Carib Scope

分类： society

  • WATCH: Government Invests Up to $30M in Performing Arts Centre

    WATCH: Government Invests Up to $30M in Performing Arts Centre

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne announced a significant $30 million investment in Antigua and Barbuda’s national Performing Arts Centre during his Saturday appearance on the Browne and Browne show, revealing the project has entered its final development phase with September completion targets.

    The substantial cultural infrastructure project, funded through actual cash allocations already positioned at National Housing rather than theoretical commitments, represents a strategic pivot toward integrating artistic excellence with tourism development. Approximately $12 million has been deployed in recent months specifically for retrofitting the former Deluxe Cinema facility, with total investment projected to reach $25-30 million upon full completion.

    Beyond the main performance venue, the government plans to acquire an adjacent structure to establish a dedicated training facility for local artists. This comprehensive approach aims to elevate Antigua and Barbuda’s cultural footprint through overseas master classes and specialized artistic development programs.

    The initiative forms part of a broader national strategy to diversify tourism offerings beyond conventional beach attractions by embedding authentic cultural experiences, music, and performance arts into the visitor journey. Prime Minister Browne emphasized the center’s dual purpose: empowering local artists to compete effectively in regional and international markets while forging stronger connections between tourism revenue and creative industries.

    This cultural infrastructure investment positions the Performing Arts Centre as both an artistic hub and economic catalyst, designed to enhance the nation’s cultural prestige while creating sustainable opportunities for creative professionals.

  • LETTER: Alleged Sexual Misconduct and Abuse of Power at Luxury Hotel in Antigua

    LETTER: Alleged Sexual Misconduct and Abuse of Power at Luxury Hotel in Antigua

    The tranquil paradise of Antigua faces a brewing storm as grave allegations surface against a prominent luxury hotel, threatening to tarnish the island’s prestigious tourism reputation. A detailed letter, whose contents have begun circulating within hospitality and local communities, accuses a senior hotel executive of egregious sexual misconduct coupled with a blatant abuse of power.

    According to sources familiar with the matter, the accusations describe a pattern of predatory behavior where the individual allegedly leveraged their authoritative position to target multiple employees. The claims suggest the creation of a hostile work environment where subordinates felt pressured into compliance, with fears of professional retaliation silencing potential whistleblowers.

    The emergence of this letter has ignited urgent conversations about workplace safety and accountability within Antigua’s vital tourism sector. Industry watchdogs and human rights advocates are calling for an immediate, transparent investigation by both hotel ownership and Antiguan authorities. The case highlights the persistent power imbalances that can exist even within high-end hospitality environments, raising critical questions about protective measures for vulnerable workers.

    Local tourism representatives have expressed concern over the potential ramifications for Antigua’s international image as a premier travel destination, emphasizing that such serious allegations must be addressed with utmost seriousness to maintain stakeholder and visitor confidence. The situation remains developing as pressure mounts for an official response and thorough inquiry into the disturbing claims.

  • SVJ 35 jaar: van verdeeldheid naar professionele eenheid in de journalistiek

    SVJ 35 jaar: van verdeeldheid naar professionele eenheid in de journalistiek

    PARAMARIBO – The Suriname Association of Journalists (SVJ) celebrates its 35th anniversary on February 8, marking a transformative journey from deep professional divisions to unified advocacy for press freedom and ethical journalism.

    Founded in 1991 through the visionary efforts of journalist Nita Ramcharan, the SVJ emerged from the dissolution of two rival organizations: the Surinamese Journalists Circle (SJK) and the Association of Progressive Media Workers (VPM). This consolidation ended years of ideological conflict that had paralyzed collective action for journalists’ rights.

    The association’s creation responded to a dark period in Surinamese media history. The 1980s witnessed severe press suppression, including the 1982 murder of five journalists, arson attacks on Radio ABC, Radio Radika, and newspaper De Vrije Stem, followed by widespread censorship and media bans. These events created an atmosphere of fear and distrust that drove many journalists to flee the country.

    Under Ramcharan’s pioneering leadership as first chairperson, the SVJ established itself as an independent professional body committed to transcending political divides through journalistic ethics, professionalism, and press freedom advocacy.

    Over three decades, the SVJ has evolved into a cornerstone institution within Suriname’s media landscape, consistently defending journalists—members and non-members alike—against pressure campaigns while serving as a crucial dialogue partner with authorities.

    Current SVJ Chair Naomi Hoever, a 19-year journalism veteran who has led the organization for two years, identifies new challenges in the digital era. “With the emergence of social media, many now consider themselves journalists, threatening to overshadow the work of true professionals,” Hoever told Starnieuws.

    In response, the SVJ has initiated a landmark accreditation system to distinguish professional journalists. An accreditation committee comprising former SVJ chairs Wilfred Leeuwin (chair), Nita Ramcharan, and Ivan Cairo will distribute the first official press badges during anniversary celebrations to members meeting professional criteria.

    This accreditation represents more than administrative formalities—it establishes a quality marker identifying who practices journalism according to professional standards versus those who don’t. The initiative aims to restore authority, credibility, and respect for the profession amid growing concerns about misinformation, opinion disguised as news, and uncontrolled online publications.

    Thirty-five years after its founding, the SVJ again stands at a crossroads: where it once bridged ideological divisions, it now guards professional quality, maintaining that free, professional journalism remains indispensable to Suriname’s democratic institutions.

  • Follow-up A 13-year-old boy who had been reported missing in La Guáyiga has been found safe and sound.

    Follow-up A 13-year-old boy who had been reported missing in La Guáyiga has been found safe and sound.

    Authorities in the Dominican Republic have successfully concluded a search operation for a missing adolescent, culminating in the youth’s safe return to family custody. The National Police’s Department of Search for Missing Persons (Dicrim) confirmed the successful resolution of the case involving a 13-year-old who had been unaccounted for since February 4, 2026.

    Law enforcement officials located the minor on the morning of February 7, 2026, at a private residence in the La Guáyiga sector of Santo Domingo Oeste municipality. The identity of the teenager remains protected under legal confidentiality provisions standard for juvenile cases.

    Police investigation revealed that the youth had voluntarily remained with acquaintances and relatives during the absence from home. The operation was initiated following a formal complaint filed by the adolescent’s mother, which enabled investigators to track the individual’s whereabouts through systematic follow-up procedures.

    Initial assessments confirmed the teenager’s physical and mental wellbeing upon discovery. The case has been officially closed after the minor was transferred to familial guardians in accordance with standard protective protocols.

    The National Police emphasized their ongoing dedication to handling missing persons cases with expediency and professional competence, particularly those involving minors. The institution reaffirmed its protocol of maintaining sensitivity while ensuring comprehensive protection and rights preservation for vulnerable populations during such operations.

  • Mentally ill man who made gun in 2024 charged with firearm possession again

    Mentally ill man who made gun in 2024 charged with firearm possession again

    A 27-year-old man with documented mental health issues has been ordered to undergo psychiatric evaluation following his second arrest on firearms-related charges within an 18-month period. Kesroy Williams of Belair, East St George, was taken into custody on Thursday after police allegedly discovered two firearms and three rounds of ammunition in his possession without proper licensing.

    Law enforcement officials reported seizing a prohibited weapon, a modified .32 caliber firearm, and corresponding ammunition during what they described as a coordinated intelligence-led operation. This incident marks the latest development in Williams’ ongoing legal and mental health struggles.

    Williams’ previous encounter with the justice system occurred in July 2024 when he pleaded guilty to possessing a .38 pistol and ammunition. During court proceedings that December, he revealed his unusual craftsmanship—having constructed a functional firearm using scrap metal, an umbrella spring, epoxy, and screws. Despite the ingenuity noted by Senior Magistrate Colin John, who encouraged Williams to channel his talents into legal pursuits, the defendant served four months on remand followed by a seven-month prison sentence with an additional three-month concurrent term for ammunition possession.

    The current charges involve more serious allegations, including possession of a prohibited weapon category that civilians are typically barred from owning under any circumstances. Police emphasized the significance of this seizure in their public statement, noting that “each illegal weapon seized reduces the potential for serious harm within communities.”

    Following his appearance at the Mesopotamia Magistrate Court on Friday, Williams was remanded to the Mental Health Centre for a two-week observational assessment. The case has been adjourned until February 20 and will be transferred to the Serious Offences Court for further proceedings.

    Authorities have reiterated their commitment to combating illegal firearms trafficking and encouraged public vigilance, stating that citizen reports remain crucial to successful operations against weapon-related crimes.

  • Man found unresponsive with apparent gunshot wound

    Man found unresponsive with apparent gunshot wound

    Law enforcement authorities in St. Vincent and the Grenadines are investigating a fatal shooting in the Diamond/Brighton community, marking the nation’s fifth homicide within the first weeks of the year. Police were dispatched following reports of an unresponsive male victim presenting apparent gunshot wounds, though official identification remains pending pending family notifications.

    The incident occurred merely 24 hours after the country recorded its fourth homicide, creating a disturbing pattern of violent deaths. This recent violence follows the fatal shooting of Mesopotamia resident Kevin Richards, locally known as Masicka, who was killed on Friday evening. Richards’ death represented the third homicide recorded within a consecutive three-week period, signaling a concerning escalation in violent crime across the island nation.

    Local communities have expressed growing apprehension as the homicide count rapidly approaches numbers typically recorded over entire calendar years. Law enforcement officials have intensified patrols and investigative efforts while urging community cooperation to address the surge in violence. The consecutive nature of these incidents has prompted discussions about underlying social factors and potential organized crime elements contributing to the spike in deadly altercations.

    Authorities have characterized this as an ongoing investigation with multiple active leads. iWitness News continues to monitor developments and will provide updates as official information becomes available through proper channels. The Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force has appealed to the public for any relevant information that might assist their investigations into these connected violent incidents.

  • COE maintains four provinces on green alert due to cold front

    COE maintains four provinces on green alert due to cold front

    The Dominican Republic’s Emergency Operations Center (COE) has escalated its national alert system in response to an advancing cold front affecting multiple regions. Four provinces—Espaillat, María Trinidad Sánchez, Samaná, and Hato Mayor—have been placed under official green alert status due to anticipated hazardous weather conditions.

    According to COE protocols, a green alert signifies that meteorological characteristics predict a potentially dangerous event for the population, whether partial or comprehensive in scope. This precautionary measure comes as the Dominican Institute of Meteorology (Indomet) forecasts continued scattered showers throughout the day across seventeen provinces, including Puerto Plata, Hermanas Mirabal, Monte Plata, and Greater Santo Domingo.

    Indomet has issued specific warnings to maritime operators, advising fragile and small-to-medium-sized vessels to exercise extreme caution along coastal perimeters. The agency strongly recommends against sea ventures due to prevailing strong winds and abnormal wave patterns. The meteorological institute emphasizes that these conditions pose significant risks to coastal navigation and marine activities.

    The coordinated response between emergency management and meteorological agencies highlights the government’s proactive approach to weather-related threats. The alert system activation enables local authorities to implement preventive measures and mobilize resources in vulnerable areas, potentially mitigating the impact of the ongoing weather phenomenon on communities and economic activities.

  • Start ATC-opleiding voor versterking luchtvaart

    Start ATC-opleiding voor versterking luchtvaart

    Suriname’s Ministry of Transport, Communication, and Tourism (TCT) has inaugurated a specialized Air Traffic Controller (ATC) training program under the Basic Air Traffic Services (BATS) framework, marking a significant advancement in the nation’s aviation infrastructure. The initiative, launched on Friday, represents a strategic investment in enhancing safety protocols, operational continuity, and professional excellence within both domestic and international air transport systems.

    Thirteen candidates with prior practical experience in aviation operations have been selected for this comprehensive training curriculum. The Civil Aviation Safety Authority Suriname (CASAS) will oversee the entire program and conduct final assessments to certify participants’ mastery of essential knowledge and technical competencies. Successful graduates will qualify as Tower Controllers, with clear pathways for career progression to full Air Traffic Controller roles.

    Transport Minister Raymond Landveld emphasized during the opening ceremony that human capital development is fundamental to building a resilient and secure aviation industry. He noted that effective air traffic management is critical for supporting key economic sectors—including tourism, oil and gas, medical evacuations, and international connectivity—while also strengthening global confidence in Suriname’s airspace integrity.

    Concurrently, the ministry is advancing training for Aeronautical Information Services personnel, aligning with stringent International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. These efforts collectively aim to bolster the international reputation and operational credibility of Suriname’s aviation sector, reinforcing its commitment to world-class safety and efficiency.

  • “I Just Saw Him Yesterday”: Family Grieves “Sparrow” After Dangriga Shooting

    “I Just Saw Him Yesterday”: Family Grieves “Sparrow” After Dangriga Shooting

    The coastal community of Dangriga is grappling with the tragic loss of a cherished resident following a fatal shooting incident on Friday evening. Bernaldo Gorosica, affectionately known throughout the town as ‘Sparrow,’ was killed in the Riverside area, sending shockwaves through this tight-knit Belizean community.

    Gorosica, remembered as a perpetually cheerful fisherman from the Salty Dog neighborhood, was described by those who knew him as a beacon of positivity. His cousin, who spoke with local media through tears, painted a portrait of a man whose infectious smile and vibrant personality touched everyone he encountered. ‘He was a cool person, always happy, full of vibes, always had a big smile on his face,’ she recounted emotionally.

    The victim’s sudden and violent death has left his family, including his two sons, devastated. The emotional impact is particularly profound given that many relatives had interacted with Gorosica mere hours before the tragedy. His cousin revealed the heartbreaking detail that she had exchanged greetings with him just one day prior to the shooting, making the loss even more difficult to process.

    Local law enforcement authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. While police continue to pursue leads and evidence, the community focuses on mourning a man whose presence defined the character of his neighborhood. The incident has raised concerns about public safety in the area, though official details regarding potential suspects or motives remain undisclosed as the investigation progresses.

  • Social Security director urges self-employed individuals to register with the department

    Social Security director urges self-employed individuals to register with the department

    The Director of the Dominica Social Security (DSS), Janice Jean-Jacques Thomas, has issued a compelling appeal to the nation’s self-employed workforce, urging immediate registration with the national social security system to secure future welfare benefits. Emphasizing the critical need for personal financial planning, Thomas highlighted a concerning trend where individuals neglect to make provisions for their later years yet expect support upon reaching retirement age or becoming unable to work.

    Thomas articulated the core principle of the social security system as a mechanism for ensuring personal independence through compulsory savings. “By making the modest sacrifice of regular contributions during your productive years, you guarantee financial compensation from DSS when your earning capacity diminishes,” she stated, framing the system as a foundational pillar for retirement security rather than an optional expense.

    In parallel, the DSS Director issued a crucial advisory to all salaried employees, encouraging them to proactively verify their contribution status. Thomas clarified that observing a social security deduction on one’s payslip does not automatically confirm the remittance of those funds to the DSS. She strongly recommended that employees periodically visit DSS offices to conduct official checks, ensuring their employers are fully compliant with contribution payments on their behalf.

    This dual-focus outreach underscores a broader governmental effort to strengthen the social safety net by expanding coverage and enforcing compliance, thereby safeguarding citizens against financial insecurity in old age or incapacity.