Carib Scope

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  • New Demerara River Bridge remains safe; contractor to fix waviness of road

    New Demerara River Bridge remains safe; contractor to fix waviness of road

    Guyana’s Ministry of Public Works has issued firm assurances regarding the structural integrity of the recently inaugurated Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge (BJDRB), following public concerns about visible surface irregularities. Technical investigations confirm that the observed pavement undulations pose no threat to the bridge’s fundamental stability or load-bearing capacity.

    Public Works Minister Juan Edghill personally inspected the structure on Monday, accompanied by technical experts. During a Facebook Live broadcast from the site, Minister Edghill clarified that the problematic section featuring cracked asphalt is not part of the bridge itself but constitutes the approach road. “Where I am standing here, where you’re seeing this defect in the asphaltic work, it is not even the bridge. This is the road to the bridge,” he emphasized.

    Engineering assessments attribute the road surface waviness near the east approach to natural settlement behavior occurring at the transition zone where the road embankment fill meets the concrete abutment structure. The ministry’s statement explained that “differences in material properties between the sand fill and the concrete structure have resulted in varying settlement behavior, leading to a temporary elevation difference.”

    Regarding undulations observed on the main bridge’s side spans, investigations confirmed these are merely superficial irregularities limited to the asphalt pavement layer, arising during the construction process. The ministry stressed that these conditions “do not compromise the structural integrity or load-bearing capacity of the bridge.”

    The contractor responsible for the $260 million infrastructure project, which was officially opened on October 5, 2025, has been instructed to perform remedial works to restore a smooth driving surface. Minister Edghill characterized such surface issues as not unusual in major construction projects, noting that the observed defects would be promptly corrected.

    The ministry’s reassurance comes in response to concerns raised over the weekend by Dorwain Bess, Chairman of the Vigilant Political Action Committee (VPAC), regarding the structural integrity of the vital transportation link. Officials maintain that continuous monitoring data indicates the bridge “remains safe, stable, and fully reliable for public use,” with the government committed to ensuring the highest standards of safety and travel comfort.

  • ASR/BSI, BELCOGEN Tax Break Extension Leads to Tense Exchange

    ASR/BSI, BELCOGEN Tax Break Extension Leads to Tense Exchange

    A legislative session in Belize’s House of Representatives turned confrontational during debates on extending substantial tax incentives for the nation’s sugar and energy sectors. The Sugar Industry and Cogeneration Project (Amendment) Bill of 2025 proposes continuing tax and duty exemptions for ASR/BSI and Belcogen, originally established under the Barrow Administration in 2012 to support cogeneration energy projects.

    The parliamentary discussion grew increasingly tense as Opposition Leader Tracy Panton challenged the government’s approach despite these financial concessions. Panton revealed the apparent contradiction that consumers face a proposed 14% energy cost increase currently under review by the Public Utilities Commission, despite the substantial incentives granted to industry players. She emphasized the critical importance of the sugar industry to northern agricultural communities and employment stability.

    The debate reached its climax when Prime Minister John Briceño launched a sharp retort, accusing Panton of hypocrisy regarding her party’s historical stance on supporting cane farmers. Briceño recalled that during their administration, Panton’s party provided “zero, not a single dollar” to assist northern cane farmers despite their promises of support.

    The original 2012 legislation facilitated a $100 million investment deal that rescued BSI through comprehensive tax exemptions covering business operations, dividends, customs, excise, environmental duties, and stamp duties, some retroactively applied to 2008. This initial legislation had previously sparked significant controversy, with the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association and the then-opposition People’s United Party warning that the concessions created unfair advantages for ASR over local farmers, potentially costing $40-50 million in lost revenue and risking farmer displacement. The historical tensions were so severe that they prompted a PUP walkout during the bill’s third reading in 2012.

  • Belgian crypto billionaire wants to set up libertarian community in the Caribbean

    Belgian crypto billionaire wants to set up libertarian community in the Caribbean

    Belgian cryptocurrency billionaire Olivier Janssens is spearheading an ambitious initiative to establish a self-governing libertarian community on the Caribbean island of Nevis. According to a Financial Times report, Janssens—who holds dual Belgian and Nevisian citizenship—is acquiring substantial land holdings through his company, South Nevis, for a development project codenamed “Destiny.”

    The project, which represents the first major development under a new law passed in Saint Kitts and Nevis last summer, involves investments totaling several billion dollars on the southern coast of the 93-square-kilometer island. The development plans include luxury villas, medical facilities, green spaces, and recreational amenities, with design work commissioned from renowned architecture firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill—the creative force behind Dubai’s Burj Khalifa.

    A particularly controversial aspect involves Janssens’ negotiation to implement an autonomous legal framework within the community. The recently enacted legislation permits large-scale developers to establish independent dispute resolution mechanisms, a provision that has raised concerns among local residents about jurisdictional authority and governance.

    During a recent presentation to Nevisians via video link, Janssens criticized the existing judicial system as inefficient and asserted that replicating it would undermine the project’s appeal to potential residents. The billionaire, who expressed skepticism toward traditional political structures, notably referred to Nevis as a “host nation” for his libertarian vision. Adding political complexity to the venture, Janssens’ real estate acquisitions are being facilitated by Sharon Brantley, spouse of Nevis Premier Mark Brantley.

  • Education Ministry strengthening “quality and accountability”

    Education Ministry strengthening “quality and accountability”

    In a significant move to transform its educational landscape, Guyana’s Ministry of Education has officially inaugurated the National Education Leadership Academy (NELA), marking a pivotal step toward enhancing school leadership and institutional accountability. The launch ceremony at Pegasus Corporate Suites on December 15, 2025, gathered education officials and practitioners to witness what authorities describe as a cornerstone initiative for improving learning outcomes nationwide.

    Chief Education Officer Saddam Hussain outlined an ambitious package of reforms scheduled for implementation in early 2026. These measures include reinstating teacher appraisals after a five-year hiatus, introducing performance report cards for all schools and regional education departments, and establishing a transparent school ranking system. ‘When there is a clamour for a particular school, then it’s based on the ranking and not necessarily what we think the good schools are,’ Hussain stated, emphasizing data-driven decision making.

    NELA represents a collaborative effort funded by the Global Partnership for Education and the Inter-American Development Bank, with implementation support from UNESCO’s International Institute for Educational Planning. The inaugural cohort comprises 100 education professionals—including school administrators, education officers, and ministry staff—who will undergo comprehensive leadership training.

    Complementing NELA’s launch, the ministry will soon introduce a Continuous Professional Development Policy alongside national teacher awards. Hussain explained this dual approach: ‘You have a system where teachers are held accountable but you also have a system where those who have excelled are rewarded for their efforts.’

    The academy’s mandate extends beyond conventional training, encompassing research into systemic challenges and solutions for parental engagement, school attractiveness, and leadership development. Hussain highlighted the need for ‘independence of thought’ among education leaders, citing concerning examples where school administrators resisted basic responsibilities like operating water systems installed with IDB support.

    Education Minister Sonia Parag addressed the gathering, noting that while infrastructure expansion—with over 100 schools built since 2020—and technological integration have improved access, transformational leadership remains crucial. ‘When this tier is strong, systems improve, teaching improves, learning improves and most importantly opportunity expands,’ Parag asserted, describing NELA’s mission to develop empathetic, ethical, and data-driven leaders.

    The initial 100 participants will engage in an 18-month blended learning program combining theoretical instruction with practical applications in educational leadership, mentoring, and collaborative improvement strategies.

  • Fontaine urges party unity after narrow UWP leadership win

    Fontaine urges party unity after narrow UWP leadership win

    Following a tightly contested leadership election, Dr. Thomson Fontaine has secured another term as political leader of the United Workers Party (UWP) while issuing a compelling plea for internal unity. The decisive vote occurred during the party’s 35th annual delegates conference at Goodwill Parish Hall, where Fontaine narrowly defeated challenger Pastor Randy Rodney by a margin of 83 votes to 75.

    In his victory address, Fontaine directly addressed the factionalism within party ranks, emphasizing that internal divisions must cease for the UWP to achieve electoral success. ‘Together, let us combine our efforts. Stop seeing fault in your leader and let us stand together,’ Fontaine urged delegates. He delivered a stark warning against passive opposition within the party: ‘It is not acceptable that you sit on the sidelines hoping that I fail as a leader. If one of us fails, all of us fail.’

    Framing the party’s mission as critically important for national development, Fontaine asserted, ‘This is not child play. There is too heavy a price to pay. If we fail, we are talking about the future of this country.’ He acknowledged implementing unconventional strategies distinct from traditional approaches, requesting patience from party members: ‘I am doing some things differently in 2025. We are not in 1988. Some of what I am doing may be different because we are not used to it.’

    Fontaine expressed measured optimism regarding the party’s growing appeal, noting that an increasing number of Dominican citizens are responding positively to the UWP’s message of shared prosperity. ‘Persons who previously dismissed our party are willing to give us a second chance,’ he observed, highlighting attraction to his vision of national transformation under a united party government. The re-elected leader concluded by reaffirming his commitment to guide the UWP into the next general election with renewed determination and collective purpose.

  • Saint Lucia blank Dominica in U23 cricket

    Saint Lucia blank Dominica in U23 cricket

    Saint Lucia’s Under-23 national cricket squad has returned home following an overwhelmingly successful tour of Dominica, having achieved a comprehensive victory across all formats of the bilateral series. The visiting team demonstrated exceptional prowess by securing clean sweeps in both the three-match 50-over series and the concluding three-day fixture, which concluded prematurely on December 11th due to their dominant performance.

    The final match at Botanic Gardens in Portsmouth witnessed Saint Lucia’s strategic mastery when captain Tarrique Edward won the toss and elected to field first. This decision proved immediately fruitful as Dominica was dismissed for a modest 124 runs before tea on the opening day. The bowling attack displayed remarkable cohesion with Keon Gaston, Aaron Joseph, and Jaden Elibox each claiming two wickets. Joseph and Elibox particularly impressed with exceptional economy rates of 1.50.

    Saint Lucia responded with 170 all out before day’s end, establishing a crucial 46-run lead. Theo Edward’s explosive batting performance anchored the innings with 67 runs from just 68 deliveries, including 11 boundaries and one six. Captain Tarrique Edward contributed 31 runs while Noelle Leo’s quickfire 17 from 13 balls maintained the scoring momentum.

    The second day saw Dominica dismissed for 148 in their second innings, setting a modest target of 103 for victory. Isaiah Jones led the bowling charge with impressive figures of 3-20, supported by captain Edward’s 3-41. The chase proved effortless as Leo’s magnificent 40 from 31 balls (featuring four fours and three sixes) combined with Bolton Sayers’ 20 from 15 deliveries to secure an eight-wicket victory within two days.

    The tour highlighted Saint Lucia’s emerging cricket talent, with balanced contributions from both batting and bowling units signaling promising development for the nation’s cricket program.

  • Edwin, Oliver take school 5K titles

    Edwin, Oliver take school 5K titles

    Amidst torrential rainfall at Beausejour, Gros Islet, club-affiliated athletes demonstrated exceptional prowess at the Secondary Schools Road Race on Thursday, December 11. Sir Arthur Lewis Community College emerged as the dominant force with Omarion Edwin and McKayla Oliver clinching top honors in their respective divisions during the challenging five-kilometer competition.

    The race commenced at the northeastern perimeter of Daren Sammy Cricket Ground, with participants navigating a circuit around the facility before proceeding northward along Beausejour Promenade. The route continued past the Saint Lucia Sports Academy toward Bella Rosa Road before culminating back at the cricket ground.

    Edwin, a seasoned competitor from Survivors Track Club with two CARIFTA appearances, secured the Under-18 boys’ title with an impressive time of 18:28. He outpaced Micoud Secondary’s Tafari Martin (18:44) and Choiseul’s Demille Theodore (18:57). In the Under-16 category, Soufriere’s Chaz Alexander delivered a standout performance with a winning time of 18:52, surpassing Tai Joseph (SLSA) and Jamal Cadette (Soufriere).

    SALCC further demonstrated its athletic depth through Daniel Hippolyte’s victory in the U20 boys’ race (19:59), with teammate Daniel Martin securing second place. St Mary’s College’s Jaylan McDonald claimed the U14 title in 21:45, leading Wayndell Etienne (Patricia D James Secondary) and Jervon Charlery (Vieux Fort Comprehensive).

    On the girls’ side, Road Busters athlete McKayla Oliver mastered the adverse conditions to win the U20 division in 23:02, finishing 30 seconds ahead of U14 champion Kayleigh Landers who placed second overall. U18 winner Angelle Joseph completed the top three finishers. The podium was rounded out by SALCC’s Clerissa Placide and SLSA’s Layla Jn Baptiste.

    Joseph captured the U18 girls’ crown in 23:39 representing Clendon Mason Memorial, while CARIFTA athlete Isabelle Emilienne (SLSA) earned bronze. SLSA achieved a remarkable 1-2 finish in the U16 girls category through Laila Nicholas (25:06) and Aria Andrew, with Soufriere’s Kena Butcher taking third. Landers secured her U14 victory in 23:32 for VFCSS, outperforming Daniella Lambert (St Joseph’s Convent) and Briann Jean (SLSA).

  • Nicholas Barnard elected Chamber of Commerce President

    Nicholas Barnard elected Chamber of Commerce President

    The Saint Lucia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture has undergone a significant leadership transition with the election of Nicholas Barnard as its new President. Mr. Barnard, who serves as Managing Director of St. Lucia Linen Services Ltd, assumes the role previously held by Ross Gardner of Carasco & Son, who concluded his two-term tenure without seeking re-election.

    This leadership change marks a strategic shift for the premier business advocacy organization, which plays a crucial role in representing private sector interests, facilitating networking opportunities, and influencing economic policy formulation in Saint Lucia. Barnard, having previously served as Vice President under Gardner’s administration, brings continuity and fresh perspective to the position.

    The newly constituted Board of Directors features a diverse representation of Saint Lucia’s business leadership: Eldris Mauricette of Tropical Shipping as First Vice President, Jason King of St. Lucia Distillers Group as Second Vice President, and Ross Gardner as Immediate Past President. The board further comprises nine distinguished directors from various sectors including shipping, retail, insurance, technology, and manufacturing.

    The Chamber’s new leadership team is poised to strengthen collaboration with government entities and other stakeholders to foster a business environment characterized by safety, fairness, and operational effectiveness. The board is scheduled to convene its inaugural meeting on Thursday to establish strategic priorities and operational frameworks for the coming term.

  • Here’s How to Stay Safe This Christmas

    Here’s How to Stay Safe This Christmas

    As Belize enters the final stretch of Christmas preparations, law enforcement agencies have escalated public safety warnings following a disturbing pattern of criminal incidents across the nation. The holiday season has been marred by multiple security breaches, including a brazen early morning burglary at Dangriga Town’s Belize Bank branch where intruders forced entry through rear access points and systematically ransacked teller stations. Although no cash losses have been confirmed, investigators are pursuing a black Ford Escape observed fleeing the scene at high velocity.

    In a separate development, San Pedro’s newly inaugurated Island Supermarket in the Tres Cocos district fell victim to simultaneous break-in and arson attacks merely three days after commencing operations. While no casualties resulted from the incident, emergency responders continue assessing the full extent of structural and inventory damage.

    These security breaches occur against the backdrop of Thursday’s brutal double homicide on the Hummingbird Highway, where delivery drivers Raynard Garbutt and Alexander Crawford were fatally shot during robbery attempts. The cumulative impact of these events has prompted Assistant Superintendent Stacy Smith to emphasize integrated security measures, stating: ‘Electronic transactions represent the safest alternative, particularly when robust security infrastructure remains absent.’

    Law enforcement officials are advocating for comprehensive safety protocols encompassing domestic, transportation, and personal security dimensions. Critical recommendations include electrical safety management for seasonal decorations, vigilant kitchen supervision, responsible alcohol consumption, and strict adherence to sober driving practices. Additional advisories cover secure parking utilization, cash minimization through electronic payment alternatives, and proactive reporting of suspicious activities. Authorities particularly stress the importance of environmental awareness after dark and thorough vehicle maintenance checks before intercity travel.

  • Calls for Civic Pride After Trash Left by Roadside

    Calls for Civic Pride After Trash Left by Roadside

    A viral video capturing acts widely condemned as irresponsible and disrespectful to community norms has ignited intense online debate about civic pride and public behavior. The footage, which depicts actions viewed as detrimental to communal spaces, has prompted strong public reactions questioning perceived declines in social responsibility.

    Numerous online commentators have expressed concerns over deteriorating standards of public conduct, with many advocating for stricter enforcement of existing ordinances to prevent similar incidents. Public calls have emerged demanding authorities identify involved individuals and implement suitable penalties, emphasizing that visible accountability is essential for maintaining community standards.

    While officials haven’t confirmed whether a formal investigation has been initiated, the incident has revitalized discussions about personal accountability, respect for shared spaces, and the appropriate role of law enforcement in preserving public order. Community advocates emphasize that restoring civic pride requires dual approaches: comprehensive public education initiatives promoting community values alongside consistent legal enforcement.

    The ongoing discourse reflects broader societal concerns about balancing individual freedoms with collective responsibility, highlighting how digital documentation of public behavior can rapidly influence community standards and policy discussions.