Carib Scope

分类： society

  • STATEMENT: Miss WÒB 2025 ZebadiJah ( Zebbie) Maxwell— A Heartfelt thank you and a note for DA’s 47th Independence

    STATEMENT: Miss WÒB 2025 ZebadiJah ( Zebbie) Maxwell— A Heartfelt thank you and a note for DA’s 47th Independence

    In a moment of national pride and personal triumph, Zebbie has been crowned Miss WÒB 2025, a title she dedicates to her family, community, and the village of Tarreau. The newly crowned queen expressed profound gratitude for the unwavering support she received throughout her journey. From her immediate family, who stood as her guiding force, to the dedicated teams working tirelessly behind the scenes, Zebbie acknowledged the collective effort that shaped her success. She also extended heartfelt thanks to her coaches, sponsors, and the villagers of Tarreau, whose belief in her propelled her to this historic achievement. ‘This crown belongs to all of us,’ she declared, emphasizing the shared victory.

    While celebrating this milestone, Zebbie also addressed her absence from this year’s Independence Day celebrations and the Military Parade, events of immense national significance. She explained that her attendance at the One Young World Summit—a global platform uniting young leaders to drive positive change—took precedence. Being chosen as the nation’s flag bearer at the summit filled her with immense pride, a moment she described as even more exhilarating than receiving the scholarship to attend.

    Zebbie vowed to return with renewed energy, innovative ideas, and a steadfast commitment to serve her community and nation. Her message concluded with gratitude and a call for unity: ‘One LOVE. Happy Independence! Domnik 47 Strong!’

  • Vacancies: Regulatory Analyst and Regulatory Engineer — Water and Sewerage

    Vacancies: Regulatory Analyst and Regulatory Engineer — Water and Sewerage

    The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) in Grenada is currently seeking qualified candidates for two critical roles: Regulatory Analyst and Regulatory Engineer — Water and Sewerage. These positions are pivotal in supporting the commission’s mission to regulate and enhance the efficiency of the electricity, water, and sewerage sectors in the country.

    **Regulatory Analyst Role**
    The Regulatory Analyst will provide analytical support within the Regulatory, Accounting & Economic (RAE) Affairs Department. Key responsibilities include analyzing utility data, validating tariff-related studies, reviewing license applications, and preparing reports on tariffs and policy issues. The role also involves addressing consumer complaints, benchmarking utility performance, and supporting stakeholder consultations. Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Accounting, Finance, or Public Administration, with at least three years of analytical experience, preferably in utilities or regulation. Applications are due by December 5, 2025.

    **Regulatory Engineer — Water and Sewerage Role**
    The Regulatory Engineer will focus on regulating the water and sewerage sectors. Responsibilities include developing and enforcing technical standards, reviewing infrastructure plans, conducting facility inspections, and advising on environmental and public health compliance. The role also involves data analysis, regulatory reporting, and collaboration with stakeholders. Applicants must possess a Bachelor’s degree (Master’s preferred) in Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field, with at least five years of experience in water/wastewater infrastructure or regulation. Applications must be submitted by December 5, 2025.

    Both positions require strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills. Interested candidates should address their applications to the Chief Executive Officer of the PURC in St. George’s, Grenada, or email them to [email protected].

    NOW Grenada, the publisher of this announcement, disclaims responsibility for the opinions or statements made by contributors and provides a mechanism to report abuse.

  • Flash-Flood Watch issued for Barbados

    Flash-Flood Watch issued for Barbados

    The Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) has activated a Flash-Flood Watch for the island, anticipating significant rainfall on Friday, November 7. In a recent advisory, the BMS highlighted the potential for severe flooding in low-lying and flood-prone regions, with weather conditions expected to worsen overnight and persist into Saturday. Authorities have cautioned that additional alerts or warnings may be issued as the situation evolves. Residents are strongly advised to remain vigilant, monitor updates from the BMS, and adhere to instructions from emergency management officials to ensure safety during this weather event.

  • Call for paper submissions as regional symposium on the future of libraries to be facilitated by National Library Service

    Call for paper submissions as regional symposium on the future of libraries to be facilitated by National Library Service

    The National Library Service (NLS) has announced its first-ever conference, titled “The Future of Libraries: Embracing Technology, Strengthening Community Engagement, and Sustaining Development in a Digital Era.” Scheduled for February 20, 2026, the event will be held at the Hilton Barbados Resort. This groundbreaking symposium aims to address the evolving role of libraries in the Caribbean, focusing on digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI), and community engagement. The timing is significant, as it coincides with the National Year of Reading 2026 and precedes the NLS’s 180th anniversary in 2027, highlighting the dual importance of preserving cultural heritage and advancing technological innovation. Jennifer Yarde, Director of the NLS, emphasized the need for Caribbean libraries to lead discussions on digital preservation while adopting cutting-edge technologies. The conference will bring together library professionals, archivists, educators, researchers, and tech experts to exchange ideas and develop strategies for modern information management. A key feature of the event is a call for scholarly papers addressing critical issues such as AI integration, digital inclusivity, and the preservation of Caribbean cultural identity. Selected submissions will undergo peer review and be included in the official proceedings, contributing to the advancement of library and information science. The symposium will explore six core themes: AI and emerging technologies, inclusive digital library design, community outreach, e-libraries, cultural preservation, and the integration of archives and libraries. Interested participants are invited to submit 300-word abstracts by November 18, 2025, with full papers due by December 15, 2025. Details on submissions and registration are available on the NLS’s social media platforms. The NLS encourages all stakeholders to join this transformative event and contribute to shaping the future of libraries.

  • Digicel and Digicel Foundation launch expanded humanitarian efforts in Jamaica

    Digicel and Digicel Foundation launch expanded humanitarian efforts in Jamaica

    In response to the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, Digicel Group and the Digicel Jamaica Foundation have initiated a robust humanitarian effort to aid recovery in Jamaica’s hardest-hit regions. The joint initiative, titled ‘Reconnecting Jamaica,’ aims to distribute nearly 12,000 care packages to residents in the most affected western parishes, including Westmoreland, St Elizabeth, Hanover, St James, and Trelawny. To date, over 1,500 food care packs have been delivered, with an additional 10,000 set for distribution in the coming days. These packages contain essential supplies such as water, rice, oil, and other staples, alongside hygiene kits and solar-powered lighting solutions like LED lanterns and emergency bulbs for households still without electricity. Furthermore, hardware certificates are being provided to enable residents to purchase construction materials locally, fostering sustainable rebuilding efforts within their communities.

    Marcelo Cataldo, CEO of Digicel Group, emphasized the company’s commitment to Jamaica’s recovery, stating, ‘Our responsibility extends beyond business; we’re focused on restoring hope and supporting government efforts.’ The Digicel Foundation, a cornerstone of community development for nearly two decades, has mobilized staff and volunteers island-wide to coordinate relief distribution. Additional support includes the distribution of SIM cards with data plans to relief workers, complimentary prepaid and postpaid plans for affected customers, and mobile charging stations on Digicel buses to help residents stay connected.

    Collaborating with the Jamaican government, Digicel is also addressing environmental and health needs by supplying items such as foggers, testing tablets, and medical equipment. A regional crowdsourcing campaign and donation bins at Digicel’s Kingston headquarters further encourage contributions to the relief efforts. Charmaine Daniels, CEO of the Digicel Foundation, highlighted the initiative’s broader mission: ‘Reconnecting Jamaica is about restoring dignity and stability. These care packages symbolize solidarity and long-term support.’

    Stephen Murad, CEO of Digicel Jamaica, praised the dedication of the network teams working tirelessly to restore connectivity and assist in relief distribution. ‘Reconnecting Jamaica is our sole focus,’ he said. ‘We’re proud of our teams who embody the spirit of the Digicel family by standing with our customers in their time of need.’

  • Ongoing Road Improvements in Potters

    Ongoing Road Improvements in Potters

    The town of Potters has initiated a significant road improvement project aimed at enhancing infrastructure and ensuring safer, more efficient transportation for residents and visitors alike. This initiative, which is currently underway, focuses on upgrading key roadways, repairing potholes, and improving drainage systems to mitigate flooding risks during heavy rainfall. Local authorities have emphasized that these improvements are part of a broader strategy to modernize the town’s infrastructure and support future growth. While the project has caused temporary disruptions to traffic flow, officials assure the public that the long-term benefits will far outweigh the short-term inconveniences. The initiative is expected to be completed within the next six months, with regular updates provided to keep the community informed.

  • Gezin dakloos na felle brand aan Kampong Baroeweg

    Gezin dakloos na felle brand aan Kampong Baroeweg

    In the early hours of the morning, a catastrophic fire completely destroyed the home of the Wagino Nremoredjo family on Kampong Baroeweg in the Saramacca district. The alarm was raised at approximately 3:09 AM, prompting an immediate response from the Groningen fire department. Despite their swift arrival, the firefighters were unable to control the blaze, which consumed the entire house and all its contents. The family’s son was awakened by the intense heat and managed to escape to safety after noticing flames in his bedroom. He immediately called for help. The cause of the fire remains unknown, and local authorities have launched an investigation to determine the origin of the incident.

  • Crane truck snags wires, causes traffic disruption in Wildey

    Crane truck snags wires, causes traffic disruption in Wildey

    A significant disruption unfolded in Wildey, St Michael, early Friday morning when a truck transporting heavy equipment struck overhead utility wires, triggering a major traffic jam and a power outage. The incident occurred shortly after 6 a.m. near the Rubis Service Station. According to Valenta, the station’s assistant supervisor, the bucket attached to the truck snagged the wires as it approached the corner, resulting in a utility pole splitting in half and a subsequent loss of electricity. ‘Barbados Light & Power responded promptly, shutting off the power supply. We’re now operating on our generator, ensuring uninterrupted service for our customers. We have sufficient fuel to meet demand,’ Valenta explained. Repair teams from Barbados Light & Power and telecommunications provider Flow remain on-site, working diligently to restore services. Meanwhile, traffic in the area is moving at a snail’s pace, with authorities advising motorists to exercise caution as restoration efforts continue.

  • Work Progressing on Bolans Fire Station, Says Minister Maria Browne

    Work Progressing on Bolans Fire Station, Says Minister Maria Browne

    The construction of the highly anticipated Bolans Fire Station is advancing, as confirmed by Minister of Works Maria Vanessa Browne in a recent update. This project, which has been a topic of public discourse for several years, is seen as a critical addition to the emergency response infrastructure for the southern communities of St. Mary’s South, including Bolans, Urlings, and Crab Hill. Residents and opposition representatives have repeatedly expressed frustration over delays, emphasizing the facility’s necessity. Last year, St. Mary’s South MP Kelvin Simon urged immediate fire safety reforms following a fire in Urlings, criticizing the government’s persistent failure to complete the project. Earlier assurances from officials claimed the project was on track, yet the community has continued to await its completion and the provision of essential equipment, such as a dedicated fire truck. Browne’s latest update highlights visible progress at the construction site, reigniting hope that the long-promised fire station may soon become operational. The Ministry of Works is managing the project in partnership with the Antigua and Barbuda Fire Department. Upon completion, the Bolans Fire Station is expected to significantly enhance emergency response capabilities and provide improved safety for the southwestern communities of the island.

  • FULL JUDGEMENT: Judge Rules Attorney Andrew O. Kola Not Immune from Negligence Suit

    FULL JUDGEMENT: Judge Rules Attorney Andrew O. Kola Not Immune from Negligence Suit

    In a landmark decision on October 27, 2025, High Court Judge Jan Drysdale ruled that attorney Andrew O. Kola cannot invoke legal immunity in a professional negligence lawsuit filed by businessman Patrick “Paddy” Prendergast. The case arose from Kola’s alleged failure to file a defense in a 2022 civil lawsuit, resulting in a default judgment of $513,740 against Prendergast, who is now seeking $516,700 in damages for negligence and breach of contract. Prendergast, owner of a storage facility in Midway, St. John, had hired Kola to defend him against claims by former business associate Ronald Mind, who accused him of improperly storing items. Despite being retained promptly, Kola reportedly missed the deadline to file a defense and mishandled an application to set aside the judgment, which was dismissed due to non-compliance with court orders. Kola admitted to failing in his duties but argued that his actions were protected by barrister’s immunity under Antigua and Barbuda’s Legal Profession Act and common law principles established in cases like Rondel v. Worsley and Saif Ali v. Mitchell. He claimed that since he had entered an appearance on behalf of Prendergast, he was shielded from liability as an advocate in court. However, Prendergast’s legal team, led by King’s Counsel E. Ann Henry, countered that immunity applies only to in-court advocacy, not preparatory or administrative work. Justice Drysdale sided with the claimant, ruling that Kola’s negligence occurred during pre-trial preparation and procedural compliance, which does not qualify for immunity. She emphasized that the Legal Profession Act distinguishes between advocacy and preparatory work, and extending immunity to pre-trial negligence would be inconsistent with statute and precedent. The case, Patrick Prendergast v. Andrew O. Kola (ANUHCV2024/0018), highlights the limits of professional immunity in Antigua and Barbuda’s legal system, establishing that attorneys can be held liable for pre-trial negligence. The matter was adjourned to November 13, 2025, for further hearings on costs.