Carib Scope

分类： society

  • Raquel Peña presents Augusto Taveras with the 2025 Oscar de la Renta Emigrant Award

    Raquel Peña presents Augusto Taveras with the 2025 Oscar de la Renta Emigrant Award

    Santo Domingo – In a prestigious ceremony at the National Theater, Vice President Raquel Peña presided over the 2025 Dominican Emigrant Award, named in honor of the late fashion icon Mr. Oscar de la Renta. The event, organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MIREX), celebrated the remarkable contributions of Dominicans abroad, with this year’s top accolade awarded to Augusto Taveras, founder of the Rancheros Unidos Foundation in New York. Taveras was recognized for his extraordinary social work, which has profoundly impacted hundreds of families in Los Ranchos de Babosico, Santiago de los Caballeros.

    Through his foundation, Taveras has constructed and donated over 500 fully equipped homes, established schools, sports facilities, and health centers, and supported scholarship and medical programs in collaboration with local institutions. In her address, Vice President Peña lauded the dedication of Dominicans overseas, emphasizing that their achievements embody ‘the heart of an entire nation.’

    Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez underscored the importance of protecting Dominicans abroad as a cornerstone of President Luis Abinader’s foreign policy. María Alejandra Castillo, MIREX’s director of Specialized Diplomacy, added that true legacy is measured ‘in touched lives and shared hope.’ Alongside the award, Taveras received a cash prize of one million pesos, sponsored by Banreservas.

    The seventh edition of the event also honored nine other Dominicans from Canada, the United States, Spain, and Scotland for their excellence in fields such as psychology, medicine, education, technology, and community leadership. The selection committee, chaired by Haydee Rainieri with José Luis ‘Pepín’ Corripio as permanent advisor, highlighted the global impact of Dominican emigrants.

    The ceremony brought together government officials, diplomats, business leaders, and cultural figures, culminating in Vice President Peña’s closing remarks, where she described Dominican emigrants as ‘ambassadors of the best of our nation,’ embodying the spirit and values of the Dominican Republic worldwide.

  • QUESTION: Should Owners Be Charged After Dog Attacks?

    QUESTION: Should Owners Be Charged After Dog Attacks?

    In the wake of a vicious dog attack that left 27-year-old Shabu Nedwell with severe injuries, Antigua and Barbuda finds itself embroiled in a heated debate over accountability. The incident, involving pitbulls, has reignited discussions on whether the dogs’ owner should face criminal charges or if the focus should shift to euthanizing dangerous dogs to prevent future tragedies. The central question remains: Who is to blame—the dogs, their owner, or the system that permits such incidents to recur? This tragic event has sparked widespread concern among citizens, prompting calls for stricter regulations and enforcement to ensure public safety. As the nation grapples with these complex issues, the broader conversation about responsible pet ownership and animal control measures continues to gain momentum. The case serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by inadequately managed aggressive animals and the urgent need for comprehensive legal and societal reforms.

  • World Post Day message

    World Post Day message

    On the occasion of World Post Day 2025, the Government of Barbados proudly commemorates the enduring legacy of the Universal Postal Union (UPU), established in 1874. For over 150 years, the UPU has been a cornerstone of global connectivity, fostering the exchange of ideas, commerce, and personal connections across borders. This year, Barbados celebrates not only the UPU’s vision but also the unwavering dedication of postal workers worldwide, who ensure the seamless flow of letters and parcels, maintaining vital links between communities and nations. In Barbados, the postal network is more than infrastructure—it is a lifeline of connection and possibility. The Barbados Postal Service (BPS) is at the forefront of this transformation, adapting to the challenges of technology, globalization, and evolving consumer needs. Over the past year, the BPS has achieved significant milestones, including the UPU Rising Star Award 2024 for outstanding progress in postal development. Barbados ranked 15th globally on the UPU’s Integrated Index for Postal Development in 2023, excelling in reliability, reach, relevance, and resilience. Additionally, Barbados was elected to two of the UPU’s governing councils—the Council of Administration and the Postal Operations Council—further solidifying its role in shaping global postal standards. Looking ahead, the BPS aims to expand e-commerce opportunities, enhance financial inclusivity, and strengthen border security. Sustainability remains a key focus, with initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and transition to cleaner technologies. As Barbados celebrates World Post Day, it reaffirms its commitment to modernizing postal services while preserving their timeless role in connecting hearts, communities, and nations.

  • Nieuw STS-II gebouw symbool van geloof in jong Surinaams talent

    Nieuw STS-II gebouw symbool van geloof in jong Surinaams talent

    In a celebratory event on Thursday, the fully renovated Surinamese Technical School (STS-II), formerly known as the Lower Technical School, was officially inaugurated. This significant upgrade, part of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Upgrade Initiative, was made possible through a joint investment of USD 330,000 by Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname N.V. and its offshore partners, Chevron Suriname Exploration Limited and Qatar Energy. Located adjacent to the recently revamped NATIN complex, the STS-II building has been transformed into a modern, safe, and appealing learning environment, accommodating over 700 students training in various technical fields. The renovation project, executed in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Science, and Culture and STS, included upgrades to the roof, windows, doors, blackboards, and restrooms, as well as the installation of a new hydrofor system and raised walkways to prevent flooding during heavy rains. Annand Jagesar, General Director of Staatsolie, emphasized the importance of this initiative during the ceremony, stating, ‘Students, Suriname is immensely proud to offer you this platform on an international level. Study and shine—for yourselves, your families, and our beloved country.’ The STS-II renovation is a key component of the broader TVET Upgrade Initiative, launched in 2021 to address the growing demand for skilled technical personnel in Suriname’s oil and gas sector. This program not only focuses on improving school infrastructure but also on enhancing technical education through updated curricula and modern teaching materials. By investing in local development, Staatsolie and its partners aim to equip young Surinamese with the skills needed to seize opportunities in the country’s rapidly expanding energy industry.

  • Stewartville man charged with murder of stepson

    Stewartville man charged with murder of stepson

    A 49-year-old Stewartville resident, Balram ‘Navin’ Bessessar, has been formally charged with the murder of his 15-year-old stepson, Sudesh ‘Joel’ Singh. The incident, which occurred on October 3, 2025, at Lot 71 Last Street, Stewartville, has sent shockwaves through the community. According to the Guyana Police Force, the tragic event unfolded following a heated argument over a bicycle chain slipping while the boy was riding. Bessessar allegedly retrieved a cutlass from his kitchen and attacked Singh, inflicting fatal injuries to his neck. The suspect subsequently reported the incident to the Leonora Police Station, where he was promptly arrested. Magistrate Rabindranauth Singh presided over the arraignment, and Bessessar was remanded to prison without the opportunity to plead. The victim resided with his 35-year-old unemployed mother, Roshanini Surujballi, and the accused in a modest two-storey structure. The case continues to unfold as authorities delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking incident.

  • 3 Brazilianen veroordeeld voor beroving op goudconcessie; 2 vrijgesproken

    3 Brazilianen veroordeeld voor beroving op goudconcessie; 2 vrijgesproken

    In a significant legal ruling, three suspects—Del Aviz Costa, Antonio Carlos, and Ricardo de Lima Felippe—were acquitted by Judge Duncan Nanhoe on October 9, 2025, due to insufficient and unconvincing evidence. Represented by attorneys Arti Radja and Arjan Ramlakhan, the trio was cleared of all charges related to a high-profile gold heist in October 2024. Meanwhile, four other defendants—Dos Santos Alves, José, Dos Santos Pinto, and Santana Anapao—were each sentenced to five years in prison, assisted by lawyers Benito Pick, Pamela Karg, and Chandra Algoe/Guno Castelen. The robbery occurred at a gold concession in Jo Passie, Brokopondo district, where masked assailants armed with heavy firearms looted hundreds of grams of gold from slush boxes before escaping by boat. The suspects were apprehended days later. Defense attorney Arjan Ramlakhan argued that his client, De Lima Felippe, acted under duress, fearing for his life if he refused to assist the perpetrators. The prosecution, however, sought a five-year sentence for complicity, but the judge ruled in favor of acquittal due to lack of evidence. For the other defendants, the prosecution demanded eight-year sentences, but the court ultimately imposed five-year terms.

  • Schools in Barbuda to Close Friday Due to Tropical Storm Jerry

    Schools in Barbuda to Close Friday Due to Tropical Storm Jerry

    In response to an impending tropical storm, the Ministry of Education has mandated the closure of all public schools in Barbuda on Friday, October 10. The decision comes as Tropical Storm Jerry approaches the northern Leeward Islands, with forecasts predicting tropical-storm-force winds that could significantly impact the island. While Barbuda braces for the storm, public schools on mainland Antigua will remain operational, as the region is currently under a Tropical Storm Watch rather than a full warning. Authorities are urging Barbuda residents to finalize their storm preparations and stay updated through official channels. This precautionary measure underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring public safety during severe weather events. Meanwhile, the Ministry continues to monitor the situation closely, ready to issue further advisories as needed.

  • DCA to Undertake Nationwide Assessment of Derelict and Dilapidated Structures

    DCA to Undertake Nationwide Assessment of Derelict and Dilapidated Structures

    The Development Control Authority (DCA) of Antigua and Barbuda has announced a comprehensive nationwide assessment of derelict and dilapidated structures. This initiative, which begins immediately, aims to identify unsafe, abandoned, or severely damaged buildings across the country. The DCA’s primary goal is to determine whether these structures should be demolished, rehabilitated, or restored, as part of its ongoing efforts to promote safe, orderly, and aesthetically pleasing development. The assessment underscores the government’s commitment to creating a cleaner, safer, and more visually appealing environment for residents and visitors alike. This move is seen as a significant step in addressing urban decay and enhancing the overall quality of life in Antigua and Barbuda. The public is encouraged to support this initiative, which aligns with broader national development objectives.

  • Man verdrinkt in goudput bij Langa Tabiki

    Man verdrinkt in goudput bij Langa Tabiki

    A tragic incident unfolded today in the Langa Tabiki area, near Pakira at kilometer 32, where a man lost his life in a drowning accident at a gold mining site. The local police in Moengo received the distress call around 3:30 PM, reporting the incident. According to preliminary information, the victim was engaged in work activities when he accidentally fell into a water-filled gold pit. Witnesses immediately raised the alarm and attempted to rescue him, but he was quickly submerged in the deep water. After some time, others managed to retrieve him from the pit, but he showed no signs of life. The police have arrived at the scene to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event.

  • NaDMA headquarters to close temporarily for staff development session

    NaDMA headquarters to close temporarily for staff development session

    The National Disaster Management Agency (NaDMA) has announced the temporary closure of its headquarters located at Morne Jaloux on Friday, 10 October 2025. This closure is aimed at facilitating a staff development session, which is part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to enhance its team’s capabilities and improve its service to the nation. NaDMA has expressed its apologies for any inconvenience this may cause and has extended its gratitude to the public for their understanding and cooperation. Normal operations are scheduled to resume on Monday, 13 October 2025. For additional information or inquiries, the public is encouraged to contact Dr. Terence Walters at 405-0110. NaDMA remains committed to its mission of effective disaster management and public safety.