Carib Scope

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  • 4 ‘smart’ bus sheds commissioned in Tobago

    4 ‘smart’ bus sheds commissioned in Tobago

    Tobago has entered a new era of urban infrastructure with the official commissioning of four technologically advanced bus shelters valued at over $700,000. The initiative, spearheaded by the THA’s Division of Settlements, Public Utilities and Rural Development, represents a significant upgrade to public transportation facilities on the island.

    During the December 18 inauguration ceremony along the Claude Noel Highway, Division Secretary Ian Pollard revealed these innovative shelters originated as a 2022 project under former assistant secretary Niall George, with completion achieved under current assistant secretary Orlando Kerr. Pollard emphasized these facilities rank among Tobago’s finest bus shelters, aligning with the broader vision of establishing Tobago as ‘the greatest little island on the planet.’

    The strategic placement of these shelters serves major educational institutions, with two located near Bishops’ High School and two adjacent to Signal Hill Secondary School. Construction was executed through contractors RJS Transport and Equipment Rentals alongside Desjay’s Construction Services at a total cost of $787,287.10.

    Kerr characterized the commissioning as a landmark achievement for Tobago’s infrastructure development, specifically designed to accommodate the substantial student populations in these areas. The construction timeline spanned from October 13 to November 25, demonstrating efficient project execution.

    These shelters represent a quantum leap from previous facilities, featuring cutting-edge amenities including USB charging ports for mobile devices and Wi-Fi connectivity. Kerr addressed potential safety concerns by emphasizing the importance of responsible usage protocols while acknowledging the necessity of digital access in today’s technological landscape.

    Future enhancements will include digital displays showing real-time bus schedules and arrival information. The shelters incorporate universal design principles with wheelchair accessibility and utilize durable construction materials including reinforced concrete foundations, structural steel framing, polycarbonate sheeting, and galvanized standing seam roofing.

    In an innovative community partnership model, four organizations have adopted maintenance responsibilities: Bishops’ High School (two shelters), Lambeau Credit Union, and Ora-Care Dental Centre (one each). These entities will primarily handle branding and general upkeep, with potential negotiations regarding Wi-Fi service management.

  • THA nomination day in full swing

    THA nomination day in full swing

    TOBAGO – Political activities intensified on December 19 as multiple parties formally submitted their nomination papers for the upcoming Tobago House of Assembly elections. The process unfolded at the Glamorgan Multipurpose Facility, where Tobago People’s Party (TPP) leadership, including Political Leader Farley Augustine, Deputy Political Leader Faith Brebnor, and Orlando Kerr, arrived to complete their electoral documentation.

    The nomination filing attracted visible public engagement, with numerous TPP supporters gathering outside the facility to demonstrate their political allegiance. The event marks a significant procedural milestone in Tobago’s electoral calendar, setting the stage for competitive political contests.

    Beyond the TPP, the nomination process involved multiple other political organizations. The People’s National Movement, Innovative Democratic Alliance, Tobago Liberation Movement, Class Action Reform Movement, and Unity of the People all participated in the December 19 nomination filing, indicating a broad and diverse political field.

    The Tobago House of Assembly elections are scheduled for January 12, when voters will determine the composition of the autonomous governing body that administers local affairs on the island. This election represents a critical democratic exercise for Tobago’s political future and governance direction.

  • GraceKennedy eyes full control of Tastee Cheese producer

    GraceKennedy eyes full control of Tastee Cheese producer

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a landmark corporate maneuver, Jamaican conglomerate GraceKennedy has finalized an agreement to purchase New Zealand-based Fonterra Co-operative Group’s entire stake in Dairy Industries (Jamaica) Ltd (DJIL). This acquisition grants GraceKennedy complete, 100 percent ownership of the manufacturer responsible for Jamaica’s iconic Tastee Cheese brand, effectively concluding a nearly three-decade formal joint venture between the two entities.

    While specific financial details remain confidential, this transaction represents a significant consolidation of local ownership over a pivotal segment of Jamaica’s food industry. The commercial relationship between GraceKennedy and Fonterra dates back to the 1980s, with their partnership formally structured under a joint venture agreement established in 1996.

    Frank James, Group Chief Executive Officer of GraceKennedy, emphasized the strategic importance of this acquisition. He stated that the move is a direct reflection of DJIL’s consistent performance and substantial market value. “This strategic acquisition enables us to capitalize on existing momentum, accelerate business expansion, and reinforce our dominant position within the dairy sector,” James commented.

    Andrea Coy, Chief Executive of GraceKennedy Foods, provided further insight, clarifying that while ownership is transitioning entirely to GraceKennedy, the company intends to maintain its commercial ties with Fonterra. Coy acknowledged the long-standing partnership’s success, noting, “This collaboration has generated immense value over many years. We anticipate continued cooperation with Fonterra in areas where mutual commercial benefits exist.”

    DJIL, established in 1964, commenced its cheese processing operations in 1968 and has since carved out a unique niche in the Caribbean market. It holds the distinction of being the sole manufacturer in Jamaica and the broader Caribbean region that produces canned processed cheese, primarily under its flagship Tastee Cheese label.

    The company’s diverse product range, which services both local and regional consumers, extends beyond canned cheese to include vacuum-sealed cheese and cheese spreads under the Tastee brand, yogurt marketed under the “This Is Really Great” brand, and Anchor brand powdered milk.

    GraceKennedy, a diversified multinational with extensive interests in food production and financial services, has indicated that the transaction’s finalization is now subject to the satisfactory completion of standard closing conditions customary for deals of this nature.

  • UN declares famine over in Gaza, says ‘situation remains critical’

    UN declares famine over in Gaza, says ‘situation remains critical’

    The United Nations has officially announced the cessation of famine conditions in the Gaza Strip, marking a significant yet fragile milestone in the region’s humanitarian crisis. This development, confirmed on Friday, is attributed to a notable improvement in the flow of humanitarian aid into the Palestinian territory. The assessment was delivered by the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) initiative, the UN’s specialized body for monitoring and warning of impending food crises.

    Despite the lifting of the famine classification, which had been declared in August, the IPC delivered a stark caution. The organization’s analysis indicates that the entire population of Gaza continues to face a ‘Emergency’ level food security crisis, a classification that is projected to persist through at least mid-April 2026. This phase is the second most severe on the IPC’s five-tier scale, immediately preceding Famine, indicating that while the most extreme outcome has been temporarily averted, the situation remains dire and precarious for the populace.

    The improved aid access, which facilitated this change, underscores the critical importance of sustained and unimpeded humanitarian corridors. However, the IPC’s report emphasizes that the underlying vulnerabilities have not been resolved. The population’s access to sufficient food is tenuous and heavily reliant on continuous external assistance, with any significant disruption to aid pipelines posing an immediate threat of regression into famine conditions. The announcement serves as both a testament to recent diplomatic and logistical efforts and a severe warning that the crisis is far from over.

  • EPA on US-Venezuela tensions: Guards can’t protect critical infrastructure

    EPA on US-Venezuela tensions: Guards can’t protect critical infrastructure

    The Estate Police Association (EPA) of Trinidad and Tobago has issued a stark warning regarding the nation’s preparedness for potential spillover effects from escalating US-Venezuela tensions. EPA President Deryck Richardson emphasized that the country’s geographical proximity to Venezuela makes these geopolitical developments an immediate national security concern rather than a distant conflict.

    In an official press release dated December 18, Richardson highlighted the vulnerability of Trinidad’s critical infrastructure, including airports, seaports, energy facilities, and electrical installations. These essential assets, described as the nation’s lifeblood, could become prime targets during periods of regional instability through direct attacks, indirect disruption, or criminal exploitation.

    The association revealed that estate police officers, who serve as the first line of defense for these national assets, remain critically under-equipped despite their vital security role. Current operational constraints include outdated legislation, restrictive policies from the Commissioner of Police’s office, and inadequate weaponry provisions.

    Richardson specifically cited the Firearms Act limitations that restrict officers to small-caliber semi-automatic weapons with approximately 25 rounds of ammunition—a provision that contrasts sharply with private citizens’ allowances of up to 50 rounds for similar firearms. This disparity becomes particularly concerning when considering that potential aggressors or invading forces would likely possess high-powered rifles and substantial ammunition.

    The EPA is advocating for legislative amendments to permit security personnel guarding critical state infrastructure access to automatic weapons, currently classified as prohibited items. Richardson stressed that this access should be carefully regulated through assessments by the Commissioner of Police rather than granted universally.

    The association has urgently called upon the government to address these security shortcomings as a matter of national priority, warning that the current mismatch between operational responsibilities and capabilities presents unacceptable risks to national security.

  • Windies silenced on Day 1

    Windies silenced on Day 1

    In a masterful display of Test cricket, New Zealand’s opening batsmen delivered a commanding performance against the West Indies at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on December 18. Captain Tom Latham’s unconventional decision to bat first on a seemingly bowler-friendly pitch proved inspired as the hosts finished the day at an imposing 334-1.

    The day belonged to the opening partnership of Latham and Devon Conway, who constructed a monumental 323-run stand—New Zealand’s second-highest opening partnership in Test history and the highest partnership for any wicket across all international Test matches in 2025. The collaboration lasted until just three overs before stumps when Latham finally departed for 137 runs from 245 deliveries.

    Conway remained unbeaten on 178 at day’s end, having faced 279 balls throughout the entire day’s play. The South African-born batsman now approaches his highest Test score, the double century he made on debut against England in 2021.

    Latham’s decision to bat first defied conventional wisdom in New Zealand Test cricket, marking the first time in 14 years that a Kiwi captain had chosen to bat first after winning the toss on home soil. The pitch’s green appearance proved deceptive, with the surface playing considerably better than anticipated.

    The West Indies bowling attack, already compromised by their selection of an extra batsman at the expense of a bowler, struggled to maintain consistent pressure. While Kemar Roach and Jayden Seales delivered economical opening spells, the toll on their three-seamer attack became increasingly evident as the day progressed.

    Both centurions reached their milestones with contrasting styles—Conway’s century came off 147 balls with 17 boundaries, while Latham displayed immense patience for his 15th Test century, reached from 183 deliveries. The partnership milestones accumulated throughout the day, eventually surpassing the 304-run mark to become the highest Test partnership of the calendar year.

    New Zealand leads the three-match series 1-0 heading into this final Test, with nightwatchman Jacob Duffy joining Conway at the crease to resume batting on day two.

  • Prices stable but shoppers watch spending – Consumers tighten belts

    Prices stable but shoppers watch spending – Consumers tighten belts

    While official inflation data shows a marginal 0.1% increase in November, Trinidadian families are experiencing severe financial strain during what should be the festive season. Despite statistical stability, consumers across the island report dramatic price surges that have made traditional Christmas celebrations unaffordable for many.

    In candid interviews with Newsday, residents revealed the harsh realities behind the economic numbers. Glenda, a shopper from Port of Spain, expressed the collective frustration: ‘Prices have skyrocketed drastically! Every single item costs at least three to five dollars more than before.’ The single mother described the heartbreak of being unable to provide Christmas gifts for her children despite working tirelessly to afford basic necessities.

    The crisis extends beyond individual families. A anonymous father of four shared his desperate measures: ‘I sometimes skip meals to ensure my daughters eat.’ He criticized economic policies that seem disconnected from everyday struggles, noting that while politicians celebrate economic achievements, ordinary citizens face impossible choices between education and survival.

    Charitable organizations confirm the escalating crisis. The Salvation Army distributed 600 food hampers on December 16th, with recipients lining up as early as 6:00 AM. Despite plans to distribute 400 additional hampers, demand has dramatically exceeded both current resources and previous years’ requirements.

    A comprehensive price survey by the Consumer Affairs Division revealed significant disparities across supermarkets. Between December 1-10, investigators documented price variations on over 50 items nationwide. Massy Stores consistently commanded premium prices, charging $289.99 for a 454g bone-in turkey compared to $217.95 at Tru Valu. Similar patterns emerged across essential items: minced chicken ranged from $19.95 to $31.81 per pound, while classic picnic ham varied from $115 to $144.99.

    The comparative analysis with 2024 pricing reveals concerning trends. Erin Farm picnic ham has increased from $127-$139.95 to current rates of $115-$144.99. Minced beef prices have risen from $29.95-$31.81 to $31.34-$38.55 per pound within one year.

    Despite multiple attempts to contact supermarket representatives, including Supermarket Association president Biondi Bachew and Massy Stores executives, Newsday received no responses regarding these pricing disparities. The silence from business leaders contrasts sharply with the growing voices of concerned citizens struggling to afford basic holiday meals.

  • Eastern Hanover residents welcome hurricane relief donations from BGLC

    Eastern Hanover residents welcome hurricane relief donations from BGLC

    In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, a coalition of organizations has delivered critical aid to severely impacted communities in eastern Hanover. The Betting Gaming and Lotteries Commission (BGLC), in partnership with Rise Life Management Services, distributed essential supplies including tarpaulins, tents, mattresses, and household care packages to residents of Jericho, Retrieve, and Morris.

    The relief handover, strategically centered at Jericho Primary School for broader community access, provided more than material support. Rise Life Management Services offered crucial counseling services to address the profound psychological trauma experienced by survivors. The Category 5 hurricane made landfall on October 28th, particularly ravaging eastern Hanover where many residents, having believed their homes would withstand the storm, now recount harrowing experiences of watching their possessions vanish in the ferocious winds.

    Anissa Spence, Hanover’s Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Response Coordinator, emphasized that the comprehensive approach of combining physical donations with emotional support has been instrumental in restoring hope. Particularly affected were young mothers who expressed immense gratitude for childcare supplies they couldn’t otherwise afford following their economic losses.

    Andria Gutzmore, a facilitator with Rise Life, observed a palpable sense of relief among recipients, especially hospitality workers eager to return to employment. The intervention has created a pathway toward recovery, with residents demonstrating remarkable resilience and expressing appreciation for continued support efforts in rebuilding their lives.

  • Nunes eyes 2026 redemption after missing out on trainers’ title

    Nunes eyes 2026 redemption after missing out on trainers’ title

    The 2025 Jamaican trainers’ championship reached its dramatic climax at Caymanas Park on December 6th, with Anthony ‘Baba’ Nunes’ aspirations for a fourth title evaporating when his prized contender Nautical Star underperformed in the prestigious US$300,000 Mouttet Mile.

    Entering race day trailing rival Jason DaCosta by approximately J$14.5 million in earnings, Nunes had strategically positioned two recent imports for championship contention. Of A Revolution delivered triumphantly in the US$100,000 Bruceontheloose Sprint, but the crucial performance from Nautical Star in the feature event failed to materialize.

    Reflecting on the outcome, Nunes acknowledged the long odds: ‘It was always a pipe dream, if we’re being honest. We identified 2026 as our primary target, though the substantial Mouttet Mile purse unexpectedly presented an opportunity.’

    The trainer conducted comprehensive post-race examinations of Nautical Star, revealing no apparent physical issues. ‘He just ran flat,’ Nunes concluded, suggesting earlier arrival in Jamaica might have enabled better preparation. ‘I strongly believe that talent is still there and he will demonstrate that in 2026.’

    Despite the disappointment, Nunes maintains optimistic prospects for the coming season. Both Nautical Star and Of A Revolution will remain in training alongside Barnaby’s return to full fitness. The trainer also highlighted exceptional promise among his two-year-old prospects, indicating strengthened contention for next year’s championship.

    Nunes graciously acknowledged DaCosta’s successful campaign while raising philosophical questions about championship structures. ‘It would have been disappointing if one race decided the trainers’ championship,’ he noted, referencing his similar 2018 experience. ‘We must examine whether these high-stakes races should define twelve months of competition.’

    With four race days remaining and a J$9 million deficit, Nunes conceded the mathematical improbability of overtaking DaCosta but expressed satisfaction with his stable’s overall performance, considering 2025 an accelerated building year toward 2026 championship ambitions.

  • COMPANIES TIGHTEN BELTS

    COMPANIES TIGHTEN BELTS

    A comprehensive sector-wide assessment conducted by the Jamaica Observer reveals a significant contraction in corporate bonus distributions for 2024, marking a departure from traditional year-end compensation practices as businesses grapple with Hurricane Melissa’s economic aftermath.

    Economic analysis indicates that discretionary payments have become increasingly selective, with benefits concentrated within a limited segment of corporate Jamaica. While not entirely eliminated, bonus allocations have been substantially reduced or maintained at previous levels, reflecting heightened fiscal conservatism across industries.

    Multiple enterprises have implemented formal communication strategies to manage employee expectations. One marketing organization formally notified staff that their customary Christmas gratuity payment would be deferred pending “cashflow availability,” while a Kingston manufacturing enterprise advised workers that any potential bonus would likely match or fall below previous allocations.

    Public sector employees faced similar constraints, with most receiving no monetary bonuses though some institutional leaders attempted symbolic seasonal gestures. This trend emerges against a backdrop of persistent economic challenges, including elevated inflation metrics, restrictive credit conditions, and ongoing global market uncertainties.

    Prominent economist Keenan Falconer contextualized these developments, noting: “The convergence of multiple economic shocks has fundamentally altered corporate approaches to discretionary compensation. Organizations are prioritizing liquidity preservation as they brace for potentially exacerbated challenges through 2026.”

    The bonus reduction carries significant socioeconomic implications, as December traditionally represents the most critical compensation period for Jamaican households. These payments typically facilitate holiday expenses, educational costs, and debt servicing, with their absence potentially dampening consumer confidence and expenditure patterns.

    One affected employee expressed disappointment: “Anticipating even modest recognition would have enabled familial celebrations during this challenging period. This decision fundamentally alters our holiday dynamics and financial planning.”

    Falconer highlighted the macroeconomic paradox presented by this trend: “Bonus restraint occurs during precisely the period when economic stimulus is most needed for post-hurricane recovery. These payments traditionally provide crucial household income supplementation during first-quarter economic contractions.”

    Not all enterprises adopted restrictive approaches. The tourism sector demonstrated notable resilience, with at least one major hotel group distributing bonuses despite ongoing operational disruptions at several properties. One grateful employee noted: “Our employer’s commitment during this difficult period has been exceptionally reassuring.”

    Even among companies maintaining bonus traditions, many delayed communication until compensation processing, reflecting heightened strategic caution in financial management. Falconer observed that maintained bonus distributions might signal organizational stability and commitment to employee welfare amid broader economic challenges.

    This evolving compensation landscape suggests fundamental recalibration of employer-employee expectations as Jamaica navigates complex post-disaster economic recovery.