Carib Scope

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  • Walters questions bid to acquire Savvy on the Bay land

    Walters questions bid to acquire Savvy on the Bay land

    A contentious political debate has emerged regarding the government’s proposed land acquisition adjacent to Savvy on the Bay, with Opposition Senator Ryan Walters leading criticism against what he characterizes as unnecessary targeting of an established small business enterprise.

    During parliamentary deliberations on the Tourism Levy (Amendment) Bill, Senator Walters challenged the administration’s rationale for acquiring the neighboring parking facility, citing recent formal notices that have generated apprehension among local entrepreneurs. The senator articulated concerns that the move contradicts the government’s stated commitment to fostering business development.

    Housing and Lands Minister Christopher Gibbs attempted to allay fears, asserting that business operators should remain unworried about the acquisition process. “Our objective as an administration is to promote entrepreneurial ventures, not to impede business operations,” Gibbs emphasized, promising maintained access and improved facilities upon project completion.

    However, Senator Walters presented contradictory firsthand observations from multiple visits to the Bay Street location. “I’ve frequently visited Savvy on the Bay, utilizing both on-site and opposite parking facilities without encountering access restrictions,” the opposition legislator recounted. He described unimpeded beach access with his family, including purchases from local vendors and bar patronage without property disputes.

    The senator questioned the government’s particular interest in this specific parcel, noting numerous alternative development opportunities along Bay Street. He highlighted underutilized properties including the former Mobil service station and abandoned fish market as preferable alternatives. “Why pursue a plot supporting an active business when vacant lands remain available just a stone’s throw away?” Walters inquired.

    The opposition figure expressed bewilderment at the government’s approach, suggesting the strategy contradicts public encouragement of entrepreneurship and has generated confusion among both business operators and observers alike.

  • Senate clash over Tourism Levy Bill

    Senate clash over Tourism Levy Bill

    A contentious debate erupted in the Barbados Senate on Wednesday as government and opposition legislators fiercely disagreed on the Tourism Levy (Amendment) Bill and the broader economic contribution of the nation’s vital tourism sector. The proposed legislation introduces significant fiscal measures targeting the hospitality industry, including a novel shared-economy levy that mandates global online booking platforms to collect and remit a 10 percent tax directly to the Barbados Revenue Authority.

    Opposition Senator Ryan Walters challenged the government’s recurring assertion that ‘tourism pays the bills,’ presenting a critical analysis of the sector’s recent performance. While acknowledging tourism’s historical importance, Walters cited a dramatic decline in its contribution to GDP, which he claimed has fallen from approximately 13 percent between 2016-2018 to below 5 percent in 2023-2024, projecting this trend to continue through September 2025. ‘That does not qualify the statement that tourism pays our bills,’ Walters contended. ‘That is saying the government can no longer afford to pay its bills.’

    Government Senator Lisa Cummins mounted a robust defense, presenting countervailing data from the Central Bank of Barbados indicating strong post-pandemic recovery. Citing the October 2025 quarterly report, Cummins highlighted a 5.5 percent increase in long-stay arrivals over the first nine months of the year, with particularly strong rebounds from key markets including the United Kingdom, which reached 2018 levels by 2021. US arrivals grew by 12 percent between 2021-2022, with European markets showing comparable recovery trajectories.

    Cummins contextualized the post-2018 decline, noting that Barbados was poised to exceed 900,000 visitors by February 2019—surpassing the 2018 benchmark of 800,000—before COVID-19 necessitated widespread shutdowns. Addressing employment sustainability, she outlined government strategies to develop year-round tourism, including targeted engagement with luxury cruise lines during traditionally slower summer months. These smaller, high-end vessels, while carrying fewer passengers, attract premium-spending tourists whose economic impact rivals that of higher-volume, lower-spending arrivals.

  • No Dengue Outbreak or Unusual Mosquito-Borne Illness Activity, Government Says

    No Dengue Outbreak or Unusual Mosquito-Borne Illness Activity, Government Says

    Health authorities in Antigua and Barbuda have officially confirmed the absence of dengue outbreaks or unusual increases in mosquito-borne illnesses across the nation. This assurance came through a detailed epidemiological briefing presented to the Cabinet by Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph, with subsequent public communication handled by Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant.

    The comprehensive surveillance data reveals that all indicators for dengue and other arboviral diseases remain consistently within expected baseline parameters. The statistical trajectory shows a notable decline in confirmed dengue cases over recent years, with 2026 recording zero infections to date. Historical data indicates two cases in 2022, a significant spike to 106 cases in 2023, followed by a substantial reduction to 18 cases in 2024, and further decline to 11 cases in 2025.

    Other mosquito-transmitted illnesses including Zika, chikungunya, Oropouche fever, and yellow fever have similarly maintained minimal presence. Zika virus registered only two confirmed cases in the previous year, with no infections detected in 2022, 2023, 2024, or the current year. The more severe diseases—chikungunya, Oropouche fever, and yellow fever—have recorded zero laboratory-confirmed cases from 2020 through present.

    Cabinet officials concluded that arboviral activity remains effectively controlled with no evidence of sustained transmission or outbreak conditions. The Ministry of Health maintains fully operational surveillance systems designed for early detection and rapid response should disease patterns shift. While current risks remain low, health officials continue advocating for routine mosquito control measures including elimination of standing water and use of personal protection equipment. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to transparent, evidence-based public health management and ongoing protection of citizen welfare.

  • CARICOM unity at risk, labour leader warns

    CARICOM unity at risk, labour leader warns

    A prominent Caribbean labor leader has issued a stark warning that political divisions within the CARICOM bloc threaten to undermine regional stability and economic security. Dennis de Peiza, General Secretary of the Barbados Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations (CTUSAB), expressed alarm over the absence of unified condemnation from Caribbean governments regarding recent U.S. military operations near Venezuela, describing it as a dangerous precedent for the region.

    De Peiza emphasized that this collective silence jeopardizes the Caribbean’s identity as a zone of peace and carries profound implications for the region’s economic and political cohesion. The labor leader endorsed Antiguan Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s call for greater unity among member states while expressing deep concern over Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar’s characterization of CARICOM as ‘dysfunctional and self-destructive.’

    According to de Peiza, such rhetoric echoes the political fragmentation that led to the collapse of the West Indies Federation in 1962 and represents a worrying trend that could weaken the regional bloc’s effectiveness. He stressed that Caribbean nations, despite their small size, occupy strategically important positions and must maintain coordinated foreign and security policies.

    The labor leader also highlighted increasing pressure from the United States through travel advisories and visa restrictions, noting that these developments make regional unity more crucial than ever. While acknowledging the region’s dependence on U.S. tourism, de Peiza criticized Caribbean reliance on external markets and urged accelerated progress toward economic diversification.

    ‘We possess the collective capacity to achieve food security and develop sustainable industries,’ de Peiza stated, pointing to the agricultural potential of Guyana, Jamaica, Haiti, Trinidad and Tobago, and Barbados. He challenged regional leaders to implement progressive policies that would reduce external dependency and create employment opportunities within the region.

    Concluding his assessment, de Peiza called for substantive changes to national and regional development agendas, emphasizing that continued adherence to outdated approaches would prevent the Caribbean from achieving its full economic potential.

  • Cabinet Says One Nation Festival Was Well Organized

    Cabinet Says One Nation Festival Was Well Organized

    The Antigua and Barbuda Cabinet has formally recognized the One Nation Caribbean Music Festival as an exemplary model of event organization, setting new standards for cultural productions within the nation. During Thursday’s post-Cabinet media briefing, Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications in the Prime Minister’s Office, conveyed the government’s commendation of Festival Minister Daryll Matthew for the flawlessly executed two-day event.

    Merchant characterized the festival as “a shining example of excellence in planning, coordination, and execution,” with Cabinet members unanimously regarding it as among the most impeccably organized festivals ever hosted in Antigua and Barbuda. The government’s assessment highlighted how the event’s operational framework, audience turnout, and artistic presentations demonstrated clear strategic vision, effective leadership, and meticulous preparation.

    The festival’s success extended beyond logistical achievements, serving as a catalyst for national unity and cultural pride. According to official statements, the event showcased the nation’s capability to produce world-class cultural experiences while simultaneously strengthening community bonds and elevating the country’s profile as a premier destination for entertainment and cultural tourism.

    Cabinet members extended particular recognition to Festival Commission Chairperson Ambassador Elizabeth McCool and her entire team, acknowledging their dedication and professionalism as instrumental components of the event’s triumph. The government also expressed gratitude to the thousands of attendees whose enthusiastic participation and strong turnout generated the festival’s vibrant atmosphere and contributed substantially to its overall success.

    Appreciation was further directed toward service providers, security personnel, vendors, technical crews, volunteers, and support staff whose collective efforts ensured a safe, well-managed, and enjoyable experience for all patrons. Regarding future developments, government officials confirmed there are presently no discussions about expanding the festival or relocating its venue, asserting that the current format possesses the ideal components for continued success.

  • WATCH: U.S. forces seize tanker in Caribbean under Operation Southern Spear

    WATCH: U.S. forces seize tanker in Caribbean under Operation Southern Spear

    In a coordinated pre-dawn naval operation, U.S. military forces successfully intercepted and seized the motor tanker Veronica in Caribbean waters as part of ongoing efforts to disrupt unauthorized Venezuelan oil exports. The operation, conducted under the banner of Operation Southern Spear, involved specialized Marines and sailors deployed from the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier.

    The seizure was executed without incident according to U.S. Southern Command, which characterized the tanker as operating in direct violation of U.S.-imposed sanctions targeting vessels associated with Venezuela’s oil sector. The military command emphasized that this intervention demonstrates continued effectiveness in enforcing maritime quarantine measures against sanctioned Venezuelan oil activities.

    This strategic operation featured extensive interagency collaboration between the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Coast Guard, and the Department of Justice. The broader naval presence supporting these efforts includes assets from the U.S. Navy’s Amphibious Ready Group, notably the USS Iwo Jima, USS San Antonio, and USS Fort Lauderdale.

    U.S. Southern Command framed the operation within its wider hemispheric security objectives, stating that preventing illicit oil shipments from Venezuela remains a priority to ensure that any petroleum exports comply with U.S. legal standards and proper coordination protocols. The command further emphasized that such operations reinforce maritime security partnerships and counter illicit activities throughout the Western Hemisphere.

  • Health Alert Issued as Measles Outbreak Hits Guatemala

    Health Alert Issued as Measles Outbreak Hits Guatemala

    Health authorities across the Americas have escalated surveillance measures following confirmation of a dangerous measles outbreak centered in Guatemala. The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) has officially issued a public health alert after neighboring Guatemala reported 10 confirmed cases, with an additional case identified in El Salvador.

    The outbreak appears concentrated in the Guatemalan town of Santiago Atitlán, with secondary clusters emerging in the Petén and Izabal regions. This development occurs alongside ongoing measles transmission in Mexico, Canada, and the United States, creating a multi-national public health challenge that significantly elevates risks for unvaccinated individuals, particularly international travelers.

    Measles, classified as highly contagious by health experts, transmits through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing. The virus poses substantial risks of severe long-term complications. Initial symptoms typically manifest 7 to 21 days post-exposure and include high fever, nasal discharge, conjunctival inflammation (red eyes), and a distinctive rash that originates at the hairline before progressing downward across the entire body. Alarmingly, infected individuals can transmit the virus for four days before the characteristic rash appears and remain contagious for four days after its emergence.

    The MOHW emphasizes that vaccination continues to represent the most effective preventive strategy against measles infection. Health officials confirm that two properly administered doses of the measles vaccine provide essentially lifelong immunity against the disease. The ministry continues to monitor the epidemiological situation closely and urges heightened vigilance among healthcare providers and the general public.

  • Miss St. John’s Rural West Pageant set for Feb. 7

    Miss St. John’s Rural West Pageant set for Feb. 7

    The cultural landscape of St. John’s Rural West is set to be revitalized with the official return of its longstanding beauty pageant tradition. Scheduled for February 7, 2026, the Miss St. John’s Rural West Pageant will make its celebrated comeback under the evocative theme “Rekindled,” signaling the renewal of a cherished constituency institution dedicated to cultural expression and community pride.

    The evening event will commence at 7 p.m. within the Multipurpose Cultural Centre, serving as both a talent showcase and cultural revival. According to event coordinators, the pageant’s reinstatement aims to honor local artistry and restore a significant platform for community representation after a period of absence.

    Ticket acquisition is available for $40 at designated community outlets including Cool & Smooth, Bridge Service Station, Mr. Garfield, and Roti King. Cool & Smooth has been announced as the title sponsor for the occasion.

    The production is organized in partnership with the Fire Phoenix Foundation and will operate under the patronage of Senator Michael Joseph. Organizers characterize the 2026 edition as a renaissance of constituency pageantry, emphasizing the dual celebration of tradition and civic engagement through this eagerly anticipated return.

  • OECS Heads Meet on Urgent Regional and Geopolitical Matters

    OECS Heads Meet on Urgent Regional and Geopolitical Matters

    In a significant demonstration of regional coordination, leaders from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) convened in Saint Lucia on January 13, 2026, for a pivotal Heads of Government meeting. Chaired by Prime Minister Dr. Godwin Friday of St. Vincent and the Grenadines and hosted by Saint Lucian Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, the summit brought together heads of government from across the Eastern Caribbean.

    The assembly addressed pressing geopolitical concerns, particularly focusing on the evolving situation between Venezuela and the United States and its potential ramifications for regional stability. The leaders expressed serious concerns about possible impacts on economic security, energy supplies, migration patterns, and diplomatic relations within the hemisphere.

    A central agenda item involved detailed discussions regarding formal requests from the United States for OECS member states to accept Third Country Nationals. The meeting revealed that several member states have already entered into preliminary agreements with the US through Non-Legally Binding Memoranda of Understanding. In response, the leaders established a comprehensive high-level negotiating team comprising technical experts from across the OECS to engage in structured negotiations with American counterparts.

    The summit also produced significant developments regarding Citizenship by Investment Programs (CIPs). Leaders from the five OECS jurisdictions operating CIPs reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing program integrity through established best practices. Notable progress includes substantial advancements toward creating an independent regional regulatory authority and implementing legislative reforms to strengthen existing frameworks.

    In a move toward enhanced security and efficiency, the OECS committed to implementing advanced biometric systems for traveler processing across member states. This initiative aims to bolster border security while facilitating seamless travel experiences for both citizens and visitors within the region.

    The meeting concluded with a reinforced commitment to frequent political consultation and coordinated decision-making in response to the rapidly changing global landscape. Leaders emphasized their dedication to regional solidarity and principled engagement with international partners, particularly the United States, to ensure the security and sustainable development of the Eastern Caribbean.

  • PAHO: Druggebruikstoornissen nemen sterk toe in de Amerika’s

    PAHO: Druggebruikstoornissen nemen sterk toe in de Amerika’s

    A groundbreaking study from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) reveals substance use disorders have emerged as one of the top ten mortality and disability risk factors across the Americas, directly impacting approximately 17.7 million individuals. Published in the Pan American Journal of Public Health, the comprehensive analysis demonstrates the region faces a public health emergency with drug-related mortality rates quadruple the global average.

    In 2021 alone, nearly 78,000 deaths were directly attributable to drug use disorders across the hemisphere. The research, utilizing data from the Global Burden of Disease 2021 study, identifies opioid use disorders as responsible for over 75% of these fatalities, with young males experiencing disproportionately severe impacts. Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) linked to substance abuse have nearly tripled since 2000, escalating at an alarming annual rate of approximately 5%.

    PAHO Director Jarbas Barbosa emphasized that while “drug use disorders are both preventable and treatable, they increasingly burden families and communities.” He urgently appealed for nations to implement evidence-based prevention strategies, treatment protocols, and harm reduction initiatives, particularly targeting youth and vulnerable populations.

    Regional variations in substance abuse patterns reveal distinct epidemiological profiles. North America confronts a severe crisis driven by synthetic opioids like fentanyl and rising amphetamine disorders, while Caribbean, Central and South American nations grapple primarily with cannabis and cocaine-related disorders. When considering indirect deaths including opioid overdoses, liver cancer, cirrhosis, and drug-related suicides, the total mortality figure reaches approximately 145,515 annually—placing drug use alongside hypertension, obesity, poor nutrition, and tobacco as leading health risk factors.

    The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated substance abuse trends through multiple pathways: heightened psychological stress, disrupted healthcare services, and prolonged social isolation creating ideal conditions for addiction development and relapse.

    PAHO’s recommendations advocate for an integrated public health approach including: enhanced youth-focused prevention programs, expanded access to medication-assisted treatment for opioid disorders, integration of addiction services into primary care and community health systems, improved surveillance mechanisms for synthetic opioids, and gender-responsive interventions addressing rising substance abuse among women.

    The organization highlights WHO-developed screening tools (AUDIT and ASSIST) as cost-effective instruments for early detection and intervention. Renato Oliveira E Souza, head of PAHO’s Mental Health and Substance Use Unit, concluded: “We must position mental health and addiction care as central components of our health systems. Community-based, person-centered services supported by robust public health leadership and evidence-informed national strategies can reverse this alarming trajectory and save thousands of lives across the Americas.”