Carib Scope

分类： society

  • Cabinet to Address Rising Barbuda Ferry and Flight Costs Next Week

    Cabinet to Address Rising Barbuda Ferry and Flight Costs Next Week

    The Antigua and Barbuda Cabinet has formally recognized mounting public discontent regarding the deteriorating state of inter-island transportation, specifically highlighting spiraling ferry expenses and a concerning contraction in flight availability. This pressing societal issue, which directly impacts the mobility and economic vitality of Barbuda’s residents, was formally tabled during the government’s weekly briefing session. However, a definitive deliberation and the formulation of potential countermeasures have been strategically postponed until the ministerial body’s subsequent convocation scheduled for the following week.

    Maurice Merchant, the Director General of Communications within the Prime Minister’s Office, provided official commentary on the deferral. He confirmed that while the Cabinet is acutely aware of the grievances articulated by the populace, the agenda of the most recent assembly did not permit a thorough examination of the subject. Merchant assured stakeholders and concerned citizens that the matter retains a high priority on the governmental docket and is slated for comprehensive review imminently.

    The core of the public’s consternation revolves around a tripartite challenge: exorbitant and rising ferry fares, a significant reduction in reliable air service operators, and profound reliability deficits plaguing the existing transportation infrastructure. This precarious situation generates severe impediments for Barbudans, adversely affecting daily commutes, access to employment opportunities, and the operational capacity of local enterprises. Particular inquiries have been directed toward understanding the rationale behind the temporary suspension of certain air carriers and the long-term strategy for ensuring stable and affordable connectivity.

    While the government’s spokesperson abstained from speculating on prospective solutions or policy interventions, he emphatically guaranteed that the Cabinet intends to confront these logistical and economic challenges directly. The national community now anticipates substantive announcements and a clear, actionable plan from the administration subsequent to the conclusion of the next high-level meeting.

  • Festivals Commission Given Full Control of Carnival and One Nation Concert

    Festivals Commission Given Full Control of Carnival and One Nation Concert

    In a significant administrative overhaul, the Antigua and Barbuda government has formally restructured the management framework for national cultural events. Following Cabinet approval, the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission has been granted exclusive authority to organize and execute the country’s premier annual celebrations: the summer Carnival and the One Nation Concert.

    The decision emerged from recommendations presented by the minister overseeing creative industries, aiming to expand the Commission’s operational mandate. Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications in the Prime Minister’s Office, confirmed the development during the weekly Cabinet briefing, stating the move is designed to clarify roles and enhance efficiency.

    Concurrently, certain events previously handled by the Festivals Commission—such as National Heroes Day and VC Bird Day—will be transferred to the Department of Creative Industries. This division will now coordinate these activities internally using ministry staff, creating a more specialized distribution of event management responsibilities.

    The Cabinet notably praised the Commission for its exemplary organization of the most recent One Nation Concert, heralding it as a benchmark for future productions. Officials highlighted that the event not only demonstrated national capacity for delivering world-class cultural entertainment but also strengthened community cohesion and bolstered the nation’s reputation as a premier cultural destination.

    This strategic realignment is ultimately intended to streamline event management protocols, delineate institutional duties more clearly, and fortify the execution of Antigua and Barbuda’s cultural programming on a national scale.

  • President launches national youth mentorship drive during Graydon Sealy school visit

    President launches national youth mentorship drive during Graydon Sealy school visit

    In a significant address at Graydon Sealy Secondary School, President The Right Honourable Jeffrey Bostic unveiled a transformative national mentorship program designed to create pathways for youth from economically challenged communities. The initiative, named the Chapman Challenge in honor of the President’s childhood community of Chapman Lane, represents a cornerstone of his presidential legacy, focusing on breaking cycles of disadvantage through structured support systems.

    During the school’s 50th anniversary celebrations, President Bostic emphasized that socioeconomic circumstances should never determine a young person’s potential. ‘Your circumstances must not stop you from achieving your goals,’ he declared to assembled students, drawing from his personal journey to underscore leadership’s responsibility to inspire future generations.

    The comprehensive program features multiple tiers of support, with schools serving as primary identification hubs for participants as young as twelve. Among its most immediate benefits are academic scholarships to Jordan’s prestigious King’s Academy, secured through President Bostic’s diplomatic engagement with King Abdullah II during his November 30 installation ceremonies. These scholarships specifically target academically qualified students from low-income households.

    Beyond educational support, the initiative adopts an inclusive approach extending to vulnerable populations outside traditional education systems. The government will collaborate with the Barbados Prison Service to develop rehabilitation frameworks using mentorship to facilitate societal reintegration for incarcerated individuals.

    A nationwide mentorship framework will leverage partnerships with religious organizations, athletic associations, and national institutions. Sporting icons will play pivotal roles in shaping youth development, utilizing athletics as a vehicle for instilling discipline and positive values.

    The presidential visit featured cultural performances that received standing ovations and concluded with an interactive dialogue where students engaged the Head of State on leadership, career development, and constitutional responsibilities.

  • Drainage Improvement Works Continue in Bolans, Collins and Newfield

    Drainage Improvement Works Continue in Bolans, Collins and Newfield

    The Ministry of Works, Housing, and Transportation in Antigua and Barbuda is spearheading a critical infrastructure initiative, advancing comprehensive drainage enhancement projects across multiple communities. This strategic intervention targets the flood-prone regions of Bolans, specifically the West Palm vicinity, alongside Collins and Newfield. The primary objective is to systematically mitigate recurrent flooding incidents, which have historically disrupted local mobility and compromised public safety. By upgrading the subterranean water management systems, the government aims to fortify road durability and ensure more resilient community infrastructure against extreme weather phenomena. Concurrently, official advisories have been issued, urging motorists and residents within these operational zones to maintain heightened vigilance. The ministry emphasizes the necessity for reduced speeds and increased awareness around active construction sites to safeguard both pedestrians and workers. This project reflects a broader commitment to sustainable urban planning and climate adaptation, aligning with national goals to enhance civic welfare through preemptive environmental management.

  • PSV culture ‘damaging’ children, warns acting DPP

    PSV culture ‘damaging’ children, warns acting DPP

    Barbados’ Acting Director of Public Prosecutions Alliston Seale has issued a stark warning about the deteriorating moral environment within the nation’s public service vehicle (PSV) sector, asserting that the pervasive culture of violence and vulgarity is directly harming schoolchildren and eroding societal values. Speaking during sentencing submissions for convicted murderer Shakira Blackman, Seale delivered an impassioned critique of the PSV industry’s negative influence on youth development.

    The veteran prosecutor described how continuous exposure to violent content, abusive language, and inappropriate behavior on minibuses and ZRs creates psychological distress that impedes children’s educational progress. “They cannot listen to maths; they cannot understand Pythagoras’ theorem,” Seale stated, emphasizing that students arrive at school already overwhelmed by the “ignorance” they encounter during their commutes.

    Seale identified multiple concerning elements within the PSV environment, including drivers’ and conductors’ vulgar speech, explicit musical content, and inappropriate dress standards that children inevitably emulate. He expressed particular concern about the absence of positive role models in this sphere, noting that the lack of uniforms and professional standards undermines efforts to instill discipline in young people.

    The prosecutor connected these environmental factors to broader societal problems, including school violence and future criminal behavior. He questioned contemporary approaches to discipline in the context of reduced corporal punishment, noting that alternative solutions have proven insufficient against rising classroom violence.

    Seale’s comments emerged during legal proceedings concerning Shakira Blackman, who was convicted of murdering 27-year-old Shanice Miller in November 2021. The prosecutor recommended a 40-year starting sentence, citing aggravating circumstances and premeditation. He described how Blackman pursued her victim even after initial defensive actions, ultimately causing fatal injuries near Central Police Station.

    Despite Blackman’s claims of defending a friend, Seale emphasized personal accountability for violent actions. Justice Laurie-Ann Smith-Bovell will deliver sentencing on March 20, with King’s Counsel Andrew Pilgrim representing the convicted individual.

  • Government House hosts Investiture Ceremonies honouring 16 distinguished nation-builders

    Government House hosts Investiture Ceremonies honouring 16 distinguished nation-builders

    The Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis has formally recognized sixteen exceptional citizens for their profound contributions to national development during two distinguished Investiture Ceremonies at Government House on January 28-29, 2026. Under the auspices of Her Excellency Governor-General Dame Marcella Liburd, the ceremonies celebrated individuals whose dedicated service has significantly advanced various sectors of Kittitian and Nevisian society.

    The inaugural ceremony on January 28th honored eight recipients with the Medal of Honour across diverse fields. Pastor Clive Saunders received recognition for Community Service and Religion, while Etsu Bradshaw-Caines was celebrated for Community Service. Joyah Walters was distinguished in Health and Medicine, Lennox Warner in Business and Entrepreneurship, and Meredith Charles in Security and Defence. The sporting community saw Trevor Huggins honored, alongside Washington J. Fraites in Business and Entrepreneurship, and Stedroy Douglas for his dual contributions to Sports and Community Service.

    January 29th witnessed the presentation of the Companion of the Star of Merit to eight additional exemplary citizens. The honorees included Dorothy Clarke, Lorozine E. Williams, and William V. A. Hodge in Education and Academia; Goldwin Caines, MBE, in Public and Civil Service; Dr. Jerome Thomas in Agriculture; Lydia Claxton in Sports; Pastor Leroy Benjamin in Religion and Spiritual Leadership; and Franklyn Dorset for his work in Law & Justice combined with Sports.

    Prime Minister Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew delivered heartfelt addresses at both ceremonies, emphasizing the significance of the awards. “Your service speaks volumes. Not through loud proclamations but through actions, sacrifice, and steadfast commitment to the common good,” he told recipients. The Prime Minister further reflected that “in a world that often celebrates visibility over value, your recognition today affirms something important. That quiet excellence matters, commitment over time counts, and nation-building is as much about perseverance as it is about vision.”

    The honors were conferred under the National Honours Act, which establishes three merit-based awards: the Medal of Honour, the Companion of the Star of Merit, and the Order of National Hero. These ceremonies represent the nation’s highest recognition of citizen service and contribution to societal advancement.

  • Major road repairs completed, more on the way, says Bradshaw

    Major road repairs completed, more on the way, says Bradshaw

    The Barbados Ministry of Transport and Works has unveiled an ambitious infrastructure agenda, announcing plans to initiate up to 20 road repair projects between January and June 2024. The revelation came from Santia Bradshaw, Barbados Labour Party (BLP) candidate for St Michael South East, during a political rally in Oistins, Christ Church on Tuesday evening.

    Bradshaw highlighted the comprehensive scope of ongoing infrastructure development, citing the substantial $250 million Scotland District road project as a cornerstone initiative. She specifically addressed longstanding concerns in Christ Church constituency by confirming Lodge Road has been prioritized for repairs after being a persistent community grievance.

    Infrastructure progress reports indicate significant achievements already underway, with 15 road projects completed in the Scotland District region, another 15 currently in progress, and 30 additional projects in advanced design phases. The minister also confirmed completion of soil stabilization work in the White Hill area.

    The extensive road rehabilitation program receives substantial funding through a BDS $100 million (approximately US$50 million) financing arrangement with the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF – Corporación Andina de Fomento). This international funding has enabled infrastructure improvements spanning multiple parishes, including Yorkshire in St Philip, Prior Park in St James, and Gibbons Terrace in Christ Church, with additional works in Cane Garden and Shop Hill.

    Addressing inevitable inconveniences caused by construction activities, Bradshaw emphasized the necessity of temporary disruption for long-term progress. “There may have been disruption, and there continues to be disruption, but Barbados must understand there is no country in the world where you can get progress without disruption,” she stated, affirming the government’s commitment to essential utility upgrades and infrastructure modernization.

    The minister credited the BLP administration’s strategic financial management for enabling these infrastructure investments, noting that despite inheriting a challenging economic situation seven years ago, the government pursued debt restructuring while simultaneously securing global financing to revitalize the nation’s road infrastructure and neglected bridge projects.

  • NODS reviews disaster readiness in schools

    NODS reviews disaster readiness in schools

    The National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) has initiated a systematic evaluation of emergency response capabilities within Antigua and Barbuda’s educational institutions, commencing with Buckley’s Primary School. This critical assessment represents the initial phase of a nationwide initiative designed to enhance school safety protocols.

    According to Public Relations Officer Midcie Francis, the comprehensive review meticulously examines institutional preparedness for various natural disasters, particularly focusing on earthquake and hurricane response mechanisms. The evaluation constitutes an integral component of NODS’ Primary School Disaster Management Programme, which seeks to fortify structural resilience and operational readiness across the education sector.

    During the Buckley’s Primary assessment, NODS officials conducted rigorous inspections of multiple safety dimensions. The evaluation encompassed evacuation route efficiency, student accounting procedures following emergencies, and inventory assessments of critical emergency supplies. The drill featured active participation from educators, students, and first responders, creating a realistic training environment that tested coordination and communication protocols.

    Francis confirmed the program’s expansion to other educational facilities, with Clare Hall Secondary School scheduled for subsequent evaluation. This systematic approach underscores the government’s commitment to establishing standardized emergency preparedness benchmarks nationwide. The initiative aligns with broader regional efforts to strengthen Caribbean disaster resilience amid increasing climate-related challenges.

  • Mitur receives U.S. students to promote tourism education

    Mitur receives U.S. students to promote tourism education

    The Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Tourism (Mitur) recently welcomed a delegation of twelve students from Elon University in North Carolina, marking a significant step in international academic collaboration within the tourism sector. The visit, organized through ongoing educational and cultural exchange initiatives, provided the students with immersive insights into the country’s tourism promotion strategies.

    The delegation received a traditional Dominican welcome featuring a vibrant merengue performance by the Ministry’s folk ballet, followed by an extensive tour of Mitur’s facilities. The educational component included a specialized presentation on Adventure Tourism opportunities across the Dominican Republic, delivered by Ángel Pichardo, Deputy Director of Domestic Tourism, who detailed the diverse offerings and strategic development in this sector.

    Accompanied by three faculty members and a representative from the CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) program, the students engaged in activities coordinated by Mitur’s Directorate of Training and Community Extension. This initiative underscores the Ministry’s dedication to fostering global partnerships, advancing tourism education, and promoting cross-cultural understanding through structured academic exchanges.

  • Government Approves National Holiday to Commemorate Buckley’s Uprising from 2027

    Government Approves National Holiday to Commemorate Buckley’s Uprising from 2027

    In a landmark decision affirming national heritage, the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis has officially designated January 28 as an annual national holiday commemorating the historic Buckley’s Uprising. The announcement, made public on January 29, 2026, establishes the observance beginning January 28, 2027, permanently memorializing one of the Caribbean’s most significant labor movements.

    During the 91st Anniversary Commemoration at Buckley’s Estate, Hon. Konris Maynard, Minister of Public Infrastructure and elected representative for St. Christopher #3, revealed the Cabinet’s approval under Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew’s leadership. The decision formalizes decades of advocacy by cultural custodians and community leaders who have preserved the memory of the 1935 uprising.

    Prime Minister Drew characterized the uprising as both a national turning point and an international catalyst for liberation movements. ‘The events here sent shockwaves across the Caribbean and to Africa,’ Drew stated during commemorative ceremonies. ‘This holiday ensures future generations understand the sacrifices made for the rights we enjoy today.’

    The government positions this recognition as part of broader initiatives to strengthen historical awareness and national identity. Minister Maynard described the estate as ‘hallowed ground’ where events ‘helped shape Caribbean democracy and laid foundations for labor rights and social reform.’

    Complementing the holiday designation, the government is advancing multiple preservation efforts including a monument construction at Buckley’s Estate, curriculum integration in national education programs, and expanded public commemoration activities. These measures collectively aim to enshrine the uprising’s legacy in the nation’s consciousness while promoting values of social justice, equality, and unity that continue guiding the Federation’s development.