Carib Scope

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  • Funding cut, limited placements hamper Job Start Plus – officials

    Funding cut, limited placements hamper Job Start Plus – officials

    Barbados’s flagship youth employment initiative, Job Start Plus, is confronting severe operational challenges that threaten its viability, prompting urgent calls for a comprehensive restructuring. During parliamentary estimates debates on Monday, lawmakers were presented with revised funding projections showing a drastic reduction from $2.9 million to $1.5 million, severely constraining the program’s capacity to deliver meaningful workforce development.

    The programme operates within a crowded ecosystem of youth initiatives including Gateways, Prince’s Trust, and the Barbados Youth Advanced Corps, creating competitive pressures for both participants and employer placements. Minister of Labour Colin Jordan highlighted the critical need for inter-ministerial collaboration, noting that ‘officers administering all of these programmes are essentially knocking on the same doors’ while competing for a limited pool of private sector employers.

    Post-COVID economic caution has significantly impacted employer participation, with many medium and large businesses retreating from their previous commitments to fund trainee stipends. Minister Jordan revealed that the government is considering subsidizing portion of stipend costs to incentivize private sector engagement, emphasizing that ’employing organizations should recognize in a material way their responsibility’ in youth development.

    Programme Manager Erika Watson detailed significant expansions to the World of Work training component, which now encompasses three weeks of intensive preparation covering core skills, resume writing, interview techniques, and psychosocial topics including work-life balance and family conflict management. Despite these enhancements, placement rates remain concerning with only approximately 410 successful placements since inception—representing less than 50% of trained participants.

    Structural challenges include literacy gaps among participants and limited organizational capacity for mentorship, with Watson noting that success correlates strongly with employers possessing dedicated human resource management resources. Both Watson and Minister Jordan identified enhanced marketing and promotion as critical to demonstrating the program’s value in delivering workplace-ready talent.

    Concurrently, Minister of Economic Affairs Marsha Caddle proposed expanding youth program access through faith-based organizations, addressing current legislative restrictions under the Charities Act that will require amendments to ensure non-discriminatory access to funding and resources across all religious denominations in Barbados.

    The collective assessment indicates that lessons from Job Start Plus will fundamentally inform future youth employment program structures, supervision frameworks, and strategic fund allocation to maximize impact and address systemic employment barriers facing Barbadian youth.

  • Brittons Hill take top spot after defeating Ellerton

    Brittons Hill take top spot after defeating Ellerton

    Brittons Hill United has dramatically ascended to the top of the Barbados Football Association’s Premier League table following a pivotal 3-1 comeback victory against rivals Ellerton in a heated ninth-round clash at the BFA Technical Centre in Wildey.

    The match began with Brittons Hill dominating possession, but it was Ellerton who struck first. In the 27th minute, Roshon Gittens expertly converted a free-kick from just outside the box, leaving goalkeeper Shaquille Frank motionless. The lead was short-lived, however. Brittons Hill captain T’Shane Lorde capitalized on a goalmouth scramble from a corner in the 33rd minute, prodding the ball home to equalize.

    The game’s momentum shifted decisively just four minutes later when Ellerton defender Shane Codrington received a straight red card for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity. Playing against ten men, Brittons Hill seized control. Kirtney Franklyn, who was a constant threat on the left flank, put his team ahead in the 53rd minute by brilliantly controlling a long ball and calmly finishing for his league-leading eighth goal of the season. Ngozi Reid extended the advantage in the 64th minute with a powerful strike, sealing the 3-1 result.

    Despite the crucial win, Brittons Hill coach Richard Forde expressed dissatisfaction, urging his team to be more clinical in maintaining leads. The victory propels Brittons Hill to first place with 19 points, overtaking Paradise (17 points), while Ellerton remains third on goal difference.

    In other league action, defending champions Weymouth Wales missed a critical opportunity to claim the top spot after being held to a 1-1 draw by Eyre’s Meat Shop Pride of Gall Hill. This marks their fourth draw of the season, leaving coach Asquith Howell to lament his team’s inability to convert possession into goals. Elsewhere, Bagatelle secured a 2-1 win over struggling Wotton, further distancing themselves from the relegation zone.

  • St. Vincent and the Grenadines announces US$50 million initiative to strengthen water security

    St. Vincent and the Grenadines announces US$50 million initiative to strengthen water security

    The Caribbean nation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines is poised for a transformative upgrade to its water infrastructure, following a major financial commitment announced by Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday. A proposed US$50 million initiative, developed in the wake of high-level discussions at the CARICOM Heads of Government Conference in Saint Kitts and Nevis, is designed to fortify the nation’s climate resilience and ensure long-term water security.

    Spearheaded by the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre, the comprehensive program targets critical weaknesses in the multi-island state’s water supply chain. Central to the strategy is a significant modernization drive for existing desalination facilities, a crucial upgrade for a nation surrounded by saltwater yet facing freshwater scarcity. The project scope further includes a substantial expansion of water storage capacity and a complete overhaul of aging distribution networks to enhance service reliability and reduce wastage.

    A key infrastructural component involves the construction of six new large-scale water storage tanks in strategic locations, including Georgetown and Kingstown Park. These reservoirs are engineered to bolster the national capacity to harness and manage water resources, specifically targeting regions historically plagued by inconsistent supply and scarcity.

    Financing for this ambitious endeavor is anchored by a substantial grant, with approximately US$40 million expected to be allocated from the Green Climate Fund, a primary global financial mechanism for supporting climate adaptation and mitigation projects in developing nations. This investment is strategically aimed at building robust defenses against climate variability, which increasingly manifests as prolonged droughts and irregular rainfall patterns in the region.

    Prime Minister Friday emphasized the project’s profound socioeconomic implications, stating it will ‘fundamentally transform water security,’ particularly in the Grenadines archipelago. He identified a reliable water supply as not just a basic utility for residents but also an indispensable prerequisite for sustainable tourism development and economic diversification. The Premier highlighted the exorbitant current economic burden of water transportation, which he cited as a major impediment to growth within the nation’s critical hospitality sector.

  • Another HAPI Home Completed as Programme Continues to Expand Housing Support

    Another HAPI Home Completed as Programme Continues to Expand Housing Support

    Antigua’s Home Assistance Programme for the Indigent (HAPI) has marked another significant achievement with the successful completion of a new housing unit, demonstrating the power of collaborative community action. Inspector Ragguette, representing the initiative, emphasized that strategic partnerships with dedicated individuals and organizations have been instrumental in delivering essential housing support to economically disadvantaged residents throughout the island.

    The program organizers released an official statement expressing pride in this latest accomplishment, noting that each completed home represents the collective dedication of numerous supporters who contribute time, material resources, and specialized services. “We maintain an extensive network of contributors whose steadfast commitment deserves recognition,” the statement elaborated. “These vital alliances enable HAPI to consistently create meaningful change across Antiguan communities.”

    Beyond the physical structures, the program’s leadership highlighted the profound psychosocial impact of their work. The initiative deliberately frames housing assistance as a catalyst for hope and dignity rather than merely addressing shelter needs. “The generosity of our partners constructs more than buildings—it establishes foundations for optimism and renewed opportunity,” the statement affirmed.

    The HAPI program operates as a comprehensive housing solution provider for vulnerable populations throughout Antigua and Barbuda. Its scope includes both construction of new dwellings and critical repairs to existing structures, ensuring safe living conditions for those most in need within the island nation.

  • MBS Pharmacy Opens Today at Glanvilles Polyclinic

    MBS Pharmacy Opens Today at Glanvilles Polyclinic

    Eastern Antigua witnesses a significant enhancement in healthcare infrastructure with the inauguration of a new Medical Benefits Scheme (MBS) pharmacy at the Glanvilles Polyclinic. This strategic development, announced by Health and Wellness Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph, directly addresses geographical barriers to medical care by enabling local residents to obtain prescription medications within their community, eliminating protracted journeys to distant dispensaries.

    This pharmacy establishment constitutes a pivotal component of the Ministry of Health’s comprehensive strategy to decentralize medical services and fortify healthcare accessibility across rural and eastern regions. The integration of pharmaceutical services is projected to substantially elevate patient convenience, offering particular advantage to individuals managing chronic conditions who depend on consistent medication regimens.

    In a parallel initiative to bolster emergency medical response capabilities, the Ministry confirmed the imminent deployment of a dedicated ambulance to the Glanvilles Polyclinic. Scheduled for operational status by the conclusion of March, this resource is anticipated to markedly improve emergency response times and service efficacy for surrounding communities, representing a dual advancement in both routine and critical healthcare provision.

  • Alex Browne Calls for Rupert “King Swallow” Highway Name to Be Preserved

    Alex Browne Calls for Rupert “King Swallow” Highway Name to Be Preserved

    In the lead-up to the crucial St. Philip’s North by-election scheduled for March 16, United Progressive Party candidate Alex Browne has taken a definitive stance on cultural preservation. Browne has emphatically advocated for the Rupert “King Swallow” Philo Highway to retain its current designation, asserting that the roadway serves as an enduring tribute to one of Antigua and Barbuda’s most seminal cultural figures.

    During a recent interview on Observer Radio, Browne articulated his position that the highway must continue to honor the legacy of the late calypso virtuoso Sir Rupert “King Swallow” Philo, who passed away in September 2020 at age 78 after an extended illness. “Rupert ‘King Swallow’ Philo stands as a national icon whose immense contributions to our cultural and musical heritage cannot be overstated,” Browne declared. “Maintaining the highway’s nomenclature represents a permanent homage to his extraordinary legacy.”

    Sir Rupert Philo, celebrated throughout the Caribbean as one of the region’s most distinguished calypsonians, achieved prominence through his innovative fusion of social commentary and political satire. His career launched with the seminal track “Raphael Trujillo” and spanned decades during which he produced an impressive catalog of hits including “Fire in the Backseat,” “Subway Jam,” “Party in Space,” and “Satan Coming Down.” These works garnered widespread admiration across the Caribbean diaspora and beyond.

    Philo’s artistic dominance was evidenced by his four captures of Antigua’s prestigious calypso crown (1973, 1977, 1978, 1985) and five Road March titles. His contributions were formally recognized when he received knighthood from Antigua and Barbuda in acknowledgment of his transformative impact on the nation’s cultural development and the calypso art form.

    Browne emphasized that preserving the highway’s name would serve an educational purpose for younger generations, ensuring continued awareness of the artist’s cultural significance. “King Swallow fundamentally shaped the soundtrack of Antigua and Barbuda,” Browne noted. “This form of commemoration actively maintains that historical consciousness.”

    The March 16 by-election pits Browne against Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party candidate Randy Baltimore, with the outcome determining representation for the St. Philip’s North constituency in parliament. This cultural preservation issue has now become intertwined with the electoral contest, highlighting the intersection of politics and cultural heritage in Antiguan society.

  • SRD 117 miljoen overgemaakt voor toelagen ziekenhuispersoneel

    SRD 117 miljoen overgemaakt voor toelagen ziekenhuispersoneel

    The Surinamese Ministry of Finance and Planning has confirmed the transfer of SRD 117.6 million (approximately $117 million) in outstanding allowances for hospital personnel, addressing growing tensions with healthcare unions. The funds cover multiple critical allowances for the first quarter of 2026, including bridging, recruitment, and retention payments, alongside clothing allowances and government contributions to regional medical facilities.

    This financial injection comes in response to recent ultimatums from health sector trade unions demanding timely payment of these essential benefits. The ministry emphasized that despite the disbursement already occurring through proper channels, various practical factors can occasionally cause processing delays within the payment system.

    The bridging allowance, a temporary support measure, was established to assist healthcare workers during the transitional period toward implementing a new wage structure for the sector. This interim solution aims to provide financial stability for medical professionals while authorities finalize the comprehensive compensation reform.

    Minister Adelien Wijnerman and Director Vincent Fernandes verified that the Central Bank of Suriname has transferred the full amount of SRD 117,657,390 to Finabank accounts designated for hospital disbursement. From this central repository, funds will be distributed to individual healthcare institutions’ accounts for subsequent allocation to medical staff.

    The ministry has issued an urgent appeal to healthcare workers to maintain service continuity, assuring them that the financial resources have now been released through established procedural channels.

  • Defence partnership

    Defence partnership

    In a significant development for Caribbean security cooperation, the United States has pledged enhanced support to Trinidad and Tobago’s ongoing battle against drug trafficking networks and designated terrorist organizations. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar conducted high-level talks at the US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) headquarters in Doral, Florida, marking a strategic escalation in bilateral defense partnerships.

    The diplomatic engagement focused on concrete measures to strengthen collaborative security initiatives, particularly addressing the critical challenges of narco-terrorism and transnational criminal operations proliferating throughout the Caribbean region. Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar emphasized the urgent requirement for advanced US assistance in cybersecurity capabilities, forensic analysis, and ballistic technology to effectively combat sophisticated criminal enterprises.

    This high-stakes meeting occurred against the backdrop of Trinidad and Tobago’s currently active state of emergency, declared on March 3rd to address escalating security concerns. The discussions built upon previous multilateral agreements, including the recent Americas Counter-Cartel Conference where Defense Minister Wayne Sturge advocated for increased operational assets for Caribbean nations.

    Notably, the partnership already demonstrates tangible outcomes with the operational deployment of a US-funded radar surveillance system at Tobago’s ANR Robinson International Airport, representing a daily investment of $3 million in regional security infrastructure. Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar characterized the collaboration as essential, stating: ‘We cannot do it alone; the assistance of the US will help us win the war against the criminals.’

    The bilateral talks also produced commitments for expanded operational support and technological exchange, with SOUTHCOM commander Francis L. Donovan receiving an official invitation to continue strategic discussions in Trinidad and Tobago later this year. Both nations reaffirmed their shared dedication to regional stability through enhanced intelligence sharing and coordinated counter-narcotics operations.

  • Ankle-monitored accused gunned down near home

    Ankle-monitored accused gunned down near home

    In a brazen morning attack that raises serious questions about judicial monitoring systems, 38-year-old Isiah Garcia—a man under court-ordered electronic surveillance—was ambushed and executed near his D’Abadie residence on Thursday. The shooting occurred just hours before Garcia was scheduled to reappear in court for serious charges dating back to 2021.

    According to Trinidad Police reports, residents of First Street West off Recreation Road were startled by multiple gunshots around 7:15 a.m. Upon investigation, they discovered Garcia’s lifeless body bearing multiple gunshot wounds. Crucially, the deceased still wore the ankle monitoring device mandated as a condition of his bail in a pending attempted murder case.

    Garcia’s legal troubles stemmed from a violent August 2021 incident in Carapo, where he allegedly attacked a man and woman with lethal intent. Following his arrest days after the shooting by Region Two Homicide Bureau detectives, he faced an extensive list of charges including attempted murder, common assault, firearm possession, and ammunition-related offenses.

    Despite the severity of these charges, judicial authorities had granted Garcia bail with the specific condition of continuous electronic monitoring. This monitoring system, implemented in April 2021 through the National Security Ministry’s Electronic Monitoring Unit, represented the judiciary’s attempt to balance bail rights with public safety concerns.

    The assassination occurs against a troubling backdrop of violent crime in Trinidad. Official statistics indicate the nation’s murder toll had reached 66 by Thursday night, showing a modest decrease from the 75 recorded during the same period last year.

    Law enforcement authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into both the execution-style killing and the apparent failure of the monitoring system to prevent this tragedy. The case has ignited urgent discussions about the effectiveness of electronic surveillance measures for defendants facing serious violent charges.

  • Tyrico horror

    Tyrico horror

    The tranquil community of Longdenville has been plunged into mourning following the brutal murder of 44-year-old Homadath Sookdeo, whose bound body was discovered at Tyrico Bay last Sunday morning. The discovery has triggered widespread condemnation of Trinidad’s ongoing crime epidemic and raised serious questions about the effectiveness of current security measures.

    Sookdeo, described by neighbors as a ‘quiet, humble man who wouldn’t even harm a fly,’ failed to appear for his customary Sunday family lunch, immediately alerting relatives to potential danger. His body was found with hands and feet bound and mouth gagged, wearing only red three-quarter pants, near the main carpark of the popular beach area.

    According to investigation details, Sookdeo was last seen alive on Saturday afternoon around 4 p.m. when he departed to collect rental payments from Venezuelan nationals residing in an apartment building he managed for his brother overseas. His abandoned pick-up truck was later recovered in Maracas, though police confirmed no visible gunshot or stab wounds were present on his body. An autopsy has been ordered to determine the exact cause of death.

    The tragedy has exposed deep-seated frustrations with the government’s crime prevention strategies. A family member, who requested anonymity, directly criticized the current state of emergency: ‘(Sookdeo) was killed during an SoE. So the SoE is clearly not working. The Government needs more stringent measures to deal with crime.’

    Neighbors and colleagues expressed profound shock at the violent death of a man known for his predictable routines and gentle nature. Gopalak Baboolal, a neighbor for over 15 years, recounted: ‘We lived like brothers. His sister said he sends her good morning message every day and she didn’t get none Sunday.’ Another colleague from Kallco Ltd, where Sookdeo worked as a supervisor, described him as exceptionally cautious with his vehicle, making the circumstances of his abduction particularly mysterious.

    The case has mobilized multiple police units including Region One Homicide Bureau, Crime Scene Unit, and Morvant CID. Investigators believe Sookdeo was murdered elsewhere and transported to Tyrico Bay sometime Saturday night. Authorities are attempting to locate the Venezuelan tenants Sookdeo was scheduled to meet before his disappearance.