Carib Scope

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  • Saint Lucian boxers express gratitude ahead of elite training stint

    Saint Lucian boxers express gratitude ahead of elite training stint

    Two of Saint Lucia’s most promising welterweight boxers, Hervé Charlemagne and Daniel Martin, have departed for an intensive training program at the prestigious CREPS Antilles-Guyane center in Guadeloupe. The specialized sports facility in Les Abymes is renowned for cultivating elite athletic talent through comprehensive development programs that integrate sports education, animation career training, and high-performance support services including medical, nutritional, and psychological conditioning.

    Both athletes have demonstrated exceptional skill at regional competitions, with Martin recently clinching victory at the 2025 OECS Boxing Championships where he played a pivotal role in securing Saint Lucia’s championship retention. Charlemagne previously led his national team to a podium finish at the Caribbean School Boys and Girls Boxing Tournament in Guyana, showcasing his technical prowess and competitive spirit.

    In pre-departure statements, both boxers expressed profound appreciation for the opportunity. “This represents a transformative phase in my boxing career,” Charlemagne noted. “Training at CREPS will immerse me in superior competitive environments and professional discipline. I extend gratitude to the Boxing Association and all supporters of my potential—I am committed to rigorous training and representing Saint Lucia with honor.”

    Martin shared similar enthusiasm for the developmental opportunity: “Such chances are rare and precious. I anticipate substantial learning, skill enhancement, and testing my capabilities against top-tier opponents. This program will refine my techniques and better prepare me for future challenges. Carrying the Saint Lucian flag into this experience fills me with immense pride.”

    The initiative is a strategic component of the Saint Lucia Boxing Association’s (SLBA) broader mandate to provide international exposure and competitive preparation for its athletes. SLBA President David “Shakes” Christopher emphasized the program’s significance: “This immersion represents a crucial investment in the future of Saint Lucian boxing. Hervé and Daniel have demonstrated remarkable commitment, discipline, and potential. Their experience at CREPS will dramatically accelerate their development, and we expect them to return as more disciplined, technically advanced athletes ready to excel at international levels.”

  • SVG’s laws online this year; halls of justice a ‘medium-term objective’

    SVG’s laws online this year; halls of justice a ‘medium-term objective’

    The government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has initiated a comprehensive million-dollar legal modernization program that will digitize the nation’s entire body of laws. Attorney General Louise Mitchell announced the landmark initiative during her address marking the commencement of the judicial year, revealing plans to make all national legislation accessible online through a complete consolidation and revision process.

    The ambitious project, which will incorporate all laws passed through December 31, 2025, represents the first major revision since 2009. The government has engaged the Regional Law Revision Centre in Anguilla, signaling a strategic shift toward regional collaboration while maintaining sovereignty over the legal framework. Notably, the finalized compilation will be government-owned and produced in MS Word format to facilitate knowledge sharing and enhance investor confidence through transparent legal frameworks.

    In parallel developments, Mitchell addressed infrastructure concerns within the judicial system, acknowledging reports of mold, termite infestations, and inadequate facilities in both the High Court and magistrates’ courts. While confirming that the previous administration’s proposed halls of justice project remains a medium-term objective, the current government has prioritized immediate digital advancements over new construction.

    The Attorney General also outlined progress on the digitization of the Land Registry Project, with approximately 250,000 deeds from 1939-2025 already scanned ahead of the anticipated 2028 completion. Additionally, the Legal Professions Bill, carried over from the previous administration, is scheduled for parliamentary agenda placement in the first quarter, aiming to establish enhanced ethical standards for legal practitioners.

    A feasibility study commissioned for 2024 will evaluate comparative costs and suitability of locations for the proposed halls of justice, with a final decision on location and concept design expected by late 2026. The government projects funding acquisition for the construction project to commence in 2027, pending study outcomes.

  • CARICOM SG underscores importance of effective public finance management at SPEM certification ceremony

    CARICOM SG underscores importance of effective public finance management at SPEM certification ceremony

    In a landmark address at the Certification Ceremony for the Strengthening Public Expenditure Management (SPEM) Project, CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett celebrated the pioneering cohort of Belizean public officials who completed the groundbreaking fiscal training initiative. The ceremony marked a significant milestone in collaborative governance, bringing together the Government of Belize, the University of Belize, and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) in a tripartite commitment to fiscal excellence.

    Dr. Barnett emphasized that robust public financial management constitutes the bedrock of sustainable development for small developing states like Belize, which face disproportionate vulnerabilities to global economic volatility and climate-induced disruptions. She articulated that every dollar of public expenditure carries profound implications for national development outcomes, directly influencing critical sectors including healthcare, education infrastructure, and community resilience building.

    The Secretary-General positioned Belize’s fiscal advancement within broader regional and international contexts, noting that the country’s participation in the CARICOM Single Market and Economy necessitates sophisticated financial management capabilities. She underscored that transparent fiscal systems enable more effective regional trade engagement, cross-border collaboration, and foreign investment attraction.

    Beyond technical proficiency, Dr. Barnett highlighted the program’s alignment with global development frameworks, particularly the United Nations Financing for Development agenda emphasizing domestic resource mobilization. She framed fiscal discipline as a strategic imperative for reducing external dependency and building self-reliant economies capable of withstanding external shocks.

    Addressing the graduates directly, Barnett charged them with transforming their acquired expertise into tangible improvements in public service delivery and fiscal accountability. She characterized their certification not merely as personal achievement but as a critical contribution to strengthening public trust in governance institutions through demonstrable development outcomes.

    The SPEM Project represents a continuous commitment to institutional capacity building, incorporating digital financial systems, advanced data analytics, and modern auditing techniques while maintaining core principles of accountability and inclusive governance.

  • Is This Your Dog?

    Is This Your Dog?

    A meticulously groomed canine discovered tethered to a post at Village Walk has prompted an urgent community appeal for its owner to come forward. The well-kept appearance of the animal suggests it may have been accidentally left behind rather than intentionally abandoned. Local authorities or community members who discovered the dog are now spearheading efforts to reunite the pet with its rightful owner. The situation highlights concerning patterns of pets being left unattended in public spaces, whether through forgetfulness or deliberate action. The clean and healthy condition of the dog indicates it has recently received proper care and attention, strengthening the hypothesis that its separation from the owner may have been unintentional. Community networks are being mobilized to spread awareness through social media channels and local communication platforms. This incident serves as an important reminder for pet owners to maintain constant vigilance regarding their animals’ whereabouts, particularly in busy public areas where distractions abound.

  • Dominica’s long-awaited family court may finally become a reality

    Dominica’s long-awaited family court may finally become a reality

    In a landmark development for Dominica’s judicial system, the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) has unveiled plans to establish a dedicated family court on the island. The announcement was made by Acting Chief Justice Hon. Margaret Price Findlay during Monday’s ceremonial opening of the New Law Year in Dominica.

    The initiative represents a decisive response to decades of advocacy from legal professionals, social workers, and magistrates who have emphasized the critical need for specialized handling of family matters. Dominica and Grenada have been identified as the primary beneficiaries of this judicial reform program.

    Justice Price Findlay emphasized that family law constitutes a highly specialized field requiring particular expertise due to the sensitive nature of cases involving children, custody arrangements, domestic disputes, and welfare concerns. The comprehensive program will include enhanced judicial training in family law alongside strengthening the Court’s statistical unit to improve data collection methodologies. This data-driven approach will inform future policy decisions, resource allocation, and strategic planning.

    The establishment of a family court addresses what commentators have described as a ‘long-overdue’ gap in Dominica’s justice infrastructure. Currently, family law disputes are processed through general magistrate courts that simultaneously handle criminal and civil matters, often resulting in systemic delays and insufficient attention to the complexities inherent in family cases.

    This judicial advancement promises multiple benefits: specialized judges and magistrates trained explicitly in family law, a confidential and supportive environment for children and families navigating legal challenges, expedited resolution of custody and maintenance cases, and strengthened child protection systems alongside enhanced welfare services.

    The ECSC’s initiative marks a significant turning point for judicial reform in the Eastern Caribbean, laying the groundwork for a more modern and responsive legal framework that prioritizes the unique needs of families accessing the justice system.

  • Holistic approach needed in fight against drug abuse, says Abrahams

    Holistic approach needed in fight against drug abuse, says Abrahams

    Barbados is mobilizing a comprehensive, multi-agency offensive against substance abuse, with Minister of Home Affairs and Information Wilfred Abrahams advocating for an integrated approach combining health services, human rights protections, criminal justice, and social support systems. Speaking at a Sunday service marking Drug Awareness Month at First Baptist Church in St. Michael, Minister Abrahams emphasized the critical need for people-centered responses to this escalating national challenge. The minister echoed United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres’ 2024 message highlighting the urgency of eliminating stigma and discrimination while strengthening prevention mechanisms and upholding the human rights of individuals affected by drug use. Abrahams revealed alarming trends, including increased arrival of new psychoactive substances on the island and rising marijuana consumption among younger demographics. He warned that substance abuse poses a fundamental threat to national security, affecting homes, communities, and even religious institutions. The minister expressed particular concern about the socioeconomic impact, noting that substance abuse removes productive citizens from society through either incarceration or rehabilitation. He called for seamless collaboration between public health and criminal justice systems to develop appropriate prevention and treatment responses for vulnerable populations including youth and women. Beyond treatment and rehabilitation, Abrahams stressed the importance of social inclusion and reintegration, urging society to embrace those who have overcome substance abuse problems. The government reaffirmed its commitment to implementing activities that balance health-based and criminal justice approaches to substance abuse prevention. The event also featured Allison Gotip, Director of Clinical Services at Verdun and Marina House, who emphasized the necessity of multi-stakeholder partnerships. Gotip described prevention as a continuous movement requiring coordinated efforts across government agencies, faith-based organizations, communities, and families, grounded in the belief that recovery is achievable through dignified, ethical, and effective treatment.

  • Jurors’ stipend doubled; lawyers to pay to park in Court House yard

    Jurors’ stipend doubled; lawyers to pay to park in Court House yard

    In a significant move to strengthen judicial participation, the Eastern Caribbean’s juror compensation rate will see a substantial increase this month. Attorney General Louise Mitchell announced on Monday that the EC$10 stipend provided to jurors for lunch and transportation expenses will be doubled immediately.

    The announcement came during Mitchell’s inaugural court address since assuming her ministerial position in December. She emphasized the critical role jurors play in maintaining judicial integrity, stating that “jurors are essential to the justice system. Their decisions reflect community values, protect individual rights and uphold the principles of democracy.”

    Mitchell acknowledged that while jurors can never be fully compensated for their dedication, their contributions warrant recognition. “The criminal system depends on their impartiality and fairness in determining guilt or innocence,” she told attendees at the special sitting marking the beginning of the legal year.

    Concurrently, the Attorney General revealed plans to restore parking privileges for legal professionals at the Court House yard, reversing a 2022 decision by the Ralph Gonsalves Unity Labour Party administration that had prohibited attorney parking. However, this reinstated privilege will now come with a monthly fee, unlike the previous complimentary arrangement.

    The parking policy had previously faced legal challenges, including an October 2023 High Court case brought by then-opposition figures Jemalie John and Shevern Lewis-John, which ultimately upheld the government’s position.

    Mitchell, whose previous work with the National Trust contributed to the 200-year-old courthouse achieving protected national heritage status, reminded legal professionals of their responsibility to preserve the historic site. She requested attorneys to park only in the rear sections of the grounds to minimize impact on Kingstown’s limited green spaces.

  • STATEMENT: ERC public forum – A call to action for Dominica – How did we get here and how are we getting out?

    STATEMENT: ERC public forum – A call to action for Dominica – How did we get here and how are we getting out?

    The Commonwealth of Dominica confronts an unprecedented national emergency as it grapples with severe diplomatic repercussions from the United States. For the first time in history, Dominican citizens face stringent U.S. visa restrictions, mandatory visa bonds, and mounting pressure to accept third-country deportees merely to restore basic travel privileges. These developments signal a critical erosion of the nation’s international standing and credibility.

    This crisis stems directly from the controversial management of Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment Programme (CBI), which critics allege was transformed into a ‘passport mill’ operation. Under this scheme, national sovereignty was effectively commodified, with citizenship traded for immediate financial gain without adequate consideration of long-term consequences. While benefiting a select few, this approach has now jeopardized the travel freedom and global reputation of all Dominican citizens.

    The Electoral Reform Coalition (ERC) has announced a major public forum to address this escalating situation. Scheduled for January 13, 2026, at the DPSU Conference Room, the gathering will feature united opposition leadership, immigration experts including attorney Tamika Jude, and influential voices from the global Dominican diaspora. The forum aims to comprehensively examine how irresponsible passport sales damaged international relations, analyze the tangible threats posed by current visa restrictions, and formulate concrete strategies for national recovery.

    This initiative represents a rare moment of political unity, transcending partisan interests to address fundamental questions of national survival and dignity. The collective response underscores a determined effort to reclaim control of Dominica’s future and restore the integrity of its national identity on the world stage.

  • Marie’s Shack promised new home in upgraded beach park

    Marie’s Shack promised new home in upgraded beach park

    A longstanding culinary institution on Saint Lucia’s Reduit Beach finds itself at the center of a legal and emotional confrontation between tradition and development. Marie’s Fish Shack, operated by Ann Marie Farrel for 47 years, has received formal notice from the Department of Crown Lands regarding unauthorized operation on government property.

    The December 17, 2025 notification cited violations of both the Crown Lands Act and Physical Planning and Development Act, establishing a January 5, 2026 deadline for structure removal. This action prompted immediate public concern and official clarification from government authorities.

    While acknowledging the establishment’s cultural significance and community value, officials emphasized that all businesses operating on Crown Land—including those along the Kings’ Chain—require formal authorization from the Commissioner of Crown Lands, regardless of their operational history.

    Contrary to evacuation implications, the government revealed comprehensive relocation plans within the Mount Pimard Beach Park development. The proposed solution involves transferring operations to an enhanced beachfront location featuring modern amenities including dedicated parking, security services, restroom facilities, shower areas, dining spaces, recreational zones, and playground installations.

    Strategic planning between Invest Saint Lucia and the A’ILA Resort developer allegedly incorporated provisions for Marie’s future operations from the project’s inception. Initial designs specifically allocated space for a fish restaurant while creating expanded opportunities for local entrepreneurs.

    The government expressed appreciation for Marie’s contributions while maintaining that legal compliance remains essential for equitable business practices. Other unauthorized operators along the Kings’ Chain were encouraged to regularize their status through proper channels.

  • Sheinbaum: Mexico can be a vehicle for US-Cuba communication

    Sheinbaum: Mexico can be a vehicle for US-Cuba communication

    Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has reaffirmed her nation’s longstanding diplomatic relationship with Cuba, emphasizing that bilateral ties transcend political party affiliations in both countries. The statement came during a press engagement where Sheinbaum addressed questions regarding potential oil shipments to Cuba and broader geopolitical dynamics.

    President Sheinbaum highlighted that Mexico consistently opposed the United States’ economic blockade against Cuba from its inception, establishing a historical precedent for diplomatic solidarity. “The Mexico-Cuba relationship is historic,” Sheinbaum stated on December 22. “Mexico was the only country that opposed the blockade imposed by the United States from the outset. Therefore, regardless of the political party in power, there has always been a Mexico-Cuba relationship.”

    The comments followed Sheinbaum’s recent telephone discussion with former US President Donald Trump, wherein the Republican figure announced intentions to initiate ground operations against cartels. This development occurs against a backdrop of escalating US aggression toward Venezuela and continued threats against Cuba and other nations.

    Sheinbaum elaborated on the multidimensional cooperation between Mexico and Cuba, citing energy collaboration and frequent diplomatic exchanges spanning decades. These interactions have persisted irrespective of changing political leadership in Washington, demonstrating the resilience and continuity of Mexico-Cuba relations despite external pressures.

    The Mexican leader’s remarks directly addressed inquiries about sustaining oil exports to Cuba, which continues to endure a comprehensive economic, commercial, and financial embargo imposed by Washington over sixty years ago. Experts universally recognize this embargo as the primary impediment to Cuba’s economic development and international integration.