Carib Scope

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  • Insurance firms pay out $184 000 after deadly November floods

    Insurance firms pay out $184 000 after deadly November floods

    The General Insurance Association of Barbados (GIAB) revealed on Tuesday that insurers have disbursed approximately $184,000 in claims stemming from November’s catastrophic floods, which claimed one life and inflicted widespread destruction across the island. GIAB President Andrea Walton confirmed that 60 total claims were processed through the association’s secretariat, comprising 47 motor vehicle claims and 13 property damage claims.

    According to insurance officials, no additional claims are anticipated at this juncture, given that the most severely affected zones were confined to specific regions. The historic deluge, described as the most severe in a decade, resulted in the tragic death of 58-year-old Terry Kellman and caused extensive vehicular devastation, with numerous automobiles either washed away or deemed total losses.

    Kellman tragically perished after losing his footing along Lower Estate Road as torrential waters transformed the Charles Rowe Bridge into a raging river. His body was recovered approximately 24 hours after the initial flooding incident.

    Anton Lovell, General Manager of Cooperatives General Insurance, provided sobering assessment regarding submerged vehicles, stating that complete write-offs were inevitable regardless of insurance coverage. “When vehicles become fully submerged, recovery becomes impossible. These cases represent total losses—even luxury vehicles like Mercedes suffered irreparable water damage,” Lovell explained in post-flood evaluations.

    Despite the devastation, Home Affairs Minister Wilfred Abrahams extended commendations to first responders who conducted rescue and recovery operations throughout the night. During damage assessment tours of St. Peter and St. Lucy parishes alongside emergency personnel, Abrahams emphasized the unprecedented scale and velocity of the flooding event.

    The Minister detailed particular devastation around Charles Rowe Bridge, where multiple vehicles were swept away—some traveling from as far as St. George Parish Church before accumulating near the Chefette junction. Meteorological authorities confirmed that engineering solutions would have proven insufficient against the extraordinary rainfall intensity, with certain areas receiving up to nine inches (228.6mm) within 24 hours.

    Abrahams relayed the Met Office’s professional assessment: “The volume of precipitation within such condensed timeframe would have overwhelmed even world-class infrastructure. Water accumulated in elevated parishes and cascaded downward—our focus must remain on post-event mitigation strategies.”

  • Robert Peneux voorzitter nieuwe Raad van Toezicht IOL

    Robert Peneux voorzitter nieuwe Raad van Toezicht IOL

    In a significant move to enhance educational governance, Suriname’s Ministry of Education, Science and Culture has established a new Oversight Council for the Institute for Teacher Education (IOL). The council was formally installed on Tuesday by Minister Dirk Currie, with veteran educator Robert Peneux appointed as its chairman.

    Peneux, former director of the critical teacher training institute, now leads the five-member supervisory body comprising Ricardo Kenswil, Rawien Mangal, Joan Vliese, and Robby Holband. The installation ceremony included the formal handover of transfer documents to Peneux, marking the beginning of the council’s mandate to strengthen institutional governance and oversight mechanisms.

    Minister Currie identified the formalization of IOL’s legal status as an immediate priority, emphasizing that establishing a clear juridical framework for both the institute and its oversight council would create a solid foundation for administrative operations and future development. This legal structuring is expected to provide greater stability and clarity in the institution’s governance model.

    While acknowledging the importance of legal formalization, Chairman Peneux emphasized that internal structural reforms must take precedence. He specifically mentioned the need to redesign the organizational chart and reconsider the institute’s internal frameworks before addressing external legal matters.

    The newly installed council has outlined several strategic priorities including transforming IOL into a comprehensive School of Education, conducting thorough financial audits of the institution, and establishing a dedicated Human Resources Management department to strengthen personnel policies and organizational development.

    Minister Currie expressed full confidence in the expertise and commitment of the new oversight body, stressing that effective governance, transparency, and strategic direction are essential for enhancing the quality of teacher education in Suriname. The establishment of the council represents a proactive approach to educational reform in the country’s teacher preparation system.

  • Six Men’s folk set to gain land ownership, says MP

    Six Men’s folk set to gain land ownership, says MP

    A significant housing initiative in Barbados is bringing long-awaited property rights to residents of Six Men’s, St Peter, ending decades of legal uncertainty. Government officials have confirmed substantial progress in transferring land titles to families who have occupied these properties for multiple generations.

    During a House of Assembly debate on land resolutions, Labour Minister and St Peter MP Colin Jordan announced that approximately 37 properties have been formally surveyed under the Six Men’s Life Improvement Project. This represents nearly half of the homeowner-occupied parcels in the historically disputed area.

    “The people of Six Men’s are tremendously happy with the progress,” Jordan stated, emphasizing that residents had lived “in limbo for over 50 years” regarding property ownership. The National Housing Corporation (NHC), operating under the Ministry of Housing, has spearheaded the title transfer process that will finally grant legal recognition to generational occupants.

    The minister contrasted the current administration’s approach with previous governments, accusing the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) administration of labeling residents as “squatters” when they attempted to purchase their family lands. Jordan revealed that 37 residents received formal notification letters shortly before Christmas, enabling them to proceed with legal ownership acquisition for lots ranging from 2,500 to 3,500 square feet at approximately $1,400 per property.

    Beyond the Six Men’s initiative, Jordan announced upcoming improvements for the Maynard’s Housing Area, including exterior power washing and electrical upgrades. The minister concluded with a strong defense of the housing program, stating, “As MP, I am happy on behalf of the people of St Peter who are benefiting from the work of the Ministry of Housing.”

  • Burglaries in Dominica have decreased by over 300 percent over the years, says deputy police chief

    Burglaries in Dominica have decreased by over 300 percent over the years, says deputy police chief

    Dominica’s law enforcement authorities are reporting a historic breakthrough in crime prevention, with burglary rates plummeting by approximately 90% over the past three decades. Deputy Chief of Police Jeoffrey James revealed these striking statistics during a recent appearance on the “Legal Affairs & You” program broadcast by state-owned DBS Radio.

    According to official data, the island nation has witnessed nothing short of a crime reduction revolution. Where mid-1995 recorded alarming numbers exceeding 2,000 burglary cases across the island, current figures show a remarkable decline to approximately 200 incidents annually. James emphasized that this dramatic improvement represents a consistent decrease of over 300% in certain instances, affecting all regions including central districts and the capital Roseau.

    The police official attributed this success to multiple converging factors that have fundamentally transformed crime prevention capabilities. The implementation of Community Policing initiatives has fostered greater collaboration between residents and law enforcement, creating a network of vigilance across communities.

    Technological advancements have played an equally crucial role, with widespread adoption of CCTV systems and sophisticated surveillance equipment enabling both crime deterrence and efficient offender identification. Modern forensic capabilities have significantly enhanced investigation outcomes, resulting in more convictions and prison sentences for those engaged in criminal activities.

    James further noted that demographic shifts within the criminal population have contributed to the trend, with some offenders dying or aging out of criminal enterprises. The increased visible presence of police patrols has created an additional layer of security, making potential burglars reconsider their actions in the face of heightened detection risks.

    This comprehensive approach to crime reduction demonstrates how strategic policing, technological integration, and community engagement can collectively transform public safety landscapes in small island nations.

  • Burglaries in Dominica have reduced by over 300 percent over the years, says deputy police chief

    Burglaries in Dominica have reduced by over 300 percent over the years, says deputy police chief

    Dominica is witnessing a remarkable transformation in public safety, with official data revealing a staggering decline in burglary incidents across the island nation. Deputy Chief of Police Jeoffrey James has officially confirmed this positive trend, attributing the success to a multi-faceted strategy combining community engagement, policing reforms, and technological adoption.

    During a recent appearance on the ‘Legal Affairs & You’ program broadcast by State-Owned Radio DBS, Mr. James presented compelling statistics to illustrate this dramatic turnaround. He revealed that while the island recorded over 2,000 burglaries in the mid-1990s, current figures show this number has been drastically reduced to approximately 200 cases annually—representing a decrease of roughly 90%.

    ‘Burglary was once a very common offense islandwide, not limited to the Roseau area,’ James stated. ‘We have now witnessed a significant decrease in the central districts and across the entire island, with some areas experiencing continuous reductions exceeding 300 percent in certain instances.’

    The senior law enforcement official identified several key factors driving this improvement in community safety. The implementation of Community Policing initiatives has fostered greater cooperation between citizens and police authorities, creating a more collaborative approach to crime prevention.

    James also highlighted the impact of modern security technology, particularly the widespread adoption of CCTV systems. ‘People are increasingly utilizing cameras and other technological instruments for safety purposes, which significantly aids in both crime detection and offender identification,’ he explained.

    Additional contributing factors include successful law enforcement outcomes, with many offenders being investigated, convicted, and incarcerated at the state prison. Natural attrition within criminal circles has also played a role, with some offenders having died or retired from criminal activity due to advanced age.

    The increased visible presence of police patrols across communities has further contributed to creating a deterrent effect against potential burglaries, according to the Deputy Chief of Police.

  • Darnley Guye honored as Mas Domnik 2026 Personality of the Year

    Darnley Guye honored as Mas Domnik 2026 Personality of the Year

    In a prestigious ceremony marking the opening of Mas Domnik 2026, veteran carnival artisan Darnley Guye has been formally recognized as Personality of the Year by Dominica’s Ministry of Tourism and Discover Dominica Authority (DDA). The celebration took place in Pottersville during the festival’s inaugural parade this past weekend.

    Mr. Guye received this distinguished accolade in acknowledgment of his extraordinary five-decade dedication to the preservation and evolution of Dominican carnival traditions. His multifaceted contributions span costume design, parade coordination, artistic craftsmanship, and community leadership.

    Expressing profound gratitude upon accepting the honor, Guye remarked, ‘This recognition demonstrates that people are observing our work. I am deeply thankful and remain committed to contributing my utmost to this cultural legacy.’

    The celebrated artisan issued a compelling appeal for sustained engagement in costume craftsmanship, emphasizing the necessity of long-term dedication. ‘Carnival arts demand perpetual commitment—not transient participation. One cannot merely engage temporarily and withdraw. My involvement has been continuous since inception,’ Guye articulated.

    He further reflected on the symbiotic relationship between artists and their audience, noting, ‘Public response energizes our creative spirit. Their appreciation generates profound gratitude within us. Ultimately, while we create the costumes, it is the public that validates their artistic merit and determines their cultural continuation.’

    Now serving as a mentor to emerging costume artists, Guye continues to nurture the next generation of Dominican cultural custodians, ensuring the transmission of traditional knowledge and techniques to enthusiastic newcomers in the field.

  • Windwards lose WI women’s cricket curtain-raiser

    Windwards lose WI women’s cricket curtain-raiser

    In a thrilling opening match of the Cricket West Indies T20 Blaze tournament, defending champions Guyana edged past the Windward Islands by a narrow seven-run margin on Tuesday at Arnos Vale Sports Complex in Kingstown, St. Vincent & the Grenadines.

    The match began with Windward Islands captain Zaida James winning the toss and opting to field first. Guyana’s batting innings was characterized by steady partnerships rather than explosive scoring. After an initial opening stand of 27 runs, the Windwards gained momentum with key breakthroughs from Jannillea Glasgow and James herself, who removed Realeanna Grimmond (8) and Mandy Mangru (16) respectively.

    Shakiba Gajnabi emerged as the batting anchor for Guyana, crafting a crucial 38 runs from 37 deliveries including two boundaries. Her productive partnership with Ashmini Munisar (17 off 20 balls) in the final overs proved decisive, propelling Guyana to a competitive total of 96-5 from their allotted 20 overs.

    The Windwards’ bowling attack demonstrated disciplined performance, particularly from James who recorded impressive figures of 1-14 from her four overs, and Glasgow who conceded just 10 runs from three overs while taking a wicket.

    In response, the Windward Islands’ chase encountered early setbacks with the dismissals of Ashlene Edward (5) and captain James (1) within the first five overs. A resilient 59-run partnership between Jannillea Glasgow and Afy Fletcher revived hopes, with Glasgow top-scoring at 41 runs from 36 balls including four boundaries. Fletcher contributed 33 from 36 deliveries with a four and six.

    Despite needing 19 runs from the final 16 balls, the Windwards fell short at 89-5, with Guyana’s bowling unit maintaining composure under pressure. Sheneta Grimmond, Ashmini Munisar and Plaffiana Millington each claimed wickets for the defending champions.

    The Windward Islands, featuring all four Saint Lucian players in their starting lineup, will look to rebound in their next encounter against Trinidad & Tobago on Thursday.

  • Mendes reaps benefits from songwriting, producing

    Mendes reaps benefits from songwriting, producing

    Dwayne Mendes, CEO of Blazin’ FM, is experiencing a remarkable creative and commercial resurgence in the music industry exactly one year after recommitting to his songwriting and production passions. His collaborative soca track “Cyah Behave,” performed by artist Voice, has emerged as a standout hit throughout Trinidad’s 2026 carnival circuit while earning the prestigious selection as Exodus Steel Orchestra’s competition piece for this year’s Panorama championships.

    The journey to this success began during Miami Carnival in October 2025, where Mendes rediscovered his connection to soca music after exploring various genres including R&B, dancehall and reggae. “During Miami Carnival, I was able to absorb the atmosphere and remind myself what people loved about soca,” Mendes reflects on the experience that reignited his creative spark.

    Mendes attributes his refined craft to invaluable industry feedback that helped him develop a distinctive writing style and production formula. “I adjusted my approach based on what audiences truly respond to—the sing-alongs, the hooks, and other essential elements,” he explains, noting how he subsequently revisited and enhanced his earlier compositions.

    Adopting a business-minded strategy, Mendes now contracts professional brokers to pitch his songs, a system that enables rapid growth while maintaining creative freedom. “I’m currently negotiating about eight songs, which allows me to remain consistently creative,” he reveals.

    Commenting on contemporary soca trends, Mendes observes the effective blending of nostalgic elements with innovative approaches. “Music operates in cycles similar to fashion,” he notes. “What sounds nostalgic to some listeners represents something entirely fresh to the 18-25 demographic, creating a smart bridge between generations.”

    Looking toward Saint Lucia Carnival, Mendes is collaborating with Teddyson John on a reimagined classic and developing new material with former monarch Alpha. His perspective is informed by pioneering work with Studio 758 and SLU Records, which produced international breakthroughs including Ricky T’s “Pressure Boom” and historic appearances at International Soca Monarch and Madison Square Gardens with Machel.

    “The financial landscape has transformed dramatically since we built Saint Lucia’s soca scene from the ground up,” Mendes observes. “Today’s artists achieve genuine success, allowing me to focus exclusively on providing quality music rather than artist management.”

    Beyond soca, Mendes continues ghostwriting for prominent dancehall artists and awaits album placements with a Jamaican act signed to an international label. He expresses profound satisfaction witnessing Saint Lucia’s soca scene flourish, stating: “I’m happy to reap fruits from what we started over 15 years ago and participate in this industry from a renewed perspective.”

  • Wounded Officer Trevon Giddings Appeals for Public Help After Losing Leg in Line-of-Duty Shooting

    Wounded Officer Trevon Giddings Appeals for Public Help After Losing Leg in Line-of-Duty Shooting

    In a heartfelt appeal for public solidarity, Officer Trevon Giddings has come forward to share his harrowing journey of recovery after sustaining catastrophic injuries during a police operation last year. The incident, which occurred on May 25, 2025, unfolded when Giddings responded to alerts concerning masked individuals in the Potters district. During the confrontation, he sustained three gunshot wounds, two of which critically damaged his lower limb. Despite exhaustive medical efforts to save the injured leg, surgical teams ultimately performed a necessary amputation of his right leg.

    The physical and emotional toll of this life-changing event has been compounded by significant financial pressures. Medical experts estimate that comprehensive rehabilitation—including advanced prosthetic technology, reconstructive surgical procedures, and extensive physical therapy—will require approximately $200,000. To address these substantial costs, a GoFundMe initiative has been established, though current contributions total just over $10,000, representing a fraction of the required amount.

    Giddings’ story highlights the profound personal sacrifices made by law enforcement personnel and the challenging road to recovery many face after severe line-of-duty injuries. His appeal underscores the critical role community support plays in helping injured first responders rebuild their lives and achieve functional independence following traumatic events.

  • Antioch Baptist Church Night of Worship

    Antioch Baptist Church Night of Worship

    Antioch Baptist Church extends an open invitation to community members for an inspirational Night of Worship scheduled for Thursday, January 22, 2026. The spiritual gathering will commence at 7:15 PM within the serene setting of the Lime Kiln Sanctuary.

    The evening’s program will feature exceptional musical performances by acclaimed gospel artists Susan Best and Ava Richards, alongside Curdel Rouse collaborating with the Unique Touch Christian Centre Team. This ecumenical event aims to foster community connections through shared worship experiences designed for spiritual enrichment and collective upliftment.

    In keeping with the church’s commitment to accessibility, attendance requires no admission fee, though organizers will receive a voluntary soft offering during the proceedings. The event represents Antioch Baptist Church’s ongoing initiative to create inclusive spiritual programming that bridges denominational divides and strengthens community bonds through worship music and fellowship.