Carib Scope

分类： society

  • For the needy, not the greedy

    For the needy, not the greedy

    The Jamaican Government has officially initiated its comprehensive Hurricane Melissa Shelter Recovery Programme (SRP), a multi-billion-dollar national effort to transition from disaster relief to long-term reconstruction. Announced on Thursday at Jamaica House, this coordinated response encompasses housing restoration, community rehabilitation, and the relocation of residents from vulnerable areas.

    Led by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, the SRP incorporates sophisticated digital tracking systems and the use of Taxpayer Registration Numbers (TRN) to prevent fraudulent claims and ensure equitable distribution of aid. Minister Pearnel Charles Jr. emphasized that stringent protocols have been established based on lessons learned from past disasters, including Hurricane Beryl in 2024, which exposed vulnerabilities in benefit disbursement.

    A key feature of the programme is its tiered grant system, providing financial assistance of $75,000, $200,000, or $500,000 based on damage assessments already conducted on over 70,000 households. According to ministry data, 18% of assessed homes sustained severe damage, 40% major damage, and 42% minor damage from the October hurricane.

    Both Minister Charles Jr. and Prime Minister Andrew Holness issued strong warnings against scammers attempting to exploit vulnerable citizens, clarifying that no fees are associated with SRP applications and that the government does not employ intermediaries for grant processing. Artificial intelligence monitoring is being utilized to identify and remove fraudulent social media accounts impersonating government officials.

    The programme includes multiple components: government-led repairs managed by the Jamaica Defence Force, partner-led initiatives through humanitarian organizations, and financial solutions administered by the National Housing Trust. Additionally, the government is expanding its relocation and regularization efforts to move residents from high-risk areas to safer communities.

    International support was underscored by Kate Forbes, President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, who affirmed the organization’s commitment to community-centered recovery approaches that strengthen long-term resilience.

  • PM backs call for a kinder Jamaica

    PM backs call for a kinder Jamaica

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A powerful appeal for national unity and compassionate discourse has emerged from Jamaica’s highest leadership levels following the 46th annual National Leadership Prayer Breakfast. Prime Minister Andrew Holness has publicly endorsed Senior Pastor Reverend Peter Garth’s urgent message advocating for an end to destructive criticism and malicious character attacks within Jamaican society.

    During his keynote sermon at Boulevard Baptist Church in St. Andrew, Reverend Garth challenged Jamaicans to abandon vulgar criticisms and embrace mutual respect. “We are all in this together and we need all persons on deck if we are going to rebuild Jamaica,” Garth emphasized, framing national progress as dependent on collective goodwill rather than divisive rhetoric.

    Prime Minister Holness, in subsequent remarks to Observer Online, characterized the pastor’s message as both timely and transformative. “I am particularly heartened by the message today,” Holness stated. “There are those who will stand on the sideline and criticise unnecessarily, unreasonably and unjustly—that is not serving the interest of the nation.”

    The event, which adopted the theme “Caring for our Neighbour,” served as a platform for examining the social risks associated with helping others. Both leaders addressed the growing cynicism that discourages civic engagement, with Garth specifically referencing Hurricane Melissa’s devastation in October as a case where criticism overshadowed relief efforts.

    Holness highlighted the historical significance of the prayer breakfast, established in 1981 following Jamaica’s divisive 1980 general election, as a stabilizing force in national life. “It reaffirms that Jamaica is a Christian society,” he noted, “and gives us an opportunity to hear words directly transmitted to leaders to guide us.”

    Reverend Garth concluded with a call to action: “Let us continue our efforts to restore lives and rebuild homes. Let us respond to the needs of our brothers and sisters in Jamaica. Let us care for our neighbors.” This dual endorsement from religious and governmental leadership signals a coordinated effort to address Jamaica’s social discourse challenges.

  • Westmoreland man charged with arson

    Westmoreland man charged with arson

    A 39-year-old Westmoreland resident is confronting serious legal consequences following an alleged arson incident that occurred in the Smithfield district of Savanna-la-Mar on Tuesday, January 13. Jason Hinds has been formally charged with arson after authorities investigated a disturbing neighborhood altercation that escalated into property damage.

    According to official reports from the Savanna-la-Mar Police Department, the incident unfolded at approximately 10:00 AM when Hinds allegedly entered a neighbor’s property while carrying a container filled with what investigators believe was gasoline. Law enforcement authorities report that the suspect proceeded to pour the flammable liquid beneath a window of the residential dwelling before intentionally igniting it.

    The resulting fire caused significant damage to the window structure, surrounding wooden boards, and interior curtains before being extinguished by responders. Quick intervention prevented the blaze from spreading further through the property, potentially averting a more severe tragedy.

    Following a comprehensive investigation and crime scene processing by forensic specialists, Hinds was apprehended during a targeted police operation conducted along Barracks Road in Westmoreland later that same day. The efficient police response led to his arrest within hours of the reported incident.

    The case highlights ongoing concerns about community disputes escalating into dangerous criminal behavior in residential areas. Legal proceedings are expected to move forward as the judicial system evaluates the evidence against the accused individual.

  • Court orders woman to return Honda Vezel in breakup dispute

    Court orders woman to return Honda Vezel in breakup dispute

    In a landmark ruling that clarifies financial arrangements within romantic relationships, the High Court has determined that a vehicle purchased during the COVID-19 pandemic rightfully belongs to the man who provided the funds, not the woman who received them.

    Justice Westmin James delivered a written verdict favoring Steffon Belfon, who had transferred approximately CAD$50,000 from Canada in October 2020 to Marva Khan, his romantic partner at the time. The court found compelling evidence that these funds were specifically designated for purchasing a vehicle for Belfon’s use, not as an unconditional gift as Khan had claimed.

    The legal dispute emerged following the dissolution of the couple’s relationship. Belfon, a self-employed contractor stranded in Canada due to pandemic restrictions, testified that he sent the money anticipating post-budget price increases. He intended for Khan to acquire the vehicle on his behalf during his absence from Trinidad.

    Justice James’ analysis revealed that Khan acknowledged under cross-examination that the initial transfer expressly served the purpose of vehicle acquisition. The judge noted that the defendant’s testimony contained significant inconsistencies that undermined her credibility.

    “Based on the balance of probabilities,” Justice James wrote, “the CAD$50,000 transfer was intended for vehicle procurement for the claimant’s benefit. The presumption of a resulting trust remains undisputed.”

    The court ordered Khan to transfer the Honda Vezel hybrid SUV—purchased for approximately $185,000 and registered in her name—to Belfon’s ownership within 30 days. However, the judge dismissed Belfon’s claims regarding household items and additional funds totaling TT$120,400, noting that a subsequent CAD$10,000 transfer appeared consistent with gratuitous payment within their personal relationship.

    Both parties achieved partial success in their claims, resulting in no costs awarded to either side. Legal representation included attorneys Sunil Seecharan and Vanita Ramroop for Belfon, while Shawn Fulchan represented Khan.

  • RC Archbishop warns of youth mental health crisis

    RC Archbishop warns of youth mental health crisis

    Trinidad and Tobago is confronting a severe youth mental health crisis characterized by escalating rates of suicide, self-harm, and emotional distress among children. Archbishop Charles Jason Gordon has issued an urgent nationwide appeal for immediate intervention from all sectors of society, declaring the well-being of the nation’s youth to be at critical risk.

    The Archbishop’s warning precedes a pivotal national briefing titled ‘The Urgency of Now: A National Call to Save Our Children,’ scheduled for January 19 at the Archbishop’s House in Port of Spain. This event, organized by the Samaritan Movement—a trauma-response initiative established by the Archdiocese of Port of Spain—aims to address what organizers describe as an escalating emergency affecting children across educational institutions.

    Darrion Narine, programme manager of the Samaritan Movement, corroborated the severity of the situation, stating that the country has reached a breaking point. Based on their fieldwork across primary and secondary schools, the movement has documented an alarming surge in student distress, with both overt cries for help and silent suffering becoming daily occurrences. Educators and school administrators report being overwhelmed by the scale of the problem.

    Disturbing data collected by the movement reveals that in a sample group of 48 students, 40% disclosed engaging in or contemplating self-harm behaviors. Narine emphasized that these statistics represent real children—sons, daughters, brothers, and sisters—whose suffering demands immediate action rather than bureaucratic delays.

    The upcoming briefing will convene mental health professionals, educators, and faith leaders to address multiple critical aspects: the growing evidence of trauma in schools, the long-term consequences of inaction on communities, and the church’s potential role in providing healing and hope. Organizers stress that this event transcends a typical press conference, serving instead as a rallying cry for comprehensive societal response.

    The Samaritan Movement is advocating for the government to declare the situation a national emergency and prioritize trauma-informed educational approaches and community care systems. Simultaneously, they’re calling on private sector entities to fund mental health initiatives that reach directly into schools and homes. Civil society organizations and faith communities are being urged to mobilize networks of care and mentorship, while parents and citizens are encouraged to create supportive environments where young people feel safe to share their struggles.

  • Bradshaw: Major road fix drive to reach ‘most districts’ this year

    Bradshaw: Major road fix drive to reach ‘most districts’ this year

    The Barbadian government has announced an extensive national road rehabilitation initiative set to commence this month, with Deputy Prime Minister Santia Bradshaw confirming the program will extend through June. This ambitious infrastructure effort represents one of the most comprehensive road improvement campaigns in recent years, designed to address long-standing transportation challenges across the island nation.

    According to Bradshaw, who also serves as Minister of Transport and Works, her ministry has undergone months of preparatory work to clear bureaucratic backlogs, finalize engineering designs, and complete tender processes. This groundwork enables contractors to immediately begin construction activities across highway networks, primary thoroughfares, and residential communities nationwide.

    The strategic timing of the construction window between January and June capitalizes on optimal dry weather conditions, as the rainy season traditionally begins June 1st. Bradshaw explained the ministry has systematically reorganized its internal planning cycle to conduct technical assessments, preliminary drawings, and detailed designs during wetter months from June to December. This approach ensures contractors can commence work immediately when favorable conditions return.

    The rehabilitation program will utilize both roller-compacted concrete and traditional concrete surfaces, incorporating funding from the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF). While specific roadways weren’t identified during Wednesday’s announcement, Bradshaw indicated comprehensive media briefings scheduled for next week will provide detailed project outlines and implementation timelines.

    Beyond immediate infrastructure improvements, the initiative forms part of a broader modernization strategy within the Transport Ministry. Bradshaw emphasized technology’s increasing role in operational efficiency, noting ongoing investments in staff training and contractor coordination systems to meet growing infrastructure demands. The program aims not only to enhance road quality but also to reduce vehicle damage complaints and liability claims associated with deteriorating road conditions.

  • Hundreds take oath as new Justices of the Peace

    Hundreds take oath as new Justices of the Peace

    In a landmark ceremony symbolizing national commitment to judicial integrity, Barbados witnessed the induction of 563 citizens into the office of Justice of the Peace on Wednesday. President Jeffrey Bostic officiated the mass swearing-in event at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre, creating one of the largest single cohorts of JPs in the island’s history.

    Prime Minister Mia Mottley addressed the newly appointed justices, emphasizing the profound responsibility beyond ceremonial recognition. “This moment transcends personal achievement,” Mottley declared. “You have undertaken solemn duties that place you at the heart of our justice administration system.”

    The Prime Minister elaborated on the historical significance of the office, noting its enduring relevance in contemporary Barbadian society. She clarified that while JPs are not law enforcers, they serve as critical pillars in maintaining legal processes and document authentication. “Your conduct will now be viewed through the lens of your office,” Mottley cautioned. “You are sworn guardians of law and order.”

    Against increasing global challenges to legal frameworks, Mottley highlighted the JPs’ role in reinforcing respect for judicial processes and facilitating business operations through document validation. She particularly emphasized the importance of diversity among justices, noting representation across parishes, genders, and social backgrounds as essential for constitutional governance.

    Among the appointees was veteran journalist Ryan Gilkes, who described his appointment as both an honor and opportunity for community service. “This recognition allows me to further assist my community and serve as a role model for youth,” Gilkes stated, reflecting on his 27-year career and unexpected journey to this position.

    Women’s health advocate Katrina Alleyne also joined the ranks, expressing pride in her selection. Known for her work through the Katrina Endometriosis and Women’s Health Association of Barbados, Alleyne affirmed her commitment to serving the wider community and supporting legal processes.

    The office of Justice of the Peace represents a voluntary, community-focused position requiring impartiality in document witnessing, oath administration, and signature authentication. JPs additionally support judicial processes through warrant applications, licensing procedures, and jury management, serving as crucial intermediaries between the formal justice system and civilian population.

  • Business Training Center and St Joseph’s University in Dominica collaborate to offer new nursing path for students

    Business Training Center and St Joseph’s University in Dominica collaborate to offer new nursing path for students

    In a strategic response to the escalating global nursing crisis, Dominica’s Business Training Center (BTC) has forged an innovative alliance with St. Joseph University. This collaboration, announced by the 27-year-old educational institution, establishes an accessible educational pipeline for nursing aspirants worldwide.

    The initiative arrives at a pivotal moment as the World Health Organization’s 2025 report acknowledges persistent disparities in healthcare workforce distribution despite overall growth in nursing numbers. Concurrently, impending U.S. policy changes set to take effect in July 2026 will dramatically restrict federal student loan funding for graduate nursing programs, imposing a $20,500 annual cap and $100,000 lifetime borrowing limit.

    BTC President Lucia Stedman characterized the partnership as “a significant milestone in our mission to provide accessible, quality education.” The institution specializes in second-chance education, with numerous graduates having advanced to obtain Bachelor’s degrees in Midwifery and other healthcare disciplines.

    The program architecture enables international students to pursue Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) qualifications through BTC’s foundational programs, which articulate directly into St. Joseph University’s LPN curriculum. Students requiring preliminary training may enroll in BTC’s Diploma in Nursing Assistant and Patient Care, which prepares them for rigorous professional nursing education.

    Beyond addressing global needs, the partnership specifically targets Dominica’s domestic healthcare education gap, where local institution capacity has failed to meet demand for nursing professionals. The collaboration also leverages BTC’s certification courses offered with UK-based Training Express, providing internationally recognized credentials that enhance employment prospects throughout the Caribbean and beyond.

    The initiative simultaneously promotes educational tourism in Dominica, offering international students affordable tuition within a supportive learning environment enriched by the island’s natural beauty and vibrant culture. Stedman extended invitations to prospective students from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and across the Caribbean to consider Dominica as their destination for building healthcare careers.

  • PM Browne sponsors 10 UWI Global Campus scholarships for St. John’s City West residents

    PM Browne sponsors 10 UWI Global Campus scholarships for St. John’s City West residents

    In a significant educational initiative, Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced the sponsorship of ten fully-funded scholarships exclusively for residents of St. John’s City West. The program will enable selected candidates to pursue internationally recognized short courses at the University of the West Indies Global Campus in 2026.

    The initiative, coordinated through the St. John’s City West Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) constituency group, focuses on providing practical, career-oriented training to enhance skills development within the constituency. This educational investment aims to directly address workforce readiness while creating opportunities for personal advancement among local residents.

    All courses will be administered through the UWI Global Campus Antigua platform, maintaining international academic standards while ensuring relevance to current professional requirements. Eligibility is strictly limited to current residents of the specified constituency, with acceptance capped at ten recipients to maintain program quality.

    The constituency group has characterized the scholarship program as a strategic investment in human resource development, emphasizing its potential to strengthen both individual career prospects and broader community economic resilience. Prospective applicants are urged to examine available course options and application procedures detailed in the official promotional materials.

    Due to the competitive nature of the limited spaces, interested parties are advised to submit their applications promptly to secure consideration for this exclusive educational opportunity.

  • Police advise caution following reports

    Police advise caution following reports

    Authorities in St. Kitts have issued a formal security alert urging heightened vigilance for residents and visitors utilizing the Frigate Bay golf course and adjacent areas. The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force disseminated the advisory on Thursday evening, January 15, 2026, following unspecified incident reports that prompted security concerns.

    While police officials declined to elaborate on the precise nature of the reported incidents, they emphasized the critical need for increased personal awareness and cautious behavior in the designated zone. The advisory specifically encourages immediate reporting of any suspicious individuals or activities to law enforcement authorities.

    This security notice emerges alongside Commissioner of Police James Sutton’s recently announced strategic initiatives to combat emerging crime patterns. Despite overall crime statistics showing a decline throughout 2025, Commissioner Sutton had previously highlighted a concerning trend toward accelerated interpersonal violence during recent public briefings.

    The Police Force confirmed ongoing investigations in collaboration with security partners to address public safety concerns and prevent potential incidents. The comprehensive security strategy for 2026 focuses on five pivotal areas: enhanced community policing with deeper neighborhood integration, technology-augmented crime detection through advanced data systems, targeted operations against illegal firearms and habitual offenders, proactive crime prevention protocols, and youth engagement programs emphasizing early intervention.

    Law enforcement officials reiterated that effective crime prevention constitutes a shared societal responsibility, requiring active cooperation between citizens and security forces to maintain public safety.