptionally challenging recovery period. The program’s design ensures that psychological support reaches the most affected populations regardless of their location within the parish.

    The expansion of mental health services forms part of Jamaica’s broader disaster response strategy, recognizing that emotional recovery is equally important as physical reconstruction following natural disasters. This approach acknowledges the long-term psychological impact hurricanes can have on vulnerable communities and represents a proactive step toward comprehensive disaster recovery.

  • Pair of siblings charged over vulgar shanty demolition clash

    Pair of siblings charged over vulgar shanty demolition clash

    Two property owners from Eleuthera have been formally charged following a contentious confrontation with government officials during a demolition exercise in Spanish Wells earlier this month. The incident, which gained national attention through viral social media footage, culminated in court proceedings yesterday.

    Blake and Dominique Pinder appeared before Acting Magistrate Gwendolyn Patram where they entered not guilty pleas to multiple charges including disorderly behavior and using obscene and abusive language. Blake Pinder faces an additional count of obstruction for allegedly interfering with official government operations.

    The charges stem from a heated encounter between the siblings and members of the Unregulated Community Action Task Force during the dismantling of condemned structures in what authorities classified as a shantytown area. Prosecutors asserted that the defendants engaged in shouting racial epithets and physically obstructed officials during the demolition process—allegations both parties vigorously contested in court proceedings.

    As part of their release conditions, judicial authorities imposed strict restrictions prohibiting the defendants from discussing the case or posting related content on social media platforms. The case has been adjourned until February 4 for further proceedings.

    This legal confrontation follows a broader government initiative targeting unregulated structures deemed unsafe or unlawful throughout the Bahamas. The operation in Spanish Wells generated significant public discourse after video evidence circulated widely showing intense exchanges between the Pinders and task force personnel.

    Prior to the legal charges, Blake Pinder had publicly contested the government’s actions, claiming officials unlawfully demolished family property that had been owned for decades. He maintained that despite efforts to regularize the development—including providing housing with established utility connections—authorities failed to properly engage with him before proceeding with demolition. Pinder further disputed the government’s classification of the property as part of a shantytown, noting his late father’s longstanding ownership and the structures’ established nature.

  • Chizz Chizem tackles relationship issues on Only You and Nite Monster

    Chizz Chizem tackles relationship issues on Only You and Nite Monster

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Emerging reggae artist Chizz Chizem, born Shanet Chisholm, expresses growing confidence that her musical career is approaching a significant turning point. Fourteen years after initiating her artistic journey in Mandeville, Jamaica, the singer-songwriter now operates from Cincinnati, Ohio, where she’s cultivating a dedicated following within America’s compact but vibrant reggae community.

    Her two latest singles, ‘Only You’ and ‘Nite Monster,’ released in December 2023, explore themes of romance and emotional complexity. These releases have generated encouraging audience responses that fuel her determination to persist in the competitive music industry. ‘The feedback from these two songs has given me the motivation to continue this journey,’ Chizz Chizem revealed during a recent interview with Observer Online.

    The independent artist emphasized her continuous development of professional networks, vocal technique, and songwriting proficiency. Currently, she’s collaborating with producer Mac Niff to finalize an extended play (EP) project designed for broad audience appeal. ‘Mac Niff is creating the beats and handling recording and mixing. I feel this will be a worthwhile project that everyone can listen to,’ she commented regarding their creative partnership.

    Despite the relatively niche status of reggae in the American Midwest, Chizz Chizem reports steady expansion of her supporter base since relocating to the United States. She characterizes the regional scene as ‘small but united’ and notes measurable progress in building her artistic presence. Her debut single ‘Struggles,’ produced by Ralston Barrett in 2012, marked her initial entry into the music industry, and she now stands poised to deliver her most comprehensive work to date.