Carib Scope

作者： admin

  • Independent senator urges budget reform to fix widening fiscal gaps

    Independent senator urges budget reform to fix widening fiscal gaps

    Barbados’s public finance management system contains profound structural flaws that require immediate overhaul, according to Independent Senator Andrew Niles. His urgent warning follows revelations that the final expenditure for CARIFESTA XV skyrocketed to $31.7 million—a staggering 800% increase from the originally requested $4 million in the previous fiscal year.

    During Monday’s Senate debate on the Appropriations Bill, Senator Niles introduced the critical distinction between ‘the acts’ (initial budget requests) and ‘the grant’ (final authorized amounts), highlighting a persistent and concerning gap between projected and actual spending. The current fiscal year demonstrates this problem clearly: while the initial budget was set at $5.1 billion, it has since been revised upward to $5.89 billion, creating a $710 million discrepancy. Supplemental resolutions accounted for $562 million of this gap, with technical revisions like depreciation adjustments making up the remaining $148 million.

    Senator Niles employed artificial intelligence to analyze the massive 800-page budget document, with the technology summarizing the data in under six minutes. This analysis identified 93 line items across 17 ministries requiring significant adjustments. The senator, drawing on his engineering background, categorized the budget shortfalls into five distinct structural problems:

    1. Deliberate Compression: Known costs are systematically understated to meet fiscal targets
    2. Structural Deficits: Institutions like the Transport Board operate with permanent costs exceeding revenue
    3. Emergency Shocks: Unforeseen events like Hurricane Beryl, which incurred $17.5 million in costs
    4. Informal Gaps: Volatile exchange rates that inflate overseas mission expenses
    5. Governance Failure: Breakdowns in oversight that leave the state financially exposed

    Senator Niles specifically highlighted the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) as a microcosm of the broader problem, describing it as a massive entity that ‘dictates the pace of this country.’ He characterized ministries as businesses that become unworkable when essential funding components are removed from the equation.

    Looking forward, the senator expressed serious concern about projected revenue declines following temporary windfalls. ‘When revenue falls to $3.8 billion as projected, the compression pressure returns, the gap cycle restarts, and we will revert to the scenario we’ve seen in recent years,’ he warned.

    The senator concluded with a call for fundamental reform in how the government handles financial shortfalls, urging improved estimation mechanisms to create more collaborative and understandable budget conversations rather than relying on supplementary approvals for already-committed expenditures.

  • Antigua and Barbuda Pushes Climate Priorities at Global Talks

    Antigua and Barbuda Pushes Climate Priorities at Global Talks

    Antigua and Barbuda’s delegation to the 64th Session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC-64) in Bangkok comprises Orvin Paige from the Meteorological Department and Arry Simon from the Department of Environment. This pivotal gathering, scheduled for March 24–27, follows the inconclusive proceedings of IPCC-63 in Lima, where member nations could not reach consensus on deadlines for essential climate assessment reports.

    For vulnerable island nations, these procedural delays carry profound implications that extend far beyond bureaucratic negotiations. Countries situated on the frontlines of climate impacts, including Antigua and Barbuda, face existential threats from rising sea levels that endanger coastal populations and tourism infrastructure—the lifeblood of their economies. Increasingly intense hurricanes and erratic precipitation patterns further strain limited resources, despite these nations’ minimal contributions to global carbon emissions.

    A central challenge remains the accessibility of climate finance mechanisms. Small Island Developing States (SIDS) consistently encounter barriers when seeking funding, grappling with convoluted application procedures, insufficient technical expertise, and inflexible eligibility requirements. Even when financing is secured, implementation frequently proceeds at a pace insufficient to address urgent adaptation needs, including coastal defense systems, water security initiatives, and climate-resilient infrastructure development.

    The Bangkok negotiations will also address funding limitations within the IPCC’s own operations, underscoring a systemic concern: inadequate financial support threatens to paralyze both global climate science and localized mitigation efforts in the world’s most vulnerable regions. The outcomes of this session will directly inform preparatory work for COP31, where enhanced financing architectures and strengthened commitments will take center stage. For Antigua and Barbuda and fellow SIDS, the paramount objective remains transforming international policy decisions into tangible, accessible support that delivers measurable protection against climate devastation.

  • LISTEN: PM Says Emirates Flight From Dubai to Antigua Expected With One & Only Development

    LISTEN: PM Says Emirates Flight From Dubai to Antigua Expected With One & Only Development

    Antigua and Barbuda is poised to secure a transformative Emirates flight connection from Dubai upon completion of the ultra-luxury One & Only resort at Half Moon Bay, according to Prime Minister Gaston Browne. The announcement, made during a recent Pointe FM appearance, positions this development as a cornerstone in the nation’s strategy to enhance global connectivity and establish itself as the Caribbean’s premier aviation hub.

    Prime Minister Browne emphasized that the forthcoming air link is directly tied to the resort’s construction timeline, stating that the Emirates service would commence immediately following the hotel’s completion. This strategic connection is expected to dramatically elevate the twin-island nation’s international profile while driving unprecedented tourism growth.

    Beyond the landmark One & Only project, Browne outlined an extensive portfolio of luxury developments currently transforming the nation’s tourism landscape. The Nobu Hotel in Barbuda, backed by Hollywood icon Robert De Niro, is progressing with its first phase scheduled for completion by year-end and operational readiness by first quarter 2025. Simultaneously, the PLH development in Barbuda has attracted approximately $1 billion USD in investment, complemented by ongoing infrastructure enhancements at Nikki Beach.

    Additional high-end projects include a Marriott hotel at Yeptons anticipated to conclude construction by December with operations commencing early next year, significantly expanding the country’s luxury accommodation inventory. The former Rosewood property has also secured a new luxury brand partnership, with developers moving forward aggressively rather than delaying the project.

    Browne identified the One & Only resort as the ‘marquee’ project within their development pipeline—an ultra-exclusive property expected to anchor Antigua and Barbuda’s ascent into the highest echelon of global tourism destinations. The government is concurrently negotiating additional airlift initiatives beyond traditional markets, including expanded cargo and passenger routes with multiple entities.

    The substantial scale of these investments reflects Antigua and Barbuda’s growing international appeal, with Browne noting the nation has achieved global recognition as a premium destination. This strategic focus on high-end development represents a comprehensive transformation initiative for the country’s tourism sector.

  • Eerste ananastelers krijgen lening voor opschaling productie

    Eerste ananastelers krijgen lening voor opschaling productie

    Six indigenous pineapple growers in Suriname have formalized loan agreements to expand organic pineapple production, marking a significant advancement in strengthening the country’s agricultural value chain. The milestone signing ceremony occurred on Monday as part of the Agrifood Systems Transformation Accelerator (ASTA) Joint Programme, a collaborative initiative involving four United Nations agencies—FAO, UNIDO, UNFPA, and ILO—in partnership with the Surinamese government.

    Funded by the Joint SDG Fund and Islamic Development Bank, the program specifically targets sustainable development within Suriname’s pineapple sector. Approximately 90% of pineapple farmers in Suriname are indigenous communities operating collectively owned lands in Para’s village territories. Their lack of individual land titles has historically prevented access to traditional bank financing due to insufficient collateral.

    To overcome this barrier, ASTA established a Collateral Facility Fund managed by Trustbank Amanah (TBA), which serves as guarantee security for financial institutions. Roshnie Gangapershad, Acting Agri Business Manager at TBA, explained that loan applications undergo rigorous feasibility assessments before approval.

    The Horticulture Innovation HUB, established in 2024 under the ASTA project, provides comprehensive support through two core pillars: enhanced agricultural practices and strengthened agro-entrepreneurship. National agronomist Hemwatie Goeptar detailed the technical assistance process, which begins with thorough agronomic analysis covering field conditions, planting design, and fertilization programs developed in consultation with farmers and village leadership.

    Practical implementation is already underway. Farmers Jerry Birambie and Harvey Read from Pierre Kondre have prepared one-hectare plots for soil enhancement and planting. Despite equipment accessibility challenges in remote regions—Jeanne Patra from Marowijne requires machinery transported from Para—the program maintains momentum through adaptive solutions.

    Continuous field support remains crucial to the project’s success. Goeptar and field agents assist growers with irrigation, fertilization, and maintenance protocols. The application of artificial flower induction technology enables year-round production, with flowering induced after nine months and harvest occurring approximately fourteen months post-planting.

    Additional growers are preparing for expansion. Stuart Makosie from Powaka will commence land preparation shortly, while Cyrell Sabajo from Matta has established an on-site bio-factory for organic fertilizers and natural pesticides following training sessions.

    According to Swami Girdhari of the Horticulture Innovation HUB, the project aims not only to increase production but also to modernize the sector and attract youth participation. Innovative digital applications facilitate knowledge sharing, communication, and monitoring. Future phases will focus on processing and value-added pineapple products to enhance market opportunities both domestically and for export.

  • Consultancy payments: Duke, Jack, Dass deals revealed

    Consultancy payments: Duke, Jack, Dass deals revealed

    A series of lucrative consultancy agreements within Trinidad and Tobago’s state energy sector have drawn attention following revelations of substantial payments to individuals with political connections. Documents obtained by media outlets reveal three high-profile contracts totaling millions in public funds.

    Watson Duke, former Public Services Association head turned politician, secured a $40,000 monthly consultancy with The National Gas Company (NGC) commencing December 2025. The one-year contract tasks Duke with streamlining workforce rationalization, organizational restructuring, and providing strategic human resources guidance. His qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Relations from The University of the West Indies.

    Simultaneously, former Tobago House of Assembly finance secretary Joel Jack was engaged by Trinidad Petroleum Holdings Ltd (TPHL) as a Consultant Specialist Adviser at $70,000 monthly from November 2024. Jack’s comprehensive mandate includes reviewing TPHL’s operational framework, evaluating asset monetization opportunities, and overseeing the winding up of former state oil company Petrotrin. His appointment came shortly before President Christine Kangaloo named him to the Central Bank board in September 2024.

    Most notably, former news anchor and senior political adviser Shelly Dass—spouse of former PNM minister Brian Manning—received multiple contract extensions from the National Energy Corporation totaling TT$1.7 million. Initially hired in December 2021 at US$125 hourly with guaranteed minimum monthly hours, her consultancy was repeatedly extended through May 2025. Her role expanded significantly to include diplomatic engagement with government officials in Trinidad and Suriname, with guaranteed monthly hours increasing from 40 to 58 during the contract period.

    When contacted for comment, Dass confirmed her consultancy underwent “an intense independent vetting process” and referenced her “background in international work.” Neither Duke nor Jack responded to requests for comment regarding their appointments.

    The contracts reveal pattern of substantial expenditures on external consultants within the state energy sector, raising questions about procurement processes and the allocation of public resources to individuals with political affiliations.

  • Burkie’s son, 2 others shot dead

    Burkie’s son, 2 others shot dead

    A pre-dawn shooting in Penal has left three young men dead, including the 17-year-old son of deceased Port of Spain businessman Cedric “Burkie” Burke. The victims—Jordan Cudjoe Burke, Ishmael Matthews (22), and Roberto Samuel Carlos (21)—were discovered in a blood-soaked bedroom of a ground-floor apartment on the Burke family property around 2:56 a.m. Tuesday.

    According to police reports, the scene revealed a brutal execution-style killing with ten spent nine-millimeter shells and twelve live rounds recovered near the bodies. Burke was found leaning against a bed base, Matthews lay on his back on the floor, and Carlos was positioned beneath the bed.

    The tragedy has left families grappling for answers. A relative of Burke, who requested anonymity, recounted receiving a frantic call from Burke’s girlfriend screaming “Come fast, they shooting up the place.” She dismissed speculation that Burke was targeted because of his father’s notorious reputation, noting that other children from the family live normal lives without incident.

    Burke, a Form Five student at St. Benedict’s College preparing for CSEC examinations, had recently faced legal troubles involving counterfeit money charges. His mother has been incarcerated since November on firearm possession allegations, leaving the teenager to reside with his grandmother.

    At Matthews’ home, aunt Marinda Yearwood described the three victims as “the three Musketeers—always together.” She revealed Matthews was an academically gifted student who had earned nine subjects with distinction at Shiva Boys’ College but struggled to find steady employment despite numerous applications.

    Yearwood expressed frustration about rampant youth unemployment and lack of opportunities, stating “The Government is not giving enough opportunities for youths coming off the block.” She acknowledged hearing rumors about the victims “doing mischief by some people” but emphasized that nothing warranted execution.

    Homicide Bureau detectives from Region Three are actively investigating and have appealed for information through emergency hotlines and Crime Stoppers. The case highlights ongoing concerns about youth violence and socioeconomic challenges in Trinidadian communities.

  • Kamla ‘unbothered’

    Kamla ‘unbothered’

    In a striking display of political composure, Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has publicly declared her indifference toward derogatory comments made by opposition leader Keith Rowley. The former prime minister had repeatedly used the term “jamette”—a historically derogatory term referring to women of low social standing—during a March 17 press conference to dismiss Persad-Bissessar’s allegations about drug money financing the opposition party’s headquarters.

    Speaking to TV6 News, Persad-Bissessar stated: “While it might appear superficially that I remain unbothered when Rowley and PNM affiliates direct such vulgar remarks toward me, the profound truth remains that internally, I am profoundly, thoroughly unbothered.” She confirmed she would not pursue legal action against Rowley or media outlets that broadcast his comments.

    The incident has triggered significant institutional response, with the Telecommunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (TATT) formally notifying Guardian Media Ltd about potential regulatory violations. In a March 20 correspondence, TATT referenced Section D9 of broadcasting licenses, which prohibits content that “degrades or portrays in a negative manner any person or group by reason of race, origin, class, religion or sex.”

    Rowley has intensified his stance despite mounting criticism, questioning TATT’s intervention as potentially infringing upon media freedom. He asserted his intention to continue publicly responding to parliamentary attacks, framing the regulatory scrutiny as a threat to democratic discourse. The confrontation highlights deepening political divisions and evolving debates about acceptable speech, gender politics, and regulatory oversight in Trinidad and Tobago’s media landscape.

  • P/Town sisters missing

    P/Town sisters missing

    A concerned relative of two missing teenage sisters from Princes Town is urging the government to implement stringent restrictions on minors’ access to social media platforms, citing grave dangers posed by unsupervised online activity. The appeal follows the disappearance of Celina Balliram, 15, and her sister Alena Baksh, 12, from their grandmother’s home in St. Croix last Friday.

    The girls were last observed around 8:45 a.m. departing to purchase doubles from a local vendor. After their failure to return nearly two hours later, family members alerted authorities. Police descriptions detail Celina as 4’5″ with brown complexion, medium build, long black hair, brown eyes, and last seen in a blue short dress with black netting. Alena is described as 5′ tall with light brown complexion, slim build, long black hair, grey eyes, and was wearing a white crop top with a black short skirt.

    In an anonymous telephone interview, the relative expressed conviction that the sisters were deliberately targeted by older males through their active Instagram profiles. ‘The Government should impose a complete ban on social media for children,’ she asserted. ‘They are exposed to predatory individuals who conceal their identities behind false profiles. These platforms enable adults to systematically target vulnerable youth.’

    The relative revealed this marks the third disappearance incident for Celina, each spanning approximately two months, though notably the first for Alena. Despite attempted communication via WhatsApp, the sisters reportedly responded with hostility before blocking family contacts. Their father’s recent imprisonment for robbery and their mother’s inability to provide care have compounded familial challenges, leaving the grandmother to manage the household while simultaneously caring for her bedridden daughter and the sisters’ younger siblings, aged five and eight.

    Neither sister has attended school since Carnival period. Celina was enrolled in Form Two at Princes Town West Secondary School, while Alena attended Standard Four at St. Stephen’s Anglican Primary School. The relative emphasized the grandmother’s overwhelmed circumstances and appealed directly for the sisters’ safe return.

  • US TROOPS LEAVE

    US TROOPS LEAVE

    A contingent of 108 United States military personnel formally concluded their four-month security deployment in Tobago yesterday morning, departing from ANR Robinson International Airport aboard an Atlas Air aircraft. The departure marks the end of a controversial security cooperation initiative between the US and Trinidad and Tobago governments that began in November last year.

    The exit follows last week’s dismantling of the advanced Ground/Air Task Oriented Radar (G/ATOR) system that had been operational since late November. Military personnel departed in full uniform, with some offering farewell gestures as they boarded the aircraft.

    Defence Minister Wayne Sturge expressed gratitude for the cooperation, stating, “We are thankful for their assistance and support and look forward to continuing our partnership.”

    However, the presence of foreign troops sparked significant political opposition in Tobago. Ancil Dennis, political leader of the Tobago Council of the People’s National Movement, accused the government of misleading citizens about the mission’s true nature and potentially exposing the nation to security risks. “The fact that it has been removed already shows us clearly that we were lied to and misled and our lives were placed at risk,” Dennis asserted.

    Dennis further contextualized the deployment within regional geopolitics, noting Trinidad and Tobago’s fortunate avoidance of potential conflict spillover from neighboring Venezuela. He emphasized the nation’s narrow escape from becoming entangled in international military tensions similar to current Middle East conflicts.

    Dr. Denise Tsoiafatt Angus of the Innovative Democratic Alliance welcomed the departure as “a great relief” and closure to a concerning chapter in Tobago’s history. While acknowledging some minimal economic benefits through troop spending at local businesses, she emphasized the importance of stabilizing Tobago’s tourism industry, which continues to face challenges due to ongoing travel advisories from the US Embassy.

    The logistical withdrawal process commenced last Tuesday when US military aircraft GROG71 arrived to transport the dismantled radar system off the island, setting the stage for yesterday’s final troop departure.

  • ABHTA Wraps Up Conflict Management Course for Tourism Professionals

    ABHTA Wraps Up Conflict Management Course for Tourism Professionals

    The hospitality sector in Antigua & Barbuda has taken a significant step toward enhancing professional standards with the successful completion of an intensive conflict management program. Orchestrated by the Antigua & Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA), the four-week curriculum was meticulously designed to arm tourism professionals with advanced tools for effective workplace dispute resolution.

    Under the expert guidance of facilitator Ms. Shirlene Nibbs, the program blended dynamic online learning with practical application. Participants engaged in a series of interactive digital sessions featuring collaborative group assignments, in-depth discussions, and scenario-based exercises aimed at simulating real-world challenges.

    The educational journey reached its pinnacle during a concluding in-person symposium held at the Trade Winds Hotel Conference Centre. Here, attendees delivered innovative presentations that creatively articulated practical methodologies for de-escalating tensions and fostering harmonious work environments.

    In a formal ceremony, the ABHTA conferred certificates upon all graduates, formally acknowledging their dedication to leadership excellence, collaborative teamwork, and continual professional advancement. Attendees universally praised the course as a career-transformative experience, reporting substantial gains in communicative clarity, emotional intelligence, and analytical problem-solving capabilities—all immediately applicable skills set to elevate service quality.

    This initiative underscores the ABHTA’s ongoing commitment to investing in human capital development. Through such targeted training programs, the association aims to fortify the nation’s tourism workforce, ensuring the delivery of exceptional guest experiences and reinforcing the industry’s foundational role in the national economy.