Carib Scope

分类： society

  • Business magnate Noel Cadasse dies at 80

    Business magnate Noel Cadasse dies at 80

    The Caribbean nation of Saint Lucia is mourning the loss of distinguished entrepreneur and public servant Noel Samuel Cadasse, who passed away peacefully at his Canadian residence at the age of 80. The prominent business leader, whose remarkable journey began in the coastal village of Anse La Raye, built an impressive legacy across multiple industries before his eventual migration to Canada.

    Cadasse’s business acumen first emerged through his representation of regional insurance providers, eventually culminating in the establishment of his own successful venture, First National Insurance Company. His entrepreneurial spirit extended beyond insurance into diverse sectors including bakery operations and tourism development. His most notable contribution to Saint Lucia’s hospitality industry was the creation of Caribees Hotel at La Panse, one of the first locally owned and operated hotels during its era.

    Beyond his commercial achievements, Cadasse dedicated significant effort to public service, serving as a former senator and contributing his expertise to numerous organizational boards. His leadership extended to chairing Saint Lucia’s Gaming Control Commission, where he helped shape regulatory frameworks for the industry.

    Following his relocation to Canada with his family, Cadasse continued to demonstrate his business prowess while gradually transitioning toward retirement. His reflective memoir, “Ebb and Flow – The Life Journey of Noel Cadasse,” captured the essence of his extraordinary personal and professional evolution.

    The British Crown recognized his substantial contributions to community development, infrastructure, and economic growth by awarding him the prestigious Office of the Order of the British Empire (O.B.E) during the 2025 King’s Birthday Honors. Cadasse is survived by his wife Julia and their children, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire future generations of Saint Lucian entrepreneurs.

  • US$500 Reward Offered for Missing Cat Accidentally Released Near Willoughby Bay

    US$500 Reward Offered for Missing Cat Accidentally Released Near Willoughby Bay

    An American visitor to Antigua has launched an urgent search operation, offering a $500 reward for the safe recovery of a rescue cat that was accidentally released near the Crossroads Centre in Willoughby Bay. The incident has sparked a community-wide effort to reunite the traveler with his feline companion.

    According to local animal welfare organization Paaws Antigua, the visitor had completed all necessary documentation and made comprehensive arrangements to transport the cat to the United States. The mix-up occurred when the animal was inadvertently released before the travel plans were finalized, despite the completed paperwork.

    The emotional bond between the visitor and the cat has become central to the story. Paaws Antigua revealed that the American had developed a profound connection with the animal during his stay, describing how the cat had ‘built a home in his heart.’ The organization characterized the visitor as ‘heartbroken’ over the unexpected separation.

    Local authorities and animal welfare experts are advising the public on proper handling procedures. If community members can safely secure the cat, they are encouraged to do so using appropriate caution. Alternatively, witnesses should maintain visual contact with the animal and immediately contact Paaws Antigua’s emergency response team, which has mobilized recovery specialists to handle the situation.

    The organization has issued a public appeal for widespread information sharing through social networks and community channels. This collaborative effort aims to maximize visibility and increase the chances of successful reunion between the emotional support animal and its intended owner before the scheduled departure.

  • VIDEO: A new dawn in SVG

    VIDEO: A new dawn in SVG

    After more than two decades of dedicated journalism, a seasoned reporter has witnessed an unprecedented political transformation in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Throughout a distinguished 23-year career spanning monumental national events—from the inaugural opening of Argyle International Airport to the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Beryl—the journalist had documented every significant occurrence except one: a change in government.

    This democratic nation, which regularly holds elections at five-year intervals, maintained remarkable political stability for over two decades. The journalist’s extensive reporting portfolio includes coverage of the catastrophic La Soufrière volcanic eruptions, events that have occurred only three times within a 120-year timeframe (1902, 1979, and 2021), with intervals of 77 and 42 years between activations.

    Despite experiencing these rare geological phenomena and extreme weather events, the most extraordinary development emerged from the political arena. The recent electoral process marked a historic departure from the status quo, presenting the journalist with a unique opportunity to document a peaceful transfer of power for the first time in their professional career. This political milestone represents not just administrative change but a significant evolution in the nation’s democratic narrative, demonstrating the maturation of constitutional processes in the Caribbean nation.

  • Disaster Office Assesses Buckleys Primary School During Earthquake Drill

    Disaster Office Assesses Buckleys Primary School During Earthquake Drill

    Buckleys Primary School in Antigua has emerged as a model institution for disaster readiness, following a comprehensive earthquake preparedness drill conducted on Tuesday. The exercise, which involved the entire student body of over 100 children, was observed and evaluated by the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) as part of ongoing efforts to fortify the education sector against natural hazards.

    The school’s enhanced preparedness capabilities stem from its inclusion in the transformative Model Safe School Programme Enhancement Works. This regional initiative, spearheaded by the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) in partnership with the Ministry of Education, represents a significant investment in school safety. The program, made possible through substantial funding from the Government of Norway in 2024, focuses on both physical infrastructure improvements and the development of robust emergency protocols.

    This strategic collaboration between national agencies and international partners demonstrates a proactive approach to disaster risk reduction. By upgrading school facilities and implementing regular, realistic drills, the program aims to create educational environments that can better withstand earthquakes and other natural disasters, thereby protecting both students and staff.

  • Fond Cole Improvement Committee slated to elect new members at next meeting

    Fond Cole Improvement Committee slated to elect new members at next meeting

    The Fond Cole community is mobilizing for a significant democratic event as its Improvement Committee prepares to host a general meeting featuring the election of new leadership. Scheduled for Thursday, February 5, 2026, at 5:00 PM local time, the gathering will take place at the Fond Cole Community Centre, serving as a crucial platform for civic engagement.

    In an official communiqué, the committee confirmed that election procedures will be formally supervised by representatives from the Local Government Division, ensuring transparent and standardized electoral protocols. Community members are being actively urged to participate in this democratic process, with emphasis placed on punctual attendance to facilitate smooth proceedings.

    The Fond Cole Improvement Committee operates as a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to community betterment through multifaceted initiatives. Its operational spectrum encompasses public events, youth development programs, environmental clean-up campaigns, and athletic activities, collectively working to elevate quality of life throughout the neighborhood. This election represents a pivotal moment for the community to shape its developmental trajectory through democratically elected representation.

  • Family Pleads for Support After Explosion Destroys Home

    Family Pleads for Support After Explosion Destroys Home

    A devastating household gas explosion has left a Belize City family in dire circumstances, resulting in severe injuries to a elderly dementia patient and complete destruction of their residential property. The incident occurred on Rio Bravo Crescent in the Faber’s Road Extension area over the weekend when 79-year-old Kenneth Flowers attempted to prepare a beverage using a stove connected to a disconnected gas tank.

    Mr. Flowers, who suffers from dementia, described the traumatic moment: “I illuminated the stove and placed water to heat. Suddenly, I detected cracking sounds emanating from the tank… Before I could properly evacuate the area, flames erupted directly from the burner into my facial region, throwing me to the ground.”

    The explosion caused critical burn injuries requiring immediate emergency transport to Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital. His daughter, Andrea Flowers Sanchez, had momentarily departed to procure groceries when neighboring relatives alerted her to the catastrophic event. “I urgently secured taxi transportation to return home,” Sanchez explained. “I had no alternative supervision for my father during my absence. I merely seized a brief opportunity to obtain nourishment when this tragedy occurred.”

    Sanchez clarified she had previously disconnected the gas tank from the cooking appliance, but her father’s cognitive condition likely caused him to overlook this safety precaution. The conflagration consumed all household possessions, leaving the family without essential furnishings and financial resources.

    While community members have provided clothing donations, the family’s most pressing requirements include bedroom furnishings, bedding materials, infant care products, and monetary assistance. Sanchez, who serves as primary caregiver for both her elderly father and two-year-old son, emphasized their precarious living situation: “We urgently require financial support… My father currently rests on a sofa, which causes him considerable discomfort. We lack adequate space at my mother’s residence.”

  • Sea Cucumber Season Coming to a Close

    Sea Cucumber Season Coming to a Close

    BELIZE CITY – In a decisive move to safeguard marine ecosystems, Belize’s Fisheries Department has declared a complete moratorium on all sea cucumber harvesting activities effective February 1st, 2026. The fishery will remain closed through July 31st, implementing the strongest protections for these vulnerable marine species in recent years.

    Under the national Fisheries Regulations, the closure makes it unlawful to engage in any aspect of sea cucumber trade during the six-month period. The comprehensive ban prohibits fishing, harvesting, purchasing, selling, possessing, or exporting any sea cucumber species found in Belizean waters. Department officials emphasized that violations will result in legal prosecution, stating that offenders will be ‘charged and prosecuted in a court of law’ according to established regulations.

    The conservation measure addresses growing concerns about the ecological impact of overfishing on sea cucumber populations. Marine biologists note that these bottom-dwelling creatures serve as critical ecosystem engineers, actively filtering sediments and contributing to nutrient cycling that maintains healthy seabed environments. Their rapid decline due to intense commercial demand, particularly from international markets, has raised alarms about long-term marine sustainability.

    Fisheries authorities are calling for cooperation from fishing communities and the general public, urging citizens to report any suspected illegal activities during the closure period. The seasonal protection strategy represents Belize’s ongoing commitment to balancing economic interests with environmental stewardship in its valuable marine territories.

  • Officials say Swiss tourists successfully rescued on Waitukubuli National Trail

    Officials say Swiss tourists successfully rescued on Waitukubuli National Trail

    In a remarkable demonstration of emergency coordination, Dominican authorities have successfully rescued two Swiss tourists who went missing along the Waitukubuli National Trail on January 26, 2026. The comprehensive search and rescue mission culminated with a helicopter extraction on January 27, following an intensive 24-hour operation involving multiple government agencies.

    The disappearance triggered an immediate response from the Forestry Division, Dominica Police Force, and Fire and Ambulance Services, supported by dedicated volunteers who combed the challenging terrain. The rescued individuals were transported via helicopter to Dominica China Friendship Hospital where they received thorough medical evaluation and care.

    Both the Ministry of Tourism and Discover Dominica Authority expressed profound appreciation for the professionalism and dedication demonstrated by all personnel involved. The successful outcome was attributed to their coordinated efforts and persistent search operations in difficult conditions.

    Officials seized the opportunity to emphasize critical safety protocols for hiking Dominica’s trails, strongly recommending that all visitors engage certified tour guides when exploring the island’s national trails. The territory’s rugged landscapes, remote pathways, and unpredictable weather patterns present substantial risks, particularly for unfamiliar visitors.

    Certified guides provide essential local knowledge, safety oversight, and environmental awareness that significantly reduce accident risks and navigation challenges. In continuation of their safety enhancement initiatives, the Discover Dominica Authority announced upcoming Tour Guide Training and Certification Programs scheduled for April 13-20 and September 14-21, 2026, conducted in partnership with Dominica State College.

    These programs aim to elevate professional standards, enhance guide competencies, and improve safety protocols within the tourism sector. Interested individuals seeking guiding services or training opportunities are encouraged to contact the Discover Dominica Authority or Forestry Division directly.

  • Metropolitan University Celebrates Graduation & White Coat Ceremony

    Metropolitan University Celebrates Graduation & White Coat Ceremony

    Antigua’s Royalton Resort served as the prestigious backdrop on January 24th, 2026, as Metropolitan University College of Medicine conducted its dual-purpose ceremony honoring both graduating physicians and incoming medical students. The institution merged its Graduation and White Coat Ceremony into a single event, creating a powerful narrative about the continuous journey of medical education.

    The graduation segment recognized academic completions spanning 2019-2025, honoring graduates who have surmounted rigorous academic and clinical challenges. These newly minted healthcare professionals now serve communities throughout Antigua, the Caribbean region, and globally. Dr. Gurpreeth Sandhu, Dean of the medical college, delivered an emotionally resonant address highlighting the profound sacrifices made by graduates and the weight of responsibility they now carry toward their patients. Graduate representative Dr. Stephanie Deib reflected on the transformative educational journey, acknowledging the unwavering support from faculty that enabled students to realize their professional aspirations.

    Simultaneously, the White Coat Ceremony provided a symbolic initiation for basic sciences and clinical students into the medical field. As participants donned their white coats, they embraced the core values of medical practice: integrity, responsibility, empathy, and continuous learning. Keynote speaker Dr. Jose Humphrey articulated the dual significance of the white coat as both a representation of scientific rigor and a reminder of the societal trust placed in medical professionals.

    The event garnered significant institutional and governmental support, with attendance from Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, Education Minister Honorable Daryll Matthew, and Honorary Indian Counsel Mr. Vijay Tewani. University Vice President Mr. Tirumal Devulapalli emphasized the institution’s commitment to educational excellence and the extensive support system provided to students throughout their academic journey.

    Metropolitan University, which achieved CAAM-HP accreditation in December 2024, demonstrates through such ceremonies its dedication to developing healthcare professionals equipped with both technical expertise and ethical foundation. The 2026 ceremony thus served as both a celebration of achievement and an inspiration for the next generation of medical practitioners.

  • JFB reports 26.2 per cent rise in bush fires during 2025

    JFB reports 26.2 per cent rise in bush fires during 2025

    Jamaica is confronting a severe environmental and public safety crisis as official data reveals a dramatic escalation in bushfire incidents across the island nation. According to the Jamaica Fire Brigade (JFB), emergency responders tackled 5,710 bushfire cases throughout 2025, marking a substantial 26.2 percent increase from the 4,523 incidents recorded in the previous year.

    Commissioner Stewart Beckford, addressing journalists through the Jamaica Information Service (JIS), emphasized that bushfires have consistently remained at critically high levels over the past four years. Human activities were identified as the primary ignition sources, including carelessly discarded cigarettes, mechanical sparks from vehicles and farming equipment, uncontrolled garbage burning, and traditional slash-and-burn agricultural practices.

    Geographical analysis reveals stark regional disparities in fire prevalence. The St. Catherine division emerged as the most severely affected region, reporting 1,424 bushfire incidents alone in 2025. This continues a concerning trend from 2024, when the division accounted for 1,170 fires representing 25.8 percent of Jamaica’s total. Conversely, Portland documented the nation’s lowest occurrence with merely 54 incidents, constituting just one percent of the annual total.

    The bushfire epidemic dominated emergency response operations, constituting the largest proportion of the over 20,000 emergency calls processed by the JFB last year. Commissioner Beckford’s breakdown of divisional emergency responses showed St. Catherine as the most active with 3,429 calls, followed by Westmoreland (2,428), Kingston and St. Andrew (2,110), and St. James (2,096). This data underscores the significant strain placed on Jamaica’s firefighting resources and infrastructure.