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  • FC Player Latrell Middleton Apologises For Kicking Dog

    FC Player Latrell Middleton Apologises For Kicking Dog

    Progresso FC footballer Latrell Middleton has issued a formal public apology following a widely circulated video that captured him intentionally kicking a dog during a Premier League of Belize playoff match on Saturday evening. The incident occurred at a championship event in the Cayo District, sparking immediate outrage across social media platforms.

    In a digitally published statement, Middleton expressed remorse directed toward “the public, animal lovers, Progresso FC supporters, and the broader football community.” The athlete acknowledged his regrettable decision, explicitly stating that “there exists no justification for causing harm to an animal” and emphasizing his personal stance against animal cruelty in any manifestation.

    The Football Federation of Belize (FFB) responded decisively on Sunday, formally condemning the player’s actions as “unacceptable and fundamentally incompatible with the core values and ethical principles of football.” The federation has initiated official proceedings by referring the matter to its Disciplinary Committee for comprehensive review and potential sanction determination.

    The viral footage triggered substantial digital backlash, with numerous commentators highlighting persistent animal welfare concerns in Belize. Critics additionally questioned event management protocols, with one social media user describing the unsupervised presence of an animal at a professional championship match as “a severe operational failure and lapse in organizational responsibility.”

  • Dominica appoints four CARICOM Youth Ambassadors

    Dominica appoints four CARICOM Youth Ambassadors

    The Government of Dominica has officially unveiled its newly appointed representatives to the Caribbean Community’s Youth Ambassador program following an extensive selection process. Four exceptional young leaders have been chosen to serve as CARICOM Youth Ambassadors for the 2025-2027 term, marking a significant step in regional youth engagement.

    Abigail Christmas has been designated as the primary female ambassador, while Eamon Clifford Gibbons will serve as the male ambassador. Supporting them will be alternates Jonathan Eddison Lewis Jones (male) and Angel S. Joseph (female). Their two-year tenure will commence on August 1, 2025, extending through July 31, 2027.

    The selection initiative, administered by the Ministry of Culture, Youth, Sports, and Community Development through its Youth Development Division, attracted substantial interest from across the island nation. Over thirty aspiring young Dominicans submitted applications during the July 2025 application window, demonstrating remarkable enthusiasm for regional leadership and Caribbean integration.

    Candidates underwent a rigorous two-tier evaluation process beginning with a written application assessment based on predetermined criteria including leadership capabilities, community involvement, communication proficiency, and advocacy skills. This initial screening identified ten semifinalists who advanced to interview rounds conducted in September 2025 by a specially appointed ministerial panel.

    The interview phase thoroughly evaluated candidates’ readiness through situational judgment scenarios, regional awareness assessments, public speaking demonstrations, and problem-solving exercises. Particular emphasis was placed on diplomatic acumen and comprehension of CARICOM’s youth development objectives.

    Following the successful completion of all evaluation stages, the Permanent Secretary formally issued appointment letters to the four selected ambassadors on November 14, 2025. The newly appointed ambassadors will receive comprehensive training and technical support coordinated by the CARICOM Secretariat to effectively execute their duties, represent youth interests, and contribute meaningfully to regional policy dialogues and youth-focused initiatives.

    The Ministry has extended congratulations to the successful candidates while reaffirming its dedication to empowering young people as essential partners in both national and regional development endeavors.

  • Vacancy: Finance Officer

    Vacancy: Finance Officer

    The Grenada Council for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (GCTVET) has announced a career opportunity for qualified finance professionals to join the Grenada National Training Agency (GNTA) as Finance Officer. This senior position represents a critical role within the organization’s financial infrastructure, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer.

    The successful candidate will assume comprehensive responsibility for all financial management, disbursement procedures, accounting operations, and audit-related matters. The position demands expertise in maintaining meticulous financial records while ensuring strict compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Key functional areas include financial record management, regulatory compliance, and sophisticated financial reporting and analysis.

    Core responsibilities encompass preparing quarterly financial reports, annual financial statements, and donor-specific financial documentation. The officer will maintain regular communication with management and staff to facilitate accurate financial information exchange while keeping leadership informed of significant financial developments.

    The role requires advanced proficiency in accounting systems and internal controls, including journal entry preparation, payment processing, and monthly bank reconciliation. Additionally, the Finance Officer will contribute to budget and cash flow projection development under CEO supervision, evaluate project proposal costings, and manage payroll processing with accurate statutory deductions.

    Applicants must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance from an accredited institution, or equivalent NVQ/CVQ Level 4 certification. Professional accounting qualifications such as CAT certification or intermediate progression toward ACCA, CGA, or CPA designations are mandatory. The position requires minimum five years of general accounting experience with demonstrated expertise in IFRS and computerized accounting systems.

    Essential qualifications include comprehensive knowledge of accounting software, governmental accounting standards, and advanced proficiency in spreadsheet applications and financial data analysis. Critical abilities include exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and the capacity to meet strict deadlines while exercising independent judgment within established procedural guidelines.

    Interested candidates must submit applications with supporting documentation via email to gnthr.stgeorges@gov.gd addressed to the Chairman of GCTVET. The application deadline is December 31, 2025, at 4:00 PM local time.

  • ABHTA Concludes 2025 Training Series with Successful Supervisory and Maintenance Courses

    ABHTA Concludes 2025 Training Series with Successful Supervisory and Maintenance Courses

    The Antigua & Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) has successfully concluded its 2025 Professional Learning Series with two comprehensive training programs that have significantly enhanced sector-wide capabilities. The initiative featured a 6-Week Supervisory Management Leadership Development Course and an 8-Week Maintenance Course focusing on Electrics & Basic Maintenance, delivering substantial professional advancement for participants across the tourism and hospitality industry.

    The virtual Supervisory Management Leadership Development Course, expertly facilitated by veteran tourism and hospitality trainer Ms. Shirlene Nibbs with over three decades of industry experience, provided six weeks of immersive instruction. The curriculum addressed critical leadership domains including effective communication strategies, workplace relationship management, performance evaluation techniques, and essential supervisory competencies. Participant Zorah Beazer, Claims Manager at State Insurance Company Limited, reported transformative learning outcomes: “This experience provided invaluable perspectives on workplace challenges and significantly enhanced my problem-solving capabilities. Ms. Nibbs’ exceptional facilitation encouraged multidimensional thinking through both expert guidance and peer exchange.”

    Ms. Nibbs reflected on the program’s exceptional outcomes: “This year’s record participation demonstrated remarkable engagement and dedication. Participants exhibited sustained motivation throughout the six-week journey, culminating in creative final presentations that evidenced substantial behavioral and professional development. The administrative excellence of Ms. Anthea Watkins and her support team was instrumental in achieving these results.”

    Concurrently, the 8-Week Maintenance Course: Electrics & Basic Maintenance conducted at the Sandals Merrick Fray Training & Development Centre provided hands-on technical education under the guidance of Mr. Kim Burdon, an aircraft maintenance engineer with 35 years of cross-industry expertise. The comprehensive curriculum covered fundamental electricity principles, motor theory, control systems wiring, refrigeration fundamentals, and practical troubleshooting methodologies.

    Donald Bennett, Maintenance Technician at Curtain Bluff Antigua, attested to the program’s effectiveness: “The course delivered exceptionally informative content highly relevant to my technical role. Mr. Burdon’s hands-on teaching methodology and encouragement to advance our skills created engaging and clear learning experiences that warrant future advanced training.”

    Mr. Burdon expressed his teaching philosophy: “Maintenance represents a fascinating multidisciplinary field. These past months have been immensely rewarding through knowledge sharing with dedicated professionals. I remain committed to knowledge transmission across diverse maintenance specializations before that expertise is lost to time.”

    The ABHTA extended gratitude to all facilitators, Sandals Grande Antigua management and staff, particularly Carlene Spencer for maintenance course support, and all participating members and properties. The Association reaffirmed its commitment to expanding professional development opportunities in the coming year, with training inquiries directed to 462-0374 or 4928.

    As the collective voice of Antigua & Barbuda’s hospitality sector, the ABHTA continues to advance industry standards through education, advocacy, and promotional initiatives that enhance visitation and economic benefits while serving member interests across hotels, restaurants, airlines, and tourism-related enterprises.

  • Vacancy: Quality Assurance Assistant

    Vacancy: Quality Assurance Assistant

    The Grenada Council for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (GCTVET) has announced a professional opportunity for qualified individuals to join the Grenada National Training Agency (GNTA) as a Quality Assurance Assistant. This position represents a critical component in maintaining the integrity of the country’s vocational education certification system.

    Operating under the guidance of the Quality Assurance Coordinator, the selected candidate will assume comprehensive responsibility for overseeing candidate registration processes and monitoring Training Centre activities related to assessment administration and verification. The role demands a combination of technical expertise and administrative proficiency to ensure the seamless operation of Grenada’s vocational qualification framework.

    Primary responsibilities encompass four key operational domains:

    Quality Assurance and Compliance: The assistant will collaborate closely with training and assessment centers to enforce adherence to established quality assurance protocols while supporting the development and implementation of specialized training programs.

    Assessment and Certification Administration: This includes coordinating all activities related to CVQ/NVQ candidate registration, ensuring efficient administrative processes for timely certification, maintaining comprehensive assessment records, and updating the National Qualifications Register with candidate information.

    Assessment of Prior Learning (APL) Support: The position requires developing self-assessment instruments based on occupational standards, orienting applicants to the APL process, and providing expert guidance in portfolio development for candidates seeking recognition of prior learning.

    Reporting and Committee Support: The assistant will serve as recording secretary for the Certification Review Committee, preparing and submitting detailed reports to the Council while generating comprehensive documentation for all areas of responsibility.

    Applicants must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Education, a CVQ/NVQ Level 4 qualification in a relevant field, or equivalent certification from an accredited institution. Additional certification in Education Quality Assurance is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate minimum three years of experience in education or related sectors, with preference given to those with background in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) or tertiary education.

    Essential knowledge requirements include familiarity with assessment and verification regulations, proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, data extraction and analysis capabilities, and experience with Information Management Systems. The position demands exceptional organizational abilities, advanced communication skills, and the capacity to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining meticulous attention to detail.

    Interested professionals should submit their applications with supporting documentation via email to recruitment@gctvet.gd, addressed to the Chairman of GCTVET. The application deadline is December 31, 2025, at 4:00 PM local time.

  • Electricity Rate To Increase In 2026

    Electricity Rate To Increase In 2026

    The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) of Belize has unveiled its preliminary ruling recommending an upward adjustment to electricity tariffs as part of modifications to the Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) Annual Review Proceeding for 2025. This development signals increased energy costs for consumers beginning next year.

    In an official communiqué, the regulatory body confirmed it has finalized draft amendments compliant with the Electricity (Tariffs, Fees and Charges) Byelaws. While BEL sought approval for a $0.0555 per kilowatt-hour augmentation to the Mean Electricity Rate (MER), the Commission has counter-proposed a moderated increase of $0.0337 per kilowatt-hour. This adjusted rate would establish a new MER benchmark of $0.4427 per kilowatt-hour if formally ratified.

    The PUC clarified that the proposed tariff revision aims to alleviate BEL’s financial constraints while enabling cost recovery for sustainable service provision. Regulatory authorities emphasized implementing consumer protection measures, particularly for socially vulnerable and residential customers beneath the GST threshold. The rate restructuring methodology will distribute increases strategically to mitigate household bill impacts.

    Prime Minister John Briceño addressed the contentious issue during recent House of Representatives proceedings, justifying the necessity of utility rate elevations amid escalating operational expenditures and regional market dynamics. The Prime Minister highlighted that BEL has maintained rate stability since the current administration took office in 2020, despite confronting COVID-19 economic disruptions, inflationary pressures, and unprecedented heat waves that drove imported electricity costs to $1 per kilowatt-hour from Mexican suppliers during 2024’s supply crises.

    Briceño detailed BEL’s collaborative efforts with major commercial consumers, particularly tourism establishments in San Pedro, to activate private generators during grid instability episodes. This cooperative approach involved compensatory arrangements for higher self-generation costs when imported electricity prices surpassed retail rates.

    While acknowledging public apprehension regarding cost-of-living increases, the Prime Minister contextualized Belize’s electricity pricing as comparatively lower than regional Caribbean counterparts. He emphasized the unsustainability of BEL’s current practice of selling electricity beneath procurement costs, drawing analogies to commercial viability requirements in other sectors. The administration contends that after five years of rate suppression, this adjustment becomes inevitable to prevent eventual taxpayer-funded bailouts of the utility provider.

  • VIDEO: Man charged with murder as search for missing woman continues

    VIDEO: Man charged with murder as search for missing woman continues

    A profound and heartbreaking situation is unfolding within a community where the search for justice and closure has taken divergent, equally painful paths for three families connected by tragedy.

    Two families are currently preparing funeral arrangements for their murdered relatives while simultaneously advocating for law enforcement to identify and apprehend those responsible for the homicides. Their grief is compounded by the urgent desire for criminal accountability, creating a dual burden of mourning and demanding justice.

    In a parallel but inverse tragedy, a third family finds itself enduring an agonizing wait with a different set of circumstances. Their loved one has been officially declared a murder victim, with charges already filed against a suspect in the case. However, their path to closure remains incomplete as the victim’s body has not been recovered, preventing both ceremonial burial and the emotional finality that comes with it.

    This complex scenario, reported by journalist Kenton Chance, highlights the multifaceted nature of criminal investigations and the varied forms of anguish that violent crime inflicts upon survivors. The cases demonstrate how legal proceedings and forensic discoveries unfold at different paces, often extending the trauma for those left behind. While some families seek answers about who committed the crime, others seek the physical remains of those taken from them, with both groups united in their pursuit of resolution amid unimaginable loss.

  • PMAC vestigt hoofdkantoor in Suriname

    PMAC vestigt hoofdkantoor in Suriname

    Paramaribo has officially been designated as the new headquarters location for the Port Management Association of the Caribbean (PMAC), marking a significant strategic shift in regional maritime governance. The Suriname Port Management Company (SPMC) confirmed the establishment of the regional port organization’s secretariat in the Surinamese capital, elevating the nation’s status within Caribbean maritime affairs.

    PMAC represents 27 Caribbean ports and maintains an extensive international network of 42 associate members specializing in port-related services, technological innovation, and professional training programs. The formal transfer of administrative operations occurred in November during an official delegation visit to Paramaribo.

    SPMC, which has held PMAC membership since 2010, was selected for this prestigious role due to its demonstrated active engagement, commitment to enhancing transnational diversity within the organization, and ongoing developments within Suriname’s port and maritime sectors. The appointment of Mrs. Mary-Ann Abdoelkariem as Executive Secretary further influenced the decision-making process.

    This strategic placement provides Suriname with substantial influence over regional port policy formulation and direct access to expertise in port modernization, digital transformation, operational efficiency, and specialized training. The presence of PMAC’s headquarters significantly enhances capacity-building opportunities and strengthens Suriname’s international visibility as an emerging maritime hub.

    PMAC has already commenced operations from its new Surinamese base, recently organizing a ‘Risk and Incident Management in a Port Environment’ training program through the Suriname Port Training Institute, which attracted twelve port professionals from across the region.

    The secretariat is now operational at NV Havenbeheer Suriname on Havenlaan Zuid. PMAC encourages Surinamese maritime sector businesses and organizations to establish contact and leverage regional collaboration and training opportunities available through the association.

  • Valley boys win Under-10 crown to complete double

    Valley boys win Under-10 crown to complete double

    Mabouya Valley has solidified its reputation as a powerhouse in Saint Lucian youth football by securing its second age-group championship within months. The team captured the Saint Lucia Football Association Under-10 Boys’ Championship title on December 13th, adding to their October triumph in the Under-12 division.

    The decisive final match unfolded at the SLFA Technical Centre in Grande Riviere, Dennery, where Mabouya Valley delivered a commanding 4-0 performance against Marchand. The victory was characterized by exceptional offensive execution and early dominance that set the tone for the contest.

    La Ressource Primary student Mikeige Fenelon initiated the scoring barrage within the opening three minutes, demonstrating remarkable precision. His teammate Zackim Francois, from Richfond Combined School, extended the lead just two minutes later. The offensive showcase continued as Leyantus John, another Richfond Combined scholar, netted the third goal in the ninth minute. Francois concluded the scoring spectacle with his second goal in the 54th minute, cementing the comprehensive victory.

    The championship followed a condensed knockout format with the top four teams competing in three matches over a single week. Despite the abbreviated schedule, Zackim Francois emerged as the tournament’s standout performer, amassing an impressive seven goals across matches—achieving one hat-trick and two braces.

    In the third-place playoff, Canaries initially established control against Desruisseaux with Ken Alexander scoring in the seventh minute and Kyron Beckford adding another in the 10th. However, Desruisseaux mounted a spirited comeback with Anil Jules reducing the deficit in the 15th minute before Thomas Charles secured victory with two goals in the 25th and 35th minutes, earning his team the consolation prize.

  • Archer Crowned Miss Teen St Kitts & Nevis

    Archer Crowned Miss Teen St Kitts & Nevis

    In a spectacular display of talent and grace, Tatiyana Archer from Immaculate Conception Catholic School emerged victorious at the Miss Republic Bank Teen St Kitts & Nevis pageant held on December 13th at Warner Park Cricket Stadium. The prestigious event culminated with Archer capturing the crown after amassing an impressive total of 406 points across all competition categories.

    Archer’s triumph was characterized by her exceptional versatility throughout the evening, particularly excelling in the Performing Talent segment where she achieved the night’s highest individual score of 96 points. Her commanding 23-point margin over the first runner-up underscored the consistency of her performance throughout all phases of the competition.

    Cader Rawlins of Washington Archibald High School claimed first runner-up honors with 383 points while distinguishing herself in specialty categories. Rawlins secured both the Best Cultural Costume award with 79 points and the Best Formal Teenage Evening Wear recognition with 67 points, demonstrating the diverse talents among the contestants.

    The competition’s speaking categories were dominated by SKI Academy’s Celina Alwani, who earned second runner-up position with 381.5 points. Alwani captured both the Best Ambassadorial Speech (70.5 points) and Best Interview (97 points) awards, showcasing exceptional communicative abilities despite finishing just 2.5 points behind Rawlins.

    Verchilds High School’s Camira Williams completed the top four as third runner-up with 377.5 points in the closely contested event. The pageant featured eight accomplished contestants representing educational institutions across the federation, including Charles E Mills Secondary, Cayon High, Dr. Denzil L. Douglas Secondary, and Basseterre High School.

    Organizers and audience members alike praised all participants for delivering a magnificent showcase that highlighted the remarkable talent, intelligence, and poise of St Kitts & Nevis’ young women, reinforcing the event’s significance in promoting youth development and cultural expression.