Carib Scope

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  • Willikies Resident Questions How Land Is Being Allocated in St. Philip’s North

    Willikies Resident Questions How Land Is Being Allocated in St. Philip’s North

    A Willikies resident has publicly challenged the transparency of land distribution procedures as housing developments expand throughout the constituency. During a recent town hall assembly, Carolyn Thomas raised concerns about subdivided lands in the Wombs area (alternatively known as the Rooms district), questioning the fairness of allocation criteria for St. Philip’s North residents.

    Thomas specifically advocated for preferential treatment of local youth in land assignments around the Williams sector, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing constituency inhabitants. She expressed optimism that authorities would address these concerns promptly.

    In response, Works Minister Maria Browne detailed the structured allocation mechanism administered by the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHAPA). Browne clarified that prospective landowners must submit formal applications, typically facilitated through constituency representatives or caretakers, which are subsequently reviewed by an independent allocation committee.

    The ministerial explanation highlighted that applications enter a centralized pool for comprehensive evaluation, with decisions communicated simultaneously to both applicants and their constituency representatives. Browne emphasized that priority consideration is expressly granted to residents within the respective constituencies to preserve community cohesion and familial connections.

    Additionally, the minister revealed available land resources in the Glanvilles vicinity, including plots designated under the land empowerment initiative. Browne noted significant application volumes originating from St. Philip’s North residents, encouraging interested parties to consult their area caretakers for comprehensive application guidance.

  • Walters to be sworn-in as Opposition Senator

    Walters to be sworn-in as Opposition Senator

    In a significant political development, Democratic Labour Party (DLP) representative Ryan Walters is poised to assume his parliamentary duties as an Opposition Senator. The formal swearing-in ceremony is scheduled to occur this morning at the prestigious State House venue.

    Mr. Walters, who recently campaigned for the St Michael North West constituency during the general election cycle, arrived at the capitol accompanied by close family members. His wife and son were present to witness the pivotal moment as he prepared to formally take the oath of office that will inaugurate his legislative tenure.

    The appointment solidifies the opposition’s representation within the parliamentary upper chamber, with Walters occupying one of the two designated opposition senate seats. This political positioning enables the DLP to maintain an institutional voice in legislative deliberations and policy oversight mechanisms.

    The ceremony marks a transition from electoral candidate to appointed official for Walters, demonstrating alternative pathways to parliamentary service beyond constituency victories. His installation occurs amidst ongoing political reorganization following the recent national elections, with opposition parties establishing their parliamentary strategy and leadership structure.

  • Water situation is bleak, WASCO says

    Water situation is bleak, WASCO says

    Saint Lucia is confronting a severe water crisis, with officials describing the situation as ‘very bleak’ due to critically low supplies and depleted water sources. January 2026 marked the sixth driest January on record, with rainfall significantly below normal levels. While the Caribbean Climate Outlook Forum (CariCOF) predicts some precipitation increase over the next three months, it may prove insufficient to mitigate long-term drought impacts across the Windward Islands.

    WASCO CEO Zilta George-Leslie presented a stark assessment of the crisis, noting that ‘supplies have been depleted, climate change is very active, it is taking its toll on us at this time, and a lot of our water sources are dry – our rivers are dry both in the north and in the south.’ The utility company is implementing emergency measures including valving operations to distribute limited water supplies among communities and costly water trucking operations that transport water from areas with relative abundance to those facing scarcity.

    The financial burden of these emergency measures is substantial, with WASCO spending between EC$1 million and $2 million annually on water trucking alone. This cost increases significantly during emergency maintenance situations, such as the recent pipeline damage that required complete shutdown of northern water supplies, severely affecting both domestic and commercial users in the hotel-dense region.

    Infrastructure challenges compound the drought crisis. Water levels at the critical John Compton Dam are lower than the same period last year, with multiple intakes registering deficits. The dry season’s impact is most acutely felt in the south, where smaller rural systems magnify the effects. Aging infrastructure requires major investment, with recent damage to raw water lines highlighting system vulnerabilities.

    WASCO is pursuing both immediate and long-term solutions. Short to medium-term interventions include funded projects to replace pipelines from Millet to Vanard, upgrades to the Theobalds treatment plant, and replacement of the northern pipeline from Bonne Terre to Gros Islet scheduled for March. For sustainable long-term water security, WASCO advocates for desalination plants as an inevitable solution.

    The utility has applied for a water rate increase currently under consideration by the National Utilities Regulatory Commission, with consultations ongoing for public feedback. Company officials emphasize that rate adjustments are necessary to address the mounting operational costs and infrastructure investments required to maintain water services amid escalating climate challenges.

  • BREAKING: Goodridge confirmed as Opposition Senator

    BREAKING: Goodridge confirmed as Opposition Senator

    In a significant political development, Karina Goodridge, the prominent leader of the Friends of Democracy party, formally assumed her parliamentary duties as an Opposition Senator during a ceremonial proceeding at State House. The newly appointed legislator arrived accompanied by key personal and political supporters, including her immediate family members and party General Secretary Steve Blackett. The swearing-in ceremony marks a crucial expansion of opposition representation within the legislative body, signaling strengthened oversight capabilities against the ruling administration. Goodridge’s elevation to the senatorial position follows recent political negotiations and demonstrates the continuing evolution of the country’s democratic institutions. The presence of both family and senior party officials underscores the importance of this appointment for the opposition’s strategic positioning in upcoming parliamentary sessions where critical policy debates are anticipated.

  • Tapon make it four in a row at SMC Sports

    Tapon make it four in a row at SMC Sports

    Tapon House has cemented its athletic dominance by capturing an unprecedented fourth straight Inter-House Sports championship title at St. Mary’s College, leading the competition from start to finish in a spectacular display of track and field prowess. The triumphant team amassed an impressive 858 points, decisively outpacing Presentation (713 points), Abercrombie (677 points), and Rodney (603 points) during the 121st annual sports meet held February 13th at Daren Sammy Cricket Ground.

    While Tapon claimed overall team glory, individual brilliance shone across all divisions, with each category producing a triple champion. The most remarkable performance came from Rodney’s Evan Sankar, a second-form athlete who delivered a record-shattering display in Division 5. Sankar obliterated a nine-year-old record in the 600m, clocking 1:45.7 to erase Sherqwayne Prudent’s previous mark of 1:48.5. He further demonstrated his versatility by capturing the 300m title in 43.3 seconds and conquering the junior 1200m in 4:31.4 despite never having previously competed in the event.

    Other standout performances included Tapon’s Manasseh Sobers securing the Division 5 150m in 20.0 seconds, while Abercrombie’s Zandre Plante claimed the 80m crown with a 10.8-second sprint. Presentation’s Keanu Jeffery dominated Division 4 with victories in the 100m (11.9s), 200m (25.2s), and 400m (59.2s), alongside Abercrombie’s Jaelen McDonald who took the 800m in 2:33.3.

    Zayne Henry carried Tapon’s success into Division 3, achieving triple gold in the 100m (11.8s), 200m (24.5s), and 400m (59.7s). Division 2 honors went to Abercrombie’s Joshua Matthew, who earned victor ludorum status with wins in the 100m (11.5s), 200m (23.0s), and 400m (54.6s). In the senior Division 1 category, Presentation’s Carter Clauzel emerged supreme with victories in the 100m (11.3s), 200m (23.6s), and 400m (54.2s).

    The championship concluded with an intense tug-of-war competition that solidified Tapon’s victory, witnessed by hundreds of alumni spanning generations. With this decisive win, St. Mary’s College now turns its attention to defending its title at the upcoming Island Championships during the Easter break.

  • Gewapend viertal ontvoert man bij zijn woning

    Gewapend viertal ontvoert man bij zijn woning

    A violent abduction unfolded in Lelydorp, Suriname on Tuesday evening when four masked assailants armed with firearms ambushed a 41-year-old man identified as M.S. on his own property at Zwartbontstraat.

    The incident occurred around 10:00 PM when the victim’s wife, A.L., awoke to the sound of her husband’s pickup truck arriving home. Shortly after, she heard distressed cries from their yard. Upon investigating, she witnessed four armed men subduing her partner in a coordinated attack.

    According to police reports, the perpetrators—all dressed in black clothing and concealing their identities—emerged from adjacent woodland areas before overpowering the victim. Security camera footage captured the moment the assailants approached the property and forcibly placed M.S. into his gray Toyota Vigo pickup truck.

    The armed group subsequently fled the scene using the victim’s vehicle, heading toward Santigronweg. Preliminary investigations indicate the attackers carried handguns and other heavy weaponry during the operation.

    Authorities have confirmed the theft of the victim’s vehicle and mobile phone, though it remains unclear whether additional items were taken during the incident. The investigation has been transferred to the Central Region Detective Unit, with no further details available regarding the victim’s current status or the motive behind the abduction.

    The case represents a concerning escalation in violent crime within the region, with law enforcement agencies pursuing multiple lines of inquiry to locate both the victim and his captors.

  • WATCH: Pringle Says St. Philip’s North By-Election Marks Start of ‘National Change’

    WATCH: Pringle Says St. Philip’s North By-Election Marks Start of ‘National Change’

    In a pivotal political development, Antigua and Barbuda’s Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle has positioned the upcoming St. Philip’s North by-election as the launching point for sweeping national reform. The March 16 special election, triggered by the resignation of veteran parliamentarian Sir Robin Yearwood, features a direct contest between United Progressive Party candidate Alex Browne and Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party’s Randy Baltimore.

    Addressing energized supporters at a Wilkes rally on Tuesday evening, Pringle outlined an ambitious vision for political change, characterizing the by-election as the initial step in a broader national transformation. The opposition leader revealed that the UPP has deployed its complete network of candidates and caretakers to execute a targeted yet resolute campaign strategy.

    “While we operate within a condensed campaign timeline to secure Alex Browne’s election as constituency representative, our perspective extends far beyond immediate victory,” Pringle declared. “We approach this contest with a comprehensive vision aimed at reclaiming the nation’s future trajectory.”

    The opposition leader framed the upcoming vote as a historic opportunity for citizens to redefine the country’s political direction, asserting that “the pathway to national change originates in St. Philip’s North.” Pringle further contended that March 16 would mark a decisive moment for voters to “finalize the political departure of the Gaston Brown administration and its self-serving policies.”

    Pringle leveled substantial criticisms against the governing Labour Party, accusing them of institutionalized cronyism and systematic underperformance. The opposition leader asserted that the current administration had “exhausted its developmental vision for Antigua and Barbuda” and was “approaching the expiration of its political relevance.”

    Urging maximum voter participation, Pringle characterized the by-election as a democratic threshold where citizens could “establish a definitive boundary against ineffective governance.” Both major political parties have acknowledged the contest’s significance as a critical indicator of political momentum heading into the next general election cycle.

  • Resident Says Newfield “Overlooked” for 14 Years; PM, Baltimore Promise Housing and Infrastructure Support

    Resident Says Newfield “Overlooked” for 14 Years; PM, Baltimore Promise Housing and Infrastructure Support

    During a town hall meeting in Antigua, a Newfield resident delivered a powerful indictment of perceived governmental neglect, telling Prime Minister Gaston Browne that her community has remained structurally stagnant for over fourteen years. The constituent articulated frustrations that despite repeated election cycle promises, essential infrastructure development had completely bypassed the area, leaving roads, buildings, and community facilities frozen in time.

    The resident specifically questioned the disappearance of past commitments, asking emphatically, ‘What happens to Newfield?’ However, she acknowledged recent positive developments under constituency caretaker Randy Baltimore, noting visible progress in road repairs and urging government support for his ongoing initiatives.

    In response, PM Browne highlighted completed and ongoing projects in Newfield, including road repaving and significant upgrades to the community basketball court, which now features enhanced lighting and pending surface markings. Browne confirmed advanced discussions with Baltimore—whom he referred to as the ‘incoming representative’—regarding the construction of additional homes and encouraged residents to utilize entrepreneurial and scholarship programs through his office.

    Baltimore subsequently outlined a comprehensive development agenda for Newfield, confirming the basketball court enhancements and announcing plans for a new children’s playground. He detailed coordinated efforts with the Central Housing and Planning Authority to address overgrown vegetation and confirmed upcoming road resurfacing projects alongside cleanup support from Solid Waste management crews.

  • Charity Book Launch Raises Funds for After-School Enrichment Programme

    Charity Book Launch Raises Funds for After-School Enrichment Programme

    On the morning of February 18, 2026, the Antigua Public Library served as the backdrop for a significant cultural and philanthropic event. Author William Henry successfully launched his literary work, ‘A Glimpse Into The Past,’ transforming the occasion into a charity initiative that resonated deeply with the local community.

    The event, commencing at 10:00 AM, attracted an audience of approximately 40 individuals who engaged in a profound atmosphere of cultural reflection and communal dialogue. Central to the gathering was Henry’s discussion on the inspirations driving his publication, which emphasizes the critical need to preserve the historical narratives, challenges, and victories that have defined Antigua and Barbuda.

    A highlight of the morning was the announcement that all proceeds from the event’s book sales, totaling $500.00 Eastern Caribbean Dollars, were dedicated to the Library’s After-School Enrichment Programme. This contribution underscores a tangible commitment to advancing educational opportunities and supporting youth development within the region.

    Henry articulated during his presentation that history extends beyond written records, embodying a living legacy carried through generations. Attendees responded with enthusiastic feedback, praising both the substantive content of the book and the author’s compelling delivery.

    Reflecting on the broader significance of the launch, Henry stated, ‘This was more than a book launch; it was an act of honoring our collective heritage and making a direct investment in our future by empowering young minds.’

    The success of this event signals a rising community interest in local historical preservation and culturally-grounded philanthropy. Henry extended his gratitude to all participants and supporters, acknowledging the occasion as a pivotal step forward in fostering ongoing historical awareness and cultural appreciation.

  • WATCH: Police Station to Reopen Monday But New Police and Fire Facility Planned for St. Philip’s North

    WATCH: Police Station to Reopen Monday But New Police and Fire Facility Planned for St. Philip’s North

    The St. Philip’s North community will see the restoration of police services starting Monday following an official announcement by Minister of Works Maria Browne. The reopening comes as part of a comprehensive security enhancement plan that includes both immediate measures and long-term infrastructure development.

    During a town hall meeting with constituents, Minister Browne directly addressed longstanding security concerns that have troubled the area. “The police station will reopen on Monday,” Browne declared to residents, whose applause demonstrated the community’s appreciation for the action.

    This interim measure precedes the construction of a permanent, modernized police facility designed to accommodate the constituency’s expanding population. The new station will feature updated resources and capabilities to improve law enforcement effectiveness.

    In a significant expansion of emergency services, Browne also revealed plans to integrate enhanced fire response capabilities into the constituency’s security infrastructure. This dual approach aims to create a more robust emergency response system for both law enforcement and fire safety needs.

    The government’s decision follows sustained advocacy from residents who emphasized the critical need for consistent police visibility and rapid response capabilities. Browne acknowledged that community safety remains fundamental to public confidence and overall development, positioning it as a top administrative priority.

    Officials anticipate that these security enhancements will substantially improve emergency response times and establish a stronger, more reliable protective presence for St. Philip’s North residents in the coming months.