Carib Scope

分类： society

  • Dunbeholden FC executive management leads beyond JPL

    Dunbeholden FC executive management leads beyond JPL

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—Dunbeholden Football Club is demonstrating that its organizational mission transcends athletic competition through comprehensive humanitarian initiatives in hurricane-ravaged communities. Under the strategic direction of Chief Commercial Officer Aubyn Henry and Vice President Vivian Matthews, the club has mobilized substantial recovery efforts in Russia, Westmoreland, where residents continue to grapple with Hurricane Melissa’s devastating aftermath.

    The club’s multifaceted relief program focuses on two critical areas: economic rehabilitation through small business reconstruction and direct housing assistance for displaced families. Rather than merely providing temporary aid, Dunbeholden FC’s approach emphasizes sustainable recovery through livelihood restoration and infrastructure repair, distributing essential building materials while facilitating commercial revitalization.

    Henry, who combines his commercial role with philanthropic leadership, articulated the club’s philosophy: “Football provided our platform, but compassion defined our purpose. Witnessing the struggles in Russia made inaction impossible. Our mission centers on hope restoration and demonstrating solidarity throughout their recovery journey.”

    Matthews, who personally oversaw ground operations, described the emotional impact: “Face-to-face engagement with affected families proved profoundly humbling. Each restored home and reopened business generates transformative smiles that validate our efforts. This work transcends material support—it’s about spiritual upliftment and collective resilience.”

    The executive management team has strategically aligned the club’s corporate social responsibility objectives with hands-on humanitarian action, creating a model for sports organizations seeking meaningful community engagement. Their coordinated response highlights how athletic institutions can leverage their platform for societal benefit beyond mere sporting success.

    Dunbeholden FC continues to reinforce its commitment to community elevation through ongoing projects that address both immediate needs and long-term recovery, establishing new paradigms for sports franchises in social responsibility and disaster response engagement.

  • Societal elder abuse

    Societal elder abuse

    A poignant revelation from an 87-year-old Trinidadian writer has unveiled systemic age discrimination permeating financial institutions and social structures. HD Greaves, a published author of twelve books, finds himself denied basic financial services including credit cards and purchase financing solely based on his age, despite maintaining robust health and mental acuity. This case exemplifies a broader pattern of institutional ageism that treats senior citizens as liabilities rather than valuable contributors.

    The situation extends beyond financial exclusion into systemic administrative failures. Thousands of elderly citizens face prolonged pension processing delays—some waiting over two years for entitlements—creating unnecessary economic hardship during their most vulnerable years. These bureaucratic inefficiencies represent what experts describe as ‘economic violence’ against the aging population.

    More disturbingly, many seniors experience various forms of domestic mistreatment including financial exploitation, emotional neglect, and physical abuse within their own families. These violations often remain hidden behind closed doors, leaving victims without recourse or protection.

    Psychology expert Dr. Margaret Nakhid-Chatoor analyzes this crisis as reflecting deeper societal values that prioritize youth and productivity over wisdom and experience. The banking industry’s risk-aversion toward older clients, combined with inadequate social support systems, creates an environment where aging becomes synonymous with irrelevance rather than respected maturity.

    The solution requires multidimensional reform: financial institutions must adopt capacity-based assessments rather than age-based discrimination, government agencies need to streamline pension processing systems, and families must recognize elder care as privilege rather than burden. Culturally, societies must reimagine aging as a continuation of contribution through intergenerational knowledge-sharing programs that begin as early as preschool education.

    This collective awakening demands policy revisions, corporate responsibility, and cultural transformation to ensure senior citizens receive the dignity and respect their lifetime of contribution deserves.

  • New Grant man jailed for disobeying court order for damages

    New Grant man jailed for disobeying court order for damages

    In a decisive judicial ruling that underscores the mandatory nature of court compliance, Justice Frank Seepersad has sentenced New Grant resident Groodial Badal to three days’ imprisonment for deliberate defiance of a court order to compensate an assault victim. The January 15th verdict represents a significant reinforcement of judicial authority against willful non-compliance.

    Justice Seepersad delivered a nuanced judgment that balanced judicial empathy with necessary enforcement, stating: ‘The dispensation of justice at times necessitates an empathetic approach to the application of the rule of law. However, where there has been willful disobedience despite having the means to comply, the court must protect and preserve its authority.’

    The case originated from a 2012 assault and battery claim filed by fellow New Grant resident Balkaran. After extensive legal proceedings, both parties reached a 2016 consent agreement requiring Badal to pay $70,000—comprising a lump sum payment followed by monthly $1,500 installments. Court records reveal only $23,500 has been paid over eight years, with the debt ballooning to $68,523.10 due to accumulating interest.

    Evidence presented demonstrated Badal maintains multiple income streams through home ownership, a roti shop, and a burger cart operation. The judge characterized Badal’s behavior as ‘nonchalance’ and ‘pervicacious disobedience,’ noting his failure to provide substantiated proof of financial hardship.

    In a direct address to the defendant, Justice Seepersad declared: ‘You are in contempt for your failure to make any payment. This does not absolve you of payment of the balance owed. I hope it gives you time to reflect.’

    The ruling included a broader societal critique, observing that ‘disregard for the law appears entrenched in our society, and far too often, citizens only comply with legal obligations under threat of severe sanction.’ Justice Seepersad lamented what he termed the ‘big stick over your head syndrome’ as the primary catalyst for compliance.

    Badal’s defense, represented by attorney Mustapha Khan, cited pandemic-related financial hardships and claimed willingness to continue payments at reduced rates. These arguments were rejected based on evidence of consistent earning capacity and the lengthy duration of non-compliance.

    The imprisonment order takes immediate effect, though the outstanding financial obligation remains fully enforceable upon Badal’s release.

  • Lions District Governor Begins Official Visit with Courtesy Calls in Antigua

    Lions District Governor Begins Official Visit with Courtesy Calls in Antigua

    Lions Clubs International District Governor Judy King, PMJF, has initiated her official tour of Antigua and Barbuda with high-level diplomatic engagements preceding planned visits to local chapters. The distinguished visitor, accompanied by Zone 2C Chairperson Lion Kim Joseph, PMJF, and representatives from the Antiguan Lions Club, embarked on a series of protocol meetings as part of her regional itinerary.

    The delegation conducted formal courtesy calls with two of the nation’s most prominent figures: His Excellency Sir Clare Roberts, KCN, KC, who serves as Deputy Governor-General, and Prime Minister Gaston Browne. These meetings mark significant recognition of Lions Clubs International’s humanitarian work and its collaborative relationship with Caribbean governments.

    This diplomatic outreach underscores the organization’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships and enhancing its community service initiatives throughout the region. The meetings likely focused on discussing ongoing philanthropic projects, potential areas for expanded cooperation, and strategies for addressing local community needs through the Lions Club’s global network of volunteers and resources.

  • Search continues for people after landslide in DRC

    Search continues for people after landslide in DRC

    A catastrophic landslide struck the Burutsi region of the Democratic Republic of Congo on Wednesday, resulting in a significant loss of life and widespread destruction. The disaster has so far claimed 19 lives and left four individuals with serious injuries. Rescue teams continue to work tirelessly as more than a dozen people remain unaccounted for, believed to be trapped beneath the rubble.

    During the ongoing rescue operations, the situation was further complicated when a local resident assisting with recovery efforts suffered a fall, resulting in a fractured left leg. This incident was confirmed by the administrative secretary of the Luberike group, the administrative division that encompasses Burutsi, in a statement to Actualité.CD.

    The landslide’s destructive path has rendered numerous homes uninhabitable, displacing a substantial number of residents. Those who have lost their dwellings are currently seeking shelter and refuge in local schools, which have been repurposed as emergency accommodation centers.

    In response to the crisis, local authorities have issued a heartfelt appeal for collective solidarity. They are urgently calling for public assistance to support the victims, intensify the search for the missing, and provide essential medical care for the injured. The community is mobilizing to address the immediate humanitarian needs arising from this tragic event.

  • Police Urge Vehicle Owners to Secure Vehicles at All Times

    Police Urge Vehicle Owners to Secure Vehicles at All Times

    The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has issued a stark public safety alert following a concerning surge in vehicle thefts across the nation. Law enforcement authorities report that a pattern of owner negligence—primarily leaving vehicles unsecured with keys inside—is directly enabling criminal enterprises.

    This security crisis has manifested prominently in the St. John’s and Old Parham Road districts, where recent incidents highlight a troubling trend. In a specific case from January 13th, 2026, an orange Suzuki Ignis was stolen from St. John’s Street during morning hours. Police investigation confirmed the vehicle was unattended with its ignition keyed. Similarly, a white Kia Sorento vanished from Old Parham Road overnight between January 12th and 13th.

    Beyond the property loss, police intelligence indicates stolen vehicles are being repurposed to facilitate other serious criminal operations, thereby multiplying the threat to community safety. In response, the Police Administration is mandating heightened public vigilance and has released a comprehensive security protocol.

    The essential guidelines for vehicle owners include: never leaving keys in the ignition under any circumstances; consistently locking all doors and windows regardless of parking duration; opting for well-lit and secure parking areas; and immediately reporting any suspicious behavior to authorities.

    The force emphasizes that community cooperation is indispensable in combating this crime wave. Citizens possessing any information related to these thefts or associated criminal activities are urged to contact the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) or their nearest police station immediately.

  • NCSA: Limited staff limiting ability to meet growing demand

    NCSA: Limited staff limiting ability to meet growing demand

    Barbados’ National Council on Substance Abuse (NCSA) faces significant operational challenges due to severe staffing limitations that hinder its capacity to address the island’s growing need for drug prevention and education services. Deputy Manager Troy Wickham revealed that despite concerted efforts to enhance public awareness campaigns, the organization’s modest workforce of just 19 employees substantially restricts its community outreach capabilities. Among these staff members, only four serve as substance abuse prevention officers tasked with directly delivering drug education programs across diverse community groups. The council’s technical capabilities are further constrained by having merely two research and information officers analyzing local drug trends and two counselors providing essential support services. To overcome these limitations, the NCSA has implemented innovative digital solutions including Zoom, Nearpod, and Canva platforms to conduct virtual sessions reaching broader audiences. These technology-driven initiatives are supported by an evidence-based database ensuring research-grounded prevention messaging. The organization has increasingly relied on trained volunteers who undergo comprehensive 7-12 week training programs covering NCSA’s curriculum, local drug research, and technological delivery methods. As Barbados observes Drug Awareness Month throughout January, Wickham has issued a public appeal for additional volunteers to bolster the council’s community prevention efforts. Despite these adaptive measures, Wickham identified message acceptance as another fundamental challenge, noting that persuading the public to internalize prevention messages remains persistently difficult despite expanded outreach initiatives.

  • Insurance firms pay out $184 000 after deadly November floods

    Insurance firms pay out $184 000 after deadly November floods

    The General Insurance Association of Barbados (GIAB) revealed on Tuesday that insurers have disbursed approximately $184,000 in claims stemming from November’s catastrophic floods, which claimed one life and inflicted widespread destruction across the island. GIAB President Andrea Walton confirmed that 60 total claims were processed through the association’s secretariat, comprising 47 motor vehicle claims and 13 property damage claims.

    According to insurance officials, no additional claims are anticipated at this juncture, given that the most severely affected zones were confined to specific regions. The historic deluge, described as the most severe in a decade, resulted in the tragic death of 58-year-old Terry Kellman and caused extensive vehicular devastation, with numerous automobiles either washed away or deemed total losses.

    Kellman tragically perished after losing his footing along Lower Estate Road as torrential waters transformed the Charles Rowe Bridge into a raging river. His body was recovered approximately 24 hours after the initial flooding incident.

    Anton Lovell, General Manager of Cooperatives General Insurance, provided sobering assessment regarding submerged vehicles, stating that complete write-offs were inevitable regardless of insurance coverage. “When vehicles become fully submerged, recovery becomes impossible. These cases represent total losses—even luxury vehicles like Mercedes suffered irreparable water damage,” Lovell explained in post-flood evaluations.

    Despite the devastation, Home Affairs Minister Wilfred Abrahams extended commendations to first responders who conducted rescue and recovery operations throughout the night. During damage assessment tours of St. Peter and St. Lucy parishes alongside emergency personnel, Abrahams emphasized the unprecedented scale and velocity of the flooding event.

    The Minister detailed particular devastation around Charles Rowe Bridge, where multiple vehicles were swept away—some traveling from as far as St. George Parish Church before accumulating near the Chefette junction. Meteorological authorities confirmed that engineering solutions would have proven insufficient against the extraordinary rainfall intensity, with certain areas receiving up to nine inches (228.6mm) within 24 hours.

    Abrahams relayed the Met Office’s professional assessment: “The volume of precipitation within such condensed timeframe would have overwhelmed even world-class infrastructure. Water accumulated in elevated parishes and cascaded downward—our focus must remain on post-event mitigation strategies.”

  • Robert Peneux voorzitter nieuwe Raad van Toezicht IOL

    Robert Peneux voorzitter nieuwe Raad van Toezicht IOL

    In a significant move to enhance educational governance, Suriname’s Ministry of Education, Science and Culture has established a new Oversight Council for the Institute for Teacher Education (IOL). The council was formally installed on Tuesday by Minister Dirk Currie, with veteran educator Robert Peneux appointed as its chairman.

    Peneux, former director of the critical teacher training institute, now leads the five-member supervisory body comprising Ricardo Kenswil, Rawien Mangal, Joan Vliese, and Robby Holband. The installation ceremony included the formal handover of transfer documents to Peneux, marking the beginning of the council’s mandate to strengthen institutional governance and oversight mechanisms.

    Minister Currie identified the formalization of IOL’s legal status as an immediate priority, emphasizing that establishing a clear juridical framework for both the institute and its oversight council would create a solid foundation for administrative operations and future development. This legal structuring is expected to provide greater stability and clarity in the institution’s governance model.

    While acknowledging the importance of legal formalization, Chairman Peneux emphasized that internal structural reforms must take precedence. He specifically mentioned the need to redesign the organizational chart and reconsider the institute’s internal frameworks before addressing external legal matters.

    The newly installed council has outlined several strategic priorities including transforming IOL into a comprehensive School of Education, conducting thorough financial audits of the institution, and establishing a dedicated Human Resources Management department to strengthen personnel policies and organizational development.

    Minister Currie expressed full confidence in the expertise and commitment of the new oversight body, stressing that effective governance, transparency, and strategic direction are essential for enhancing the quality of teacher education in Suriname. The establishment of the council represents a proactive approach to educational reform in the country’s teacher preparation system.

  • Six Men’s folk set to gain land ownership, says MP

    Six Men’s folk set to gain land ownership, says MP

    A significant housing initiative in Barbados is bringing long-awaited property rights to residents of Six Men’s, St Peter, ending decades of legal uncertainty. Government officials have confirmed substantial progress in transferring land titles to families who have occupied these properties for multiple generations.

    During a House of Assembly debate on land resolutions, Labour Minister and St Peter MP Colin Jordan announced that approximately 37 properties have been formally surveyed under the Six Men’s Life Improvement Project. This represents nearly half of the homeowner-occupied parcels in the historically disputed area.

    “The people of Six Men’s are tremendously happy with the progress,” Jordan stated, emphasizing that residents had lived “in limbo for over 50 years” regarding property ownership. The National Housing Corporation (NHC), operating under the Ministry of Housing, has spearheaded the title transfer process that will finally grant legal recognition to generational occupants.

    The minister contrasted the current administration’s approach with previous governments, accusing the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) administration of labeling residents as “squatters” when they attempted to purchase their family lands. Jordan revealed that 37 residents received formal notification letters shortly before Christmas, enabling them to proceed with legal ownership acquisition for lots ranging from 2,500 to 3,500 square feet at approximately $1,400 per property.

    Beyond the Six Men’s initiative, Jordan announced upcoming improvements for the Maynard’s Housing Area, including exterior power washing and electrical upgrades. The minister concluded with a strong defense of the housing program, stating, “As MP, I am happy on behalf of the people of St Peter who are benefiting from the work of the Ministry of Housing.”