Carib Scope

分类： society

  • Govt ‘lighting up’ playing fields – sports minister

    Govt ‘lighting up’ playing fields – sports minister

    The Barbadian government is executing a comprehensive national strategy to enhance community sports infrastructure through an extensive field lighting initiative. Minister of Sports and Community Empowerment, Charles Griffith, announced the program’s details during the ongoing Parliamentary Estimates debate on Friday, emphasizing its role in broadening sports participation at the grassroots level.

    Minister Griffith, responding to inquiries from government backbencher William Duguid, revealed that the systematic program has already seen several locations retrofitted with new lighting systems and decayed poles replaced. The initiative specifically targets state-owned playing fields, though the government acknowledges the need to extend lighting to certain non-state facilities, such as the YMCA’s dedicated football field.

    “Our methodical approach ensures we will systematically reach all fields,” Griffith stated from Parliament. “This lighting initiative represents a fundamental strategy for sports development by enabling greater community involvement. By broadening the base of our sports pyramid, we create opportunities for raw talent to emerge and excel.”

    Despite ambitious plans, budget limitations have presented challenges. Nicholas Matthias, Senior Superintendent of Works at the National Sports Council, identified seven locations that require completion outside the original project scope: Ignatius Byer Primary School and Crab Hill (both in St Lucy), YMPC on Beckles Road, Queen’s Park, The Lodge School in St John, Proute in St Thomas, and Gemswick in St Philip.

    The government is simultaneously addressing community facility needs beyond lighting infrastructure. In response to concerns raised by St James South MP Sandra Husbands regarding community spaces in St James, officials confirmed several potential venues are under consideration, including the former St John the Baptist School on Holders Hill, though final decisions remain pending.

    Chief Community Development Officer John Hollingsworth confirmed budgetary allocations specifically for addressing facility shortages in St James South and St James Central, noting: “We recognize the urgent need for this facility, as the closest community centers currently available are Weston and Eden Lodge, which underscores the significance of this project.”

    Minister Griffith further assured Parliament that maintenance structures are being implemented alongside new installations. The National Sports Council is establishing center management committees at all pavilions to create formal channels for community feedback regarding property and playing field conditions, ensuring sustainable upkeep of the enhanced facilities.

  • Nurses unveil Budget Day wish list

    Nurses unveil Budget Day wish list

    As Barbados prepares for its annual budget announcement, the Barbados Nurses Association (BNA) has outlined urgent priorities requiring government attention and funding. With Minister of Finance Ryan Straughn set to deliver the financial blueprint on Monday afternoon, healthcare professionals await concrete measures addressing long-standing workforce challenges.

    The BNA’s comprehensive agenda centers on three fundamental pillars: finalization of extended leave arrangements, resolution of job evaluation procedures, and expansion of nursing positions across both clinical and educational settings. Association President Dr. Fay Parris confirmed ongoing discussions with government ministries throughout the past year, expressing optimism that budgetary allocations would address these critical needs.

    At the forefront of negotiations is the long-awaited long leave agreement, which would establish clear parameters for extended time off for nursing professionals. The association simultaneously anticipates conclusive outcomes from the protracted job evaluation exercise that will determine appropriate salary structures and career progression pathways.

    Compensation adjustments form another crucial component, with the BNA advocating for significant elevation of entry-level nursing positions from the current Z23 grade to Z16. This recalibration aims to enhance recruitment prospects and recognize the professional demands placed on nursing staff.

    Beyond remuneration concerns, Dr. Parris emphasized the dual need for expanded clinical staffing and reinforced academic capacity. The current shortage of nursing educators threatens the nation’s ability to sustain pipeline development, potentially compromising long-term healthcare delivery. The association seeks budgetary ratification for additional posts that would strengthen both service delivery and educational infrastructure simultaneously.

  • Serial killer gets at least three decades behind bars

    Serial killer gets at least three decades behind bars

    In a landmark ruling that balanced psychiatric considerations with public safety, the Barbados High Court has sentenced Ramario Antonio Roach to life imprisonment for the brutal killings of three individuals during a five-week period in 2018-2019. The now 24-year-old, who was 18 at the time of the crimes, will serve a minimum of 33 years before becoming eligible for release.

    Justice Laurie-Ann Smith-Bovell delivered the sentence following Roach’s admission to manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility. The court accepted psychiatric evidence indicating Roach suffers from schizophrenia and cannabis use disorder, though the judge emphasized his retained awareness and responsibility during the commission of the crimes.

    The victims included Tyrone Austin, 68, murdered on December 18, 2018; Roach’s own mother, Joanne Roach, killed between January 18-21, 2019; and American national Dr. Sarah Sutrina, 68, slain between January 20-22, 2019. Each killing demonstrated exceptional brutality, with the court detailing unprovoked attacks involving rocks, knives, and mutilation.

    In her ruling, Justice Smith-Bovell noted the particular vulnerability of the victims and the calculated nature of the attacks, especially against Dr. Sutrina whom Roach had surveilled and ambushed. The judge referenced psychiatric testimony indicating Roach’s conscious refusal to take medication and his high risk of reoffending.

    Despite the defendant’s last-minute apology and plea for mercy, the court prioritized societal protection. After accounting for time served and guilty pleas, the final sentence mandates concurrent life terms with varying tariffs: 16 years for Austin’s death, 23 years for his mother’s killing, and 33 years for Dr. Sutrina’s murder.

    The court additionally ordered Roach to participate in rehabilitation programs focusing on academic development, vocational skills, and intensive psychotherapy during his incarceration.

    The prosecution was led by Acting Director of Public Prosecutions Alliston Seale SC, while Senior Counsel Andrew Pilgrim represented the defendant in proceedings that have gripped the Caribbean nation.

  • CDPF participates in Literacy Day 2026 by engaging and encouraging youth

    CDPF participates in Literacy Day 2026 by engaging and encouraging youth

    In a significant community outreach effort, officers from the Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force marked Literacy Day 2026 with meaningful educational interactions at local schools. The initiative, part of the department’s broader Community Policing Strategy, featured Corporal George from Castle Bruce Police Station leading inspirational dialogues with students about personal development and positive decision-making.

    During the session, Corporal George delivered a powerful message emphasizing the inherent value of each student’s life as a divine gift, highlighting daily opportunities for educational advancement and personal growth. The officer stressed the fundamental importance of showing respect toward educators, maintaining academic focus, and cultivating practical skills essential for long-term achievement.

    A particularly impactful component of the presentation involved Corporal George employing the creative narrative ‘The Little Blue Seed’ to illustrate profound life principles. This allegorical tale depicted a seed’s developmental journey—breaking through soil barriers toward sunlight—serving as a metaphor for human resilience, persistent effort, and transformational new beginnings.

    The presentation further reinforced crucial themes including making constructive choices, adhering to positive pathways, and embracing spiritual guidance. Additionally, the event served to strengthen child-police relations, with officers explicitly positioning themselves as accessible allies for youth requiring assistance or experiencing fear.

    The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force reaffirmed its dedication to nurturing robust community connections through continued educational programs, mentorship opportunities, and constructive engagement initiatives aimed at youth development.

  • IN CUSTODY of the CDPF: Scott Eddie Florant

    IN CUSTODY of the CDPF: Scott Eddie Florant

    The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (CDPF) has successfully apprehended Scott Eddie Florant, a previously sought individual facing serious criminal charges. Law enforcement officials confirmed his detention following an extensive public manhunt.

    Authorities have extended their gratitude to community members for their vigilant cooperation and ongoing support, which proved instrumental in the successful resolution of this case. The collaborative effort between citizens and police exemplifies the effective partnership necessary for maintaining public safety and judicial order throughout Dominica.

    In an official statement, the CDPF reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to protecting the security and wellbeing of all citizens and residents. The police force emphasized its dedication to pursuing all criminal elements that threaten community harmony.

    For those possessing information regarding criminal activities, the CDPF encourages contact through official channels at telephone number 266-5100 or via Crime Stoppers’ anonymous tip line at 1-800-8477. The department continues to rely on public assistance to effectively combat crime across the nation.

  • Water woes – was the hotel sector caught napping?

    Water woes – was the hotel sector caught napping?

    Saint Lucia is grappling with a severe water scarcity crisis in 2026, driven by climate-induced drought conditions and exacerbated by systemic infrastructure challenges. The situation has prompted high-level governmental and private sector responses, with Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre convening emergency summits to address the nation’s mounting water security concerns.

    The crisis stems from multiple factors: an aging water distribution network managed by the Water and Sewerage Company Inc (WASCO), significant silt accumulation in the critical John Compton Dam, and insufficient water conservation practices nationwide. These vulnerabilities have been amplified by prolonged dry spells predicted for the region.

    Tourism industry leaders are facing particular pressure, with many hoteliers reportedly ignoring previous warnings about water conservation. Dr. James Fletcher, CARICOM climate envoy, had urgently advised the Saint Lucia Hotel and Tourism Association (SLHTA) in 2025 to implement rainwater harvesting systems, noting the absurdity of using expensively treated potable water for toilet flushing while drought conditions worsened.

    SLHTA CEO Noorani Azeez confirmed the sector’s concerning predicament, revealing that some members have already resorted to expensive water trucking solutions. The association is now evaluating multiple contingency strategies, including expanding desalination capabilities, enhancing rainwater capture and storage systems, wastewater recycling for irrigation, and even exploring the possibility of importing water via barges from neighboring territories.

    A significant development emerged from recent cross-sector discussions: the Northern Pipeline Project targeting the Bonne Terre to Gros Islet corridor is scheduled to commence in April 2026. This four-month infrastructure initiative aims to bolster water distribution capacity in Saint Lucia’s densely populated northern region, which serves as a crucial economic hub.

    The SLHTA is simultaneously seeking government incentives for water auditing and conservation investments while acknowledging WASCO’s ongoing efforts to upgrade its facilities. Industry representatives emphasize that their self-funded water security initiatives aim to reduce pressure on public water supplies, ensuring domestic consumers maintain priority access during the ongoing crisis.

  • 4 cops jointly charged get $725,000 bail

    4 cops jointly charged get $725,000 bail

    Four Trinidadian police officers have been released on bail following charges of official misconduct related to the alleged concealment of a loaded firearm. The officers—PCs Mervyn Eligon, Daawuud Mohammed, Alexsi Harripersad, and Akiel Smith—appeared before Master Delicia Bethelmy at the San Fernando High Court on Wednesday, facing accusations of conspiring to pervert the course of justice.

    The case stems from an incident on December 31, 2005, when the officers conducted a late-night search at a property in South Trinidad. During the operation, authorities allege the officers discovered a firearm and ammunition concealed within a black plastic bag inside a garage storage box. Despite this discovery, the officers reportedly filed a false station diary entry indicating no illegal items were found.

    According to police investigations, the officers later created another falsified report claiming they had recovered the firearm during a subsequent operation at the same location. This discrepancy triggered an internal investigation after a formal complaint was filed with the Professional Standards Bureau (PSB) on January 5.

    Following consultation with Director of Public Prosecutions Roger Gaspard, SC, criminal charges were recommended. PC Eligon faces additional charges for falsely claiming he recovered the firearm. The court set bail at TT$275,000 for Eligon and TT$150,000 for each of his colleagues. The case has been adjourned until April 23 for further proceedings.

    The investigation was coordinated by senior police officials including DCP Intelligence and Investigations Natasha George, with supervision from Assistant Superintendent Bacchus and other PSB members. The case highlights ongoing efforts to address police accountability and procedural integrity within Trinidad’s law enforcement system.

  • Gunmen ambush Guerra

    Gunmen ambush Guerra

    In a brazen daylight assassination, prominent Trinidad businessman Danny Guerra, owner of DG Homes real estate company, was fatally shot yesterday afternoon outside his corporate headquarters in Sangre Grande. The meticulously planned attack occurred around 5 p.m. on Oropouche Road as Guerra was preparing to depart from his office.

    According to police reports and CCTV evidence, the 50-year-old entrepreneur had just entered his black Toyota Hilux pickup truck when assailants in a white Nissan Tiida pulled alongside his vehicle. Two masked gunmen emerged from the car and approached Guerra’s driver-side window, firing multiple shots at point-blank range before delivering a final execution-style gunshot to the head.

    Despite immediate efforts by DG Homes employees to transport him for medical attention, Guerra was pronounced dead at Sangre Grande Hospital. Eastern Division Senior Superintendent Christopher Paponette confirmed the investigation is ongoing with no immediate suspects in custody.

    The murder occurs against a complex backdrop of legal controversies. Guerra had recently been released from detention under a state of emergency preventive order that accused him of leading an organized crime gang involved in arms trafficking, money laundering, and illegal quarrying operations. The now-revoked detention order, signed by Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander, had alleged Guerra’s organization planned to assassinate a government minister and escalate gang violence using high-powered firearms.

    Despite these serious allegations, family members remembered Guerra as a community benefactor. His uncle Charles Guerra stated, ‘He helped a lot of people in Sangre Grande and didn’t deserve to die like this,’ noting the businessman had recently shifted his housing projects to more affordable two-bedroom homes to assist local families.

    The killing marks the 68th homicide recorded in Trinidad this year, raising concerns about ongoing criminal violence despite government security measures.

  • Preparations for the May 18th celebration and the qualifications of our Grenadiers

    Preparations for the May 18th celebration and the qualifications of our Grenadiers

    Port-au-Prince, Haiti – In a comprehensive strategy session led by Joseph Innocent, Chief of Staff to Youth, Sports, and Civic Action Minister Pythagore Dumas, Haitian officials outlined ambitious plans for national celebrations and athletic support programs. The high-level meeting focused on two primary objectives: orchestrating successful Flag Day commemorations on May 18, 2026, and coordinating unprecedented support for Haiti’s multiple national football teams competing in various World Cup tournaments.

    The working session brought together directors from across the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Civic Action (MJSAC) to address logistical challenges that hampered previous celebrations. Officials committed to developing a structured project document with detailed budgetary requirements to ensure proper procurement processes and compliance with national standards. This document will be submitted to the Prime Minister’s office for approval.

    Minister Dumas, through his Chief of Staff, emphasized that the Flag Day celebrations must transcend symbolic significance to become a genuinely unifying national event. The initiative aims to mobilize youth and institutions around core civic values and national unity, particularly crucial given Haiti’s ongoing security, economic, and social challenges. The celebrations are strategically positioned to foster a peaceful environment conducive to the general elections scheduled for late 2026.

    Simultaneously, the ministry addressed Haiti’s extraordinary sporting achievements. The nation is preparing for its historic participation in two FIFA World Cups (senior men’s and U-17 men’s) while competing for qualification in three additional tournaments (senior women’s, U-17 women’s, and U-20 men’s). This unprecedented sporting success was described as a phenomenal achievement against substantial odds, given the country’s current climate.

    The MJSAC intends to leverage these events as symbols of national resilience and hope. The coordinated approach seeks to highlight Haitian youth, sports excellence, and civic engagement as fundamental pillars for national renewal during this pivotal period in the nation’s history.

  • Fire destroys Calliaqua Police Station, spreads to bakery (+video)

    Fire destroys Calliaqua Police Station, spreads to bakery (+video)

    A devastating fire engulfed the dilapidated Calliaqua Police Station on Friday night, resulting in the complete collapse of its roof and extensive damage to the two-story structure. The inferno, which also threatened a neighboring bakery, required response from three fire tenders—including an emergency unit from Argyle International Airport—as large crowds gathered behind police cordons in the coastal town.

    While the exact cause and full extent of the destruction remain undetermined at press time, preliminary assessments indicate the wooden flooring and primary structural elements suffered catastrophic damage. The incident occurred while the station remained operational, though no injuries were reported.

    This tragedy follows recent parliamentary revelations by Minister of National Security St. Clair Leacock, who just two months earlier had condemned the deplorable condition of police facilities nationwide. During January 29 budget debates, Leacock specifically highlighted the Calliaqua station’s termite-infested infrastructure, noting that “bed posts go through the floor” and describing working conditions as “squalor” that is “deplorable and depressing.”

    Appointed following the New Democratic Party’s electoral victory on November 27—which ended 25 years of Unity Labour Party governance—Leacock had previously proposed relocating personnel to temporary facilities while pursuing new infrastructure solutions. The fire occurred merely two days before the minister’s scheduled diplomatic visit to Taiwan, where he intended to request vehicle donations to support crime-prevention initiatives.