Carib Scope

标签： Antigua and Barbuda

安提瓜和巴布达

  • DCA Says Morris Bay Enforcement Was Years in the Making, Not a Targeted Crackdown

    DCA Says Morris Bay Enforcement Was Years in the Making, Not a Targeted Crackdown

    The Development Control Authority (DCA) of Antigua and Barbuda executed enforcement operations at Morris Bay Beach on December 10, 2025, marking a significant step in upholding national planning regulations. This action forms part of a sustained initiative to maintain compliance with the Physical Planning Act of 2003, focusing on the preservation of public safety, environmental conservation, and orderly development along the nation’s coastline.

    Since 2019, numerous unauthorized commercial operators occupying the Morris Bay beachfront have received multiple formal notifications regarding their regulatory violations. These communications—delivered both verbally and in writing—explicitly instructed vendors to either cease operations or seek official regularization through established national planning procedures.

    The DCA emphasizes three critical aspects of this enforcement campaign: First, the initiative is not directed at any specific individuals or groups but applies uniformly to all non-compliant operators. Second, violation notices were issued consistently and transparently over several years, providing ample opportunity for compliance. Third, all actions are strictly aligned with the Physical Planning Act and national development frameworks.

    This coastal restoration effort aims to rehabilitate the natural environment, enhance public safety measures, and ensure that beachfront activities align with national planning policies and broader public interests. The DCA reaffirms its commitment to collaborative engagement with all stakeholders and encourages current or prospective operators on public lands to consult with the Authority for guidance on obtaining necessary approvals.

  • DCA Demolishes Pringle Tent Amid Rising Tensions at Morris Bay

    DCA Demolishes Pringle Tent Amid Rising Tensions at Morris Bay

    Antigua’s political climate grew increasingly tense on Tuesday afternoon when state authorities dismantled a beachfront tent structure belonging to opposition parliamentarian Jamale Pringle at Morris Bay. The Development Control Authority (DCA), accompanied by police personnel, executed the removal operation while Pringle was engaged in parliamentary proceedings for the national budget debate.

    Eyewitness accounts confirm DCA officials arrived at the location shortly after noon and systematically disassembled the temporary structure without physical confrontation. The incident rapidly gained attention through community networks, drawing multiple opposition legislators to the scene where they consulted with gathered constituents.

    Local residents and vendor operators expressed profound apprehension following the demolition, interpreting the action as indicative of a broader regulatory crackdown on informal beachfront structures. Many voiced economic concerns, highlighting the potential threat to livelihoods dependent on coastal vending activities amidst current financial pressures.

    Neither the DCA nor law enforcement agencies have released official statements regarding the legal basis or timing of the enforcement action. The absence of public explanation has further intensified discussions regarding beach access regulations and property rights along Antigua’s coastline.

    The incident occurs against a backdrop of ongoing legislative discussions concerning public space utilization and commercial vendor regulations, highlighting escalating tensions between governance policies and community economic practices.

  • Series of Community Emergency Response Teams Training and assistance to Barbuda

    Series of Community Emergency Response Teams Training and assistance to Barbuda

    The National Office of Disaster Services (NODS) is significantly amplifying its disaster preparedness capabilities through an extensive volunteer training initiative. A cohort of 25 participants from diverse districts is currently undergoing an intensive four-day Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program, which commenced this Monday at NODS facilities.

    This comprehensive training curriculum equips community members with vital skills to provide critical assistance during emergencies before professional first responders arrive. The program encompasses essential modules including advanced disaster management protocols, fire safety techniques, search and rescue operations, and telecommunications training with emphasis on VHF radio systems.

    The current session represents the latest phase in NODS’ ongoing capacity-building campaign. Previous initiatives included a November training conducted over three consecutive weekends, followed by a specialized one-week certification program in Barbuda that successfully trained 20 participants last week.

    During the Barbuda deployment, NODS Director Sherrod James convened with key Barbuda Council representatives to reinforce institutional collaboration. The strategic meeting included Council Chairman John Mussington, Health and Disaster responsible chairman Wayde Burton, and Council Secretary Ann Cannegieter. This dialogue focused on enhancing council members’ disaster management capabilities and strengthening bilateral coordination mechanisms.

    Concurrently, NODS technical staff operationalized the newly constructed Barbuda Disaster Office by provisioning essential equipment and emergency supplies, ensuring the facility is fully equipped to handle crisis situations. This multi-faceted approach demonstrates Antigua and Barbuda’s proactive strategy in building community-level resilience against natural disasters and emergencies.

  • WISH Calls for Global Recognition That Mental Health Is Freedom: A Human Right for All

    WISH Calls for Global Recognition That Mental Health Is Freedom: A Human Right for All

    On International Human Rights Day, the Wadadli Initiative for Self-care and Healing (WISH) has positioned mental wellness at the forefront of fundamental rights discussions, asserting that psychological wellbeing constitutes an essential form of human freedom. This declaration coincides with global commemorations of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights adoption in 1948, which established foundational principles of dignity and equality worldwide.

    Despite these historic commitments, mental health protection remains significantly underprioritized within global human rights frameworks. Current data from the World Health Organization reveals that approximately 12% of the global population lives with mental health conditions, while systemic barriers including stigma, discrimination, and inadequate service provision prevent millions from accessing crucial support services.

    Chaneil Imhoff, Founder of WISH, emphasized the particular urgency of addressing these gaps within Caribbean communities. “Mental health represents the fundamental freedom to learn, work, contribute meaningfully, form relationships, and pursue healing without constraint,” Imhoff stated. “Denying access to mental wellbeing resources effectively prevents full societal participation, contradicting our professed commitment to human rights.”

    The legal foundation for mental health as a human right originates in Article 25 of the Universal Declaration, which guarantees adequate living standards for health and wellbeing. This is further reinforced by the WHO Constitution’s definition of health as complete physical, mental, and social wellbeing—not merely disease absence.

    Regional studies by the Pan American Health Organization identify mental health conditions as leading causes of disability throughout the Americas, with care accessibility disparities disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations. The New Agenda for Mental Health in the Americas consequently advocates for enhanced community-based systems, early intervention protocols, data-informed planning, and national policies recognizing mental wellbeing as non-negotiable rights.

    WISH’s Antigua and Barbuda operations align with these objectives through educational programs, youth engagement strategies, research initiatives, and digital tools including the forthcoming WISH Mood Tracker application. These efforts collectively aim to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical resources for mental self-management.

    The organization now urges governmental bodies, civil society organizations, private sector entities, and community leaders to adopt rights-based approaches to mental health. This includes care access expansion, preventive measure strengthening, public awareness campaigns, and increased investment in social support systems that collectively safeguard psychological wellbeing.

  • FAO Ends Six-Day Mission Boosting Protected Agriculture and Water Management Systems

    FAO Ends Six-Day Mission Boosting Protected Agriculture and Water Management Systems

    A comprehensive United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) technical mission has successfully concluded in Antigua and Barbuda, marking a significant advancement for the nation’s agricultural sustainability efforts. The six-day initiative, formally designated TCP/ANT/4001 (D) and focused on Sustainable Water Management and Access for Better Production, involved intensive field assessments and collaborative engagements with national stakeholders.

    Spearheaded by Dr. Omardath Maharaj, an Agri-Business Finance Specialist, the mission partnered closely with the Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy (MALFBE) and the Department of Environment. The primary objectives were to conduct a thorough evaluation of existing protected agriculture production systems, identify opportunities for enhancing water-use efficiency, and develop frameworks for future strategic investments.

    The technical team conducted detailed on-site evaluations at six protected-crop farms across the nation. These assessments meticulously analyzed critical operational areas, including current water management practices, the performance of existing infrastructure, the efficiency of production cycles, and the identification of key constraints hindering optimal productivity.

    The data gathered from these farm visits has been synthesized to form the foundation for five detailed business case models. These models are designed to provide empirical support for national policy formulation and to enhance the financial sustainability and investment appeal of the protected agriculture sector.

    Beyond data collection, the mission included a dedicated half-day training workshop for local extension officers, technical staff, and farmers. The session offered practical guidance on essential business skills, emphasizing systematic record-keeping, improved financial literacy, and the adoption of data-driven decision-making processes to boost farm management and profitability. Participants widely praised the initiative, highlighting the critical need for such structured support.

    The mission culminated in a formal debriefing session with senior national representatives, including Director of Agriculture Mr. Gregory Bailey and Permanent Assistant Secretary Mrs. Denise Matthias-Thomas. Dr. Maharaj presented the mission’s preliminary findings, outlined a series of emerging strategic recommendations, and detailed the subsequent steps for finalizing a comprehensive report.

    Key deliverables achieved by the mission comprise complete data sets from all six assessed farms, the concluded training session, the strategic debriefing with partners, and a structured outline for the final report. This foundational work equips Antigua and Barbuda with a robust platform to revolutionize its protected agriculture sector, significantly improve water resource management, build greater resilience against climate variability, and attract vital investment.

  • PHOTOS: Road Upgrades Advance in Lower Ottos as Work to Elevate St. John’s Rural South Continues

    PHOTOS: Road Upgrades Advance in Lower Ottos as Work to Elevate St. John’s Rural South Continues

    Residents of Lower Ottos witnessed a substantial enhancement to their local infrastructure as municipal crews executed significant road improvements throughout the area on Tuesday night. The extensive work represents a crucial phase in the broader initiative to upgrade transportation networks across St. John’s Rural South constituency.

    The nocturnal construction schedule was strategically implemented to minimize disruption to daily commutes and local business operations. The improvements focused on comprehensive road resurfacing, pothole eradication, and reinforcement of road shoulders, addressing long-standing concerns raised by community members about vehicular safety and transportation efficiency.

    This infrastructure development forms part of a continuing municipal commitment to delivering tangible quality-of-life enhancements for residents. The project demonstrates a proactive approach to urban planning that prioritizes both immediate practical needs and long-term community development goals. Local authorities have indicated that similar infrastructure initiatives are scheduled for neighboring communities in the coming fiscal quarter, signaling a sustained investment in rural infrastructure modernization.

    Community response to the improvements has been markedly positive, with residents expressing appreciation for the reduced vehicle maintenance costs and improved driving conditions. The timely execution of these roadworks during off-peak hours has been particularly praised as a considerate approach to public works management.

  • LETTER: Concerns Raised Over Abracadabra DJ’s Actions and Breakdown of Law Enforcement

    LETTER: Concerns Raised Over Abracadabra DJ’s Actions and Breakdown of Law Enforcement

    A significant legal and political controversy has emerged in Antigua and Barbuda regarding the enforcement of the nation’s Noise Abatement Act of 1997. The core of the dispute centers on allegations that the Prime Minister has instructed police and the National Parks Authority to cease enforcing this longstanding legislation, which was originally enacted by Parliament to protect hotels and residents from excessive nighttime noise.

    The conflict gained public attention through a viral video featuring an individual openly criticizing the National Parks Authority. Critics have drawn parallels between this rhetoric and the incitement that led to former U.S. President Trump’s impeachment following the January 6th insurrection, raising questions about why local authorities haven’t made arrests despite the publicly available evidence.

    Legal experts emphasize that enforcement authority for the Noise Abatement Act rests solely with the police, not the National Parks Authority. The law’s implementation was reportedly championed by Assistant Police Commissioner Wade during public consultations, highlighting its necessity for addressing community disturbances that regularly extended into early morning hours.

    The current situation has sparked serious constitutional questions about the separation of powers in the Caribbean nation. Citizens and legal observers are questioning whether the Cabinet possesses authority to override parliamentary laws and selectively determine which legislation receives enforcement—a development that challenges fundamental principles of democratic governance and rule of law.

    The unfolding controversy reflects broader concerns about legal consistency and political influence in law enforcement matters, potentially setting significant precedents for how Antigua and Barbuda balances executive power with legislative authority.

  • LETTER: Shugy Shame on You, Targeting a Soup Kitchen Instead of Serving Our Constituency

    LETTER: Shugy Shame on You, Targeting a Soup Kitchen Instead of Serving Our Constituency

    A significant political controversy has emerged in the St. Mary’s South constituency concerning the utilization of parliamentary allowance funds. For over two years, Shugy, the sitting Member of Parliament for the area, has faced mounting criticism for allegedly failing to deploy his constituency allowance in a manner that delivers visible benefits to his constituents. Community members report an absence of sustained programs, developmental initiatives, or direct support mechanisms funded through these allocated resources.

    The situation escalated recently when the MP attempted to discredit a local relief effort, the St. Mary’s South Soup Kitchen, operated by Dwayne George. During a parliamentary session, Shugy suggested that the initiative improperly used vouchers belonging to others to procure supplies—a claim that has been vehemently denied and categorically refuted.

    A thorough investigation reveals that the soup kitchen’s operations have been sustained primarily through personal sacrifice and community goodwill. Mr. George has frequently utilized his own finances to ensure consistent food distribution, particularly during periods of resource constraints. The initiative’s methodology involved transparent solicitation of assistance and collaborative community engagement, with no misuse of vouchers or public resources at any stage.

    What many find particularly disconcerting is the deliberate targeting of a humanitarian project that provides essential nourishment to elderly, vulnerable, and economically disadvantaged residents. This incident has sparked a broader debate about ethical representation and the moral responsibilities of elected officials.

    Despite political opposition, the soup kitchen has expanded its outreach and continues to garner robust community endorsement. Its operational success and positive social impact remain undeniable, serving as a testament to grassroots resilience and civic solidarity.

    The prevailing sentiment within the constituency suggests that electoral accountability will ultimately reflect residents’ dissatisfaction with the current representation, emphasizing that compassionate service and factual integrity will outweigh political misrepresentation.

  • PHOTOS: Drainage and Road Upgrades Underway in Villa

    PHOTOS: Drainage and Road Upgrades Underway in Villa

    Municipal authorities in Villa have launched a significant infrastructure enhancement initiative focused on upgrading drainage systems and reinforcing road networks in coastal zones. This proactive measure aims to mitigate recurrent flooding incidents that have historically endangered local communities and damaged property.

    The comprehensive project involves engineering improvements to water runoff capacity and the construction of more resilient road surfaces capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions. The development represents a strategic investment in climate adaptation infrastructure, prioritizing the safety and well-being of families residing in vulnerable coastal areas.

    Local government officials emphasized that these infrastructural advancements will not only provide immediate flood protection but also deliver long-term benefits through reduced maintenance costs and improved accessibility during adverse weather events. The initiative reflects growing recognition of the need for sustainable urban planning in response to increasing climate volatility.

    Construction is currently underway with phased implementation expected to minimize disruption to residents. The project timeline anticipates substantial completion within the current fiscal year, with ongoing monitoring systems to be installed for evaluating effectiveness during future rainfall seasons.

  • Daquan George Pleads Guilty to Firearms Charges

    Daquan George Pleads Guilty to Firearms Charges

    In a groundbreaking legal development, Daquan George of Sutherlands has confessed to possessing illegal weapons under the newly implemented 2024 Firearms Amendment Act, marking the inaugural application of this stringent legislation. The defendant entered his guilty plea on Monday during proceedings overseen by Senior Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel, with legal representation provided by attorney Wendel Alexander.

    Law enforcement authorities executed a search warrant on July 31st that yielded significant contraband: an unmarked .22-caliber firearm lacking any serial identification—making the weapon completely untraceable—accompanied by six magazines compatible with multiple firearm types and 140 rounds of assorted ammunition.

    The judicial outcome has resulted in George’s remand in custody, with the case now being elevated to the High Court pursuant to the 2024 statutory provisions. This procedural escalation represents the first instance where the amended firearms legislation has been utilized to transfer sentencing authority to a superior court, establishing a crucial precedent for future firearms-related prosecutions and demonstrating the government’s strengthened approach to combating illegal weapon possession.