Carib Scope

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  • Private sector asks for higher income tax threshold, tax breaks on some businesses in 2026 national budget

    Private sector asks for higher income tax threshold, tax breaks on some businesses in 2026 national budget

    In a significant pre-budget consultation with Guyana’s Ministry of Finance, the Private Sector Commission (PSC) has presented a comprehensive package of tax reduction proposals aimed at stimulating economic growth and increasing disposable income for both businesses and workers.

    The January 17 meeting, attended by Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh and representatives from major business organizations, centered on the PSC’s recommendations for the upcoming 2026 national budget. PSC President Gerry Gouveia Jr. characterized the proposals as designed to “maximize the net take home for local businesses as well as employees” while addressing inflationary pressures.

    Key recommendations include completely eliminating corporate income tax for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with annual earnings below GY$60 million for their first three years of operation. The PSC also advocates raising the personal income tax threshold from GY$130,000 to GY$160,000 and implementing “significant increases” to the current minimum salary of GY$102,346.

    To address Guyana’s critical labor shortage exceeding 50,000 workers, the commission proposes reducing the migrant worker withholding tax from 20% to 10% for foreign specialists. Additional measures include cutting the standard corporate tax rate from 40% to 25% over two years, eliminating the 2% minimum corporate tax on gross turnover, and reducing VAT from 14% to 12% overall with zero rating applied to locally produced food, water, and cooking gas.

    The proposals extend beyond conventional business interests, incorporating social development components such as tax credits for charitable donations and sports sponsorships, plus support for childcare institutions and gender equality initiatives. In the housing sector, the private sector seeks removal of 5% duties on cement and finishing materials to reduce construction costs for three-bedroom homes by approximately GY$2 million.

    While Minister Singh expressed enthusiasm for the “creative and informative” nature of the proposals, particularly those supporting underprivileged populations, no firm commitments were made during the consultation. Further discussions are expected before the budget’s presentation on January 26, 2026.

  • Police seeking Turvy Frederick in serious criminal probe

    Police seeking Turvy Frederick in serious criminal probe

    Barbados law enforcement officials have initiated a public search operation for Turvy Frederick, identified as a person of interest in ongoing investigations into serious criminal activities. The Barbados Police Service has formally requested community assistance in locating the individual, who remains at large despite active investigative efforts.

    Frederick, whose last documented residence was in the Barbarees Hill area of St Michael parish, stands approximately six feet tall with a slender physique, dark complexion, and distinctive plaited hairstyle. Authorities have issued specific guidance for the suspect’s surrender, recommending he present himself voluntarily at the Criminal Investigations Department located within the Black Rock Police Station premises. The police advisory explicitly notes that Frederick should be accompanied by legal representation of his choosing during this process.

    Law enforcement agencies have established multiple communication channels for information regarding the suspect’s whereabouts. Citizens can contact the Black Rock Police Station directly at 417-7500 or 417-7505, utilize the Police Emergency hotline at 211, or provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477. Alternatively, individuals may approach any nearby police station to share relevant information.

    The Barbados Police Service has concurrently issued a stern warning regarding the legal consequences of obstructing justice. Officials emphasized that harboring or actively assisting wanted individuals constitutes a criminal offense under Barbadian law, with perpetrators facing potential prosecution. This reminder underscores the seriousness with which authorities are treating the case and their commitment to apprehending the individual through lawful means.

  • Japan’s JET programme accepting new applications

    Japan’s JET programme accepting new applications

    The Government of Japan has officially extended participation in the esteemed Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme to citizens of Saint Lucia for the 2026 cycle. This international initiative provides a unique professional pathway for qualified individuals to serve as Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs) within Japan’s educational system, specifically in the culturally rich Kagoshima Prefecture.

    Beyond their primary instructional responsibilities, selected participants will undertake the significant role of cultural ambassadors. This dimension of the program entails actively sharing Saint Lucian heritage, traditions, and perspectives with local Japanese communities, thereby fostering a vibrant two-way cultural dialogue. The longstanding bilateral engagement, which commenced in 2003, has consistently enriched Japanese classrooms and substantially strengthened the bonds of friendship between the two nations.

    The professional appointment is structured as an initial one-year contract, commencing in 2026. This term is subject to renewal for up to a maximum of three years, contingent upon satisfactory performance evaluations. In certain exceptional cases, participants may be eligible for an extension, potentially allowing for a stay of up to five years.

    Prospective applicants are required to submit their complete application packages via email to culture@po.mofa.go.jp no later than the strict deadline of March 13, 2026. Furthermore, original supporting documents must be physically mailed to the Embassy of Japan in Trinidad and Tobago, addressed to the JET Coordinator at 5 Hayes Street, St. Clair, Port of Spain. Comprehensive information regarding eligibility criteria, application procedures, and detailed program guidelines is available on the official embassy website.

  • New diagnostic centre offers early MRI access in Antigua and Barbuda

    New diagnostic centre offers early MRI access in Antigua and Barbuda

    In a proactive move to address healthcare delays, a private diagnostic imaging facility in Antigua has initiated MRI scanning operations ahead of its official opening. The Doctors Medical Centre took this decisive action responding to severe bottlenecks in existing medical imaging services that have forced patients to endure weeks-long waits for essential scans required to determine treatment pathways.

    Equipped with pioneering technology for the Eastern Caribbean region, the center features an open MRI system specifically engineered to comfort patients experiencing claustrophobia during procedures. This advanced apparatus incorporates artificial intelligence algorithms to significantly improve diagnostic image precision and clarity.

    Medical Director Dr. Joey John emphasized that their services extend beyond referrals from Mount St. John’s Medical Centre, making scanning accessible to the general public with priority given to reducing the substantial backlog of cases. The facility operates with newly installed cutting-edge equipment and a team of highly trained specialist staff.

    Upon full operational status, the center intends to provide a comprehensive range of diagnostic imaging services. This development comes amid persistent concerns from health authorities regarding how constrained imaging capabilities have consistently hampered timely diagnoses and treatment across Antigua and Barbuda, affecting patient care outcomes.

  • Fusionz Boutique donates $10,000 to support Carter

    Fusionz Boutique donates $10,000 to support Carter

    In a powerful demonstration of corporate social responsibility, Fusionz Boutique has made a substantial $10,000 contribution to support Akira Carter’s urgent medical fundraising campaign. The fashion retailer’s management and staff visited Carter at Queen Elizabeth Hospital last Sunday, presenting both a generous cheque and a thoughtful gift basket to the hospitalized patient.

    The compassionate gesture created an emotionally charged moment that left Carter speechless with gratitude. Company representative Roger Agard explained to Barbados TODAY that their decision to intervene was motivated by persistent social media awareness of Carter’s deteriorating health condition. “After consistently encountering Akira Carter’s story across digital platforms, Fusionz Boutique determined it was imperative to extend meaningful support,” Agard stated. “This represents precisely the type of community need where corporate entities should proactively offer assistance.”

    Ulanda Williams, Fusionz Boutique’s manager, revealed an additional personal dimension to their philanthropy, noting Carter’s longstanding patronage of their establishment. “She transcends being merely a beneficiary of charity—Akira has been a devoted and valued customer whose loyalty we deeply appreciate,” Williams emphasized. “Providing support during this critical juncture represents our heartfelt commitment to those who have supported our business.”

    Williams further articulated that their substantial donation serves a dual purpose: immediately assisting Carter’s medical fundraising while simultaneously establishing a precedent for broader corporate involvement. “Our primary objective involves inspiring other enterprises to recognize similar opportunities for community support,” Williams explained. “If Barbados’s business community collectively mobilizes its resources, we possess tremendous capacity to assist numerous citizens facing comparable medical crises.”

    Carter’s health emergency began abruptly in December 2025 when she developed a severe illness that progressed rapidly, resulting in complete leg paralysis and partial hand paralysis. Her current treatment strategy requires specialized overseas medical intervention, necessitating significant fundraising efforts. Donations continue to be accepted through FirstPay at +1 (246) 235-0447 or via direct deposit to CIBC FirstCaribbian, Sheraton Mall Branch, Chequing Account #1001109391.

  • Agricultural Career Fair Set for Feb. 26 to Expose Students to Modern Farming Careers

    Agricultural Career Fair Set for Feb. 26 to Expose Students to Modern Farming Careers

    The Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries & the Blue Economy in Antigua and Barbuda is organizing a comprehensive Agricultural Career Fair and Expo scheduled for Thursday, February 26th. The event will take place at the Gilbert Agricultural & Rural Development Center from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, serving as a convergence point for farmers, technical experts, and industry leaders to demonstrate innovative career pathways in modern agriculture.

    The expo will highlight cutting-edge sectors including precision crop production, agricultural technology applications, renewable energy integration, and advanced farm management techniques. A notable participant is Itajah Simmons, proprietor of Simmons Farm, who brings over ten years of specialized experience in cultivating sweet and seasoning peppers, bell peppers, and multi-colored watermelons.

    Simmons operates a five-acre agricultural enterprise in Big Creek that incorporates drone technology into farming operations. His unique professional background includes a master’s degree in renewable energy and biogas engineering, coupled with his current role as a mechanical engineer at Public Works. This combination exemplifies the increasingly interconnected relationship between agricultural science, engineering disciplines, and technological innovation.

    The ministry actively encourages students, educators, and career seekers to attend this initiative, positioning the event as a strategic platform for connecting with professionals who are driving the transformation of Antigua and Barbuda’s agricultural sector toward a more technologically advanced and sustainable future.

  • Most public servants trying to frustrate gov’t will fall in line – Leacock

    Most public servants trying to frustrate gov’t will fall in line – Leacock

    St. Clair Leacock, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Public Service of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, has voiced measured optimism regarding the cooperation of public servants following the recent political transition. In a Monday interview on Boom FM, Leacock acknowledged that some officials remain loyal to the former Unity Labour Party (ULP) administration but predicted they would ultimately align with the new government.

    The Central Kingstown representative, whose New Democratic Party (NDP) ended the ULP’s 25-year governance in November’s general election, addressed concerns about bureaucratic resistance. He characterized the situation as a natural consequence of prolonged single-party rule, noting that institutional culture cannot transform overnight.

    Leacock revealed he would personally accompany several public workers dismissed under the previous administration’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate who were experiencing difficulties reinstating their positions. This intervention demonstrates the government’s commitment to implementing its policy of reinstating affected employees.

    The Deputy Prime Minister articulated a pragmatic perspective on political allegiance within the civil service, recognizing public servants’ right to personal political beliefs while distinguishing between legitimate dissent and active obstruction. He expressed confidence that most officials would rationally recognize the new political reality and cooperate accordingly.

    With a January 31 deadline established for the reinstatement process, Leacock warned that persistent non-compliance would trigger administrative consequences. He commended certain sectors, particularly the police force, for their efficient implementation of the reinstatement policy while noting varying levels of cooperation across government entities.

    The government has developed a detailed implementation process through the Attorney General’s office, emphasizing the complex financial and administrative considerations involved in reintegrating dismissed workers into the public service payroll.

  • Big game from Megan Nestor wasted as University of North Texas loses

    Big game from Megan Nestor wasted as University of North Texas loses

    Despite a monumental individual performance from Megan Nestor, the University of North Texas (UNT) women’s basketball team saw its three-game winning streak halted in a narrow 54-58 home defeat against Rice on Saturday, January 17.

    Megan Nestor, the towering 6’4″ forward from Saint Lucia, delivered a career-defining performance in the loss. She secured her fifth consecutive double-double and tenth of the season by pouring in 15 points and dominating the glass with a remarkable 21 rebounds. This marked the second time this term she has grabbed at least 20 rebounds in a single contest. Her efficiency was notable, converting six of her nine field goal attempts and three of five from the free-throw line.

    Nestor’s prowess on the offensive glass places her as a co-leader nationally in the NCAA for offensive rebounds, while she also ranks among the top ten players in the country for both total rebounds and double-doubles. The alumna of Soufriere Comprehensive Secondary School and former national netball player logged a UNT career-high 37 minutes of play.

    The sole other bright spot for the Mean Green was Aysia Proctor, who erupted for a career-best 25 points on an efficient 10-of-16 shooting from the field. However, the collective effort fell just short. UNT mounted a late surge in the final quarter, trimming a significant deficit to a mere two points, but Rice managed to withstand the pressure and execute down the stretch to secure the conference victory.

    The result moves UNT to a record of 10 wins and 8 losses on the season. Reflecting on the hard-fought battle, Head Coach Jason Burton acknowledged the quality of the opponent. ‘We knew today was going to be a battle,’ Burton stated. ‘We knew today was going to be a really good game. Hats off to Rice for getting it done… Still really proud of our team and the direction that we’re headed.’

  • Acting corporals to be paid from February

    Acting corporals to be paid from February

    In a significant policy shift addressing long-standing labor concerns within the Vincentian police force, National Security Minister St. Clair Leacock announced Monday that officers performing corporal duties without corresponding compensation will finally receive proper payment starting February 1.

    The minister, drawing upon his extensive background in military command and human resource management, characterized the practice of extended unpaid acting appointments as systemic exploitation. “This constitutes nothing less than the exploitation of people’s labour and service,” Leacock stated emphatically during his address.

    Leacock revealed that there are currently 112 corporals in the police force, many of whom have been performing elevated responsibilities for periods ranging from three to eight years without appropriate remuneration. The minister condemned this tradition as fundamentally unjust, particularly within an organization that should exemplify proper employment practices.

    The newly installed New Democratic Party administration, which assumed office on November 27, has moved swiftly to address this issue. Leacock announced the government’s decisive resolution: “We have made the decision that everyone must be paid their corporal’s pay, come the first of February.”

    Establishing new procedural guidelines, the minister asserted that any reasonable probationary period for such appointments should not exceed six months. Beyond this timeframe, organizations must either formally confirm the appointment with proper compensation or return the officer to their previous position. This policy aims to prevent the exploitation of dedicated personnel who have accepted additional responsibilities in good faith.

  • Anse La Raye reign as U15 girls football champions

    Anse La Raye reign as U15 girls football champions

    In a thrilling conclusion to the Saint Lucia Football Association Inter-District Under-15 Girls Championship, Anse La Raye staged a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat Dennery 2-1 in the final held January 17 at the SLFA Technical Centre in Grande Riviere, Dennery.

    The championship match unfolded as a near replica of the teams’ preliminary encounter, with Anse La Raye once again overcoming an early deficit to secure victory. Dennery’s electric midfielder Faye Alphonse (#10) opened the scoring with a spectacular looping free kick that found the top corner of the net during the first half.

    Despite Dennery’s dominant possession in the opening thirty minutes, the momentum shifted decisively after halftime. Anse La Raye’s relentless pressure through standout players Destiny Herman and Akala Sam resulted in multiple corner opportunities. The persistent offensive push paid dividends in the 39th minute when Lacey Popo capitalized on a poorly cleared goal kick, delivering a clinical finish from 15 yards out.

    The match-winning goal arrived six minutes later when Valencia Lysan Seraphine unleashed a spectacular 20-yard strike into the far corner, marking the first goal from open play and securing Anse La Raye’s advantage. Alphonse nearly equalized in the 60th minute but narrowly missed what would become the penultimate scoring opportunity of the match.

    Anse La Raye head coach Jovette Wilson attributed the victory to her team’s resilience and execution. “We had to speak to them, tell them what to do,” Wilson explained to St. Lucia Times. “They were not attacking. They were not taking the opportunities. We asked them to stay focused because they know what to do.”

    Wilson praised the seven-team tournament that began in November, emphasizing its significance for women’s football development. Her championship squad included players from Anse La Raye Primary, Ciceron Secondary, and Castries Comprehensive Secondary schools.

    “I love it because I never got the opportunity to play under 15,” Wilson reflected. “At a young age, I had to play seniors. We never got that. And I love the fact that now there is football for females from all ages. Every district on island should have a female team so we can develop more and have more females engaged in football.”

    In the third-place match, Desruisseaux secured the consolation trophy with a 2-1 victory over Soufriere. Janii Prevost of Choiseul Secondary School scored her tournament-leading 12th goal despite her team’s loss.

    The ceremony recognized individual excellence with Karimah Ferguson (Canaries) receiving Most Promising Player honors, Shariella Arthur (Anse La Raye) earning Best Goalkeeper distinction, and Janii Prevost (Soufriere) claiming the Leading Goal Scorer award.