Carib Scope

分类： society

  • High Court to rule on ex-TTFA marketing director’s unpaid fees claim

    High Court to rule on ex-TTFA marketing director’s unpaid fees claim

    A legal confrontation between former Trinidad and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) marketing director Peter Miller and the association’s trustee will reach a pivotal moment on February 26 when Justice Frank Seepersad delivers his ruling. Miller claims substantial unpaid compensation for services rendered during the association’s financial restructuring phase.

    The crux of the dispute centers on whether Miller continued fulfilling his contractual obligations beyond March 2020, when FIFA installed a normalization committee to oversee TTFA operations. Miller maintains he persistently worked through the association’s financial crisis, while trustee Maria Daniel has disallowed portions of his claim based on advice that he ceased services during that period.

    Miller’s employment commenced January 1, 2020, under a two-year contract stipulating a monthly salary of US$25,000, plus an additional US$30,410.95 for services predating his formal contract. During virtual testimony, Miller faced rigorous cross-examination from Senior Counsel Kerwyn Garcia, who challenged the evidentiary support for Miller’s assertions of continued work.

    The judicial proceedings revealed complexities in documenting marketing achievements. Miller acknowledged completing several initiatives outlined in a February 2020 brief from then-TTFA president William Wallace, including securing kit deals, launching a new association website, and identifying broadcast rights partners. However, he conceded that his court submissions lacked documentary evidence for alleged sponsorship agreements with international companies and arranged friendlies with UK and Brazilian clubs.

    Trustee Maria Daniel, appointed in November 2021 to manage TTFA’s debt proposal process, testified that her mandate focused exclusively on financial rehabilitation assessment. While acknowledging email correspondence suggesting Miller maintained sponsor communications after March 2020, she maintained insufficient context existed to validate these exchanges as substantive work.

    Robert Hadad, chairman of FIFA’s normalization committee, corroborated the verification challenges, stating his position required confirming active employees before approving payments.

    The TTFA’s debt proposal, ultimately approved by creditors in May 2022, provided legal protection while the association pursued financial recovery. An Ernst and Young report estimated outstanding liabilities at approximately TT$98.5 million, with the enhanced proposal increasing committed funds to US$3.5 million.

    Justice Seepersad’s impending decision will hinge principally on whether evidence substantiates Miller’s claim of continued contractual performance after March 2020.

  • Parish council employees to return to court next Thursday

    Parish council employees to return to court next Thursday

    Two Jamaican municipal corporation employees remain embroiled in a significant cocaine trafficking case following their court appearance in St James Parish Court on January 27. Trevon Clayton of St Ann Municipal Corporation and Latoya Hemmings, a senior managing accountant at Trelawny Municipal Council, face multiple charges under the Dangerous Drugs Act after authorities discovered cocaine in their possession at an airport security screening.

    The incident unfolded when narcotics division officers intercepted the two individuals as they attempted to board a flight to New York. During routine security procedures, screening personnel detected suspicious packages subsequently identified as cocaine within both travelers’ luggage. The situation escalated when Clayton reportedly confessed to having ingested additional cocaine pellets, leading to his immediate hospitalization where medical staff documented the expulsion of 82 drug-filled pellets.

    While both defendants were initially detained, their legal circumstances have diverged. Hemmings secured conditional release last week on humanitarian grounds related to a medical condition, posting $750,000 bail with requirements to surrender travel documents and report weekly to Duncans Police Station. Clayton remains in custody pending a bail application scheduled for the next hearing on February 4. The case continues to develop as Jamaican authorities pursue serious drug trafficking allegations against the municipal employees.

  • Mom pleads – ‘I want to put my son at rest’

    Mom pleads – ‘I want to put my son at rest’

    A Bahamian family remains trapped in an agonizing state of uncertainty weeks after losing their son in a tragic traffic collision, with bureaucratic delays preventing both burial and closure. Llewellyn Forbes, 33, succumbed to injuries on January 8 following a December 24 crash at the intersection of Pioneer’s Way and East Atlantic Drive, yet critical documentation including autopsy results, official police reports, and medical records remain undisclosed to grieving relatives.

    Charlene Forbes, the deceased’s mother, articulated the family’s profound frustration after numerous unsuccessful attempts to obtain essential information from law enforcement authorities. “I want to put my son at rest. I need closure,” she stated, emphasizing that a month has passed without substantive communication from investigators. The emotional toll is particularly devastating for Mrs. Forbes, who previously lost her husband and another son, noting “That’s three men in my life that are gone.”

    Superintendent Christopher Farquharson, overseeing the Traffic Division, confirmed the investigation remains active with plans to forward findings to the Attorney General’s Office upon completion. While acknowledging two family visits to police stations where condolences were extended and preliminary updates provided, he offered no specific timeline for resolution.

    Llewellyn’s sister, Shacoda Forbes, remembered her brother as a quietly impactful jack-of-all-trades—a skilled welder and dedicated member of the GB Bikers’ Association whose helpful nature contrasted with his reserved demeanor. The association’s representative, Chante Wright, confirmed approximately twenty riders were traveling together when a vehicle struck the rearmost motorcycles, highlighting growing road safety concerns.

    The family reports being repeatedly assured of imminent updates and promised access to traffic camera footage that has yet to materialize. This administrative paralysis has forced the postponement of funeral arrangements indefinitely, leaving relatives simultaneously mourning their loss while fighting for accountability and transparency from authorities tasked with delivering justice.

  • Kiprich and Kizzy’s baby, Miracle, airlifted to different Colombian hospital

    Kiprich and Kizzy’s baby, Miracle, airlifted to different Colombian hospital

    Jamaican dancehall performers Kiprich and Kizzy Don have achieved a critical milestone in their medical journey as their prematurely born daughter, Miracle, has been successfully transported to an advanced medical facility in Colombia. The infant, who arrived unexpectedly early while her parents were on a professional engagement in South America, had been receiving intensive care since birth.

    The couple documented this medical transfer through social media, sharing footage of medical professionals carefully coordinating Miracle’s movement via specialized ambulance and aircraft transport. Kiprich expressed profound gratitude to supporters in his video caption, stating: ‘You are worthy, give thanks for all support coming in, keep the prayers up for baby Miracle.’

    The situation developed when Kizzy, who had received medical clearance for travel, accompanied her partner to a performance in Colombia. The premature delivery created significant complications, leaving the family facing substantial healthcare challenges abroad. Medical authorities determined that Miracle required specialized neonatal care only available through medical evacuation to the United States, with estimated transfer costs reaching approximately J$40 million (US$250,000).

    In response to these financial pressures, the artists initiated a GoFundMe campaign that has currently gathered over US$27,000 toward their target amount. The online fundraising effort has generated widespread community support, with numerous well-wishers contributing both financially and emotionally through prayer messages and encouraging comments.

    Those interested in supporting the family’s medical mission can contribute through the official fundraising platform at: https://gofund.me/1f5236235.

  • Senior judge urges motorists to educate themselves about traffic laws

    Senior judge urges motorists to educate themselves about traffic laws

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Jamaican judiciary has issued a compelling call for motorists to proactively educate themselves on national traffic legislation, emphasizing that legal literacy enables better decision-making and courtroom preparedness. Senior Judge Mitsy Beaumont-Daley of the Corporate Area Traffic Court delivered this message during a recent traffic symposium at the St Mary Parish Court, highlighting widespread ignorance of road laws among defendants. Judge Beaumont-Daley revealed that numerous individuals appearing before her court demonstrate unfamiliarity with basic traffic regulations, necessitating judicial explanations of statutes before defendants can enter informed pleas. She stressed personal responsibility in studying the Road Traffic Act, Transport Authority Act, and Road Traffic Regulations to confidently assert guilt or innocence when charged. The address identified frequently misunderstood offenses, including improper fog lamp usage—often confused with daytime running lights—and permissible hands-free device operation while driving. Judge Beaumont-Daley clarified that fog lamps are legally restricted to specific weather conditions, and electronic device use constitutes an offense only when not in hands-free mode. She articulated that comprehending penalties promotes compliance through wisdom and respect for others’ safety rather than mere fear of punishment. The senior judge concluded with a stern reminder that driving constitutes a privilege subject to revocation for abuse, affirming the court’s commitment to firm yet fair enforcement of traffic laws.

  • Broadcaster Walter ‘Bob’ Clarke has died

    Broadcaster Walter ‘Bob’ Clarke has died

    JAMAICA MOURNS LOSS OF BROADCASTING LEGEND

    Kingston, Jamaica – The Jamaican media landscape has lost one of its most distinguished voices with the passing of veteran broadcaster Walter Charles “Bob” Clarke. The renowned media personality, whose career spanned an impressive five decades, departed early Tuesday morning at Port Maria Hospital in St. Mary.

    Clarke, celebrated for his immensely popular Sunday program “Memories” on IRIE FM, had been receiving medical treatment at the facility for an undisclosed condition. His contributions to Jamaican culture and broadcasting were formally recognized when he was honored with the prestigious Order of Distinction, one of the nation’s highest civic awards.

    The broadcaster’s distinctive voice and curated musical selections on his long-running program made him a household name across the island. His Sunday broadcasts became an institution for generations of Jamaicans, blending nostalgic music with cultural commentary that preserved the nation’s audio heritage.

    At 75 years old, Clarke leaves behind a legacy that transcends mere broadcasting. Colleagues and listeners remember him not just as a media practitioner but as a cultural archivist who understood the power of radio to unite communities through shared memories and musical traditions.

    The Jamaican media community has begun paying tribute to Clarke’s remarkable career, noting his unwavering commitment to quality programming and his role in shaping the island’s radio landscape over half a century.

  • St Clements House in Belfast reportedly burglarized

    St Clements House in Belfast reportedly burglarized

    Authorities in Belfast are conducting a thorough investigation following a significant burglary at St Clements House, the historic residence of the Redemptorist Catholic missionary order. The incident, which police are treating as an aggravated burglary, occurred overnight and resulted in the theft of substantial cash amounts and a vehicle.

    Initial reports confirm that perpetrators successfully made off with EC$2,500, US$600 in cash, and a Mitsubishi Pickup truck bearing registration number PP634. The burglary targeted the long-standing religious institution that has maintained a presence in Dominica since 1902.

    In a developing turn of events, law enforcement officials have successfully located the stolen vehicle in the Zabrico area. The recovery represents a significant breakthrough in the ongoing investigation, though authorities continue to pursue leads regarding the suspects and the stolen currency.

    St Clements House serves as the operational base for the Redemptorist order, which currently maintains between 4,500–5,500 members across more than 80 countries worldwide. The religious organization has deep roots in the local community, having established its mission work in Dominica over a century ago.

    Local news outlet DNO has committed to providing continuous coverage as additional details emerge from the police investigation. The community awaits further updates regarding security measures and the status of the investigation into this violation of the religious institution’s premises.

  • Senior officers complete two-week leadership refresher course

    Senior officers complete two-week leadership refresher course

    In a significant initiative to bolster military leadership and operational capabilities, Senior Non-Commissioned Officers have successfully concluded an intensive two-week professional development program. The specialized refresher course, conducted from January 12 to 24, 2026, was specifically designed to enhance leadership competencies, reinforce disciplinary standards, and strengthen overall mission readiness.

    The comprehensive curriculum placed particular emphasis on the multifaceted responsibilities and elevated professional standards required of senior enlisted leaders within modern military structures. Participants engaged in rigorous drill training exercises meticulously crafted to improve unit cohesion and disciplinary precision, while simultaneously reviewing fundamental operational tasks critical to daily military functions.

    A cornerstone of the program focused on the strategic role of Senior Non-Commissioned Officers as both operational leaders and professional mentors. The training highlighted their crucial function as the essential connective tissue between command leadership and junior personnel, emphasizing their unique position in maintaining organizational effectiveness and communication channels.

    Program organizers confirmed the initiative successfully reinforced contemporary leadership methodologies while substantially improving the unit’s overall preparedness. The exercise underscored the indispensable value of experienced non-commissioned officers in preserving operational effectiveness and maintaining robust military structures capable of responding to diverse challenges.

  • PAHO and UNICEF Warn Violence Continues to Endanger Children Across Latin America and the Caribbean

    PAHO and UNICEF Warn Violence Continues to Endanger Children Across Latin America and the Caribbean

    A groundbreaking collaborative report from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and UNICEF has exposed a devastating epidemic of violence targeting children and adolescents across Latin America and the Caribbean. The publication, titled ‘Violence against children and adolescents in Latin America and the Caribbean: New data and solutions,’ reveals that violence remains a critical threat to the survival, health, and overall well-being of millions of young people in the region.

    The most extreme manifestation of this crisis is homicide. Between 2015 and 2022, a staggering 53,318 children and adolescents were murdered. Recent data reveals a disturbing and gendered shift in trends. While the homicide rate for adolescent boys (15-17 years) showed a decline from 17.63 to 10.68 per 100,000 between 2021 and 2022, the rate for adolescent girls more than doubled during the same period, skyrocketing from 2.13 to 5.1 deaths per 100,000.

    This lethal violence is fueled by a complex web of factors, including escalating armed conflict in certain areas, the pervasive influence of organized crime, widespread availability of firearms, deep-rooted social inequalities, and harmful gender norms that increasingly draw adolescents into situations of extreme danger.

    The report emphasizes that violence is not an isolated incident but a interconnected phenomenon that often intensifies over time, beginning at a very young age. Shockingly, six out of ten children under 14 in the region experience violent disciplinary methods at home. Furthermore, one in four adolescents aged 13 to 17 faces bullying and harassment within school environments. Nearly 20% of women report enduring sexual violence before reaching the age of 18, and violence is increasingly migrating into digital spaces, though data on this newer frontier remains scarce.

    Roberto Benes, UNICEF Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean, stated, ‘Millions of children in our region confront violence daily—in their households, schools, and communities dominated by gangs. Numerous settings present genuine and severe risks. We possess the knowledge to end this cycle; what is required are robust, sustained public policies focused on prevention and response.’

    Echoing this urgency, Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, Director of PAHO, highlighted the profound and lasting damage violence inflicts on the physical and mental health of the young, constituting a severe violation of their fundamental right to safety. He underscored the pivotal role of health services: ‘Through early identification of at-risk groups and the provision of timely, quality support, health workers can fundamentally alter outcomes for survivors, their families, and entire communities.’

    Beyond diagnosing the problem, the report outlines a clear path forward, championing evidence-based solutions. PAHO and UNICEF are calling on regional governments to enact a multi-sectoral strategy. Key recommendations include strengthening and enforcing child protection laws, implementing effective firearm control, providing specialized training for police, teachers, and health and social workers, promoting positive parenting practices, investing in safe educational environments, and scaling up accessible support services. The ultimate goal is to ensure every child can grow up protected, with access to justice, and able to lead a healthy life free from violence.

    The findings and proposed framework were validated during a major regional ministerial consultation on October 23-24, 2025, which convened over 300 participants, including government ministers, senior officials from health, education, and justice sectors, alongside civil society advocates, youth leaders, and international partners, all committed to agreeing on concrete actions for building safer environments for the young generation.

  • No immediate threat to life following Pichlen landslide, says Minister Blackmore

    No immediate threat to life following Pichlen landslide, says Minister Blackmore

    Dominica’s Public Works Minister Rayburn Blackmore has provided reassurances to citizens following a significant landslide in the southern community of Pichlen that occurred during the night of January 24-25. The geological event, which took place along an active road rehabilitation corridor, resulted in substantial earth displacement into the Pichlen River channel, triggering immediate multi-agency emergency assessments.

    Minister Blackmore confirmed to media outlets that a comprehensive technical team comprising geotechnical engineers, disaster management specialists, emergency services personnel, and forestry officials has conducted thorough evaluations of the situation. Their collective assessment indicates no imminent danger to residential areas or infrastructure downstream from the landslide site.

    Critical transportation routes between Bellevue Chopin and Pichelin remain fully operational, maintaining uninterrupted connectivity for local communities. As a precautionary measure, authorities have established security perimeters around the original construction zone, advising public avoidance of the designated area.

    Remediation operations commenced Monday under improved meteorological conditions, with clearing efforts focused on preserving the integrity of the river channel while implementing robust mitigation protocols. The government’s coordinated response prioritizes environmental conservation and community safety through strict adherence to geotechnical safety standards.

    Minister Blackmore contextualized this incident within Dominica’s broader National Resilience Development Plan 2030, highlighting ongoing infrastructure investments exceeding $160 million dedicated to slope stabilization, advanced drainage systems, and expanded roadway designs specifically engineered to minimize landslide risks. The official commended emergency responders and technical staff for their continuous monitoring efforts and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to citizen safety as its fundamental governance priority.