Carib Scope

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  • ‘Irreparable harm’ to Caricom

    ‘Irreparable harm’ to Caricom

    Trinidad and Tobago’s Foreign Minister Sean Sobers has launched a formal condemnation against the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), alleging procedural violations in the reappointment of Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett. During a parliamentary address on Thursday, Minister Sobers characterized the process as ‘surreptitious’ and fundamentally damaging to the regional body’s integrity.

    The controversy centers on claims that Trinidad and Tobago—CARICOM’s largest financial contributor—was systematically excluded from decision-making processes. Minister Sobers revealed that the nation provides approximately $127 million annually to various CARICOM institutions, representing 22% of the organization’s total budget. This substantial investment includes $35.5 million to the CARICOM Secretariat, $25 million to the Development Fund, and significant allocations to agencies including CARPHA ($14 million) and the Caribbean Examinations Council ($10.3 million).

    According to Sobers, the first indication of Dr. Barnett’s reappointment came via telephone on March 24, despite the matter never appearing on official agendas during February’s 50th Regular Meeting in St. Kitts. The minister emphasized that neither the preliminary Community Council discussions nor the final Plenary Session included this critical decision, with subsequent communiqués and decision summaries similarly omitting any reference to the reappointment.

    Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has aligned with her minister’s position, publicly declaring non-support for Barnett’s continued leadership and signaling intentions to reduce Trinidad and Tobago’s financial commitments to CARICOM. The government maintains that any decisions made without proper participation of all member states violate Article 24 of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas, rendering them ‘ultra vires’ or beyond legal authority.

    Despite this confrontation, Minister Sobers reaffirmed Trinidad and Tobago’s commitment to CARICOM’s revitalization, particularly emphasizing the importance of the regional market where Trinidad serves as both largest importer and exporter of goods. The government has called for emergency discussions during the upcoming July meeting in St. Lucia, demanding increased transparency and adherence to established protocols for all future decisions.

  • Alexander blames border failures for kidnapping surge

    Alexander blames border failures for kidnapping surge

    During a parliamentary session marked by intense questioning, Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander attributed Trinidad and Tobago’s current kidnapping epidemic to the previous administration’s failure to secure national borders. While avoiding direct confirmation of Venezuelan involvement in kidnapping rings, Alexander emphasized that security forces are actively dismantling criminal gangs responsible for these activities.

    The parliamentary debate was triggered by Opposition MP Marvin Gonzales demanding government action against the surge in kidnappings. Minister Alexander defended current security measures, stating: ‘We inherited this crisis due to reckless border policies and registration processes. Our multi-agency approach involving Police Service, Coast Guard, Defence Force and Immigration authorities ensures such incidents won’t recur.’

    This response followed Wednesday’s successful maritime rescue operation of kidnap victim Tara Poliah, which Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro hailed as a breakthrough against cross-border criminal networks. Eleven suspects, predominantly Venezuelan nationals, were apprehended in connection with this case.

    Opposition MP Colm Imbert challenged Alexander to address growing concerns about Venezuelan kidnapping rings operating within Trinidad and Tobago. The minister cautiously responded that he intends to preserve police intelligence integrity while acknowledging evident patterns from recent maritime operations.

    The session expanded to include community security concerns when Opposition MP Stuart Young questioned protective measures for Belmont constituents following Thursday’s fatal shooting during the state of emergency. Alexander confirmed enhanced security deployments, increased preventive detention orders, and ongoing firearm seizures throughout Port of Spain.

    The minister notably revealed that 137 Belmont residents have petitioned for implementing Zones of Special Operations (ZOSO) in their area, indirectly criticizing Young’s representation. However, the Speaker blocked subsequent questions regarding canceled social programs and training initiatives in the constituency.

  • A Call for Unity: Protecting the Lives of Our Youth

    A Call for Unity: Protecting the Lives of Our Youth

    The Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda is confronting a profound national crisis following the violent deaths of two young citizens, an event that has triggered widespread grief and urgent calls for systemic reform. Kristine Louisa, the National Youth Ambassador and Founder of the Hopeful Hearts Foundation, has issued a powerful appeal for both solidarity and concrete action in response to the tragedy.

    In her public statement, Louisa emphasizes that collective mourning must be coupled with a determined commitment to address the underlying causes of youth violence. She stresses the imperative for justice for the victims’ families and condemns the culture of violence that endangers the nation’s younger generation. The core of her message advocates for the establishment of robust intervention programs, the creation of accessible safe spaces, and the expansion of consistent mentorship initiatives designed to guide vulnerable youth toward positive life choices.

    Lousa highlights the critical role of community engagement, calling on youth ambassadors, mentors, and leaders to initiate honest dialogues about the challenges facing young people. She argues that proactive support systems are a vital national investment, citing her firsthand experience with the Hopeful Hearts Foundation, where mentorship and safe conversations have proven effective in redirecting young lives.

    The ambassador’s statement concludes with a direct message of support to the bereaved families and a reaffirmation to every young person in the nation that their lives and futures are valued. She frames the current moment as a pivotal opportunity for the country to unite with compassion and purpose to build a safer, more supportive environment for its youth.

  • Central Board of Health honours Doris Lucia Blair Thomas on retirement after 45 years of service

    Central Board of Health honours Doris Lucia Blair Thomas on retirement after 45 years of service

    The Central Board of Health has publicly honored Mrs. Doris Lucia Blair Thomas upon her formal retirement, celebrating an extraordinary career spanning four and a half decades within the public health sector. In an official tribute published on Thursday, the board highlighted her exceptional dedication and the profound institutional knowledge she cultivated throughout her tenure.

    Mrs. Blair Thomas’s remarkable career saw her provide executive secretarial support to an impressive succession of four Chief Health Inspectors. Her role extended far beyond administrative duties, as she became a cornerstone of the Public Health Inspectorate and various other departmental units, offering invaluable mentorship and guidance to countless colleagues over the decades.

    Characterized by the board as a steady and immensely valuable presence, her profound expertise, unwavering professionalism, and extensive experience were cited as having left a permanent and positive imprint on the department’s operations and culture. Officials expressed profound gratitude for her decades of steadfast commitment and support, acknowledging that the legacy of her contributions will endure within the organization’s framework long after her departure.

    The tribute concluded with a warm, humorous nod to her daily workplace interactions, noting that colleagues will now have to forgo their familiar request: ‘Can you just type this quick?’—a light-hearted remark underscoring her reputation for efficiency and the personal connections forged over 45 years of dedicated service.

  • PM Browne calls Pringle ‘incompetent, ignorant, hot mess’ over conduct in Parliament

    PM Browne calls Pringle ‘incompetent, ignorant, hot mess’ over conduct in Parliament

    A parliamentary session in Antigua and Barbuda descended into turmoil on Thursday following the controversial conduct of Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle, resulting in his removal from the chamber and triggering a government walkout during what was intended as a retirement tribute for veteran MP Sir Molwyn Joseph.

    The political confrontation began when Speaker Osbert Frederick ordered Pringle’s ejection during regular proceedings, setting the stage for further controversy. The situation escalated dramatically when Pringle delivered an unusually critical assessment of Joseph’s political career during what traditionally serves as a bipartisan recognition ceremony for departing parliamentarians.

    Prime Minister Gaston Browne issued a scathing rebuke, characterizing Pringle as “an incompetent, ignorant, hot mess” in response to what he termed a “despicable tribute.” Government MPs expressed their disapproval through a coordinated walkout, protesting what they deemed disrespectful conduct during a ceremony honoring a long-serving public official.

    Sir Molwyn Joseph, the MP for St. Mary’s North, is concluding a decades-long political career that included multiple senior ministerial appointments. Parliamentary tributes typically provide moments of cross-party appreciation for such service, making Thursday’s events particularly noteworthy.

    The incident has significantly intensified the already strained relations between government and opposition factions within the Antiguan Parliament, raising concerns about future bipartisan cooperation in the legislative body.

  • Sir Molwyn Joseph Rejects Claims He Was Pushed Out, Says Retirement Was Personal Decision

    Sir Molwyn Joseph Rejects Claims He Was Pushed Out, Says Retirement Was Personal Decision

    In his valedictory address to Parliament, outgoing St. Mary’s North representative Sir Molwyn Joseph categorically refuted circulating speculation that his political departure resulted from external pressure or party leadership maneuvering. The seasoned legislator characterized his exit as a deliberate personal choice informed by familial considerations and strategic timing after forty-two years of parliamentary service.

    Addressing colleagues in the chamber, Joseph explicitly dismissed claims of being marginalized by the Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party leadership or compelled to resign by Prime Minister Gaston Browne. He characterized such narratives as baseless rumors, emphasizing his consistently collaborative and accessible relationship with the nation’s leader. ‘I can state unequivocally that the Prime Minister did not orchestrate my parliamentary departure. These assertions constitute complete nonsense,’ Joseph declared amidst parliamentary proceedings.

    The veteran politician articulated that his decision emerged from introspective assessment of personal priorities and family dynamics rather than political calculus. He revealed that his spouse and children had expressed compelling desires for increased presence and engagement, humorously noting that ‘when your wife and children speak, it constitutes a supermajority’—a remark that elicited laughter from assembled lawmakers.

    While relinquishing his parliamentary seat, Joseph clarified that his retirement from elected office does not signify complete withdrawal from political life. He reaffirmed his enduring allegiance to the ruling party, stating ‘I maintain my commitment to this political movement and shall remain actively engaged in its endeavors.’ This statement served both as assurance to party loyalists and caution against misinterpreting his departure as diminished dedication to public service.

    Joseph’s comprehensive address appeared strategically timed to preempt electoral season speculation regarding his unexpected exit. By confronting rumors directly, he effectively framed his transition as a voluntary conclusion to a substantial legislative career rather than consequence of internal party dynamics. The outgoing MP concluded by reinforcing the autonomy underlying his decision, marking the culmination of four decades of parliamentary service characterized by asserted independence and renewed family commitment.

  • Ebu Jones gekozen in Executive Committee internationale parlementaire organisatie

    Ebu Jones gekozen in Executive Committee internationale parlementaire organisatie

    Surinamese legislator Ebu Jones of the National Democratic Party (NDP) has achieved a significant international milestone with his election to the Executive Committee of Parliamentarians for Global Action (PGA). His term on the governing board of this influential international parliamentary network will commence on April 1, 2026, and extend through December 31, 2027.

    The election occurred during PGA’s 46th Annual Forum convened in Mexico City this week, where Jones secured one of six available positions on the organization’s executive leadership body. His candidacy received strong bipartisan endorsement from Assembly members Hakiem Lithmohamed (VHP) and Iona Edwards (NDP), creating a unified national nomination that significantly strengthens Suriname’s position within global parliamentary networks.

    In his new capacity, Jones will contribute to shaping PGA’s strategic direction and coordinating international parliamentary cooperation across critical areas including human rights advancement, democratic governance, rule of law enforcement, and sustainable development initiatives. The annual forum serves as a convergence point for legislators worldwide to address pressing policy challenges and fill key organizational leadership positions.

    Parliamentarians for Global Action represents a worldwide alliance of lawmakers dedicated to strengthening democratic institutions and fostering international collaboration. The Executive Committee occupies a central role in steering the organization’s programs and global initiatives.

    For Suriname, Jones’s election signifies enhanced visibility and representation at the highest levels of international governance. Participation in such forums provides crucial opportunities for diplomatic engagement and policy influence. Jones brings extensive international experience to the role, having recently contributed to global discussions on ocean governance and sustainable development practices.

  • Women & Water Community Consultation to Advance Locally-Led Research on Climate, Care, and Gender in Antigua and Barbuda

    Women & Water Community Consultation to Advance Locally-Led Research on Climate, Care, and Gender in Antigua and Barbuda

    The EcoShores Sustainable Futures Network (ESFN) is spearheading a groundbreaking community consultation titled “Women & Water” on March 30th, 2026, in observance of World Water Day. This strategic gathering forms a crucial component of the organization’s Climate and Care Nexus initiative, creating an inclusive platform for women and girls to articulate how water accessibility, climate disruption, and gender-specific obstacles impact their daily existence and environmental realities.

    Scheduled at Wadadli Spaces on Herberts Road from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM, this participatory session aims to capture firsthand accounts and practical insights that will directly shape community-oriented solutions. ESFN emphasizes that this consultation represents a pivotal opportunity to mold research agendas, policy frameworks, and program development throughout Antigua and Barbuda.

    Despite facing disproportionate impacts from water scarcity and climate variability, women’s perspectives frequently remain marginalized in environmental governance. This initiative deliberately positions those most affected at the forefront of both identifying challenges and crafting responsive solutions. Participant contributions will inform the development of pragmatic, inclusive research and programs designed to enhance community resilience and transform everyday living conditions.

    The consultation findings will fuel locally-led research endeavors and initiatives across four strategic domains:

    1. Care Economy: Examining how water availability influences both compensated and uncompensated care work, including domestic chores, cooking, cleaning, and family caregiving responsibilities.

    2. Women’s Health: Investigating correlations between water purity, sanitation infrastructure, climate-induced stress, and comprehensive health outcomes encompassing physical, mental, maternal, and menstrual wellbeing.

    3. Community-Driven Development: Ensuring research methodologies and program architectures reflect the knowledge systems and priorities of local women and girls across diverse communities.

    ESFN actively encourages participation from women of all backgrounds, emphasizing that each narrative shared and suggestion offered will contribute to formulating solutions that are simultaneously inclusive, practicable, and sustainable.

    The organization acknowledges support from corporate partners including Jim Daddy & Sons Ltd., whose sponsorship facilitates complimentary water distribution during the event. Participants will receive honorariums in recognition of their contributed time, expertise, and lived experiences—a deliberate practice underscoring the value placed on community knowledge and the interconnection between environmental stewardship, equity, and resilience.

    An ESFN representative articulated the vision: “This initiative fundamentally centers women’s voices within climate and development discourse. Through attentive engagement with lived experiences, we can architect improved care systems, enhance health results, and meaningfully address opportunity disparities.”

    Registration remains accessible via https://qrco.de/bghSOt for this transformative community engagement opportunity.

  • Presidenten Simons en Lula willen sterkere samenwerking en betere verbindingen

    Presidenten Simons en Lula willen sterkere samenwerking en betere verbindingen

    In a significant diplomatic development, President Jennifer Simons of Suriname and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva have established a comprehensive framework to deepen bilateral cooperation during a high-level telephone conference held on Friday. The discussion paved the way for enhanced connectivity, food security initiatives, and economic collaboration between the two South American nations.

    The presidential dialogue served as a strategic preparation for President Simons’ upcoming official working visit to Brazil later this year. According to official statements, this engagement aligns with previous agreements aimed at strengthening the bilateral partnership framework.

    During the extensive conversation, both leaders addressed pressing regional and international issues while examining Suriname’s position within the current global context. Particular emphasis was placed on improving transportation connectivity, with focused discussions on expanding air and maritime links between the two countries.

    While characterizing the current relationship as positive, President Simons identified substantial opportunities for further enhancement. She highlighted potential collaboration in training programs and acknowledged Brazil’s dominant role in the agricultural sector, suggesting knowledge transfer opportunities.

    Food security emerged as a critical agenda item, with both nations underscoring the necessity of developing efficient trade chains. This discussion extended to regional connectivity projects, including transportation networks through Guyana and French Guiana toward Brazil’s Amapá state.

    President Lula expressed particular interest in facilitating a Brazilian Cooperation Agency (ABC) delegation visit to Suriname. This mission would focus on evaluating ongoing projects and developing new initiatives in social development and healthcare sectors.

    The leaders also reviewed recent engagements with Brazilian aerospace company Embraer, noting that these discussions establish a foundation for expanded cooperation in defense and aviation sectors.

    President Simons emphasized the relationship’s importance for border communities and people-to-people connections. Both heads of state committed to maintaining high-level cooperation and further developing joint initiatives in preparation for the planned working visit later this year.

  • Woman, 48, dies in Bank Hall house fire

    Woman, 48, dies in Bank Hall house fire

    Barbados has been struck by its second deadly residential fire this year, resulting in the tragic death of a 48-year-old woman in the Bank Hall area of St Michael. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community and raised serious concerns about housing safety.

    Emergency services responded to distress calls around 3 p.m., deploying significant resources including 16 fire officers and three water tenders from both Bridgetown Station and Bridgetown Port Station. Deputy Chief Fire Officer Henderson Patrick confirmed the property functioned as a multi-tenant sublet arrangement housing seven occupants, one of whom was pronounced dead at the scene.

    The victim’s identity remains undisclosed as authorities continue their investigation into the fire’s origin. Distraught relatives gathered at the location, visibly overcome with emotion and unable to speak with media representatives.

    Fire officials emphasized the complexity of determining causation while extending condolences to the grieving family. Patrick urged property owners to implement enhanced safety measures, noting that not all fire incidents stem from negligence but often involve unforeseen circumstances.

    The tragedy marks the third significant fire within a month in St Michael West constituency, according to local MP Chris Gibbs, who described the progressive severity of these incidents as realizing his ‘worst fears.’ Gibbs highlighted the emotional devastation affecting both the immediate family and broader community, pledging comprehensive support for the six displaced survivors.

    This fatal event follows another recent fire tragedy in Two Mile Hill that claimed the life of 98-year-old former police officer Noel Marshall, underscoring a concerning pattern of residential fire incidents across the region.