Carib Scope

分类： society

  • NCSA warns of ‘slow diversification’ in drug use as new substances emerge

    NCSA warns of ‘slow diversification’ in drug use as new substances emerge

    Barbados is confronting a concerning evolution in its drug landscape as the National Council on Substance Abuse (NCSA) reports a gradual but significant diversification beyond traditional substances. While marijuana, tobacco, alcohol, and cocaine remain the predominant choices among Barbadians, new psychoactive compounds have emerged on the island between 2023 and 2025, signaling a shift in consumption patterns.

    Troy Wickham, Deputy Manager of the NCSA, revealed during Drug Awareness Month that the council’s surveillance has identified several novel substances entering the local market. These include MDMA (commonly known as ecstasy), methamphetamine, synthetic cannabinoids (specifically MDMB4en PINACA and 4-Fluoro MDMB Butica), and semi-synthetic cannabinoids like hexahydrocannabinol.

    The proliferation of these substances transcends statistical data, manifesting in increased treatment facility admissions. Young males under 40 continue to dominate both treatment referrals and encounters with the criminal justice system related to substance abuse. Wickham noted a surge in outreach from educational institutions, families, and communities seeking intervention services during the awareness month, ranging from educational sessions to counseling and rehabilitation.

    Despite the NCSA offering free counseling services to all citizens, prevention efforts face substantial challenges. Social stigma surrounding substance abuse discourages early intervention, compounded by an apparent normalization of marijuana use despite its illegal status in Barbados. Wickham expressed particular concern about open marijuana consumption across age groups and genders in public spaces, describing it as a worrying trend toward normalization.

    The deputy manager urged heightened vigilance among parents, guardians, and educators, emphasizing the importance of recognizing behavioral and physical indicators of substance use. Warning signs include erratic behavior, aggression, memory impairment, anxiety, and changes in social circles. Physical evidence may include drug-branded clothing, vaping devices, and small zip-lock bags.

    Wickham stressed that parental warmth and active involvement constitute crucial protective factors, underscoring that strong familial relationships play a pivotal role in prevention and early intervention strategies.

  • Former partners in suspected murder-suicide at city guest house

    Former partners in suspected murder-suicide at city guest house

    A shocking incident unfolded at a Georgetown guest house early Tuesday morning, resulting in the deaths of two employees in what authorities are investigating as a murder-suicide. The tragedy occurred at an establishment on Lime Street between approximately 5:00 AM and 8:15 AM, according to the Guyana Police Force.

    The victims have been identified as 31-year-old Loriann, who worked as a housekeeper, and 36-year-old Cyril Saul, employed as a security guard at the same facility. Police investigations revealed that both individuals were the sole staff members on duty during the overnight shift when the incident occurred.

    Law enforcement officials disclosed that the two had previously been involved in a romantic relationship that reportedly ended approximately two months prior to the tragic event. Responding officers discovered the woman lying motionless in one of the rooms with visible injuries, while the man was found unresponsive in a separate area of the premises.

    A medical professional from the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation pronounced both victims dead at the scene. Investigators have secured multiple items as evidence, including a firearm, ammunition, a knife, and a quantity of suspected controlled substances. CCTV footage from the property has been reviewed and forms a crucial component of the ongoing investigation.

    The police statement noted that several individuals have been contacted and questioned as part of the investigative process. The bodies have been transported to the Memorial Funeral Parlour Mortuary where they await post-mortem examinations to determine the exact causes of death.

  • Ministry Of Creative Industries Announces Winners Of The Christmas Home And Business Lighting Competition 2025

    Ministry Of Creative Industries Announces Winners Of The Christmas Home And Business Lighting Competition 2025

    The Ministry of Education, Sports, and Creative Industries has officially unveiled the champions of the highly anticipated 2025 Christmas Home and Business Lighting Competition. This cherished annual tradition, designed to celebrate community creativity and illuminate the holiday season, recognized outstanding achievements across both residential and commercial sectors through a display of spectacular and imaginative lighting arrangements.

    The residential competition was structured across four distinct geographical zones—East, West, North, and South—to ensure broad participation, while the business category encompassed the entire island. This year’s entries were noted for their exceptional artistry and profound embodiment of the festive spirit, transforming communities into winter wonderlands.

    A significant incentive program accompanied the honors. All category winners received substantial cash awards, with first place awarded $3,000.00 ECD, second place securing $2,000.00 ECD, and third place taking home $1,000.00 ECD. In a move to alleviate holiday season expenses, the Ministry also announced a full 100% waiver on the December 2024 electricity bill for all home category participants. Businesses were granted a 50% waiver on their respective bills.

    The Ministry extended its congratulations to the top performers. In the Business category, Shoulds’s Toys Gifts Houseware claimed the premier position, followed by Galley Bay Resort and Falmouth Harbour Marina as first and second runners-up, respectively.

    Zone-specific residential winners were also celebrated: Joel Rayne (West Zone), Desiree Simon (East Zone), Vernel Weste (South Zone), and Dave Peters (North Zone). Notably, Vernel Weste achieved a perfect score of 100, followed closely by Desiree Simon with 99.7, marking them as the top overall scorers in the competition.

    The Ministry concluded by applauding every participant for their contribution to the season’s cheer and expressed great anticipation for the event’s continued evolution as a cornerstone of the nation’s Christmas celebrations.

  • Former KHMH CEO Passes

    Former KHMH CEO Passes

    The Belizean medical community is grieving the loss of Dr. Francis ‘Gary’ Longsworth, the revered former Chief Executive Officer of Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, who passed away over the weekend following a brief illness. The announcement has triggered an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and friends, highlighting his enduring legacy in Belize’s healthcare landscape.

    Dr. Longsworth’s distinguished career began with medical studies at the University of the West Indies, after which he demonstrated profound patriotism by returning to his homeland to serve within the public health system. His commitment to Belize was unmistakable, with colleague Dr. Egbert Grinage noting, ‘He was Belizean to the core. I think that’s why he returned home to Belize after training.’

    Appointed as CEO of KHMH in 2008, Dr. Longsworth’s leadership was instrumental in advancing the hospital’s capabilities. Among his most significant contributions was pioneering the development of the facility’s combined neonatal and paediatric intensive care units, infrastructure that continues to serve the nation’s most vulnerable patients.

    Beyond his administrative achievements, colleagues remember Dr. Longsworth for his exceptional personal qualities. Dr. Grinage characterized him as a ‘quiet mentor’ who shaped generations of Belizean physicians with his calm demeanor and human touch. His renowned, infectious laughter and enviably laid-back personality made him uniquely effective at connecting with people from all walks of life. ‘He never let anything or anyone get to him,’ Grinage recalled, emphasizing the late doctor’s unwavering composure.

    Dr. Longsworth leaves behind his former wife, Luz, and two adult children. His passing marks the end of an era for Belizean healthcare, but his legacy as a medical visionary and dedicated public servant endures.

  • Hezekiah Parker Jr. Pleads Not Guilty, Remanded on Firearm and Drug Charges

    Hezekiah Parker Jr. Pleads Not Guilty, Remanded on Firearm and Drug Charges

    A resident of Cedar Valley Heights has been ordered to remain in custody following his not guilty plea to multiple charges related to firearms and controlled substances. The accused, Hezekiah Parker Jr., appeared in a court proceeding presided over by Chief Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel on Tuesday.

    Legal representation for Parker was provided by defense attorney Sherfield Bowen during the hearing. The judicial proceedings have been scheduled to continue tomorrow, requiring Parker’s subsequent court appearance.

    According to law enforcement authorities, the criminal charges stem from an early morning operation conducted on January 10, 2026. Police executed a search warrant at Parker’s residence before dawn, resulting in the alleged discovery of significant evidence.

    During the search, officers reportedly confiscated an unregistered Smith & Wesson .380-caliber handgun along with seven corresponding rounds of ammunition. Additionally, approximately 100 grams of cannabis was allegedly seized from the premises.

    The defendant now faces multiple counts including illegal possession of a firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, simple possession of cannabis, and the more serious charge of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. The combination of weapons and narcotics violations represents a significant case for local law enforcement agencies.

    The judicial process will determine the validity of the charges as the case progresses through the court system, with the next hearing scheduled to address procedural matters and potentially set dates for future proceedings.

  • “Mike” Heusner: ‘One of Belize’s Strongest  Voice for Conservation and Tourism’

    “Mike” Heusner: ‘One of Belize’s Strongest  Voice for Conservation and Tourism’

    The Central American nation of Belize is mourning the loss of Michael ‘Mike’ Heusner, a towering figure in environmental conservation and sustainable tourism, who passed away on January 10 at age 86. For decades, Heusner served as one of the country’s most influential voices, championing the delicate balance between economic development and ecological preservation.

    Heusner’s philosophical approach centered on the inseparable connection between Belize’s economic vitality and its environmental health. He consistently maintained that the nation’s economy could not thrive without proactive protection of its natural resources, dedicating his life to advocating for sustainable practices across industries.

    The conservation community has responded with an outpouring of tributes recognizing his lifelong contributions. Oceana Belize celebrated Heusner as ‘a devoted advocate for the protection of Belize’s marine treasures,’ specifically highlighting his vigorous opposition to destructive fishing practices including gillnets.

    According to the Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute, Heusner possessed a unique talent for translating complex environmental concepts into compelling narratives drawn from personal experience. This ability made him exceptionally effective at communicating with diverse audiences from policymakers to local communities.

    The Belize Tourism Board credited Heusner as a pioneering force in developing Belize’s ecotourism and responsible sport fishing sectors, noting that his visionary work helped establish the country’s international reputation as a premier destination for environmentally conscious travelers and anglers.

    Sport Fishing Belize added online: ‘Mike’s passion and advocacy for the proper and sustainable use of our environment, as well as his work in building and supporting Belize’s sport fishing industry, are remarkable.’

    A ‘Celebration of Life’ ceremony has been scheduled for June, with further details to be announced in coming months. Heusner’s legacy endures through the protected ecosystems and sustainable tourism frameworks he helped establish during his decades of advocacy.

  • Dominican Ngaio Emanuel is now Chief Magistrate of Antigua and Barbuda

    Dominican Ngaio Emanuel is now Chief Magistrate of Antigua and Barbuda

    Antigua and Barbuda’s judicial system has gained new leadership with the appointment of Ngaio Emmanuel as Chief Magistrate, a position that had remained vacant since mid-2023. Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin confirmed the appointment during the special sitting of the High Court marking the opening of the 2026 legal year.

    The appointment concludes an extensive search for permanent leadership following the suspension and subsequent retirement of former Chief Magistrate Joanne Walsh in July 2023. Walsh faced multiple disciplinary charges brought by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission, with Magistrate Dexter Wason temporarily filling the role until his contract expired late last year.

    Emmanuel brings substantial judicial expertise to her new position, having served within Antigua and Barbuda’s magistracy since March 2013. Her promotion to Senior Magistrate in March 2024 preceded her recent elevation to the judiciary’s top magistral position. Her professional journey includes earning an LLB with Honours from the University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus in 2004, followed by a Legal Education Certificate from Hugh Wooding Law School two years later.

    Before joining the judiciary, Emmanuel developed her legal practice during six years at Trinidad and Tobago’s prestigious Chancery Chambers, working under renowned Senior Counsel Douglas Mendes. Her professional qualifications include admission to the bars of both the Commonwealth of Dominica and Trinidad and Tobago.

    Beyond her courtroom responsibilities, Emmanuel has demonstrated commitment to judicial reform through her role as Chairperson of the Child Justice Board since 2017. She further enhanced her qualifications by obtaining a Master of Laws degree with Merit from the University of East London in 2023 while actively serving on the bench.

  • Be a Part of History: A Call for CHOGM 2026 Volunteers!

    Be a Part of History: A Call for CHOGM 2026 Volunteers!

    The government of Antigua and Barbuda has officially launched its volunteer recruitment drive for the prestigious Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM 2026), scheduled to take place in St. John’s from November 1-4, 2026. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Barbuda Affairs is seeking enthusiastic and professional citizens aged 18 and above to participate in this global diplomatic gathering.

    This initiative presents a distinctive opportunity for individuals to contribute their expertise and time to support the execution of a world-class international event. Prospective volunteers will have the chance to enhance their professional experience, develop new skills, and establish valuable connections within global diplomatic circles. Available positions span various operational areas, with specific needs in hospitality management and delegation liaison services.

    The government particularly welcomes applications from previous volunteers who have demonstrated capability in large-scale event coordination. All interested candidates must complete the official volunteer application form available through the government’s designated portal before the deadline of January 26, 2026, at 12:00 PM local time.

    This recruitment effort represents a significant national undertaking to ensure the successful hosting of one of the most important multilateral gatherings in the Commonwealth calendar, marking a historic moment for Antigua and Barbuda’s international diplomacy and event hosting capabilities.

  • Guyana begins conversation on continuing legal education, stronger regulation of lawyers, judges

    Guyana begins conversation on continuing legal education, stronger regulation of lawyers, judges

    In a significant move to modernize its judicial system, Guyana has launched a comprehensive initiative to overhaul the regulation of its legal profession. The proposed reforms, announced during the opening of the 2026 Law Year, center on establishing mandatory continuing legal education and strengthening disciplinary mechanisms for both lawyers and judges.

    Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall emphasized the urgent need for “a system of rigid and accountable continuing education” during his address. He revealed plans to collaborate with Guyana Bar Association President Kamal Ramkarran later this month to restructure the regulatory framework, responding to growing public concerns about professional conduct within the legal community.

    Mr. Ramkarran expressed serious concerns about the current state of professional regulation, noting the complete absence of continuing education requirements. “If a lawyer never wanted to read another law book or judgment after law school, it would be completely open for that lawyer to do so,” he stated. The Bar Association president also proposed a graduated induction system for new lawyers rather than burdening recently graduated counsel with full responsibilities immediately.

    The judiciary leadership strongly endorsed these reform efforts. Chancellor of the Judiciary Roxane George-Wiltshire recommended amending the Legal Practitioners Act—originally drafted in 1897 and last updated in 2010—to require annual registration contingent on completing minimum hours of continuing education. “An educated and regulated legal profession will increase the efficiency and integrity of the administration of justice,” she asserted, offering the judiciary’s collaboration in developing legislative reforms.

    Chief Justice Navindra Singh welcomed the newfound consensus on continuing education, recalling his unsuccessful attempt to introduce similar measures a decade ago that faced resistance from the legal community. “I’m glad that they now recognize that continuing legal education is not for us. It is for all. It is for the judges and the lawyers and it is for the litigants to enjoy proper representation,” he remarked.

    The reform discussions also addressed significant gaps in disciplinary processes. Mr. Ramkarran revealed that no lawyer has faced suspension or removal proceedings in over 25 years, despite persistent complaints about case delays caused by unprepared attorneys frequently seeking adjournments. He called for “open and transparent systems to deal with misbehavior of judges and lawyers in a proper and fair manner.”

    While Attorney General Nandlall acknowledged the possibility of maintaining self-regulation for the profession, he emphasized that this privilege must be matched by responsibility and accountability. The proposed reforms represent the most substantial potential changes to Guyana’s legal governance structure since the country’s independence in 1966.

  • Police, family search for missing pregnant woman

    Police, family search for missing pregnant woman

    Authorities and concerned citizens in Saint Lucia have intensified efforts to locate Cassie John, a 34-year-old pregnant woman who vanished from her La Toc, Castries residence on January 3rd. The missing person case has prompted both official police investigations and heartfelt community appeals for information.

    In a developing situation that has gripped the local community, law enforcement agencies have issued formal bulletins describing John as having a dark complexion and short hair while emphasizing her vulnerable condition due to pregnancy. The police have established dedicated channels for information submission, urging anyone with potentially relevant details to contact their nearest station without delay.

    Meanwhile, family members have launched parallel efforts through social media platforms and community networks. In a emotionally charged statement circulated on January 11, relatives articulated their growing distress while making a passionate plea for public assistance. The family specifically highlighted concerns about misinformation proliferation, noting that unverified claims and speculative reports could potentially hinder investigative progress rather than aid search efforts.

    Investigators have emphasized that even minor observations or seemingly insignificant details could provide crucial breakthroughs in the case. The search operation continues to combine traditional police methodology with community-led initiatives, reflecting a collaborative approach to addressing the disappearance.