Carib Scope

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  • PSA head eyes 10% wage settlement by Christmas

    PSA head eyes 10% wage settlement by Christmas

    Public Service Association (PSA) President Felisha Thomas has announced the union’s commitment to finalizing public sector wage negotiations by Christmas, ensuring workers receive long-overdue payments. Speaking at a media conference on October 14, Thomas addressed what she termed ‘misinformation from the opposition’ regarding the recent ten per cent wage offer proposed by Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo during the October 13 budget presentation.

    Thomas emphasized the PSA’s dedication to resolving the negotiations swiftly, stating, ‘We are serious about settling your negotiations. Our aim is to have your negotiation settled by Christmas so that your money will be in your pockets.’ She also criticized former Finance Ministry official Brian Manning for his public remarks, urging him to refrain from interfering in public servants’ affairs.

    Thomas accused the opposition of spreading ‘lies’ and attempting to undermine the PSA’s achievements on behalf of civil servants, statutory authority workers, and the Tobago House of Assembly (THA). She referenced a May 2022 memorandum of agreement from the chief personnel officer (CPO), which outlined previous wage proposals, describing the earlier two per cent offers as ‘disrespectful’ and a catalyst for protests.

    Thomas hailed the revised ten per cent offer as a turning point for public sector workers, restoring dignity to the negotiation process. She confirmed that the CPO had acknowledged the PSA’s request for a meeting and expressed optimism about commencing formal talks.

    Labour Minister Leroy Baptiste praised the ten per cent offer as a victory for public workers, condemning the previous ‘unjust’ four and five per cent offers. He highlighted the government’s efforts to save jobs and improve the standard of living for working-class citizens, emphasizing its people-centred approach. Additionally, the government announced initiatives to support small and micro enterprises, including mentorship and financing for aspiring entrepreneurs.

    Thomas concluded by urging public servants to rely solely on the PSA for accurate information regarding the negotiations, warning against the opposition’s attempts to ‘create mischief.’

  • Bassarath set to retain Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board presidency unopposed

    Bassarath set to retain Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board presidency unopposed

    Azim Bassarath is poised to secure an unprecedented sixth consecutive term as president of the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB) in the upcoming national executive elections on October 25. With nominations closing on October 10, Bassarath emerged as the sole candidate for the presidency, ensuring his retention of the position without opposition. He has held the role since 2009, succeeding Deryck Murray. Joining him in retaining their positions unopposed are first vice-president Altaf Baksh and general secretary Henry Chase. However, the election will see competitive races for other key roles. Kerwin John, the incumbent second vice-president and head of the Tobago Cricket Association, faces a challenge from Rajendra Mangalie, a former national cricketer and Red Force chairman of selectors. Similarly, third vice-president Parasram Singh will contend with Avinash Suruj of the central zone, while treasurer Stephen Ramkissoon is up against Richard Ramkissoon, owner and coach of Central Sports cricket club. Additionally, six candidates—Ann Browne-John, Mitra Ragoonanan, Frank Simmons, Ravi Teeluck, Dr. Anand Rampersad, and Sharaz Mohammed—are vying for five executive member positions. The elected officials will serve a four-year term. The deadline for candidates to withdraw nominations is October 22, with the TTCB elections committee overseeing the printing of ballot papers on October 23. Voting will take place at the Alloy Lequay Administrative Centre on October 25 from 9 am to 1 pm.

  • US passport drops out of top 10 in global ranking, Jamaica holds steady at 60

    US passport drops out of top 10 in global ranking, Jamaica holds steady at 60

    In a significant shift in global travel dynamics, the United States passport has fallen out of the top 10 in the Henley Passport Index for the first time since its inception two decades ago. This widely recognized ranking measures passport strength by assessing the number of destinations holders can access without requiring a prior visa. The latest data reveals a notable decline in the US passport’s standing, reflecting broader changes in international mobility trends. Meanwhile, Jamaica has maintained its position at 60th place, offering its citizens visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 87 countries. The Henley Passport Index, which relies on data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), serves as a barometer of diplomatic relations, economic developments, and evolving visa policies across nations. This year’s rankings underscore the fluid nature of global travel privileges and the impact of geopolitical and economic factors on passport power.

  • ‘A complete mess’: UTech students frustrated with portal glitches

    ‘A complete mess’: UTech students frustrated with portal glitches

    Students at the University of Technology (UTech) in Jamaica are expressing growing dissatisfaction with the institution’s online portal, citing a myriad of problems that have disrupted their academic experience. Issues range from difficulties in module selection and missed classes to late access to timetables and system crashes. The situation has left many students questioning the value of their tuition fees, which have been increasing without corresponding improvements in the portal’s functionality.

  • Israel threatens to resume fighting if Hamas does not respect Gaza truce deal

    Israel threatens to resume fighting if Hamas does not respect Gaza truce deal

    Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a stern warning on Wednesday, threatening to resume military operations in Gaza if Hamas fails to adhere to the terms of a US-brokered ceasefire. The statement followed Hamas’s return of the remains of two deceased hostages, with the group claiming it cannot retrieve additional bodies without specialized equipment. Since the ceasefire began on Monday, Hamas has released 20 living hostages in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners freed from Israeli jails. However, tensions remain high as Hamas’s armed wing, the Ezzedine Al-Qassam Brigades, stated that the two bodies returned would be the last for now, citing logistical challenges. Katz’s office emphasized that Israel, in coordination with the US, would resume fighting to achieve a total defeat of Hamas if the agreement is violated. Meanwhile, Israel transferred 45 Palestinian bodies to Gaza, bringing the total returned to 90, as part of the Trump-mediated deal. The ceasefire has also raised humanitarian concerns, with UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher urging Israel to open all crossings into Gaza for aid delivery. The Rafah crossing, Gaza’s sole connection to the world outside Israel, remains closed, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The conflict, sparked by Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack, has left Gaza in dire straits, with famine declared by the UN in August. Israel and the US continue to insist that Hamas must have no role in Gaza’s future governance, adding another layer of complexity to the fragile ceasefire.

  • Observer and Gleaner move to sign joint venture agreement

    Observer and Gleaner move to sign joint venture agreement

    In a landmark move aimed at optimizing operational efficiency, Jamaica Observer Limited (JOL) and Gleaner Company Media Limited (GCML) have announced plans to establish a formal joint venture (JV) by the end of the calendar year. This collaboration follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in early August, which initiated a feasibility study into shared logistics and production services. The MOU explored the potential for consolidating printing, distribution networks, and other operational processes to achieve cost savings, improved delivery timelines, and enhanced consumer service.

    Anthony Smith, Chief Executive Officer of the RJRGleaner Communications Group, emphasized the strategic nature of the partnership, stating, ‘Our JV discussions have focused on coordinating efficient printing and distribution logistics, as well as establishing processes that ensure the stability and integrity of both operations.’

    Dominic Beaubrun, Managing Director of JOL, highlighted the transformative potential of the venture, noting, ‘This JV represents a practical and forward-thinking approach to preserving the industry. Our companies recognize the exponential benefits this collaboration will bring.’

    Despite the joint venture, both companies will retain their independence, with separate ownership, operations, and editorial control. The Gleaner, established in 1834, and the Jamaica Observer, founded in 1993, will continue to deliver high-quality journalism and maintain their unique identities while leveraging the efficiencies of the shared logistics model. This partnership marks a significant step in the evolution of Jamaica’s media landscape, setting a precedent for innovative collaboration in the industry.

  • Trump considering strikes on land against Venezuela cartels

    Trump considering strikes on land against Venezuela cartels

    WASHINGTON, United States—President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that the United States is evaluating the possibility of launching land-based strikes against Venezuelan cartels, following a series of deadly maritime operations targeting alleged drug-trafficking vessels. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump emphasized that while maritime operations are under control, land strikes are now under consideration. However, he refrained from confirming a New York Times report suggesting he had secretly authorized the CIA to conduct covert actions in Venezuela against President Nicolas Maduro’s administration. When questioned about authorizing the CIA to target Maduro, Trump dismissed the inquiry as ‘ridiculous’ to answer. The announcement comes after Trump revealed that a recent strike on suspected drug-carrying boats resulted in the deaths of six ‘narcoterrorists.’ Since the operations began, at least 27 individuals have been killed, raising concerns among experts about the legality of using lethal force in foreign or international waters without prior interception or questioning. Colombian President Gustavo Petro has also expressed concerns, stating that some of the deceased may have been Colombian nationals.

  • Businessman charged for allegedly obstructing election officer

    Businessman charged for allegedly obstructing election officer

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A prominent businessman from St Mary has been formally charged following a controversial incident during the recent general election in the St Mary South Eastern constituency. Leon Campbell, 47, also known as “Poogie,” residing at Addison Close, Gibraltar Housing Scheme, faces allegations of using a computer for malicious communication and obstructing an election officer, violations under the Representation of the People Act. The incident occurred on September 4 at a primary school serving as a polling station.

  • Reggae Boyz player ratings vs Bermuda: High marks as Jamaica inch closer to WC qualification

    Reggae Boyz player ratings vs Bermuda: High marks as Jamaica inch closer to WC qualification

    Jamaica’s national football team, the Reggae Boyz, delivered a commanding performance on Tuesday, securing a resounding 4-0 victory over Bermuda in their FIFA World Cup qualifier. This triumph has propelled them back to the top of their group in the final round of the Concacaf World Cup Qualifiers, with just two matches left to play. The game, held at the National Stadium, showcased a series of standout individual performances that underscored the team’s dominance.

  • Candidates, contributors campaign financing submissions due Wednesday

    Candidates, contributors campaign financing submissions due Wednesday

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Electoral Commission of Jamaica (ECJ) has issued a reminder to all candidates who participated in the September 3, 2025, General Election, emphasizing that the deadline for submitting their election expense reports is Wednesday. According to the Representation of the People Act (ROPA), candidates or their official agents are legally obligated to file the Return of Election Expenses within six weeks following Election Day. The submission must be made using the prescribed Form 22, and the law caps election spending at a maximum of $15 million per candidate. Additionally, contributors to election campaigns are also mandated to provide their legally required declarations by the same deadline. These documents must be submitted to the returning officer of the respective constituency or directly to the Director of Elections at 43 Duke Street, Kingston, addressed to the Legal Affairs and Compliance Department. Once the submissions are received, the ECJ will compile and publish a summary of the declarations provided by the candidates.