Carib Scope

分类： society

  • Family of missing sailor Miguel Campoy still waiting for answers six weeks later

    Family of missing sailor Miguel Campoy still waiting for answers six weeks later

    The family of Miguel Campoy, a Spanish-American sailor who vanished at sea six weeks ago, has expressed growing frustration over the lack of progress in the investigation. Campoy, 56, disappeared on September 6 while sailing his 44-foot blue-hulled vessel, Hella, from South Abaco to New Providence. His last known communication with relatives was around 6 p.m., when he reported calm conditions and anticipated a longer-than-expected journey.

    Both the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) and the United States Coast Guard conducted search operations for approximately a week before suspending their efforts. The family subsequently initiated a private search, deploying airplanes over the area for an additional fifteen days. Despite these efforts, no significant findings have been made, aside from the recovery of Campoy’s dinghy, which was found adrift with personal belongings, including his passport, credit cards, and water supplies.

    Miriam Campoy, Miguel’s sister, speculated that her brother may have intentionally left the sailboat due to an emergency, such as water ingress or a collision. However, the exact circumstances remain unclear. The dinghy is currently in the custody of the Western Division police, who have yet to provide any updates or conclusions to the family.

    Ms. Campoy revealed that she has repeatedly contacted authorities, including an RBDF officer identified as Mr. Livingston, but has received no substantive information. She also noted that Spanish police have attempted to liaise with Bahamian authorities but have similarly been met with silence.

    The family, desperate for closure, has offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to Campoy’s safe return and $2,000 for verified tips. They have distributed missing-person posters across The Bahamas and internationally, urging anyone with information to contact the RBDF, the Royal Bahamas Police Force, or email findmiguelcampoy@gmail.com.

    Miguel Campoy, a dual citizen of Spain and the United States, was a seasoned sailor and qualified yacht captain who had lived aboard his vessel for seven years. His family described him as methodical and well-prepared, making his disappearance under calm weather conditions all the more perplexing.

    The Campoy family has called for greater transparency from Bahamian authorities, emphasizing their desire to uncover the truth and, if necessary, recover his body. ‘We just need to know what happened,’ Ms. Campoy said, reflecting the family’s anguish and determination for answers.

  • Vreed-en-Hoop phone store owner fatally shoots policeman

    Vreed-en-Hoop phone store owner fatally shoots policeman

    A tragic incident unfolded at the Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling on the West Coast Demerara, where a 34-year-old policeman, Lance Corporal Richard Haynes, was fatally shot by a local businessman. The suspect, identified as 37-year-old Mr. Hussain, owns a cellphone store at the same location. According to the Guyana Police Force, the altercation stemmed from a dispute over the sale of a cell phone, which escalated into violence. Mr. Hussain allegedly used his licensed firearm to shoot Lance Corporal Haynes. The police have since seized the weapon as part of their ongoing investigation. This incident has sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns about public safety and the escalation of disputes into fatal violence. Authorities are urging calm and assuring the public that a thorough investigation is underway to bring justice to the victim and his family.

  • 24-Hour Shelter Approved for Gender-Based Violence Survivors

    24-Hour Shelter Approved for Gender-Based Violence Survivors

    In a significant move to combat gender-based violence, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has greenlit the creation of a 24-hour shelter for survivors. This initiative, developed through a collaborative public-NGO partnership with Integrated Health Outreach (IHO), underscores the government’s dedication to gender equality, women’s empowerment, and safeguarding vulnerable populations. The shelter will provide a secure environment for survivors, coupled with essential services such as counseling, vocational training, and empowerment programs aimed at fostering independence and self-sufficiency. Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, emphasized that this partnership leverages IHO’s professional expertise alongside government resources, ensuring a sustainable and effective support system. The shelter is part of a broader strategy to enhance social protection measures, including mental health services, family counseling, and community outreach. It will operate in tandem with social services, health agencies, and law enforcement to deliver a cohesive national response to gender-based violence.

  • Cooperation is key for securing children’s well-being, say officials

    Cooperation is key for securing children’s well-being, say officials

    Dominica has initiated a groundbreaking Co-Parenting Campaign aimed at enhancing the welfare of children in foster care, as announced by Dr. Cassandra Williams, Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services. The campaign, which commenced on Wednesday, is set to continue until February 2026. Dr. Williams highlighted that approximately 160 children are currently enrolled in Dominica’s foster care program. While some of these placements offer long-term stability, many serve as transitional arrangements, providing a safe haven for children as their families work towards reunification. Dr. Williams emphasized the critical role of effective co-parenting in these scenarios, urging biological parents, foster parents, and social workers to maintain open communication and shared responsibility for the children’s emotional and developmental well-being. The campaign underscores the principle that every child deserves consistent love, guidance, and care, regardless of their living arrangements. It promotes healthy co-parenting practices founded on communication, respect, and stability. Nicole Toussaint-Jno Baptiste, Child Protection Officer at the Department of Social Services, echoed these sentiments, noting a rise in the number of children being raised in households where parents are separated or divorced. She pointed out that the breakdown of co-parenting relationships often leads to emotional difficulties for children, impacting their growth and development. The campaign, themed ‘Apart but United- A Co-Parenting Campaign,’ aims to convey that separated parents can still collaborate effectively in the best interest of their child.

  • Antigua and Barbuda Cabinet Approves Surveillance Cameras for All Public Schools

    Antigua and Barbuda Cabinet Approves Surveillance Cameras for All Public Schools

    In a decisive move to address rising security concerns, the government has sanctioned the immediate deployment and enhancement of surveillance camera systems in all national public schools. This initiative comes in the wake of a surge in break-ins and security breaches at educational institutions, which have raised alarms among educators and parents alike. Maurice Merchant, the Director General of Communications, confirmed that the Cabinet has earmarked funds for the procurement and installation of these systems, underscoring the administration’s dedication to bolstering safety and safeguarding school assets. Merchant emphasized that this project aligns with the government’s broader strategy to fortify security within the education sector, ensuring the protection of both students and school property. The Ministry of Education will spearhead the initiative, with installations slated to commence without delay. Recent incidents of vandalism and theft have intensified demands for robust security measures, prompting this swift action. The advanced surveillance system will feature real-time monitoring and recording functionalities, enabling authorities to deter unauthorized access and respond promptly to potential threats. Officials highlighted that this security upgrade complements other significant investments in the education sector, including infrastructure improvements and the integration of technology-driven learning environments, all aimed at enhancing safety and academic outcomes.

  • 15 Homes to Be Built Under ‘Build on Your Own Land’ Programme

    15 Homes to Be Built Under ‘Build on Your Own Land’ Programme

    The National Housing and Urban Development Company Limited (NHUDC) has unveiled plans to construct 15 new homes across Antigua and Barbuda as part of its innovative ‘Build on Your Own Land Programme.’ This initiative is designed to assist individuals who already own land but require government-supported construction to develop their properties. The project will span multiple communities, including Painters, Radio Range, Villa, Low Pasture, Clarks Hill, All Saints, Jennings, Quesada Gardens, New Winthrops, McKinnons, Glanvilles, and Herberts. Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, emphasized that the programme is a cornerstone of the government’s broader affordable housing strategy, which seeks to enhance homeownership accessibility while boosting employment in the construction industry. NHUDC is currently inviting qualified contractors to bid for the construction projects, which will be executed on privately owned lands. Unlike conventional government housing schemes, the ‘Build on Your Own Land’ initiative empowers individuals to build homes on their existing properties, with design and financing assistance provided by NHUDC. The company has indicated that the programme will be expanded in phases, aligning with national efforts to increase housing availability and foster community development.

  • Government renames market, polyclinic, road and other public facilities

    Government renames market, polyclinic, road and other public facilities

    Barbados is embarking on a significant initiative to rename several public spaces in honor of distinguished citizens who have made enduring contributions to the nation’s progress. This move underscores the government’s commitment to celebrating individuals who have shaped the country’s development through their service, leadership, and dedication.

  • Antigua Government to Host National Workshop for Building Contractors

    Antigua Government to Host National Workshop for Building Contractors

    The government of Antigua and Barbuda is set to host a national workshop aimed at enhancing the capabilities of building contractors across the nation. Scheduled to take place shortly after the Independence celebrations, the event is being spearheaded by the Minister for Works. Contractors from all regions of Antigua and Barbuda are expected to participate in this comprehensive initiative. The workshop will delve into essential topics such as contract preparation, construction standards, project management, quality control, collaboration with government agencies, and workforce development. Senior Cabinet members, including Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Sir Molwyn Joseph, Minister for Health, Wellness, and the Environment, will deliver presentations during the sessions. According to Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, the workshop aims to foster stronger partnerships between the government and the private construction sector. It will also identify training and certification needs and explore financing initiatives to support small and medium-sized contractors in expanding their businesses and competing more effectively for both government and private sector projects. This initiative is part of the Cabinet’s ongoing efforts to modernize the construction industry, ensuring greater efficiency, safety, and quality in national development projects.

  • BCC, NUPW settle dispute after conciliation talks

    BCC, NUPW settle dispute after conciliation talks

    The longstanding dispute between the Barbados Community College (BCC) and the National Union of Public Workers (NUPW) has been successfully resolved following a series of conciliatory talks facilitated by the Labour Department. The conflict arose when the College appointed an individual to a vacant position, sparking industrial action by over 50 staff members at the Eyrie campus, who demanded the appointment be revoked. Despite three unsuccessful rounds of negotiations, the intervention of the Chief Labour Officer, Allison Elcock, proved pivotal in mediating the dispute. Principal Annette Alleyne announced that both parties reached an agreement in principle during the mediation sessions. Alleyne emphasized the importance of mature discussions, which allowed both sides to understand each other’s perspectives. She also highlighted the College’s commitment to reviewing its processes and strengthening its social partnerships with stakeholders. Alleyne expressed gratitude to the Labour Department and the NUPW for their open and constructive dialogue, stating that the resolution underscores their shared dedication to fostering a positive and supportive working environment. The agreement is anticipated to improve relations between the College and the union and restore stability to the campus after weeks of tension.

  • WIOC to Conduct Oil Spill Response Drill on Thursday

    WIOC to Conduct Oil Spill Response Drill on Thursday

    The West Indies Oil Company (WIOC) is set to conduct a meticulously planned oil spill response drill on Thursday, October 23. This exercise, a collaborative effort with the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) and the Antigua and Barbuda Department of Marine Services (ADOMS), will unfold near the Sea Island Jetty. The primary objective of this simulation is to rigorously assess the nation’s preparedness, emergency coordination capabilities, and environmental protection protocols in the face of a potential oil spill. WIOC emphasizes that this drill underscores their unwavering dedication to environmental stewardship and operational readiness. Local residents and mariners are reassured that the activities are part of a controlled and well-organized simulation, ensuring minimal disruption and heightened awareness.