Carib Scope

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  • Consumer advocacy group urges targeted VAT relief

    Consumer advocacy group urges targeted VAT relief

    The Barbados Consumer Empowerment Network (BCEN) has presented a comprehensive policy framework urging government action to alleviate mounting economic pressures on households. Executive Chairman Maureen Holder articulated specific fiscal measures designed to provide immediate relief while maintaining fiscal discipline.

    Central to BCEN’s proposal is the implementation of strategic value-added tax reductions on essential commodities including staple foods, pharmaceutical products, and basic household necessities. The organization recommends compensating for potential revenue shortfalls by maintaining or increasing VAT rates on luxury imports and non-essential goods.

    Holder emphasized the need for complementary support mechanisms including direct cash transfers and utility subsidies, advocating for dynamic policy monitoring to ensure balance between consumer relief and fiscal responsibility. The proposal comes despite Barbados’ ongoing economic restructuring under the Barbados Economic Recovery and Transformation (BERT) 3.0 program.

    BCEN’s analysis draws comparative insights from international precedents where countries including the United Kingdom, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, and India successfully implemented targeted VAT reductions without compromising fiscal stability. These nations typically combined tax adjustments with direct support mechanisms for vulnerable populations.

    The consumer advocacy group acknowledges that previous government interventions—including temporary price controls, utility subsidies, and selective VAT adjustments—provided limited relief but failed to match the pace of inflation and rising living costs. Holder criticized theoretical objections to VAT reductions, noting the absence of alternative concrete solutions from academic circles addressing Barbados’ cost-of-living challenges.

    BCEN characterizes its recommendations as a targeted, sustainable approach that balances immediate household financial relief with long-term economic stability, urging policymakers to transition from economic debate to practical implementation.

  • Dominica Cricket Academy receives $67,500 boost from St Kitts & Nevis Patriots

    Dominica Cricket Academy receives $67,500 boost from St Kitts & Nevis Patriots

    In a significant boost for Caribbean cricket development, the Dominica Cricket Academy has secured a substantial financial commitment of $67,500 from the St Kitts & Nevis Patriots franchise. The investment represents a portion of the academy’s annual sponsorship package aimed at enhancing operational capabilities and talent cultivation programs.

    Senator Oscar George, Minister of State in the Ministry of Culture, Youth, Sports and Community Development, formally acknowledged the sponsorship during a recent interview. He emphasized that this contribution forms part of an ongoing partnership between the academy and the CPL franchise, highlighting the strategic importance of such collaborations in sports development.

    “This financial injection to the tune of $67,500 constitutes partial fulfillment of the annual sponsorship commitment toward the Academy’s operations,” Minister George stated. “On behalf of the Ministry of Sports and the Government of Dominica, we express our sincere appreciation to the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots organization and particularly their Director, Mr. Mahesh Ramani, for their sustained support.”

    The academy, recognized as Dominica’s premier cricket development institution, maintains a comprehensive program focused on identifying and nurturing emerging talent through technical training, specialized coaching, and holistic mentorship. Its facilities include a modern indoor training center that enables uninterrupted practice sessions regardless of weather conditions.

    Over its years of operation, the academy has produced several distinguished cricketers who have advanced to regional and international competitions, including Alick Athanaze, Kavem Hodge, Stephen Pascal, and Arsenio Fontaine. Minister George underscored the institution’s profound impact on Dominican sports, noting: “The Academy has consistently delivered substantial positive contributions to our sporting ecosystem.”

    The Minister characterized the Patriots’ investment as crucial for sustaining the academy’s mission, adding that such corporate partnerships play a vital role in shaping cricket’s future across the Eastern Caribbean region. The funding will directly support enhanced training programs, facility maintenance, and expanded recruitment initiatives to identify promising young athletes across the island.

  • Nicki Minaj declares Trump support while unveiling gold card visa

    Nicki Minaj declares Trump support while unveiling gold card visa

    In a remarkable political reversal, Trinidad and Tobago-born rap superstar Nicki Minaj proclaimed herself former President Donald Trump’s “number one fan” during Wednesday’s Trump Accounts Summit at the US Treasury Department. The announcement signals a dramatic departure from her previous criticisms of Trump’s immigration policies.

    Appearing alongside Trump, Minaj endorsed his trust fund program for children while proudly displaying her recently acquired “gold card” visa. This premium immigration initiative, launched in December, offers expedited citizenship pathways for affluent immigrants through a substantial financial investment.

    Photographs captured the rapper holding hands with Trump on the podium, where she directly addressed her critics. Minaj, who immigrated to the United States as a child with her parents, asserted that negative reactions only strengthen her support for the former president, emphasizing that public opinion cannot sway her convictions.

    The artist subsequently shared images of her gold card on social media platform X, revealing she received it without charge while completing her citizenship documentation. The controversial program requires a $1 million fee plus $15,000 in processing costs for US residency, drawing significant criticism for its timing during periods of intensified immigration enforcement.

  • Another Cannabis Seizure at Airport Cargo Facility

    Another Cannabis Seizure at Airport Cargo Facility

    Authorities at V.C. Bird International Airport in Antigua have successfully intercepted a second significant cannabis shipment within a remarkably short 24-hour timeframe, signaling intensified enforcement operations at the nation’s primary aerial gateway.

    The latest interdiction occurred at the airport’s Custom Cargo Shed facility on Saturday, January 31, 2026, marking the second major drug seizure in under a day. This operation follows Thursday’s successful confiscation of approximately thirteen pounds of cannabis, which carried an estimated street value of EC$79,200 according to official valuations.

    The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, through its Strategic Communications Office, confirmed both operations but maintained that comprehensive investigations remain actively ongoing. Law enforcement officials have not disclosed specific details regarding the quantity or value of the most recently seized contraband, nor have they revealed potential leads regarding trafficking networks or suspects connected to either interception.

    These consecutive seizures demonstrate heightened vigilance among customs and border protection units at Antigua’s principal international airport. The strategic location of the Caribbean nation makes it vulnerable to transnational drug trafficking operations, prompting authorities to strengthen surveillance and inspection protocols for both passenger and cargo transportation channels.

    The successful operations reflect the government’s continued commitment to combating illicit drug trade through its borders, though officials emphasize that investigations require further development before additional details can be publicly disclosed.

  • Trump is named 1,500 times in the Epstein files

    Trump is named 1,500 times in the Epstein files

    A trove of documents from the estate of the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein was made public on Wednesday by Republican members of the U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. The release, described as comprising approximately 20,000 pages, has been subjected to an AI-assisted analysis by CBC News, yielding a significant finding: the name of former and potentially future U.S. President Donald Trump appears over 1,500 times within the material.

    Despite the high frequency of mentions, a thorough review indicates that the vast majority of these references do not unveil any previously unknown or substantive connections between Trump and Epstein, who died in a jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges. The analysis, conducted using Google’s Pinpoint application—a tool designed to convert image files into searchable text—reveals that a considerable proportion of the Trump-related content consists of news articles and clippings from 2016 onward. These reports primarily chronicle Trump’s first presidential campaign and his subsequent term in office, rather than providing firsthand evidence of direct involvement.

    Among the more peculiar items included in the extensive document dump is a brief, 20-second video clip depicting a dog aggressively chewing the head of a stuffed toy resembling Donald Trump. Notably, a similar plush toy representing Hillary Clinton is shown sitting nearby, seemingly untouched. The document collection also includes various claims and allegations, one of which suggests Trump had knowledge of the underage girls associated with Epstein’s illicit activities. However, these assertions largely echo existing public records and previously reported allegations, lacking new corroborating evidence to alter the established narrative surrounding the case.

    The release of these documents by Congressional Republicans has ignited a fresh wave of political discourse, yet the core takeaway from the initial analysis is the absence of groundbreaking revelations directly implicating the former president in Epstein’s criminal enterprises. The event underscores the ongoing fascination with the case and its intersection with high-profile political figures, while simultaneously demonstrating the critical need for meticulous scrutiny of large-scale data releases to separate pertinent facts from recycled information and political theater.

  • Don’t Miss Comedy Play ‘Neighbourhood Watch’ Tonight at the Bliss

    Don’t Miss Comedy Play ‘Neighbourhood Watch’ Tonight at the Bliss

    The Bliss Center for the Performing Arts prepares for the concluding performance of “Neighbourhood Watch” tonight, marking the end of the theatrical run for Kathy Esquivel’s interactive comedy production. In recent interviews, including an appearance on the morning program Open Your Eyes, playwright Esquivel characterized her work as an intentionally lighthearted production designed primarily for entertainment rather than delivering profound social commentary. “The fundamental premise is quite simple—we should genuinely care for one another within our communities,” Esquivel explained during her television segment.

    The production distinguishes itself through its innovative participatory format, particularly during a scene simulating a village council meeting where audience members become integral participants in the performance. This deliberate breaking of the fourth wall creates a unique, immersive theatrical experience that blurs traditional boundaries between performers and spectators.

    Despite its comedic foundation, the play maintains connections to everyday social realities, offering both entertainment and subtle reflection on community dynamics. Beyond its artistic merits, the production serves a significant philanthropic purpose, with all generated proceeds designated for the Mental Health Association’s Welcome Resource Centre. This facility operates as a daytime support center offering essential services—including hygiene facilities, nutritional meals, and recreational activities—for individuals experiencing homelessness and mental health challenges.

    Ticket pricing remains structured at three tiers: $20 for general admission, $40 for reserved seating, and $100 for VIP access. Prospective attendees can secure tickets by contacting the box office at 626-7238. Esquivel emphasized the dual purpose of the production: “We’re committed to revitalizing live theater through enjoyable experiences while simultaneously generating crucial funding for community support services.”

  • Dominica wins Miss OECS Pageant again

    Dominica wins Miss OECS Pageant again

    Dominica has achieved an unprecedented consecutive victory in the Miss OECS Pageant as Tanisha Balson, the reigning Miss Dominica, claimed the prestigious crown during Saturday evening’s competition at Windsor Park Sports Stadium. The event, marked by exceptional talent and cultural celebration, saw Balson demonstrate remarkable consistency across all competition segments, ultimately prevailing against four formidable contenders from across the Eastern Caribbean.

    Balson’s exceptional performance earned her multiple distinguished awards throughout the evening, including Best Creative National Wear, Best in Creative National Wear, Best Evening Wear, and Best Performing Talent. Her comprehensive dominance across various categories underscored the depth of her preparation and presentation skills.

    Miss Antigua & Barbuda, Kia Kirwan, secured the first runner-up position while capturing awards for Best in Evening Wear, Best in Swimwear, and the Miss Amity title. Miss Anguilla, Ariel Bushay, claimed second runner-up honors alongside recognition for Best Swimwear, Best Response to Question, and Best Promotional Video.

    The competition featured additional participants including Donyelle Hodge representing the British Virgin Islands and Dahvana Providence of St Vincent & The Grenadines, both of whom delivered commendable performances throughout the event.

    This victory marks the second consecutive year that Dominica has secured the Miss OECS title, following Kyanna Dyer’s triumph in the previous edition. The back-to-back wins establish Dominica as a emerging powerhouse in the regional pageant circuit, showcasing the nation’s consistent commitment to excellence in cultural representation and contestant preparation.

  • Police Officer Killed in RTA, Guatemalan Detained

    Police Officer Killed in RTA, Guatemalan Detained

    BELIZE CITY – A tragic road traffic accident on Friday evening has claimed the life of Special Constable Marcos Acal, a 48-year-old officer attached to the Independence Police Station. The fatal collision occurred at approximately 7:25 PM along the Thomas Vincent Ramos Highway, where emergency responders discovered Acal lying beside the roadway with severe physical trauma.

    Preliminary investigative findings indicate that Constable Acal was operating his red and black Skygo 125cc motorcycle when he was struck by a cattle transport vehicle. Despite immediate medical transportation to the nearest healthcare facility, the officer was pronounced deceased upon arrival at the hospital.

    Law enforcement authorities have identified the driver of the involved cattle truck as Juan Carlos Estrada Prado, a 30-year-old Guatemalan national. In connection with the incident, Estrada Prado and two additional vehicle occupants have been taken into custody pending further investigation. The commercial vehicle has been officially impounded as part of the ongoing judicial process.

    The Belize Police Department has initiated a manslaughter by negligence investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision. This incident highlights continuing road safety concerns along the nation’s major transportation corridors, particularly involving commercial vehicles and motorcycle operators.

  • Law enforcement probe after weapons and ammunition seized

    Law enforcement probe after weapons and ammunition seized

    Barbadian authorities have achieved a significant breakthrough in their ongoing campaign against illegal weapons following a meticulously coordinated security operation in Christ Church. The joint mission, executed on January 24th, involved elite units from the Barbados Police Service Tactical Response Team and military personnel from the Barbados Defence Force, operating under the strategic umbrella of Operation Broken Trident.

    Acting on intelligence, the combined force descended upon the Brownes Gap area within Sargeants Village at approximately 3:00 p.m. The targeted search of the densely vegetated terrain yielded a substantial arsenal. Security personnel successfully uncovered a hidden stockpile containing two high-powered rifles, two semi-automatic pistols, and a significant quantity of 100 live rounds of ammunition, all deliberately concealed within thick foliage.

    The discovery represents one of the more considerable seizures of illicit armaments in recent months, highlighting persistent challenges with weapons trafficking. While no arrests were made at the scene, the successful confiscation has undoubtedly disrupted potential criminal activity and prevented these weapons from circulating on the streets. Forensic analysis of the recovered items is now underway as investigators work to trace the origin of the firearms and identify those responsible for their possession. This operation underscores the continued commitment of Barbadian security forces to combatting organized crime and enhancing public safety through proactive, intelligence-led interventions.

  • Three Jamaicans win at Millrose Games in New York

    Three Jamaicans win at Millrose Games in New York

    New York City’s iconic Millrose Games witnessed a spectacular display of Jamaican athletic prowess this Sunday, with three gold medal victories highlighting the event at The Armory’s Nike Track & Field Center. The triumphs serve as a powerful statement ahead of the upcoming World Athletics Indoor Championships in Poland this March.

    Danielle Williams, the reigning world leader in the hurdles, cemented her dominant form by blazing to victory in the women’s 60m hurdles with a time of 7.90 seconds. She outperformed a competitive field, leaving behind Devynne Charlton of the Bahamas (7.96 seconds) and American Christina Clemons (7.97 seconds). This marks Williams’ fourth hurdles victory this season, signaling her peak condition.

    On the men’s side, Ackeem Blake continued his winning streak on American soil, capturing the men’s 60m sprint title in a swift 6.55 seconds. This victory follows his recent win at the New Balance meet in Boston, demonstrating consistent top-tier performance. He finished ahead of Puerto Rico’s Eloy Benitez (6.60 seconds) and American Jordan Anthony (6.64 seconds).

    Adding to the gold medal haul, Rajindra Campbell delivered a world-leading performance in the men’s shot put, launching a massive throw of 21.77 meters. The victory comes amid his ongoing process to switch athletic allegiance from Jamaica to Turkey.

    Other notable Jamaican performances included Megan Simmonds securing fourth place in the hurdles with a season’s best 8.04 seconds, Kemba Nelson finishing fourth in the women’s 60m (7.28 seconds), and Natoya Goule-Toppin placing eighth in the women’s 1000m, also with a season’s best time of 2:39.55.