Carib Scope

分类： society

  • Convicted killer given 30-year starting sentence

    Convicted killer given 30-year starting sentence

    In a landmark ruling at the No. 5 Supreme Court, Justice Pamela Beckles has sentenced Haniyfa Reza White to 23.5 years imprisonment for the 2007 killing of her former friend and neighbor Julene Bryan. The sentence represents the remainder of a 30-year starting term after accounting for mitigating circumstances and an extraordinary 18-year delay in bringing the case to trial.

    The court established that on May 14, 2007, White deliberately armed herself with a knife and went to Bryan’s residence in Six Men’s, St. Peter following an earlier altercation. Evidence presented during proceedings revealed that White initiated the confrontation by throwing a rock at Bryan’s home before fatally stabbing the victim in the neck, severing her carotid artery in front of her residence.

    Justice Beckles delivered a compelling address to the convicted killer, stating: ‘The location of this injury would suggest that your intention was clearly to kill or cause serious bodily harm. Yet you see yourself and your children as the victims, even though you were there to love and care for them. The deceased’s children were deprived of this because of your actions that day.’

    The judge identified several aggravating factors including the premeditated nature of the attack, the use of a lethal weapon, and the traumatic impact on Bryan’s four children who witnessed the violence outside their home. The court also considered mitigating circumstances including White’s lack of prior criminal record, favorable pre-sentencing reports indicating low recidivism risk, and substantial trial delays.

    White testified that she had endured ongoing harassment from Bryan and associates following the dissolution of their friendship. She claimed the stabbing occurred during a physical struggle after Bryan allegedly attacked her with a metal object. The court ordered White to serve 8,659 days at Dodds Prison with recommendation for counseling programs addressing interpersonal relationships and societal reintegration.

    Legal representatives included Acting Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Krystal Delaney for the state and defense counsel Safiya Moore for White.

  • Government House Restoration Nears Completion, Senator Says

    Government House Restoration Nears Completion, Senator Says

    Antigua and Barbuda’s landmark Government House is undergoing a transformative restoration projected for completion by mid-2026, according to Senator Jamilla Kirwan’s recent address to the Upper House. The independent senator revealed during the 2026 budget debate that the preservation initiative has successfully secured over EC$7 million in funding since its inception in 2017.

    The ambitious project, spearheaded by the Antigua and Barbuda Heritage Trust, aims to convert the historic property into a multifunctional cultural center while maintaining its official role as the Governor-General’s workplace. The restored complex will feature a living museum chronicling the nation’s political evolution, an art gallery displaying repurposed royal portraits and historical artworks, and versatile event spaces for public use.

    Senator Kirwan emphasized the restoration’s national significance, characterizing it as a profound commitment to cultural stewardship and sustainable legacy building. Beyond architectural preservation, the project intends to stimulate revitalization of adjacent historic districts and establish precedents for future heritage protection laws.

    The funding model exemplifies successful cross-sector collaboration, with substantial contributions from individual donors, nonprofit organizations, and corporate partners. Kirwan particularly acknowledged the Halo Foundation—the Governor-General’s charitable arm—for its complementary decade-long work supporting vulnerable populations, illustrating the interconnection between physical heritage conservation and social development.

    The senator utilized the restoration update to advocate for strategic long-term asset management, stressing that consistent maintenance planning supersedes reactive emergency repairs. This approach ensures national treasures endure for future generations while serving contemporary civic needs.

    The project timeline anticipates a formal public unveiling no later than the second quarter of 2026, marking the culmination of nearly a decade of concerted preservation efforts.

  • President en VWPU werken aan structurele oplossing

    President en VWPU werken aan structurele oplossing

    In a significant development for Suriname’s education sector, the Scientific Staff Union of Anton de Kom University (VWPU) has emerged from productive negotiations with President Jennifer Simons with renewed optimism. The Wednesday meeting at the Presidential Cabinet marked a resumption of dialogue after a period of stalled communications, focusing on systemic challenges within higher education.

    Led by VWPU Chairman Aroenprekash Badal, a physics professor and faculty coordinator, the union delegation engaged in what both sides described as open and respectful discussions. President Simons provided comprehensive context regarding the nation’s current socioeconomic difficulties while union representatives detailed the specific concerns affecting academic staff members.

    A crucial outcome of the meeting was the establishment of a clear timeline for resolution. President Simons formally requested the union to submit concrete proposals in the immediate term, with both parties committing to achieve definitive solutions to existing problems by March 2026. This deadline creates a structured framework for addressing long-standing issues that have affected the university’s academic community.

    Following the presidential engagement, the VWPU has initiated internal consultations with its membership to develop a unified position and craft proposals that address both immediate concerns and long-term structural improvements. The renewed dialogue represents a positive step toward stabilizing Suriname’s higher education system amid broader national challenges.

  • Employers urged to adopt sign language in the workplace

    Employers urged to adopt sign language in the workplace

    Barbados is spearheading a transformative workplace inclusion initiative, with government officials and disability advocates urging employers to integrate sign language training as a standard organizational requirement. The campaign gained momentum during a specialized Disability Sensitivity Training session hosted by the Ministry of Labour, Social Security and Third Sector in collaboration with the United Nations, held Wednesday at Courtyard by Marriott in Hastings, Christ Church.

    Minister Colin Jordan articulated a strategic vision for organizational accessibility, proposing that sign language proficiency should mirror established workplace safety protocols. “Similar to CPR and first-aid requirements, we need designated staff members equipped with sign language skills across all departments,” Jordan emphasized. He clarified that while universal training remains impractical, creating communication access points through trained personnel is both feasible and essential.

    The training session revealed profound communication challenges facing the deaf community, with Barbados Council for the Disabled representative Heather Gazette-Corbin detailing the isolating nature of hearing impairment. “Hearing loss creates profound isolation—individuals experience internal struggles they cannot verbally express,” she explained, noting critical safety implications including limited emergency service access.

    Gazette-Corbin addressed prevalent misconceptions, clarifying terminology preferences within the community: “deaf” for congenital hearing loss and “hard of hearing” for acquired conditions, while strongly discouraging outdated terms like “dumb.” She dismantled the myth of lip-reading reliability, demonstrating how even common phrases can be misinterpreted without contextual clues.

    The presentation introduced the concept of the “deaf nod”—a social adaptation where individuals pretend comprehension to avoid disruption—and provided practical communication guidelines including maintained eye contact, clear visual access to mouths, and information rephrasing.

    Addressing safety concerns frequently cited by employers, Gazette-Corbin presented counterintuitive findings: “Deaf individuals often detect emergencies through vibrations and visual cues before hearing colleagues become aware. Fire alarms can be supplemented with flashing light systems that benefit all employees, especially as age-related hearing decline occurs.”

    The representative concluded with compelling testimony about workplace capabilities: “Deaf employees demonstrate exceptional commitment and productivity when provided appropriate accommodations. Their performance consistently exceeds expectations when communication barriers are removed.”

    This training initiative represents a cornerstone in Barbados’ broader strategy to implement inclusive employment practices, with additional sensitization sessions planned nationwide to improve accessibility for people with disabilities.

  • AG police chief gives kudos to police for illegal firearm progress, general updates

    AG police chief gives kudos to police for illegal firearm progress, general updates

    Dominica’s law enforcement authorities have achieved significant breakthroughs in their intensified campaign against illegal firearms, with Acting Police Chief Lincoln Corbette announcing the recovery of 12 weapons within just one month of establishing a specialized Firearms Task Force.

    During a recent press conference detailing police accomplishments for 2025, Corbette revealed that the specially created unit has been operating ‘quietly but effectively’ since its formation. The seized arsenal includes high-powered rifles and military-grade weaponry, with one notable case resulting in five rifles being confiscated simultaneously.

    In a particularly significant seizure, authorities recovered an Uzi submachine gun alongside three pistols and a shotgun from a single individual, who has since been brought before the courts for sentencing. All weapons were confirmed to be unlicensed, highlighting the serious nature of these violations.

    Corbette emphasized the police department’s unwavering commitment to eradicating illegal firearms from Dominican society: ‘We will go after the firearms, wherever they are. Wherever in the country they are, we’ll go after them. Because we are not used to this callous use of firearms in Dominica. And we won’t relent until such time that we get rid of these firearms.’

    The police chief also reported substantial progress in addressing other public safety concerns, noting a ‘significant reduction’ in reported theft, burglaries, and vagrancy within the Roseau area. These improvements are attributed to strategic operations including ‘Operation Clean Streets’ and the ongoing ‘Operation Safe DA,’ which have collectively removed numerous illicit firearms from criminal elements.

    Complementing these efforts, authorities have intensified community policing initiatives and removed 160 derelict vehicles islandwide. Corbette issued a final warning to residents in the Kingshill area regarding tagged vehicles scheduled for removal before Christmas.

    Additional security measures include enhanced police patrols in urban centers, with increased officer presence in Roseau and Portsmouth during the holiday season to ensure public safety and reduce crime-related anxieties.

  • GOCA celebrates completion of Animation and Multimedia Masterclasses

    GOCA celebrates completion of Animation and Multimedia Masterclasses

    Grenada is strategically positioning its creative talent for global opportunities following the successful conclusion of specialized animation and multimedia training. The Grenada Office of Creative Affairs (GOCA) hosted a closing ceremony on December 12th for its “In Motion and In Focus” masterclasses, marking a significant investment in the nation’s creative economy.

    Implemented in collaboration with Ghana’s AnimaxFYB Studios, the intensive program provided comprehensive hands-on training in photography, videography, livestreaming, and animation techniques. Francis Y Brown, founder of AnimaxFYB Studios and lead instructor, emphasized the global context of this initiative: “The creative economy contributes over $2.2 trillion to global GDP and employs more than 30 million people worldwide. Animation, multimedia and digital content represent among the fastest growing segments, with the global animation industry projected to surpass $500 billion by 2030.”

    Brown articulated the program’s mission: “We arrived in Grenada with a clear objective to equip its citizens with world-class creative skills and position them to participate in a rapidly expanding global industry, ensuring Grenada’s talent is not excluded from this growth.”

    The program’s effectiveness was demonstrated through two substantial student projects. The multimedia class produced “The Last Jab,” showcasing their acquired skills in scripting, directing, and cinematography. Simultaneously, the animation class created “Oil Down Animals,” an original animated piece of cultural significance that Brown noted “demonstrates that with proper guidance, Grenadian talent can meet and exceed competitive standards.”

    Participant Milissa Thomas expressed gratitude to both the instructors and GOCA, stating: “We entered this programme as individuals, but we are walking away as animators, filmmakers and storytellers. We discovered skills, confidence and a sense of direction many of us did not know we needed. Opportunities like this aren’t just training—they are building blocks for an industry that will shape the future of Grenadian artists.”

    The government reinforced its commitment through tangible support. Orlando Roman, Advisor for the Creative Economy, announced: “Each graduate of this programme will receive a grant to assist with the acquisition of essential tools, including software and other equipment, enabling continued development of their work.”

    Senator the Hon. Adrian Thomas, Minister for Tourism, Creative Economy and Culture, congratulated graduates while emphasizing their role in Grenada’s creative future: “The future of animation, digital media and creative technology in Grenada is bright and begins with you. Let us continue to unlock industries that were once unimaginable in our small island, but which now represent our greatest potential.”

  • AKTA announces plans for awarded grant, to strengthen ecosystem restoration and community livelihoods in Castle Bruce

    AKTA announces plans for awarded grant, to strengthen ecosystem restoration and community livelihoods in Castle Bruce

    The Anse Kouanari Tourism Association (AKTA) has unveiled comprehensive plans for a groundbreaking environmental initiative funded by the Dominica National Conservation Trust Fund. Titled “Building Capacity for Ecosystem Restoration in the Castle Bruce District,” the project represents a significant investment in community-led conservation efforts supported by multiple international partners including the Caribbean Biodiversity Fund, CUSO International, and the Government of Canada.

    This strategically located initiative targets the biodiverse yet vulnerable Castle Bruce District, situated adjacent to both the Kalinago Territory and the Morne Trois Pitons National Park. The region faces mounting environmental pressures including land degradation, climate change impacts, and diminishing native plant populations. The project directly addresses these challenges through a multi-faceted approach centered on ecological restoration and community empowerment.

    The comprehensive program encompasses four primary components scheduled to commence in the coming weeks. First, extensive training sessions will equip up to 25 participants—including local farmers, community residents, and agricultural students—with advanced skills in plant propagation techniques such as budding, grafting, and nursery management. Second, educational resources will be developed including a visually accessible pictorial guide documenting native, indigenous, and pollinator-friendly agroforestry species.

    Third, the establishment of three specialized nurseries will form the project’s productive backbone. These facilities will be managed by a woman farmer, the Castle Bruce Secondary School, and a local model farm, collectively producing hundreds of native plants for reforestation and soil stabilization. Fourth, a community-wide agroforestry planting initiative will be implemented with ongoing mentorship and monitoring systems to ensure long-term viability.

    Project organizers anticipate substantial environmental and socioeconomic benefits including enhanced pollinator habitats, improved soil stability, increased availability of native plant species, and strengthened community capacity in sustainable agriculture practices. The initiative also creates new livelihood opportunities in nursery management and agroforestry, building upon AKTA’s previous successful beekeeping programs to integrate apiculture with broader conservation objectives.

    AKTA will collaborate with key institutional partners including Dominica’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy; the Forestry, Wildlife and Parks Division; the National Beekeepers Cooperative Society; and educational institutions. Project Manager Naomi Bannis-Sampson expressed gratitude for the funding, stating: “This enables us to grow knowledge, grow trees, and grow opportunities for communities across the Castle Bruce District,” highlighting the transformative potential of this community-driven conservation investment.

  • Vaktrainingen geven nieuwe kansen aan inwoners van Albina

    Vaktrainingen geven nieuwe kansen aan inwoners van Albina

    Seventy-five residents of Albina, Suriname, have achieved a significant milestone toward economic self-sufficiency after completing nine months of intensive vocational training. The certificate awarding ceremony, held Tuesday at the VOJ-school in Albina, showcased the tangible outcomes of the “Wroko Fu Mek Moni” project, which equips participants with practical skills to generate independent income.

    The comprehensive training program covered diverse trades including textile crafts, electrical and home installation, assistant hairdressing and barbering, and assistant construction works. This initiative is implemented by the Labor Mobilization and Development Foundation (SAO), an operational arm of the Ministry of Health, Welfare, and Labor (VWA), specifically targeting the enhancement of self-reliance and employment prospects in district communities.

    President Jennifer Simons, who attended the closing ceremony, expressed strong appreciation for the project’s concrete achievements. Female participants presented self-made clothing items, while other graduates demonstrated their skills by repairing the school’s entrance gate and constructing a collection basin. The Head of State emphasized that investing in vocational skills directly contributes to production capabilities and income generation opportunities.

    Simons highlighted that while Suriname’s developing oil and gas sector presents new economic opportunities, it remains essential for citizens to acquire relevant skills to provide services within and around this industry. “During this government term, we aim to transition people from poverty to welfare through production. This requires craftsmanship and creativity,” she stated. The President encouraged graduates to further develop their acquired knowledge and announced that the Foundation for Productive Work Units will provide additional entrepreneurial training for those interested in starting businesses.

    Along with their certificates, all successful participants received starter kits containing essential tools to practice their trades immediately. VWA Vice Minister Raj Jadnanansing urged graduates to become project ambassadors who motivate others to enroll. He also announced that VWA and SAO will soon organize awareness campaigns in Albina and surrounding areas, focusing on educating youth about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse.

    District Commissioner Marvin Vyent of Northeast Marowijne emphasized the importance of such training programs for young people, noting that the district holds significant potential particularly in hospitality, while vocational training creates broader professional opportunities for both employment and self-employment.

    SAO Director Joyce Lapar described the graduation as a milestone achievement, noting that for some participants, this marked the first formal certificate they had ever earned. She expressed gratitude to the business community, National Army, school administration, and the President for their support, stating: “Your presence underscores the importance of vocational training, capacity building, and SAO’s role in this process. We greatly appreciate this recognition.”

  • Car crashes into tree on Friars Hill Road

    Car crashes into tree on Friars Hill Road

    Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation into a vehicular incident that occurred on Friars Hill Road near the ABS area, where a Suzuki Ignis departed from the roadway and collided with a tree. The vehicle sustained significant damage to its frontal structure during the impact.

    Remarkably, the solitary driver emerged from the collision completely unscathed, requiring no medical intervention despite the substantial damage to the vehicle. Preliminary assessments from law enforcement indicate the automobile veered off the traveling lane prior to making contact with the tree, though the precise circumstances leading to the deviation remain undetermined as the inquiry continues.

    This incident marks the second collision at this specific location within a remarkably short timeframe of just over thirty days, raising questions about potential road safety issues in this particular stretch of Friars Hill Road. Traffic division officials are examining multiple factors including road conditions, visibility, and driver behavior that might contribute to repeated incidents at this site.

  • Concrete Truck Accident on Buckley’s Line

    Concrete Truck Accident on Buckley’s Line

    Emergency services were dispatched to Buckley’s Line following a significant traffic incident involving a heavy-duty concrete transport vehicle and a critical utility structure. The collision, which occurred earlier today, resulted in substantial damage to an electrical pole, raising immediate concerns for public safety and potential service disruptions in the surrounding area.

    Preliminary reports from first responders indicate the specialized commercial vehicle, carrying a full load of ready-mix concrete, veered off course and made direct impact with the power infrastructure. The force of the impact caused visible structural compromise to the pole, though the full extent of the damage to both the vehicle and electrical systems remains under assessment by authorities.

    Utility crews from the local power provider were quickly on scene to evaluate the integrity of the electrical infrastructure and initiate necessary repairs. Traffic management units implemented temporary diversions to facilitate emergency response operations and ensure the safety of motorists while cleanup and investigation procedures continued.

    No injuries have been reported at this time, though the incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards associated with heavy vehicle operations in areas with above-ground utility installations. An official investigation into the precise circumstances leading to the collision has been initiated by relevant transportation authorities.