Carib Scope

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  • JTA to conduct assessment of schools over the weekend

    JTA to conduct assessment of schools over the weekend

    Jamaica’s educational system faces a pivotal moment as the new academic term approaches, prompting the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) to initiate comprehensive facility assessments across the island nation. The unprecedented evaluation comes in response to the devastating aftermath of Category 5 Hurricane Melissa that struck in October, particularly affecting western and southwestern regions.

    JTA President Mark Malabver, speaking at the reopening of the association’s western Jamaica office, revealed the organization’s plan to conduct ground-level verification of school preparedness throughout the weekend. The initiative aims to determine actual operational capabilities rather than theoretical readiness, acknowledging that many educational institutions sustained substantial damage during the catastrophic weather event.

    Malabver articulated profound concerns regarding the practical realities of resuming classes, emphasizing that reopening decisions must consider both infrastructure limitations and human factors. The teachers’ union maintains that each institution requires individualized assessment based on localized conditions rather than blanket policies.

    Beyond structural considerations, the JTA president highlighted concerning student welfare issues, noting parallels to pandemic-era attendance challenges. He called for systematic tracking of missing students through mandated guidance counselor interventions, recognizing that many children face hurricane-related trauma and displacement.

    The human impact extends beyond students, as Malabver acknowledged widespread psychological distress among educators. Many teachers continue experiencing personal hardships that affect their professional capacity, necessitating compassionate, case-by-case consideration from school administrators and boards.

    This multifaceted approach reflects the complex intersection of infrastructure recovery, mental health considerations, and educational continuity in post-disaster scenarios, positioning the teachers’ association as both advocate and practical partner in Jamaica’s educational rehabilitation.

  • What we know about the US attacks on Venezuela

    What we know about the US attacks on Venezuela

    CARACAS, Venezuela — In a dramatic escalation of long-standing tensions, United States military forces executed a series of airstrikes across multiple locations in Venezuela in the early hours of Saturday. The operation, which represents a significant intensification of Washington’s campaign against the left-wing government of Nicolas Maduro, reportedly resulted in the capture and removal of the Venezuelan president from the country.

    The military action commenced shortly before 2:00 AM local time (0600 GMT), with residents of the capital Caracas and surrounding regions reporting explosions and aircraft overhead. The strikes continued for approximately seventy-five minutes, with social media footage depicting helicopter sorties and missile impacts creating substantial fireballs and columns of smoke across the night sky.

    Former US President Donald Trump announced on his Truth Social platform at 0921 GMT that American forces had ‘successfully carried out a large scale strike against Venezuela’ and confirmed that both Maduro and his wife had been ‘captured and flown out of the Country.’ Several hours after the initial attacks, US Senator Mike Lee corroborated these claims, citing Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s statement that military operations had concluded following Maduro’s apprehension.

    Primary targets included Fort Tiuna, Venezuela’s most extensive military complex located in southern Caracas. This strategic installation houses the defense ministry, a military academy, and residential quarters for armed forces personnel. AFP correspondents observed significant flames and smoke emanating from the complex, with visible damage including bullet-marked armored vehicles and trucks at secured entrances. Civilian evacuations were underway as residents fled the area with personal belongings, with one anonymous woman stating she was leaving ‘because they nearly killed us.’

    Additional strikes targeted La Carlota airbase east of Caracas, where journalists documented burning armored vehicles and destroyed transportation infrastructure. Explosions were further reported in the port city of La Guaira, the north-central city of Maracay, the Caribbean coastal town of Higuerote, and regions along the Colombian border—a known corridor for narcotics trafficking.

    Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López accused American forces of deliberately targeting residential areas with missiles and rockets, though these allegations remain unverified. Official casualty figures have not been released, with government authorities acknowledging they are still gathering information ‘on the dead and injured.’

    The circumstances surrounding Maduro’s capture remain unclear, particularly given the president’s documented practice of frequently changing residences to evade potential capture. Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez has demanded that the United States provide ‘proof of life’ for both Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. Russia, a key Venezuelan ally, has similarly called for immediate clarification regarding the president’s status.

    International reactions have been sharply divided. Russia, Iran, and Cuba—all longstanding partners of Venezuela—condemned the military action as an act of aggression. They were joined in their criticism by left-wing governments in Mexico, Brazil, and Colombia. Russia’s foreign ministry characterized the operation as a ‘deeply concerning’ violation of international norms. The European Union’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, urged Washington to exercise restraint and adhere to international law during communications with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Notably, Argentina’s right-wing President Javier Milei, a vocal supporter of Donald Trump, emerged as one of the few Latin American leaders to express support for the military intervention.

  • Maduro, wife captured as US strikes Venezuela

    Maduro, wife captured as US strikes Venezuela

    In a dramatic escalation of tensions between the United States and Venezuela, President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores were apprehended by US military forces on January 3rd. The operation, authorized by US President Donald Trump, marks a significant turning point in the longstanding political conflict between the two nations.

    According to international media reports, the capital city of Caracas witnessed multiple explosions around 1:50 AM local time, resulting in numerous casualties among government officials, military personnel, and civilians. The military intervention followed months of missile strikes targeting suspected narco-traffickers in the Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific, which had previously claimed over 100 lives.

    President Trump confirmed the operation through social media, characterizing it as a ‘large-scale strike against Venezuela and its leader.’ He further stated that the action was coordinated with US law enforcement agencies and that Maduro and his wife had been successfully transported out of Venezuelan territory.

    The US administration has scheduled a news conference at 11 AM at Mar-a-Lago, Florida, to provide additional details regarding the operation.

    International reaction has been immediate, with Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar clarifying that her nation was ‘not a participant in any of these ongoing military operations’ and reaffirming Trinidad and Tobago’s ‘peaceful relations with the people of Venezuela.’

    The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has convened an emergency meeting to address the military action, expressing concern over potential implications for neighboring countries. Meanwhile, Caribbean Airlines confirmed that its operations have remained unaffected despite the geopolitical developments.

  • Guyana activates security plan as US bombs Venezuela

    Guyana activates security plan as US bombs Venezuela

    GEORGETOWN, Guyana – In response to recent United States military operations targeting sites within Venezuela, Guyanese President Dr. Irfaan Ali announced the full activation of the nation’s security apparatus on Saturday. The decisive move aims to safeguard national stability and protect citizens amid escalating regional tensions.

    President Ali confirmed that the Guyana Defence Force and allied security services have been placed on high alert, implementing comprehensive monitoring protocols to assess the evolving situation. He assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure their safety and security.

    Diplomatic channels have been vigorously engaged, with President Ali providing detailed briefings to Dr. Carla Barnett, Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). Additionally, Brigadier Omar Khan, Chief of Defence Staff, has initiated communications with regional security partners to coordinate a unified response.

    Concurrently, plans are underway to convene an emergency summit of CARICOM leaders to address the crisis collectively. President Ali also disclosed direct consultations with Alistair Routledge, President of ExxonMobil Guyana, regarding the security of the country’s vital offshore oil operations, which produce nearly one million barrels daily. Both parties confirmed a state of heightened vigilance and close cooperation.

  • Caricom leaders meet on US invasion of Venezuela

    Caricom leaders meet on US invasion of Venezuela

    GEORGETOWN, Guyana – Caribbean Community (Caricom) leaders convened an emergency session early Saturday following the United States’ military incursion into Venezuelan territory and the reported capture of President Nicolas Maduro along with his spouse. The regional body, representing 15 member states, issued an official communiqué through its Secretariat characterizing the development as a matter of “grave concern” with potential ramifications for neighboring nations.

    The brief two-paragraph statement confirmed that the integration bloc is “actively monitoring the situation” and pledged to keep Caribbean citizens informed as additional intelligence becomes available. This emergency diplomatic mobilization reflects the region’s apprehension about destabilizing effects from foreign military actions within their sphere.

    In a significant regional development, Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar explicitly distanced her nation from the operations. Through an official statement disseminated on social media platform X on January 3rd, 2026, the Prime Minister clarified that “Trinidad and Tobago is NOT a participant in any of these ongoing military operations” initiated by the United States earlier that morning. This declaration highlights divisions within the hemisphere regarding appropriate responses to the Venezuela situation and demonstrates Caricom members’ cautious approach to the escalating crisis.

  • Peas please

    Peas please

    As the new year unfolds, Caribbean culinary traditions welcome the seasonal arrival of pigeon peas, a legume variety that graces markets from December through March. Food expert Wendy Rahamut highlights the remarkable versatility of these peas, which feature prominently in diverse culinary applications ranging from traditional rice dishes and hearty soups to innovative plant-based burgers and even vegetarian lasagna.

    Selecting quality peas requires discerning observation: optimal specimens appear in plump pods with peas nearly bursting through, while smaller peas or visible worm damage typically indicate less desirable second-crop varieties. Rahamut recommends purchasing fresh or frozen peas to enjoy their distinct flavor profile throughout the year.

    The article presents three meticulously crafted recipes demonstrating the pea’s culinary adaptability. Chicken Pelau incorporates the legumes into a complex layered dish where marinated chicken undergoes caramelization with brown sugar before combining with pumpkin, coconut milk, and parboiled rice. Pigeon Pea Patties blend cooked peas with sautéed aromatics, crushed potato, and fresh herbs like parsley and thyme, formed into patties for shallow frying. Most innovatively, Pigeon Pea Piononos feature plantain rings stuffed with seasoned pea mixture and baked until achieving a perfect crust.

    Each recipe provides precise measurements, detailed preparation techniques, and serving specifications, embodying the cultural significance of pigeon peas in Caribbean cuisine while offering practical guidance for home cooks seeking to explore this seasonal ingredient.

  • Child’s body found

    Child’s body found

    A multi-agency search operation in Jamaica has concluded with the recovery of one victim while continuing for two others following a devastating drowning incident at Sand Hills beach in Hellshire, St Catherine. The Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) confirmed late Friday that the body of a child was recovered and transferred to Marine Police custody, though official identification remains pending.

    The tragedy unfolded Thursday afternoon approximately at 3:00 PM when three individuals encountered difficulties while swimming in prohibited waters. According to Senior Superintendent of Police Leighton Gray, commanding officer for St Catherine South Police Division, the sequence began when 13-year-old Aaron Russell experienced distress in the water. Family member Aliyah Dawkins attempted rescue, followed by Constable Shamar Grant who responded as both Dawkins and Russell struggled against strong currents.

    Despite rescue efforts, Dawkins was retrieved unresponsive by Marine Police and Coast Guard units. Although CPR was administered during emergency transport to Spanish Town Hospital, she succumbed to her injuries. The search for Constable Grant and young Russell continued through Thursday night and resumed Friday at 6:00 AM with expanded resources.

    The incident has highlighted significant safety concerns as the beach area features prominent signage indicating swimming prohibitions. The property is privately owned and unlicensed for public recreational use, yet according to SSP Gray, local residents frequently utilize the area to escape crowded public beaches.

    Search efforts have incorporated assets from the JDF’s Maritime Air and Cyber Command, Marine Police, Coast Guard, and approximately a dozen local fishermen who volunteered assistance. Authorities have emphasized the dangers of swimming in unauthorized areas and urged heightened supervision of children during holiday periods, particularly as the incident occurred during festive celebrations.

  • Sweet relief

    Sweet relief

    NEW YORK — Members of the Jamaican diaspora in the United States have expressed widespread approval of their government’s decision to extend customs duty exemptions on hurricane relief shipments for a second time. The move facilitates continued humanitarian support for communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa’s October 2025 impact.

    Finance Minister Fayval Williams announced the extension this week, pushing the deadline from December 31, 2025, to January 15, 2026. The waiver covers both import duties and General Consumption Tax (GCT) for designated relief items, originally implemented to encourage donations following the hurricane’s widespread destruction.

    Michelle Tulloch-Neil, Northeast US representative for the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council, praised the government’s responsiveness to diaspora concerns. ‘This decision demonstrates clear understanding of the needs of Jamaicans both at home and abroad,’ she stated, while suggesting a March deadline would have better accommodated ongoing shipment preparations.

    The government acknowledged logistical challenges during the holiday season that hampered shipping capacity. Minister Williams noted, however, that the January 15 extension would represent a ‘hard stop’ due to significant revenue losses exceeding approximately $12 billion in customs collections.

    Diaspora leaders across the United States uniformly welcomed the development. Pennsylvania-based Stafford Grant of the Jamaica Ex-Servicemen and Women Foundation noted the extension provides ‘breathing space’ for tons of supplies awaiting clearance. California representative Dr. Roy Davidson described the news as ‘welcome’ for ongoing relief efforts, emphasizing the importance of utilizing the extended window.

    Former GJDC representative Dr. Karen Dunkley highlighted the decision’s symbolic importance, stating it ‘reflects meaningful recognition of the vital partnership between the Government of Jamaica and Global Jamaica Diaspora Council’ in expediting humanitarian aid delivery.

  • Help Coming

    Help Coming

    World Athletics President Sebastian Coe is cutting short his Caribbean vacation to undertake a critical four-day mission to Jamaica, focusing on hurricane recovery efforts for the nation’s track and field infrastructure. The visit, prompted by the devastation wrought by Hurricane Melissa in late October, aims to formulate a concrete support plan for the sport’s rebuilding process.

    Lord Coe, accompanied by World Athletics’ Director of International Relations and Development Helen Delaney, is scheduled for high-level discussions with the Jamaican government, the Jamaica Olympic Association (JOA), and the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA). The itinerary includes a firsthand inspection of the severely damaged Montego Bay Sports Complex, a key regional athletic hub that hosted the 2011 Carifta Games. The hurricane flooded the stadium, depositing thick layers of clay on its football field and synthetic track, while also causing extensive damage to floodlight towers and electrical systems. Preliminary estimates by local officials place the repair costs at over $300 million.

    The impact extends beyond the stadium, affecting numerous schools across western parishes including Westmoreland, St. Elizabeth, Hanover, St James, and Trelawny. These institutions have lost vital sports equipment, crippling athletic programs and forcing teams to undertake costly weekly travel to Kingston for competitions. JAAA President Garth Gayle expressed optimism about the visit, indicating that World Athletics support would ‘come in various forms’ and is expected to significantly bolster track and field development throughout the region.

    The diplomatic agenda includes meetings with Prime Minister Andrew Holness, Opposition Leader Mark Golding, and JOA President Christopher Samuda, underscoring the collaborative national effort toward recovery. The visit concludes with a press conference on Wednesday, where specific aid packages and long-term development strategies are anticipated to be announced.

  • TTUTA: BoAs, some teachers unpaid in December

    TTUTA: BoAs, some teachers unpaid in December

    A significant payroll crisis is jeopardizing the smooth reopening of schools in Trinidad and Tobago, with hundreds of education professionals facing financial uncertainty days before the new semester. TT Unified Teachers Association (TTUTA) President Crystal Ashe revealed that over 100 Business Operations Assistants (BoAs) haven’t received salaries since their contracts lapsed in late November.

    These essential administrative staff, who serve as critical support personnel for school principals, worked through December without compensation and face January without employment security. Ashe emphasized the severe operational implications, noting that without BoAs handling administrative burdens, principals must assume additional responsibilities that compromise school management effectiveness.

    The situation extends beyond BoAs, with at least 20 teachers reporting missing December paychecks due to alleged administrative discrepancies within the education ministry’s accounts department. Despite these financial hardships, affected staff demonstrate remarkable dedication by preparing to return to classrooms without payment assurances.

    Education Ministry officials acknowledged the concerns, stating the matter is “under active consideration” pending Cabinet approvals for contract renewals. The ministry committed to providing “clearer guidance” once bureaucratic processes conclude but offered no specific timeline for resolution.

    Compounding the payroll crisis, several schools face infrastructural challenges that threaten Monday’s reopening. Richmond Street Boys Anglican School remains closed due to rodent infestation issues that forced premature closure last semester, with no confirmation regarding remediation progress.

    TTUTA leadership characterizes the situation as profoundly concerning, emphasizing that the absence of financial security for education professionals undermines both institutional stability and individual welfare. The association urges immediate governmental intervention to ensure timely payments and contract resolutions before the academic term commences.