Carib Scope

分类： society

  • Traffic arrangements: Springs, St George

    Traffic arrangements: Springs, St George

    The Royal Grenada Police Force has announced comprehensive traffic management measures that will be enforced during New Year’s Eve celebrations. These regulations will take effect from 7:00 PM on December 31, 2025, through 1:00 AM on January 1, 2026, to ensure public safety and facilitate smooth traffic flow during the holiday period.

    One-way traffic systems will be implemented on key roadways to manage vehicle movement efficiently. Motorists traveling on Belmont Public Road will be required to move exclusively from the Kirani James Boulevard intersection toward the Paddock area. Similarly, Springs Minor Road will maintain one-directional traffic flow heading toward the Belmont district.

    Specific areas will be designated as no-entry zones for all vehicular traffic. Access restrictions will apply to Belmont Public Road at its junction with Paddock Public Road, while Springs Minor Road will be closed at its intersection with Belmont Public Road.

    Parking accommodations have been carefully arranged to prevent congestion. Public vehicles will be prohibited from parking along Springs Minor Road entirely. However, authorized parking will be permitted on the left-hand side of Belmont Public Road in the direction of Paddock.

    The Royal Grenada Police Force emphasizes the importance of public cooperation with these temporary measures, which are designed to maintain order and safety during the New Year’s celebrations. Motorists are advised to plan their routes accordingly and comply with all posted signage and police directives.

  • ATTORNEYS’ CALL: Employers told to re-examine disciplinary practices after CCJ ruling

    ATTORNEYS’ CALL: Employers told to re-examine disciplinary practices after CCJ ruling

    A landmark Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) decision has triggered urgent calls for Barbados employers to overhaul workplace disciplinary practices, with legal experts warning that procedural fairness and contractual compliance are no longer optional. The ruling in Massy Stores (Barbados) Limited v Forde [2025] has established stringent new standards for employee discipline that could expose companies to significant legal liability if ignored.

    Legal attorneys Katriel Pile and Maya L. Kellman, who conducted a comprehensive analysis of the precedent-setting case, emphasize that the court’s decision fundamentally reshapes employer obligations regarding employee misconduct proceedings. The case originated from a dispute where Massy Stores bypassed its own disciplinary procedures to summarily dismiss an employee, prompting judicial scrutiny of whether such actions constituted lawful termination.

    The CCJ’s ruling clarified that while summary dismissal remains justified for repudiatory breaches of employment contracts, employers cannot automatically resort to immediate termination without considering contextual factors. The court established that mere misconduct warranting dismissal doesn’t necessarily justify bypassing progressive disciplinary measures when other considerations are present.

    Pile and Kellman identify several critical principles emerging from the ruling: contractual incorporation of disciplinary procedures creates binding obligations regardless of employee tenure; suspension without pay requires explicit contractual authorization; and employers must demonstrate proportionality in sanctions considering mitigating circumstances and historical practices.

    Perhaps most significantly, the attorneys note the ruling establishes that procedural fairness requirements apply to all employees beyond probationary periods, dismantling the common misconception that short-service employees lack protection against unfair dismissal claims. The decision also introduces what legal experts describe as a ‘humanizing patina’ approach, recognizing that not every rule violation justifies termination and employers must account for human fallibility in workplace contexts.

    The legal analysis concludes that effective discipline now requires balancing rule enforcement with lawful, proportionate implementation that acknowledges workplace realities. Failure to adopt these standards could expose employers to claims for lost wages, breach of contract allegations, and significant reputational damage.

  • Three Antiguans Named in King’s New Year Honours

    Three Antiguans Named in King’s New Year Honours

    In a prestigious recognition of outstanding contributions to national development and Commonwealth service, three distinguished Antiguans have been named in King Charles III’s New Year Honours list. The announcement was formally made by Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, with Buckingham Palace confirming the awards that will be formally presented at upcoming investiture ceremonies.

    The honorees include Janey Howell, appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her extensive philanthropic work; Dr. Gabriella Poppy Valentine Howell, named Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her contributions to cultural preservation and education; and Assistant Commissioner of Police Desmond Dinard, recipient of the King’s Police Medal (KPM) for exemplary service in law enforcement.

    Sir Rodney Williams emphasized that these awards reflect the nation’s core values of “dedication to duty, generosity of spirit, and commitment to the welfare of others.” He noted that the achievements of these individuals not only bring national pride but also serve as inspiration for future generations.

    Janey Howell’s recognition comes after decades of voluntary service in heritage preservation, including significant contributions to the Heritage Trust of Antigua and Barbuda and instrumental support for the Government House museum project. Her humanitarian efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic further demonstrated her commitment to community welfare.

    Assistant Commissioner Dinard received honors for his remarkable four-decade career in policing, beginning with his joining the force in 1982. His contributions span crime prevention initiatives, professional training programs, and enhancing public safety through both frontline and leadership roles.

    Dr. Howell was acknowledged for her leadership in cultural heritage and education, particularly her work in restoring The Great House Antigua as a heritage tourism destination and her involvement in the Government House Museum redevelopment project. Her charitable endeavors extend to healthcare, education, and environmental conservation.

    The Governor General highlighted that these honors underscore the international respect earned by Antiguans and Barbudans through their dedicated service. Further details regarding the formal investiture ceremonies will be announced in due course.

  • Several Archeological Sites Across Belize Defaced

    Several Archeological Sites Across Belize Defaced

    Belize’s archaeological authorities have issued a forceful public warning following a series of vandalism incidents at protected historical sites, with the ancient Mayan complex of Xunantunich becoming the latest target of destructive graffiti tagging. The Institute of Archaeology emphasized that such acts inflict permanent damage on the nation’s cultural heritage and violate strict preservation laws.

    Dr. Melissa Badillo, Director of the Institute of Archaeology, expressed profound disappointment at the recurring vandalism despite ongoing educational initiatives. “It is deeply disheartening to witness visitors engaging in such destructive behavior,” Dr. Badillo stated. “We maintain continuous awareness programs with schools, tour operators, local communities, and researchers precisely to prevent these occurrences.”

    The Institute highlighted the severe legal consequences for damaging protected monuments, including fines reaching $75,000 Belize dollars or imprisonment for up to five years. Dr. Badillo acknowledged the challenges of monitoring visitor behavior, particularly in high-traffic tourist areas, while emphasizing the shared responsibility of both local and international visitors.

    “We’ve documented incidents involving both Belizean citizens and foreign tourists,” Dr. Badillo noted. “Our message is unequivocal: this destructive behavior is universally unacceptable and carries serious legal ramifications.”

    The Institute urges all visitors to respect site regulations, follow guidance from archaeological rangers and certified tour guides, and immediately report any suspicious activity to help preserve Belize’s irreplaceable archaeological treasures for future generations.

  • Dominican man in Antigua pleads for help amid life-threatening cancer battle

    Dominican man in Antigua pleads for help amid life-threatening cancer battle

    A 61-year-old Dominican native who has resided in Antigua and Barbuda for over two decades now confronts a severe health crisis in isolation. Zophar ‘Tupac’ Andrew, who originally migrated seeking improved economic prospects, received a prostate cancer diagnosis approximately twelve years ago and currently requires urgent surgical intervention estimated at EC$6,000—a sum he cannot possibly afford.

    Andrew’s situation is compounded by his complete lack of official documentation in Antigua. Without a passport, Social Security identification, or medical benefits coverage, he finds himself systematically excluded from formal assistance programs. His health deterioration has progressively diminished his capacity for self-sufficiency and employment.

    In a candid reflection, Andrew acknowledged his past lifestyle choices: ‘I initially achieved financial success but squandered resources on reckless pursuits. I once perceived myself as invincible, but my circumstances have dramatically reversed.’

    Despite approaching multiple religious institutions for support, he received only spiritual consolation rather than tangible aid. His familial connections remain in Dominica, but relatives lack the financial means to assist, while in Antigua, he faces complete isolation.

    Currently occupying a small unauthorized wooden shelter on agricultural property in Jennings, Andrew sustains himself through minimal subsistence farming. However, even this basic survival mechanism becomes increasingly challenging as his physical capabilities decline.

    Remarkably, Andrew maintains resilient determination, explicitly stating he seeks not sympathy but merely an opportunity to survive. Having contributed to Antiguan society through decades of labor, he now appeals to the community for support during his most critical struggle.

    Potential supporters may contact him directly at 1-268-723-3379. While he has received minor provisions of food and essentials, the substantial financial requirement for life-saving surgery remains unmet.

  • Family of Ten Left Homeless After Early Morning Fire

    Family of Ten Left Homeless After Early Morning Fire

    A devastating early morning fire has left a ten-member family homeless in Guinea Grass Village, Orange Walk, destroying their residence and all personal possessions. The blaze erupted approximately at 6:00 AM on December 30, 2025, when resident Jose Mejia, 25, awoke to the smell of smoke and discovered flames emerging from an unoccupied bedroom.

    Mejia recounted the rapid escalation of the emergency in a telephone interview, describing his frantic efforts to evacuate nine other family members including multiple young children and a 45-year-old father-in-law. Despite the swift spread of the fire, all occupants managed to escape with only minor injuries reported, including a slight burn to Mejia’s foot sustained during the rescue operation.

    The family attributes the fire’s origin to an electrical malfunction involving an outlet on a structural post. Fire department personnel arrived after the structure had sustained extensive damage, preventing salvage of any belongings. Mejia described attempts to rescue clothing and other items that were ultimately consumed by the advancing flames.

    The household, comprising children ranging from four to fifteen years old alongside young adults, now faces complete destitution. With no possessions remaining, the family has issued a public appeal for assistance as they confront the overwhelming task of rebuilding their lives. Community members wishing to provide support may contact the family at +501 656-2143 or +501 606-0666.

  • Some Questelles school students to take classes in Campden Park

    Some Questelles school students to take classes in Campden Park

    In response to a destructive fire that severely damaged a section of the Questelles Government School on Monday, educational authorities in St. Vincent have implemented a comprehensive relocation plan for affected students. The blaze, which destroyed the roof of a school block housing Grades 3 and 4 classrooms along with the school’s kitchen facility, has prompted immediate action from the Ministry of Education.

    Education Minister Phillip Jackson, following an extensive site assessment conducted alongside technical experts from BRAGSA (Building, Roads, and General Services Authority), announced that Grades 5 and 6 students will be temporarily relocated to the Campden Park Community Centre for the upcoming term. This strategic decision affects 98 students and six teachers who will commence classes at the alternative facility on January 12th, one week later than the scheduled return of other grades.

    Minister Jackson explained the rationale behind selecting older students for relocation, noting that their transition to temporary facilities would be administratively smoother and require less intensive supervision. The technical evaluation conducted by BRAGSA revealed that despite the fire damage, the affected structure maintains a solid foundation with stone wall façades in ‘excellent condition,’ providing a basis for reconstruction efforts.

    The Ministry has developed an advanced operational plan to ensure educational continuity, including provisions for additional resources and transportation assistance. The reconstruction project, which will involve designing around the existing stable structure, is anticipated to require approximately three months for completion. Consequently, relocated students are expected to remain at the Campden Park facility throughout the entire second term while rebuilding occurs at their original school campus.

  • Calcutta Village Condemns Vandalism of Christmas Tree

    Calcutta Village Condemns Vandalism of Christmas Tree

    The Calcutta Village Council has issued a strong condemnation following the deliberate destruction of the community’s Christmas tree in a pre-dawn act of vandalism on December 30, 2025. Council Chairperson Alex Tzub confirmed the incident occurred between 3:00 AM and 3:45 AM, during which the publicly decorated tree was forcibly torn down and extensively damaged.

    Eyewitness accounts indicate the tree remained fully intact at 3:00 AM but was discovered shattered on the ground shortly before 4:00 AM. The vandalism resulted in broken branches, shattered ornaments, and decorations violently removed from the tree. Many of these decorations had been donated by local residents as part of community holiday celebrations.

    Chairperson Tzub characterized the perpetrators as ‘bad minded people’ and confirmed ongoing efforts to restore the tree using salvageable decorations. ‘We are trying to put back everything together if possible,’ Tzub stated during a telephone interview. ‘But if not, we’ll still put it up again.’

    The Christmas tree incident appears connected to a broader pattern of vandalism affecting the village in recent weeks. Tzub reported multiple incidents occurring near the community center, including vehicle windshields and glass doors being damaged by projectiles. ‘This vandalism has been happening a while, and we cannot catch them red-handed,’ Tzub acknowledged, highlighting the challenge facing village authorities.

    The council chairperson has issued a public appeal for residents to assist in monitoring and reporting suspicious activities to help prevent future incidents of property destruction.

  • Family Seeks Justice After Dangriga Machete Killing

    Family Seeks Justice After Dangriga Machete Killing

    A Stann Creek family is confronting profound grief and mounting frustration as they seek resolution in the brutal machete killing of 41-year-old Linden Kelly, whose death has exposed deepening concerns about community safety and judicial delays in Dangriga Town.

    Seven days following Kelly’s tragic passing from injuries sustained during a December 19th altercation in the Rivas Estate area, his relatives have issued an urgent appeal to law enforcement authorities. Despite the initial detention of two individuals connected to the violent incident, no formal charges have been filed, leaving the family in a state of anguish and uncertainty.

    Austin Williams, brother of the deceased, articulated the family’s distress in an emotional telephone interview. “We are looking at people who just killed a man and they’re walking around like killing in Dangriga is legal,” Williams stated, highlighting the perceived impunity that has compounded their trauma. The situation has been particularly devastating for Kelly’s elderly mother, who simultaneously grieves her son’s death while experiencing genuine fear for her personal safety.

    While acknowledging his brother’s previous encounters with the justice system, Williams emphasized that past transgressions should not negate the pursuit of justice. “Everyone to their family, they’re good. We don’t know what he was doing on the streets, but yes, he did serve his time,” he remarked, drawing a distinction between Kelly’s completed past sentences and the current unresolved homicide.

    The investigation’s progress has stalled according to family accounts, with police reportedly attributing delays to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. This bureaucratic impasse has left the Kelly family caught between mourning their loss and demanding accountability, with Linden Kelly’s funeral scheduled for the approaching Sunday amid these unresolved circumstances.

  • Man dies after being stabbed at his home

    Man dies after being stabbed at his home

    Authorities in St. Vincent and the Grenadines have apprehended an individual in connection with a fatal stabbing incident that occurred on Monday evening, marking the nation’s 40th homicide this year. The victim has been identified as Brandon Child, a 39-year-old engineer residing in the Villa/Fountain area.

    According to an official police statement released Tuesday, law enforcement officers were dispatched to Child’s residence at approximately 9 p.m. Monday following reports of a disturbance. Preliminary investigative findings suggest a physical altercation transpired within the home, resulting in Child sustaining a single stab wound to the thoracic region.

    Emergency medical services transported the injured engineer to Milton Cato Memorial Hospital for urgent treatment. Despite medical intervention, Child was subsequently pronounced dead. Police authorities have confirmed that a post-mortem examination will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death as the investigation remains ongoing.

    Law enforcement officials have issued a public appeal for information regarding the incident, urging potential witnesses to contact the Criminal Investigations Department, the Major Crimes Unit at +1-784-456-1810, or Police Control at +1-784-457-1211. This tragic event underscores growing concerns about violent crime in the island nation, with the official homicide tally now reaching four dozen cases for the calendar year.