Carib Scope

标签： Saint Lucia

圣卢西亚

  • 5.6-magnitude earthquake rocks Saint Lucia

    5.6-magnitude earthquake rocks Saint Lucia

    The Eastern Caribbean region experienced significant seismic activity as a substantial earthquake measuring 5.6 in magnitude struck near Saint Lucia on Friday, January 2nd. The tremor occurred at precisely 5:38 p.m. local time, registering at a considerable depth of 30.4 kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface, according to preliminary data released by the University of the West Indies’ Seismic Research Centre.

    The seismic event’s epicenter was pinpointed approximately 65 kilometers northeast of Fort-de-France, Martinique, indicating a substantial tectonic disturbance in the region. The quake’s effects were widely reported across multiple population centers including Ciceron, Castries, and Gros Islet, where residents experienced noticeable shaking and vibration.

    This significant seismic event follows closely on the heels of a smaller 3.5-magnitude earthquake that occurred off the coast of Guadeloupe in the early hours of New Year’s Day, just after midnight. The consecutive seismic activities have raised attention to the heightened tectonic movements currently affecting the Caribbean region, known for its complex geological structure along multiple fault lines.

    Seismologists are continuing to monitor the situation for potential aftershocks and are analyzing data to better understand the implications of these back-to-back seismic events. The Caribbean region, situated along the boundary of the Caribbean and North American tectonic plates, frequently experiences such seismic activity, though earthquakes of this magnitude warrant particular attention from both scientists and emergency preparedness officials.

  • EPIC offers 25th anniversary Caribbean calendar

    EPIC offers 25th anniversary Caribbean calendar

    Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC), a Florida-registered non-profit organization, commemorates its 25th anniversary with the introduction of a special 2026 fundraising calendar. Founded in 2000 with the explicit mission of safeguarding the Caribbean’s ecological heritage through scientific research, habitat restoration, educational programs, and policy advocacy, the organization is reinforcing its commitment to preserving the region’s most vulnerable ecosystems.

    With operational presence spanning more than 20 Caribbean territories and established offices in St. Maarten and St. Vincent and the Grenadines, EPIC continues its dedicated work across the Antilles. The newly launched ‘Seas & Scenes’ calendar, announced in a January 2 press release, serves dual purposes as both a fundraising tool and an artistic celebration of the archipelago’s natural splendor.

    The calendar features winning entries from the 2025 Love the Caribbean Photo Contest, presenting twelve months of visually stunning imagery that captures the essence of Caribbean life. Each month highlights a different island’s distinctive coastlines, native wildlife, and cultural moments, accompanied by educational trivia and motivational quotations that illuminate the environmental and cultural uniqueness of each location.

    Executive Director Tabitha Stadler emphasized the collaborative nature of EPIC’s achievements: ‘Our quarter-century of conservation success stems from partnerships with local communities, regional volunteers, and dedicated supporters across the islands. This anniversary not only honors those who have contributed to our mission but also represents a beacon of hope for everyone invested in the sustainable future of the Caribbean and its inhabitants.’

    The organization has invited public participation through donations via epicislands.org/donate until January 31st, with proceeds supporting ongoing environmental protection initiatives throughout the Caribbean region.

  • Former Grenada PM married in Saint Lucia

    Former Grenada PM married in Saint Lucia

    In a notable Caribbean union, former Grenadian Prime Minister Keith Mitchell, 79, has exchanged vows with Trinidad and Tobago native Dr. Ophelia Wells, a distinguished policy consultant and economist. The ceremony took place in Saint Lucia, recently honored for the eighth consecutive year as the World’s Leading Honeymoon Destination by the World Travel Awards.

    The intimate nuptials occurred near Pigeon Island in Gros Islet, attended by a select group of Grenadian guests on December 27th. This marriage represents a second chapter for both individuals – Mitchell was previously married to Marietta Mitchell for nearly forty years, while Dr. Wells, 41, was formerly wed to Dennis Cornwall, who currently serves as Finance Minister in the administration of Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell (no relation to Keith Mitchell).

    Mitchell’s political legacy includes his historic tenure as Grenada’s longest-serving prime minister, leading the New National Party from 1989 until 2024. Under his leadership, the NNP achieved remarkable electoral successes, including sweeping all 15 parliamentary seats in both the 2013 and 2018 elections. His political career concluded in June 2022 when he was defeated by current Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell.

    The newlyweds share professional connections to Grenada’s financial sector. Dr. Wells previously served as Permanent Secretary in Grenada’s Ministry of Finance, Planning, Economic Development, and Physical Development as recently as 2019, while Mitchell concurrently held the position of Finance Minister.

  • Americans detained as US-Venezuela tensions reach boiling point

    Americans detained as US-Venezuela tensions reach boiling point

    Venezuelan authorities under President Nicolás Maduro have intensified a concerning pattern of detaining U.S. nationals, with at least five American citizens taken into custody over recent months. U.S. officials interpret these arrests as a strategic maneuver by Caracas to create bargaining chips against Washington’s escalating pressure campaign.

    This detention strategy appears modeled after Russian-style ‘hostage diplomacy,’ where foreign citizens become pawns in geopolitical negotiations during periods of strained bilateral relations. While Venezuelan authorities have suggested some detainees might have connections to drug smuggling operations, the Trump administration perceives the timing and frequency of these arrests as politically motivated rather than legitimate law enforcement actions.

    The developments occur alongside a significant hardening of U.S. policy toward Venezuela. Washington has transitioned from imposing financial sanctions to implementing more direct and kinetic measures against Maduro’s government. This escalation represents a substantial shift in America’s approach to confronting the Venezuelan regime.

    Despite these mounting pressures, Maduro continues projecting an image of unwavering control. During a recent appearance on state-operated VTV, the Venezuelan leader avoided addressing specific operational details but emphatically declared his nation’s defense systems remain fully operational. “Our people are safe and at peace,” Maduro asserted, maintaining that military and police forces continue to successfully guarantee Venezuela’s territorial integrity.

    These detentions unfold within a broader context of systematic internal repression. Human rights organizations document that Venezuela currently holds hundreds of political prisoners, with many arrests tracing back to the controversial 2024 presidential election that consolidated Maduro’s power amid widespread allegations of electoral misconduct.

  • Zohran Mamdani sworn in as NYC’s first Muslim mayor

    Zohran Mamdani sworn in as NYC’s first Muslim mayor

    In a historic transition of power marking a new chapter for American urban politics, Zohran Kwame Mamdani officially assumed office as the 111th Mayor of New York City shortly after midnight. The ceremony, though modest in scale, carried profound symbolic weight as Mamdani became the first Muslim to lead the nation’s largest municipal government.

    The swiftness of Mamdani’s political ascent is remarkable. Just one year prior, he occupied a relatively obscure position as a state legislator; today he commands the helm of one of the world’s most complex urban administrations. “Thank you so much to everyone for being here, Happy New Year to New Yorkers,” Mamdani declared, displaying his characteristic smile. “This is truly the honor and privilege of a lifetime.”

    Attorney General Letitia James, a key political ally, administered the oath of office. Mamdani’s background makes his victory particularly significant within the current national context. Born in Uganda to parents of Indian descent, his campaign gained momentum precisely as the previous federal administration implemented restrictive immigration policies targeting Muslim-majority and African nations.

    The early transition period has revealed both conciliatory gestures and immediate challenges. In a surprising November development, Mamdani conducted an Oval Office meeting with former President Trump, who despite their profound ideological differences, offered support by stating “I want New York City to be great.”

    Domestically, Mayor Mamdani has demonstrated pragmatic governance by retaining NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, a decision applauded by municipal management experts. However, the administration encountered its first significant setback when a high-level appointee withdrew following controversy over historical social media posts identified as anti-Semitic by the Anti-Defamation League.

    While Governor Kathy Hochul has expressed preliminary support for the mayor’s childcare initiatives, the broader political battle for his progressive agenda commences with his formal inauguration.

  • Jamaican-born educator to lead America’s largest school system

    Jamaican-born educator to lead America’s largest school system

    New York City’s public education system, serving approximately one million students, will now be guided by Jamaican-born educator Kamar Samuels following his landmark appointment as Chancellor by Mayor Zohran Mamdani. This historic selection marks a significant achievement for both Samuels and the Caribbean diaspora community in New York.

    Samuels assumes leadership of one of the world’s most complex educational networks, overseeing an institution with over 113,000 staff members and an annual budget approaching $40 billion. His educational journey began in Kingston, Jamaica, where he attended Hope Valley Experimental School before graduating from Jamaica College in 1993. Shortly thereafter, he immigrated to the United States, where he pursued accounting studies at Baruch College before obtaining a master’s degree in childhood education from Lehman College.

    Prior to his elevation to chancellor, Samuels ascended through the ranks of New York’s educational leadership, serving in senior administrative positions including superintendent roles in both Brooklyn and Manhattan. His professional development was significantly influenced by the New Leaders for New Schools initiative implemented during former Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s administration.

    In his initial statements following the appointment, Samuels emphasized his immigrant background and educational philosophy. “As a Jamaica-born immigrant, I am excited to create an educational system that is affordable for all students,” he declared, highlighting his commitment to equitable access to quality education.

    The selection has garnered widespread acclaim from both American and Jamaican community leaders. Colleagues have characterized Samuels as a visionary educator dedicated to student achievement, while the Jamaican Consulate in New York celebrated his accomplishment as reflective of the substantial contributions made by Jamaicans living abroad.

  • Nobel Laureate Festival returns January 6 under theme of legacy and future impact

    Nobel Laureate Festival returns January 6 under theme of legacy and future impact

    Saint Lucia is poised to host its prestigious 33rd annual Nobel Laureate Festival, a month-long celebration running from January 6 to February 4 dedicated to honoring the island nation’s extraordinary intellectual legacy. The festival pays tribute to two of the Caribbean’s most distinguished minds: Sir Arthur Lewis, awarded the 1979 Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences for his groundbreaking work in development economics, and Sir Derek Walcott, who received the 1992 Nobel Prize in Literature for his poetic achievements.

    Under the resonant theme “Celebrating Excellence: Honoring our Legacy, Shaping our Tomorrow,” this year’s iteration seeks to bridge historical achievement with contemporary inspiration. Festival organizers emphasize the continuing relevance of both laureates’ contributions and the imperative for current generations to build upon their foundational work.

    At the festival’s official launch, Chairperson and Governor General Emerita H.E. Dame Pearlette Louisy addressed potential skeptics directly: “Some may have dismissed our laureates’ achievements as historical artifacts with diminishing contemporary relevance. However, we must recognize that the trees whose shade we now enjoy were planted by those who preceded us—visionaries who often never lived to witness the full fruition of their labor.”

    Delia Dolor, Public Relations Coordinator and Committee Member, highlighted Saint Lucia’s remarkable distinction of having one of the world’s highest per capita rates of Nobel Prize winners. “This festival not only commemorates past brilliance,” Dolor stated, “but also embraces our responsibility to ignite future innovation and cultivate a more prosperous future for our nation and the global community.”

    The festival’s diverse programming spans multiple venues across Saint Lucia, blending established traditions with innovative new events. Highlights include two memorial lectures: The Sir Derek Walcott Memorial Lecture, titled “An Listwa Manmay San Liv” and delivered by acclaimed Saint Lucian-Canadian author Professor Canisia Lubrin (January 20), and The Sir Arthur Lewis Memorial Lecture on “Economic Principles for the 21st Century” presented by Professor Sir Timothy Besley of the London School of Economics (January 22).

    Additional featured events encompass a comprehensive Celebrating Excellence Video Series with distinguished guests, the inauguration of the History House in Soufrière with a specialized exhibition, creative forums, literary awards, theatrical tributes, educational workshops, and ceremonial wreath-laying at the laureates’ resting places. The festival culminates with the Sagicor Schools’ Choir Competition, showcasing young musical talent inspired by the nation’s intellectual heroes.

    Complete scheduling information and regular updates are available through the official Event Programme on the Festival’s Facebook presence (@nobellaureatefestivalsaintlucia) or via direct inquiry at (758) 284-2111 and info@ddmediarelations.com.

  • Government clarifies eligibility for low-emission vehicle tax concessions

    Government clarifies eligibility for low-emission vehicle tax concessions

    The Energy Division of Saint Lucia’s Ministry of Infrastructure, Ports, and Energy has issued definitive clarifications regarding its concessionary tax policy for low-emission vehicles, establishing clear technical distinctions between qualifying and non-qualifying hybrid technologies.

    According to an official statement disseminated through the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council, the policy framework specifically defines eligible hybrid vehicles as those employing “two or more distinct forms of onboard energy, each of which can propel the vehicle.” This technical specification effectively excludes so-called ‘mild hybrid’ vehicles that lack full electric propulsion capability, regardless of their marketing descriptions.

    The regulatory basis for these concessions is formally outlined in Statutory Instrument Number 222 of 2025, which references the Customs Duties (Amendment of Schedule 4) (No. 4) Order, 2025. This legislative instrument specifies that the reduced customs duty rates will take effect on December 1, 2025, and remain valid through November 30, 2026.

    Government authorities emphasized the critical technological differentiation between true hybrid vehicles and mild hybrid systems. The latter incorporate limited electrical components that support fuel efficiency functions such as engine assistance or start-stop mechanisms but cannot achieve propulsion exclusively through electric power. Since propulsion remains dependent entirely on internal combustion engines (whether gasoline or diesel), these systems produce “no meaningful reduction in tailpipe emissions” and consequently fail to meet the legal requirements for tax concessions.

    The current policy initiative builds upon previous import duty waivers and tax concessions for low-emission vehicles that were implemented during the government’s first term. These earlier concessions, subsequently extended from December 1, 2023, to August 30, 2024, established the foundation for the current regulatory framework.

    Acknowledging previous administrative practices where mild hybrid vehicles inadvertently received fee waivers, the government has instituted a transitional adjustment period. All such vehicles ordered before January 1, 2026, will still receive tax concessions to accommodate this regulatory transition.

    The ministry articulated that the policy’s fundamental objective is to enhance affordability for consumers transitioning to electric vehicles while encouraging movement away from traditional internal combustion engine vehicles reliant exclusively on fossil fuels. This hybrid vehicle tax concession strategy serves as an interim measure bridging conventional and fully electric transportation, with the ultimate goal of achieving complete sector electrification.

    Stakeholders seeking additional information are directed to review Statutory Instrument Number 222 of 2025, or contact the Energy Division directly at telephone number 1(758)468-6363 or via email at cepuo@govt.lc.

  • Dozens presumed dead in New Year’s Day fire at Swiss ski resort

    Dozens presumed dead in New Year’s Day fire at Swiss ski resort

    A catastrophic fire engulfed a popular nightclub in the exclusive Swiss alpine resort of Crans-Montana during New Year’s celebrations, resulting in what authorities describe as a “terrible tragedy” with multiple fatalities and severe injuries.

    The blaze erupted at approximately 1:30 AM local time within Le Constellation bar, a favored gathering spot for young tourists and locals. Initial witness accounts suggest the conflagration may have originated from decorative birthday candles placed on champagne bottles that ignited the ceiling structure. Within moments, the entire venue became consumed by flames, triggering mass panic among the estimated 200 revelers inside.

    Eyewitnesses described harrowing scenes of patrons attempting to break through windows with chairs to escape the rapidly spreading fire. Survivors reported encountering people covered in burns fleeing into the streets while others remained trapped inside the burning establishment. The venue’s basement location and limited exit routes reportedly complicated evacuation efforts.

    Emergency response teams from multiple jurisdictions mobilized extensively, transporting over 100 injured individuals to medical facilities across Switzerland. Zurich University Hospital received more than a dozen victims, while at least 22 patients with critical burns were admitted to Lausanne’s main hospital. Additional casualties were transferred to medical centers in Geneva as healthcare systems coordinated a massive response.

    Swiss President Guy Parmelin expressed national grief, stating on social media platform X that “what was meant to be a moment of joy has turned the first day of the year into a day of mourning.” Law enforcement officials confirmed the incident is not being treated as a terrorist attack, with initial investigation indicating any explosion resulted from the fire rather than causing it.

    Authorities have launched an extensive victim identification process, acknowledging the international character of the resort destination likely means multiple nationalities are among the casualties. The French foreign ministry has already confirmed at least two French citizens were injured in the incident.

    The tragedy casts a pall over the prestigious ski resort, which is scheduled to host the Ski World Cup competition later this month, as the community grapples with one of Switzerland’s deadliest nightclub fires in recent history.

  • Fire Service responds to 13 000 emergency calls in 2025

    Fire Service responds to 13 000 emergency calls in 2025

    The Saint Lucia Fire Service (SLFS) experienced a significant escalation in operational demand throughout 2025, responding to a total of 13,480 emergency and assistance calls according to its year-end operational report. This volume represents a notable five percent increase compared to the 12,839 incidents handled in the previous year, underscoring growing public reliance on the agency’s services.

    An in-depth breakdown of response data reveals a fundamental shift in the nature of emergencies confronting the fire service. Medical emergencies constituted the predominant category, accounting for 6,723 responses. These interventions addressed critical health crises including cardiac arrests, acute respiratory distress, and various life-threatening medical situations requiring immediate pre-hospital care.

    Trauma-related incidents formed the second largest category with 2,194 responses, encompassing accidents, falls, and injuries resulting from violent encounters. Meanwhile, traditional fire emergencies accounted for 679 responses, involving structural fires across residential, commercial, and industrial settings, alongside vegetation fires, vehicle blazes, electrical fires, and smoke-related incidents.

    The service also dedicated substantial resources to 3,884 non-emergency calls, providing essential public assistance, conducting minor investigations, and performing safety inspections throughout communities across the island.

    This operational data illustrates the SLFS’s evolution beyond conventional firefighting into a comprehensive emergency response organization. The statistics highlight the service’s critical function as a primary first responder for medical and trauma emergencies, in addition to its traditional fire suppression role.

    SLFS Press Officer Sherise John reaffirmed the organization’s commitment, stating: ‘The Saint Lucia Fire Service remains dedicated to serving our community and ensuring safety for all residents,’ emphasizing the agency’s preparedness to meet diverse public safety needs.