Carib Scope

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  • Millet/Vannard champions of John Estephane Veterans Tournament

    Millet/Vannard champions of John Estephane Veterans Tournament

    In a spectacular display of cricketing prowess, the Millet/Vannard squad emerged victorious in the championship final, overpowering the previously undefeated Babonneau Minibus team on Saturday, February 7th at Balata Playing Field. The highly anticipated match drew significant attention, including the presence of government officials, with the minister himself among the captivated spectators.

    The championship clash featured two exceptionally skilled teams that had demonstrated outstanding performance throughout the tournament. Babonneau Minibus entered the final match with an impeccable unbeaten record, setting the stage for an intense battle for supremacy.

    Batting first, Babonneau Minibus posted a total of 124-7 during their allocated overs. Their innings was highlighted by Alvin Lafeuille’s remarkable performance, scoring 64 runs from just 49 deliveries. Despite Lafeuille’s impressive contribution, the team struggled with insufficient support from other batsmen, resulting in a below-par total.

    Millet/Vannard responded with exceptional batting efficiency, successfully chasing down the target in merely 10 overs while losing only two wickets. Team captain Kemrol Charles delivered an outstanding leadership performance, scoring 48 runs from 31 balls to secure his team’s victory. The triumph earned Millet/Vannard the championship trophy accompanied by a $1,000 cash prize, while runners-up Babonneau Minibus received $500.

    Following the exhilarating match, organizers conducted an awards ceremony recognizing tournament standouts:

    – Finals MVP: Xavier Gabriel (Millet/Vannard)
    – Tournament’s Highest Run-Scorer: Josean Ghirawhoo (Labayee)
    – Four-Wicket Hauls Achievement: Alvin Lafeuille (Babonneau Minibus)
    – Most Wickets Taken: Jerry Remy (Babonneau Minibus)
    – Tournament MVP: Shervon Joseph (Babonneau Minibus)

  • Anse La Raye bragging rights for Lawrence House

    Anse La Raye bragging rights for Lawrence House

    In a dramatic reversal of fortunes, Lawrence House captured the championship title at the annual inter-house track meet held at Anse La Raye Playing Field on Friday, February 6th. The victory was secured by a razor-thin margin of just two points, dethroning the defending champions, Samuel House, who finished with 358 points against Lawrence’s winning total of 360. Robinson House completed the lineup in third place with 330 points.

    The triumph was spearheaded by the exceptional performance of Lawrence’s Under-13 boys’ squad, which achieved a clean sweep of all five individual gold medals. Jedd Desir emerged as a standout athlete with dominant wins in the 300m and 1200m events. Taj Stephen claimed gold in the 600m and added two bronze medals in the 150m and 300m, while the 80m event featured a Lawrence one-two finish with Liam Henry and Janach Mitchel, the latter also securing victory in the 150m.

    Further bolstering Lawrence’s score was Zandra Seraphin, a member of the 2025 District 4 team, who delivered a stellar performance with three gold medals in the Under-13 girls’ 300m, 600m, and 1000m races. The Under-11 division also saw strong showings from Lawrence, with Jaycee Alphonse dominating the 80m and 150m sprints and Edwin Cadasse taking the 600m title.

    Robinson House remained competitive through standout athletes like Harmony Leonty, who secured a triple victory in the Under-11 girls’ 80m, 150m, and 600m events. The relay competitions ultimately decided the closely contested meet. Samuel House won both girls’ relays (4x100m and 4x300m) and secured silver in both boys’ relays. However, Lawrence’s victories in the two boys’ relay events provided the critical points needed to lift the championship trophy. Physical education teacher Bobby Robutte commended the event, noting, “We started a little late, but everything went well. No injuries, and the kids were energetic.”

  • Dr. Damien Dublin of the Dominica Reparations Committee Calls for reflection and revival during Black History Month 2026

    Dr. Damien Dublin of the Dominica Reparations Committee Calls for reflection and revival during Black History Month 2026

    During Black History Month observances, Dr. Damien Dublin, Chairman of the Dominica Reparations Committee, has issued a compelling call for substantive engagement with Caribbean historical narratives rather than superficial acknowledgment. In an official audio statement, the prominent reparations advocate emphasized the critical importance of pausing to reflect on and recommit to preserving the region’s rich cultural heritage.

    Dr. Dublin articulated that Black History Month should transcend mere remembrance, serving instead as an opportunity for profound understanding and active honoring of those who shaped Caribbean history. He stressed that national heroes, freedom fighters, cultural icons, and everyday resistance figures deserve more than fleeting mentions—they warrant celebration, discussion, and integration into the collective consciousness.

    The reparations leader specifically addressed educators and parents, urging them to employ history as a tool of enlightenment for Black children. “History should be taught to educate, inspire, and excite our children, to highlight the achievements and triumph of Black people,” Dublin asserted. He challenged the conventional narrative that often reduces Black history to slavery, pointing instead to pre-colonial civilizations like the Kingdom of Kush, Benin, and the Ashanti Empire that made significant contributions across science, medicine, agriculture, industry, and commerce.

    Dr. Dublin highlighted numerous technological innovations by Black inventors, including the traffic light system, automatic gear shift, carbon filament for light bulbs, improved ironing boards, artificial heart technology, pacemakers, and even toilet paper. These achievements, he noted, deserve recognition and pride alongside the more familiar narratives of struggle.

    The committee head also advocated for teaching about influential figures like Bob Marley, Marcus Garvey, Nelson Mandela, Fidel Castro, and contemporary leaders such as Ibrahim Traoré. By exposing youth to stories of triumph and resilience, Dublin believes we can inspire a new generation to pursue excellence while instilling cultural pride.

    Dr. Dublin cautioned against disconnection from historical roots, stating: “If we do not teach our history with intention and creativity, we risk losing the connection between our people, youth, and their identity.” He emphasized that understanding history equips people to shape the future with greater confidence and purpose.

    Finally, Dr. Dublin expressed gratitude to media outlets and the public for their support while encouraging broader societal participation in historical preservation efforts. He called on radio stations, schools, churches, community groups, and families to actively elevate local history initiatives and ensure that Caribbean stories are told through Caribbean voices rooted in lived experiences.

  • ONDCP Staff Walk Off Job Over Unsafe Conditions at Camp Blizzard

    ONDCP Staff Walk Off Job Over Unsafe Conditions at Camp Blizzard

    A significant operational disruption has unfolded at the Office of National Drug Control and Money Laundering Policy, as employees initiated industrial action over severe environmental health concerns at the Camp Blizzard facility. The walkout was precipitated by a damning internal report from the Department of Analytical Services, which documented pervasive mold infestation and excessive moisture levels within the building, creating conditions deemed hazardous to occupant health.

    Andie Stephen, General Secretary of the People’s Union, confirmed that the workforce felt compelled to withdraw their labor following a prolonged period of administrative inaction. Despite repeated formal appeals from both staff representatives and union officials urging immediate remediation of the unhealthy working environment, management failed to provide a satisfactory response or commit to a timeline for repairs.

    The union has declared that employees will maintain their position off the job indefinitely. Their core demands include an urgent, independent reinspection of the facility by certified industrial hygienists and a verifiable, fully-funded plan to eradicate all mold contamination and rectify the underlying moisture problems. This standoff highlights critical workplace safety failures within a key government agency responsible for national security matters.

  • St Kitts welcomes over 12,200 cruise passengers in just two days, boosting tourism and local economy – WIC News

    St Kitts welcomes over 12,200 cruise passengers in just two days, boosting tourism and local economy – WIC News

    The Caribbean nation of St Kitts and Nevis has experienced an extraordinary tourism boom, welcoming a remarkable 12,254 cruise passengers during a two-day period in February 2026. This substantial influx represents one of the most significant tourism events in recent history for the twin-island federation, further cementing its status as a premier Caribbean cruise destination.

    On February 8th, Port Zante received three major vessels: Norwegian Getaway (4,654 passengers), Norwegian Gem (2,273 passengers), and Star Seeker (218 passengers), collectively bringing 6,545 visitors to the island on a single day. The following day witnessed the arrival of three additional ships: Seaborne Ovation (577 passengers), Koningsdam (2,535 passengers), and Valiant Lady (2,597 passengers), pushing the two-day total beyond 12,200 arrivals.

    This massive tourist presence has generated substantial economic benefits across multiple sectors. Local entrepreneurs including tour operators, transportation services, hospitality providers, retail establishments, and culinary venues have all reported significant revenue increases. Visitors typically explore cultural landmarks such as the historic Brimstone Hill Fortress and Fairview Great House & Botanical Gardens, while also engaging in recreational activities including snorkeling expeditions, sailing tours to Nevis, and beach relaxation at popular coastal areas like Cockleshell Bay and South Friars Bay.

    The tourism momentum continues with two additional ships—Viking Sea and AIDAblu—scheduled to arrive on February 10th. Further vessels including MSC Virtuosa, Grand Princess, Norwegian Sky, Silver Ray, Costa Fascinosa, and Wind Spirit are expected throughout the remainder of the week, indicating sustained tourism growth for the destination.

  • Barber Charged in Punta Gorda Double Murder

    Barber Charged in Punta Gorda Double Murder

    Punta Gorda, Belize – Following an intensive two-day investigation, local authorities have formally charged 25-year-old Keron George Augustine, a barber from Seine Bight Village, with the double murder of two men in a residential shooting incident. The tragic event unfolded on the evening of February 7th outside a Queen Street residence, sending shockwaves through the community.

    According to official police reports, the victims—24-year-old Luis Barillas and 43-year-old Derrick Arnold—were engaged in social activities at Barillas’ home when the assailant approached the property’s perimeter. The gunman reportedly called out for Barillas from the gate, prompting both men to approach the front yard. Without warning, the attacker unleashed a barrage of gunfire, striking both victims multiple times.

    Medical examinations confirmed Arnold sustained numerous gunshot wounds throughout his body, while Barillas suffered fatal injuries to his head and facial area. Despite emergency response efforts, both men succumbed to their injuries at the scene.

    Law enforcement officials disclosed that multiple investigative angles are being pursued, including possible connections to local drug trafficking operations and the mysterious disappearance of Canadian citizen Alfred Pliel. The complex nature of these potential motives suggests deeper criminal undercurrents in the area that may have contributed to the violent outbreak.

    The community of Punta Gorda remains on edge as authorities continue their investigation into this brutal double homicide, which represents one of the most severe criminal incidents in the region this year.

  • Fees for Jamaican teams for Penn Relays 2026 to be waived

    Fees for Jamaican teams for Penn Relays 2026 to be waived

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant development for track and field, Jamaican athletic teams will compete fee-free at the upcoming 130th edition of the prestigious Penn Relays Carnival. The landmark decision was confirmed Wednesday following high-level discussions between Jamaican sports authorities and event organizers.

    The agreement emerged from a strategic meeting involving the Inter-secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA), Team Jamaica Bickle (TJB) — the primary support organization for Jamaican competitors at the event — and the Penn Relays directorate. The consensus reached will eliminate participation costs for all Jamaican teams attending this year’s competition.

    Irwine Clare, Chief Executive Officer of TJB, revealed that his organization successfully secured sponsorship coverage specifically for the 2024 participation fees. However, Clare emphasized that this financial arrangement constitutes a single-year solution rather than an ongoing commitment, highlighting the need for future funding strategies.

    Scheduled for April 23-25 at Philadelphia’s historic Franklin Field, the Penn Relays will celebrate its 130th iteration with enhanced Caribbean participation. The fee waiver follows substantial Jamaican involvement in last year’s event, which saw 55 teams from the island nation—including five collegiate squads—demonstrate their athletic excellence on the international stage.

  • WATCH: KSAMC allocates $220m for road repairs, urges businesses to meet signage deadline

    WATCH: KSAMC allocates $220m for road repairs, urges businesses to meet signage deadline

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant infrastructure development, the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) has committed J$220 million to comprehensive road rehabilitation projects across all 40 divisions of the municipality. Mayor Andrew Swaby confirmed the funding, which originates from the Parochial Revenue Fund and is being administered through the Divisional Allocation Fund.

    The ambitious program directly addresses longstanding resident complaints regarding potholes, damaged surfaces, and generally deteriorating road conditions. While the substantial allocation will enable essential repairs through patching, resurfacing, and critical section rehabilitation, Mayor Swaby acknowledged financial limitations. “We recognize that these resources, though considerable, cannot address every parochial road under our jurisdiction,” he stated, emphasizing the corporation’s adherence to strict procurement guidelines to ensure compliance and fiscal responsibility.

    Concurrently, the KSAMC has initiated advanced preparations for the 2026 Jamaica Carnival season. An organizational meeting convened on January 27 brought together band leaders and J’ouvert promoters to evaluate previous season challenges and develop solutions for enhancing the Kingston carnival experience. All participating bands have committed to providing production teams that will collaborate closely with the City Engineering Department to ensure structural safety for event patrons.

    The Engineering Department will conduct specialized workshops to guide production teams through the approval process and ensure full regulatory compliance. The KSAMC will additionally coordinate with organizers of watch parties and related events to guarantee timely submission of applications, with a firm deadline set for March 6, 2026. The National Solid Waste Management Authority has been incorporated as a key committee member to ensure efficient post-event cleanup following the April 12 Road March.

    In a separate regulatory initiative, Mayor Swaby urged business operators to comply with the KSAMC’s signage regularization campaign ahead of its March deadline. Since its January launch, 98 businesses have received formal invoices, while the corporation has engaged in consultations with major business representatives including the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce and the Small Business Association of Jamaica. Quarterly meetings with outdoor advertising companies have been established to address concerns and clarify regulatory requirements.

    Despite operating without a dedicated advertising budget, the KSAMC has implemented extensive public awareness efforts through radio, social media, official websites, and traditional media outlets. “Claims of insufficient awareness cannot justify non-compliance,” Swaby asserted, reminding stakeholders that signage display falls under the Town and Country Planning Regulations of 1978 and the Kingston and St Andrew Building Act of 2018. While a temporary amnesty period is in effect, the mayor emphasized that signs failing to meet stipulated standards will not receive approval, applying equally to commercial and non-commercial public signage.

  • Delta Airlines CEO says World Cup tourists welcome in US

    Delta Airlines CEO says World Cup tourists welcome in US

    MILAN, Italy — Delta Air Lines Chief Executive Ed Bastian delivered a robust defense of the United States as a premier tourism destination during an interview with AFP on Wednesday. His comments come amid growing international apprehension about U.S. immigration policies under the Trump administration, which some fear could deter visitors for major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    Bastian emphatically distinguished between immigration enforcement and tourism, stating, ‘The U.S. has a focus on immigration. This is not immigration. This is tourism.’ He assured potential visitors that those arriving with proper documentation would encounter ‘no issues’ entering the country.

    The CEO’s reassurances are strategically timed as the United States, alongside co-hosts Canada and Mexico, prepares to welcome a massive influx of international travelers for the month-long football championship starting June 11, 2026. Bastian expressed optimism that the tournament would attract substantial European and international visitors, providing a significant boost to the U.S. travel market.

    Simultaneously, Bastian revealed Delta’s strong financial outlook, projecting first-quarter 2026 revenue growth between 5-7%, driven by sustained demand from premium consumers. The airline’s sponsorship of Team USA at the Winter Olympic Games underscores its commitment to global sporting partnerships.

    In a significant fleet development, Delta announced its January order for 30 Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, with options for 30 additional planes. This move marks a strategic diversification for the carrier, which has historically been a major Airbus customer. Bastian addressed Boeing’s recent challenges, including the 737 MAX groundings following fatal crashes in 2018 and 2019, expressing confidence in the manufacturer’s recovery. ‘Boeing is doing a good job of stabilizing the situation,’ he noted, praising the company’s progress under new leadership.

    The CEO emphasized the necessity of maintaining relationships with both major aircraft manufacturers: ‘As one of the largest global airlines in the world, you can’t rely only on Airbus. You must work with both suppliers.’ He concluded with measured optimism regarding Boeing’s trajectory: ‘We’re now at a point where we’re confident Boeing is on the good side of recovery.’

  • New taxes coming, Gov’t confirms

    New taxes coming, Gov’t confirms

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – In a significant fiscal policy shift, Finance Minister Fayval Williams declared Wednesday that Jamaica will implement new taxation measures as part of its forthcoming national budget. This decision responds to the catastrophic economic impact of Hurricane Melissa, which caused devastation equivalent to approximately 41% of the nation’s gross domestic product.

    The hurricane resulted in an estimated US$8.8 billion in damages, creating unprecedented reconstruction needs and increased public service demands while simultaneously reducing government revenue streams due to widespread economic disruption across multiple sectors.

    Williams emphasized that the government faces a critical balancing act between addressing immediate disaster recovery requirements and maintaining Jamaica’s hard-won fiscal discipline. Independent analysts confirm that the magnitude of this fiscal crisis makes new taxation inevitable after nearly ten years without such measures.

    “We recognize the resulting fiscal gap cannot be ignored,” Williams stated, confirming “measured steps” would be taken, including necessary tax initiatives within the budget framework.

    The Finance Minister explicitly rejected financing the entire deficit through borrowing, referencing Jamaica’s painful history with debt traps characterized by decades of high indebtedness, crippling interest payments, and constrained fiscal flexibility. “We have lived through the debt trap before,” Williams noted, adding that the government remains committed to preserving the fiscal progress achieved in recent years.

    While borrowing will continue to play a strategic role, Williams clarified it would be specifically targeted toward capital investments in infrastructure, agriculture, logistics, and digital systems designed to enhance productive capacity and strengthen economic resilience.

    Drawing a clear distinction between recurrent expenses and growth-oriented investment, Williams asserted: “As far as possible, recurrent expenses must be financed by taxation revenue.

    The government simultaneously offered reassurances that equity principles would guide tax design, with officials currently reviewing systemic anomalies to ensure fair burden distribution and protection for vulnerable populations.

    This budget represents a pivotal moment for Jamaica’s long-term economic stewardship, coming after more than a decade of fiscal credibility restoration through debt reduction and sustained primary surpluses following repeated economic crises. Williams framed the current decisions as determinative for whether future generations inherit an economy constrained by unsustainable debt or strengthened through resilience and opportunity.