Carib Scope

分类： society

  • WATCH: Five-year-old injured in Greenvale, Manchester accident

    WATCH: Five-year-old injured in Greenvale, Manchester accident

    MANCHESTER, Jamaica — A severe pedestrian accident involving a five-year-old girl has sparked urgent calls for improved road safety infrastructure in the Greenvale community. The incident occurred on Bethel Street during mid-afternoon hours this past Friday when the young student, returning from school, attempted to cross the roadway.

    The vehicle struck the child, resulting in critical injuries that required immediate emergency medical attention. First responders transported her to Mandeville Regional Hospital where physicians ordered comprehensive diagnostic imaging, including both X-ray and CT scan procedures. Due to equipment availability, portions of the medical evaluation were conducted at nearby Hargreaves Memorial Hospital.

    Family members maintained a vigil at Hargreaves Memorial throughout the evening as medical staff worked to stabilize the child. By 6:00 PM, the patient had been formally admitted to Mandeville Regional Hospital where she remained in serious condition under close medical supervision.

    The tragedy has prompted relatives to formally petition local government representatives for immediate traffic calming measures. Community advocates specifically demand the installation of additional speed bumps—colloquially known as ‘sleeping police’ in Jamaica—to force motorists to reduce velocity through residential areas.

    Law enforcement authorities have initiated a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision. Police officials confirmed they have questioned the driver involved, though no charges have been announced pending completion of the ongoing investigation.

    The incident has highlighted persistent concerns about pedestrian safety in residential zones near schools, with community members emphasizing the urgent need for preventive infrastructure to protect children during peak travel hours.

  • Let’s be clear hair

    Let’s be clear hair

    A renewed controversy over hairstyle regulations at Fyzabad Secondary School in Trinidad has sparked national discourse about cultural discrimination in educational institutions. The school’s administration issued strict grooming guidelines that specifically target traditional Black hairstyles including afros, braids, cornrows, and pineapple buns, deeming them violations of discipline standards.

    The policy mandates three-day suspensions for non-compliance, requiring both students and parents to contemplate the punishment at home. This approach has drawn sharp criticism from education advocates who argue such rules perpetuate post-colonial ideologies and racial bias against the natural hair textures of more than half the country’s population.

    Education Minister Dr. Michael Dowlath has intervened, emphasizing that while schools may establish grooming guidelines, they must never deny children their right to education. The ministry recently stated that all hair policies should be “reasonable, non-discriminatory, respectful of students’ dignity, and consistent with the best interest of the child,” while respecting “cultural identity and personal expression.

    However, confusion persists within the education system. A July 2023 national school code prohibited hairstyles that obstruct views or feature intricate designs, while an October 2023 recommendation suggested schools establish hair policy committees for ministry review.

    The Trinidad and Tobago Unified Teachers Association (TTUTA) and the National Council of Parent Teacher Associations have joined activists in condemning discriminatory regulations. Many reference American R&B singer India Arie’s 2006 anthem “I Am Not My Hair,” which highlighted the damaging psychological effects of hair-based cultural conflicts on Black youth.

    Educators now face increasing pressure to ensure school policies promote inclusion rather than reinforce harmful stereotypes about natural Black hairstyles being associated with indiscipline or lack of professionalism.

  • Freelance journalist shot and killed in Trinidad

    Freelance journalist shot and killed in Trinidad

    TRINIDAD — A brutal assassination has shocked the community of Rio Claro, southeastern Trinidad, after freelance journalist Kellyann Lemessy was murdered in a targeted attack outside her home on Thursday. The 38-year-old mother of three was ambushed by two masked assailants as she arrived at her residence with her two young daughters in the vehicle.

    According to police reports, Lemessy was shot multiple times in the head and body while seated in her car. Investigators believe she heroically shielded her nearly two-year-old child, who was on her lap at the time of the attack. Remarkably, both her toddler and nine-year-old daughter emerged physically unharmed from the horrific incident.

    Lemessy had worked as a correspondent for CNC3 television, building a career in freelance journalism. The killing has raised serious concerns about journalist safety and organized violence in the region.

    This tragedy marks the second violent death in Lemessy’s family within a year. In June 2023, her sister Cassieann was similarly shot and killed in her vehicle near their Mayaro home, with one suspect currently facing charges for that murder.

    Adding to the family’s complex history, Lemessy and another sister were previously charged with causing grievous bodily harm to their brother after an alleged boiling water attack. They had been released on bail of TT$200,000 (approximately US$32,000) pending trial.

    Authorities are actively investigating possible motives behind the killing, including potential connections to her journalistic work, the previous family violence case, or her sister’s unsolved murder. The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service has vowed to prioritize the investigation amid growing public concern about violence against women and media professionals.

  • Good Deeds organisation to launch 2026 national programme

    Good Deeds organisation to launch 2026 national programme

    Saint Lucia is set to officially inaugurate its 2026 Good Deeds Day program with a national launch ceremony scheduled for January 24, 2026. The event will take place at the Finance Administrative Centre from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., marking the beginning of a year-long campaign promoting social responsibility and community engagement.

    This global movement, dedicated to inspiring acts of kindness and civic participation, finds strong representation in Saint Lucia where local organizers have consistently mobilized citizens, organizations, and communities toward positive national impact. The launch ceremony will serve as a strategic gathering point for media representatives, program coordinators, and key stakeholders to unveil the comprehensive 2026 National Good Deeds Day Calendar of Activities.

    The detailed calendar will outline a structured series of initiatives designed to encourage volunteerism, community service, and active citizenship across the island nation throughout the coming year. According to program organizers, the ceremony will feature concise presentations highlighting targeted national initiatives while announcing specific opportunities for public involvement. This structured approach aims to create a coordinated framework for sustainable social impact rather than isolated charitable acts.

    The Good Deeds Day movement has gained international recognition as a transformative force in promoting social cohesion and community development. Saint Lucia’s participation reflects a growing commitment to organized philanthropy and structured volunteerism as essential components of national development.

  • Animal welfare advocates demand answers from Royalton Antigua over missing dogs

    Animal welfare advocates demand answers from Royalton Antigua over missing dogs

    A growing controversy surrounds Royalton Antigua Resort as animal welfare organizations intensify pressure regarding the unexplained disappearance of a canine mother and her litter allegedly born on the property. The advocacy group Dogs and Cats of Antigua has mobilized supporters to stage a noon demonstration at the resort’s entrance, featuring visible signage to amplify their concerns about animal welfare transparency.

    The organized protest aims to engage both local residents and international tourists, urging broader public awareness and corporate accountability. Activists emphasize that hospitality establishments operating in ecologically sensitive regions bear heightened responsibility for protecting vulnerable wildlife on their premises. The campaign has gained traction through social media channels, with advocates encouraging potential visitors to reconsider their patronage until the resort addresses these animal welfare allegations.

    Despite multiple attempts by journalists and animal rights organizations to obtain clarification, Royalton Antigua’s management has maintained complete silence regarding the allegations. This absence of official communication has further fueled concerns about the resort’s animal welfare policies and commitment to ethical environmental stewardship. The situation highlights ongoing tensions between commercial tourism development and animal protection efforts in Caribbean destinations, particularly regarding the treatment of stray animal populations in resort areas.

  • Man dead at Fitts Village, St James

    Man dead at Fitts Village, St James

    Authorities in St James are investigating a fatal incident that occurred in the Fitts Village area, resulting in the death of an adult male. Preliminary reports from law enforcement indicate the victim was working as a public transportation conductor at the time of the incident.

    Barbados Police Service personnel have secured the scene and initiated a comprehensive investigation to determine the circumstances leading to the tragedy. While specific details regarding the nature of the incident remain undisclosed, officials have confirmed the presence of law enforcement at the location conducting inquiries.

    The investigation remains in its early stages as detectives work to establish a complete timeline of events and gather forensic evidence. Police authorities have indicated that additional information will be released to the public as the investigation progresses and more facts are established.

    This incident marks another concerning development in the region’s public safety landscape, with transportation workers particularly vulnerable to occupational hazards. The community awaits further clarification from official sources regarding the precise cause and circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event.

  • Knock off Round of Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition kicks off today

    Knock off Round of Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition kicks off today

    The 2026 Inter-Secondary Schools Debating Competition launched its preliminary round on Thursday, January 22nd, initiating the annual intellectual contest that showcases Dominica’s brightest secondary students. Organized by Trudy Christian, the event commenced at the Dominica State College Upper Campus with six institutions debating critical societal issues.

    The opening session featured Orion Academy, Isaiah Thomas Secondary School, Wesley High School, St. Mary’s Academy, Convent High School, and Arthur Waldron Seventh-Day Adventist Academy engaging with the motion: “Local communities should have veto power over projects that significantly affect their environment.” This environmentally-focused debate addressed community rights and environmental governance.

    Friday’s schedule will see Castle Bruce Secondary School, St. Martin Secondary School, and Portsmouth Secondary School debating the proposition: “The legal driving age in Dominica should be lowered to increase youth independence and national productivity.” This discussion will examine transportation policy, youth empowerment, and economic development considerations.

    Competition format mandates that only seven of the nine participating schools will advance to Round Two, where they will challenge defending champions Dominica Grammar School. The selection process prioritizes top-scoring institutions based on argumentation quality, research depth, and presentation skills.

    Event organizer Trudy Christian expressed enthusiasm for both live attendance and digital viewership, noting: “We encourage spectators to join us at the Dominica State College or watch via live stream on Dominica News Online and Emo News.” The afternoon sessions begin at 2:00 PM, offering multiple access points for public engagement.

    Christian extended particular appreciation to primary sponsor Josephine Gabriel & Co. Ltd., emphasizing that their sustained support “is vital in fostering youth involvement and promoting meaningful national dialogue.” This sponsorship enables the continuation of a tradition that develops critical thinking and public speaking skills among Dominican youth.

  • Natacki Goodwin-Roberts Fined $6,500 for Driving Without Licence or Insurance

    Natacki Goodwin-Roberts Fined $6,500 for Driving Without Licence or Insurance

    A Barbadian woman from Freeman’s Village faces severe financial and legal consequences after being convicted of multiple driving offenses while transporting an infant. Natacki Goodwin-Roberts, 29, admitted guilt to operating a vehicle without a valid driver’s license and without proper insurance coverage during a recent court proceeding.

    Chief Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel delivered the judicial ruling, imposing substantial penalties totaling $6,500 in fines. The court mandated complete payment within a strict six-month timeframe. Failure to satisfy the financial penalty will result in significant incarceration terms—nine months imprisonment for the unlicensed driving charge and an additional four-month sentence for the insurance violation.

    The case emerged after law enforcement officials intercepted Goodwin-Roberts during routine traffic monitoring. Authorities noted the particularly concerning circumstance of an infant being present in the vehicle during the unlawful operation, adding gravity to the regulatory violations.

    This judicial decision underscores Barbados’ stringent approach to traffic regulation enforcement, particularly when minor passengers are involved. The dual penalty structure—combining substantial financial consequences with potential imprisonment—demonstrates the legal system’s serious stance on unlicensed and uninsured driving offenses.

  • Cadean Tonge Fined $800 for Dangerous Driving on All Saints Road

    Cadean Tonge Fined $800 for Dangerous Driving on All Saints Road

    A resident of Briggins has been sentenced for reckless driving after executing a perilous overtaking maneuver that put multiple road users at risk. Cadean Tonge appeared in court on Wednesday, where he admitted to charges of dangerous driving on All Saints Road.

    The court heard that Tonge overtook four stationary vehicles and an emergency ambulance in a single dangerous maneuver, creating what police described as a significant hazard to public safety. The incident prompted immediate law enforcement response due to the extreme nature of the violation.

    Magistrates handed down an $800 financial penalty against Tonge, while also issuing a stern warning about the consequences of repeat offenses. The defendant received a substantial reduction in his fine—approximately one-third—for entering an early guilty plea, which the court acknowledged as demonstrating responsibility for his actions.

    The sentencing includes a strict 14-day payment window, after which Tonge faces alternative custodial sentencing of up to 30 days imprisonment for non-payment. Local authorities have emphasized that this case serves as a reminder about the serious consequences of endangering public safety through reckless driving behaviors.

  • Labor Ministry reminds Duarte Day holiday remains on January 26

    Labor Ministry reminds Duarte Day holiday remains on January 26

    SANTO DOMINGO – In a definitive administrative declaration, the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Labor has confirmed that the national holiday honoring founding father Juan Pablo Duarte will be strictly observed on its fixed calendar date of Monday, January 26, 2026, with no provision for a movable long weekend.

    The official communiqué from the ministry explicitly stated that the workforce is mandated to resume normal operations on Tuesday, January 27. This directive, grounded in the nation’s Holiday Act (Law 139-97), is binding for all commercial enterprises and public sector institutions across the country without exception.

    Furthermore, the ministry issued a critical reminder to the business community regarding compensation protocols for holiday work. Citing Article 205 of the overarching Labor Code (Law 16-92), the announcement stipulates that any labor conducted on this statutory holiday, or any other official day of rest, obligates employers to provide remuneration at double the standard rate. This enforcement of a 100% wage surcharge ensures employees receive twice their regular daily pay for hours worked on January 26.