Carib Scope

分类： society

  • QR-Code Parking Payments Proposed for St. John’s Parking problems

    QR-Code Parking Payments Proposed for St. John’s Parking problems

    St. John’s is poised for a technological transformation of its parking infrastructure as the government advances plans to implement a QR code-based payment system. Tourism and Transportation Minister Charles Max Fernandez has revealed that the innovative approach forms part of broader reforms designed to optimize traffic management and enhance parking efficiency throughout the urban center.

    The proposed system would enable drivers to utilize smartphone technology to scan QR codes at parking zones, facilitating instantaneous digital payments without physical cash or traditional meters. This modernization initiative aims to address longstanding congestion challenges while providing residents and visitors with a more streamlined parking experience.

    Minister Fernandez emphasized that the QR code integration represents a significant step toward smart city development, aligning St. John’s with other progressive municipalities adopting digital solutions for urban mobility. The technology promises real-time monitoring capabilities that could allow transportation authorities to dynamically adjust parking availability based on demand patterns.

    While implementation details and timelines remain under consideration, the proposal has generated considerable discussion among urban planners and technology advocates. The government is expected to conduct feasibility studies and stakeholder consultations before formalizing the modernization plan, ensuring the system meets both technological standards and public needs.

  • Dominican Republic most awarded country at 2025 Ibero-American Quality Awards

    Dominican Republic most awarded country at 2025 Ibero-American Quality Awards

    In an unprecedented display of institutional excellence, the Dominican Republic emerged as the standout performer at the 2025 Ibero-American Quality Awards ceremony held in Madrid, securing an impressive collection of four Gold awards and one Silver recognition. This remarkable achievement positions the Caribbean nation as the most decorated country at this year’s prestigious international event.

    The award recipients showcase the breadth of Dominican excellence across multiple sectors. In the public domain, Gold distinctions were bestowed upon the General Directorate of Government Accounting (Digecog), the Dr. Hugo Mendoza Pediatric Hospital, and the Cometas de Esperanza Educational Center. The private sector contributed significantly to this success, with La Vega Real Cooperative capturing Gold honors while the Technological Institute of Santo Domingo (INTEC) received Silver recognition in the category of Best Practices aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.

    This year’s ceremony witnessed several historic milestones for Dominican institutions. The Dr. Hugo Mendoza Pediatric Hospital achieved the extraordinary ‘Gold Trajectory’ distinction, becoming the first Dominican organization to receive this honor after securing Gold category wins for three consecutive years. Simultaneously, the Cometas de Esperanza Educational Center reinforced its leadership in educational innovation by claiming Gold for the second time.

    The 2025 awards mark a significant breakthrough for the Dominican public sector, representing the first time the nation has captured three Gold awards in this category at the Ibero-American level. Since the program’s inception in 2010, a total of 16 Dominican public institutions have earned PIC recognition. Notably, under the current administration of President Luis Abinader since 2020, the country has maintained an unbroken streak of winning at least one Gold award in every edition of the competition.

    The Ibero-American Quality Award, often referred to as the ‘Award of Awards,’ stands as one of Latin America’s most prestigious institutional recognitions. The program grants international credibility while promoting excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement in both public and private management. Participation is exclusively limited to institutions that have previously won their respective national quality awards, ensuring that only the most exceptional organizations compete for these honors.

  • Judge declares inadmissible expert request against Jet Set owners

    Judge declares inadmissible expert request against Jet Set owners

    SANTO DOMINGO – In a significant procedural ruling, Judge Raymundo Mejía of the First Court of Instruction of the National District has dismissed a defense motion seeking a counter technical expert report in the ongoing case against Jet Set nightclub proprietors Antonio Espaillat and Maribel Espaillat. The court’s decision, rendered this Friday, was based exclusively on the motion’s failure to comply with statutory filing deadlines, rendering it procedurally invalid without any examination of its substantive merits.

    The ruling aligns with a prior submission from the Public Ministry, which argued that the motion was time-barred. This position was further reinforced by the fact that the Third Court of Instruction, the judicial body with primary jurisdiction over the proceedings, had previously declined an identical request. Defense counsel Plutarco Jáquez acknowledged the court’s decision, clarifying that the rejection was not a reflection on the motion’s content but rather a strict adherence to procedural timelines. He emphasized that the request was inappropriate for the current stage of litigation, as it had been erroneously presented before a control judge instead of through the proper administrative channels.

    Despite this setback, Jáquez confirmed that the defense retains the right to petition for a new expert evaluation via the appropriate administrative process. This ruling underscores a fundamental principle within the Dominican Republic’s procedural legal framework: motions that fail to satisfy stringent legal, technical, or formal prerequisites are deemed inadmissible, thereby precluding any judicial consideration of their underlying arguments. The case continues to develop as it proceeds through the established legal process.

  • Reinstated doctor barred from seeing patients

    Reinstated doctor barred from seeing patients

    In a developing administrative conflict, a physician previously terminated for COVID-19 vaccine refusal finds himself barred from practicing medicine despite official reinstatement by the new government. The case highlights systemic obstacles undermining the New Democratic Party’s pledge to reemploy dismissed public sector workers.

    The physician, practicing in Mespo, had enthusiastically resumed duties following the reversal of the previous administration’s vaccine mandate policy. However, Ministry of Health authorities subsequently issued directives prohibiting him from treating patients, creating a paradoxical situation where he receives salary payments but remains unable to perform medical duties.

    Public Service Union President Elroy Boucher revealed these developments during a Boom FM interview, identifying this case as emblematic of broader implementation failures. Numerous reinstated workers across the public sector have reported similar experiences of being turned away from their positions despite official policy changes.

    The administrative impasse appears rooted in inter-ministerial coordination challenges. Health officials cited the Finance Ministry’s failure to release the physician’s post as the primary obstruction, creating bureaucratic limbo for reinstated personnel.

    Contradictory reports emerge regarding the scale of affected workers. While Attorney General Louise Mitchell claimed only eight public servants remained to be reinstated, Boucher contends at least 44 workers were still awaiting actual return to duties as of last weekend. The union leader reported unsuccessful attempts to verify figures through official channels, including the Chief Personnel Officer’s office.

    The situation presents a significant governance challenge for the administration, which had prominently featured reinstatement promises during its election campaign. The gap between policy announcement and practical implementation continues to affect both healthcare delivery and workforce stability in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines’ public sector.

  • National District Carnival 2026 parade set for February 22

    National District Carnival 2026 parade set for February 22

    Santo Domingo’s cultural calendar has been officially marked with the announcement of the 2026 National District Carnival parade, scheduled for Sunday, February 22nd along the iconic George Washington Avenue (Malecón). The Mayor’s Office, in collaboration with the National District Carnival Union (UCADI), revealed that this spectacular event will transform the capital’s waterfront into a vibrant tapestry of Dominican heritage through the participation of over 70 carnival groups processing between the Male and Female Obelisks.

    This edition carries special significance as it honors the legacy of Dr. José Guillermo Mieses ‘Pepe’, a revered physician and folklorist who founded the legendary comparsa Los Leones del Diablo. The dedication recognizes his lifelong commitment to preserving and enriching Dominican carnival traditions while strengthening carnival organizations including UCADI and ADIU.

    The coronation ceremony witnessed Francisco Taveras Benítez ascending as Carnival King and Santa Valdez receiving the title of Carnival Queen, acknowledging her extensive participation and accomplishments within the parade’s history. Organizers have designed the event as an inclusive family celebration that showcases the nation’s artistic creativity and folkloric roots.

    Substantial incentives await participants, with the Grand Comparsa receiving a cash prize of RD$300,000. Additional competitive categories include floats, Alibabá troupes, traditional and fantasy devils, historical comparsas, and individual costumes, ensuring a comprehensive celebration of carnival artistry.

  • Lorry in deadly Demerara River bridge mishap had mechanical failure; investigators probe eligibility for lorry driver’s licence

    Lorry in deadly Demerara River bridge mishap had mechanical failure; investigators probe eligibility for lorry driver’s licence

    A catastrophic chain-reaction collision on the Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge has claimed one life and left another critically injured, with investigators now examining both mechanical failure and potential licensing irregularities. The Thursday morning incident occurred when a large goods vehicle experienced sudden mechanical failure, triggering a devastating backward roll into oncoming traffic.

    According to official statements from the Guyana Police Force, the tragedy unfolded at approximately 9:45 AM when lorry GAC 296, operated by a 23-year-old driver from Anna Catherina, lost propulsion while ascending the westward carriageway. Preliminary investigations indicate the vehicle came to an abrupt halt before rolling backward into multiple vehicles traveling behind it in the same lane.

    The confirmed fatality has been identified as 24-year-old Scott Dorwart of Grove, East Bank Demerara, who died instantly at the scene. Another occupant of the same vehicle, also 23 and from Anna Catherina, sustained serious injuries and remains hospitalized at Georgetown Public Hospital under medical supervision.

    Law enforcement authorities have taken both the driver and the 55-year-old owner of the malfunctioning lorry into custody for questioning. While standard alcohol screening placed the driver well below legal impairment limits at 0.003 micrograms, investigators are pursuing separate lines of inquiry regarding the validity of the operator’s commercial licensing credentials.

    Unconfirmed reports suggest authorities are examining whether the young driver obtained his heavy vehicle authorization through proper channels or potentially circumvented standard requirements. Official protocols typically mandate extensive experience operating smaller vehicles before qualifying for lorry licensing, a progression that may not have been properly documented in this case.

    The collision involved five additional vehicles beyond the initiating lorry, including minibus GSS 1249, motorcycle CM 335, pickup truck PAL 3390, and passenger car PXX 4240. All operators sustained varying degrees of injury though none beyond the initially reported critical case.

    Forensic teams including police certification officers and crime scene investigators have commenced detailed examination of all vehicles involved, with particular focus on the allegedly defective lorry’s mechanical systems. The investigation continues as authorities work to determine the exact sequence of failures that led to this fatal infrastructure incident.

  • Government unveils urban renewal project in Enriquillo sector of Santo Domingo

    Government unveils urban renewal project in Enriquillo sector of Santo Domingo

    SANTO DOMINGO – A groundbreaking urban regeneration initiative has been formally unveiled in the Enriquillo neighborhood, marking a significant step in the Dominican government’s approach to community development. The General Directorate of Strategic and Special Projects of the Presidency (Propeep) introduced its Urban Transformation Pilot Plan, designed to comprehensively enhance living conditions through structural upgrades, aesthetic improvements, and social programming.

    Under the leadership of Propeep Director Robert Polanco, the project launch occurred in the Enriquillo sector, strategically positioned along the Duarte Highway at kilometer 9.5. This location places the community within the development corridor of the forthcoming Santo Domingo Metro Line 2-C, which will connect kilometer 9 to Los Alcarrizos, amplifying the neighborhood’s strategic importance.

    The initial implementation phase, scheduled for completion by February 18, will target approximately 100 residences for substantial improvements. These interventions will include complete roof replacements, exterior and interior painting, wall plastering, and enhancements to surrounding communal spaces. A distinctive feature of the initiative involves the integration of large-scale public art murals, strategically employed as instruments for social cohesion and cultural expression.

    Director Polanco emphasized that this urban transformation model reflects President Luis Abinader’s commitment to people-centric governance, aiming to foster safer, more dignified, and inclusive communities. The project extends beyond physical infrastructure by incorporating comprehensive entrepreneurship training programs for residents. These educational components are delivered through collaborations with Infotep and the Vocational Schools of the Armed Forces and National Police, operating under Propeep’s existing ‘Renacer Contigo’ program.

    The multifaceted plan additionally incorporates cultural, artistic, and gastronomic elements designed to showcase local talent and preserve community identity. Propeep officials indicate that the Enriquillo pilot will establish a replicable framework for sustainable urban development that could be applied to other vulnerable communities throughout the Dominican Republic, representing a new paradigm in holistic urban policy.

  • A Camalote Man’s Journey Back Through Poetry

    A Camalote Man’s Journey Back Through Poetry

    In the serene village of Camalote, Belize, a remarkable story of personal redemption is unfolding through the power of written verse. Oliver “Shiloh” Wiltshire has discovered that poetry composed during his most challenging periods ultimately became the catalyst for his spiritual and creative rebirth after nearly a decade of losing his way.

    Wiltshire’s journey represents a profound testament to resilience and self-discovery. Previously established as a semi-professional athlete, educator, and village council chairman, he experienced a significant personal detour that lasted approximately ten years. During this period, his extensive collection of poetic works—more than thirty volumes worth of material—remained concealed beneath his bed, forgotten yet preserving the essence of his earlier struggles and reflections.

    The turning point emerged when Wiltshire rediscovered these stored writings. “When I began to revisit these poems and read them anew, they spoke directly to my lived experiences,” Wiltshire explained. The verses, initially created as an emotional outlet, unexpectedly provided the guidance he needed to reorient his life’s path.

    Now, Wiltshire has embarked on an ambitious creative mission: transforming his poetry into musical compositions that can reach global audiences. He has established Shiloh Productions and partnered with Luke “JR Rebel” Banner, a respected figure in Belize’s music scene known for his work with the popular duo “Instruments of Love” fifteen years prior.

    Banner brings renewed perspective and maturity to the collaboration. “Returning to music now involves greater focus, lyrical sophistication, and mental clarity,” Banner noted. “I approach the craft with enhanced confidence and excitement about what we can deliver.”

    The production team is completed by Asaad “DJ Dice” Patnett, who handles engineering and marketing responsibilities. Having grown up in Camalote exposed to Wiltshire’s poetry since childhood, Patnett recognizes the project’s unique potential. “This initiative breaks new ground creatively,” Patnett emphasized. “These poems have resonated with me since my youth, and now we’re giving them new life through music.”

    Wiltshire draws inspiration from diverse sources including life experiences, religious texts—particularly his well-used Bible—and works by Belizean authors. His ultimate objective transcends conventional boundaries: “I aim to share these messages through music, literature, and poetry so they can resonate regardless of religious, political, national, or racial backgrounds.”

    The team is currently seeking support to upgrade their studio equipment and fully realize their artistic vision, transforming personal redemption into shared creative expression that promises to inspire well beyond their village borders.

  • Politic : Career Development Plan at the ONA

    Politic : Career Development Plan at the ONA

    Amidst severe socioeconomic challenges characterized by widespread business closures, escalating job insecurity, and mounting social tensions, Haiti’s National Old-Age Insurance Office (ONA) has embarked on a comprehensive modernization initiative to revitalize its operational framework and enhance institutional innovation capabilities.

    Under the leadership of Director General Ronald Bazile, who assumed office in February 2025, ONA has implemented multiple significant reforms targeting governance restructuring and workplace condition improvements. The centerpiece of this transformation is the newly established Career Development Plan (CDP), designed to elevate employee competencies through merit-based advancement, professional training, and productivity incentives.

    The CDP specifically addresses historical inequities by identifying and rectifying cases of institutional oversight, systematically eliminating favoritism practices, and ensuring optimal personnel placement according to demonstrated capabilities. Implementation is already underway with the creation of a dedicated Career Management and Training Unit responsible for monitoring professional trajectories, administering continuing education programs, and facilitating promotions based exclusively on objective criteria.

    Operational procedures involve clear phases: identification of previously overlooked employees, application processing, and formal promotion notifications. The initial cohort has already received advancement letters, with a second group scheduled to receive confirmations by month’s end. Simultaneously, scholarship applications are being processed, with several employees already experiencing status improvements correlated with academic achievements. All personnel are encouraged to utilize online tracking systems to monitor application progress.

    The reform initiative extends nationwide through awareness campaigns launched by the Training and Career Planning Unit, beginning in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area before expanding to Northern and Southern regions starting January 27. These outreach efforts aim to familiarize staff with the program’s mechanics ahead of scheduled training sessions.

    This operational shift demonstrates ONA’s transition from theoretical planning to concrete action in recognizing merit, promoting demonstrated competence, and institutionalizing equitable treatment—a transformative project poised to significantly impact thousands of employees across Haiti’s public pension system.

  • Missing Cocaine Evidence Recovered in Orange Walk

    Missing Cocaine Evidence Recovered in Orange Walk

    The Belize Police Department has initiated an internal investigation following a significant procedural violation at the Orange Walk Police Station involving mishandled narcotics evidence. The incident centered on approximately one gram of cocaine seized during a law enforcement operation that was never formally logged or transferred to designated exhibit custodians.

    According to official reports, the controlled substance was improperly stored in an officer’s personal locker instead of following mandated evidence protocols. Another officer subsequently accessed the locker and removed the material, creating a chain of custody breach.

    Police Commissioner Dr. Richard Rosado confirmed the ongoing internal investigation into the evidence handling failure. Minister of Home Affairs Oscar Mira provided clarification to News Five, stating the missing cocaine had been successfully recovered and accounted for.

    Minister Mira attributed the incident to an officer’s failure to adhere to established evidence protocols, emphasizing that drugs should never be left unsecured. He explained that proper procedure requires all evidence to follow a strict chain of custody, ultimately being signed over to exhibit keepers for secure storage.

    The internal investigation will focus on ensuring compliance with evidence handling procedures and preventing similar incidents in the future. The case has highlighted the importance of strict protocol adherence within law evidence management systems, even for relatively small quantities of controlled substances.