Carib Scope

标签： Saint Lucia

圣卢西亚

  • 9% wage increase for Ferrands employees

    9% wage increase for Ferrands employees

    After a period of constructive dialogue, Ferrands Food Products Ltd. and the National Workers Union (NWU) have finalized a comprehensive three-year labor agreement. The breakthrough concludes industrial negotiations that will substantially benefit clerical, technical, and ancillary staff members.

    NWU President General Tyrone G Maynard unveiled the specifics of the new compensation package, which guarantees employees a cumulative nine percent wage enhancement structured over the agreement’s duration. The incremental raise breakdown allocates a four percent increase in the first year, followed by three percent in the second year, and two percent in the final year. A significant component of the settlement includes the provision of retroactive pay covering the previous five months.

    Crucially, the pact ensures the preservation of all existing fringe benefits, which will be maintained in accordance with prevailing industry standards. Both parties have committed to a collaborative effort to facilitate the prompt and effective execution of these new terms.

    The formalization process is now underway, with arrangements being coordinated through the Department of Labour. The official signing ceremony is scheduled to occur under the auspices of the Labour Commissioner, marking the contractual commencement of the negotiated terms. This agreement extends a decade-long industrial relations partnership between Ferrands Food Products and the NWU, demonstrating a sustained commitment to cooperative labor-management relations.

  • Five years on, no answers in Stephanie Thomas’ murder

    Five years on, no answers in Stephanie Thomas’ murder

    Five years after the grim discovery of a decomposed female body at Pigeon Point in Gros Islet, Saint Lucia, the grieving family of 22-year-old Stephanie Thomas continues their agonizing wait for justice. The case, initially investigated in January 2021, remains officially active with law enforcement yet to make any arrests in connection with the young woman’s death.

    The emotional toll on Thomas’s family has been devastating. Her father, Robertson Henry, described the past five years as “an emotional roller coaster” that has tested his sanity. “I try to remain sane by constantly occupying myself with work, but the memory and the pain never goes away,” Henry revealed in an interview with St. Lucia Times. “The images of her decomposed body serve as a constant reminder of the brutality and nastiness of the murderer.”

    Despite public appeals from police officials during the initial investigation phase, the case has encountered significant forensic challenges. According to police sources, the advanced state of decomposition of Thomas’s body has prevented pathologists from determining the exact cause of death, creating a substantial obstacle in the investigation.

    Superintendent George Nicholas, who heads Crime Management in the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, had previously assured the public that investigators were pursuing all possible leads. While one individual has been questioned multiple times in connection with the death, the absence of conclusive evidence has prevented any arrests.

    The tragedy occurred during a particularly violent year in Saint Lucia, with Thomas’s death being one of 75 homicides recorded in 2021. Her father maintains that even if the killer is eventually brought to justice, it cannot fully compensate for the loss of his daughter, who was “taken away from us way too soon.”

  • Jamaican national charged with capital murder in Biscombe killing

    Jamaican national charged with capital murder in Biscombe killing

    Saint Lucian authorities have formally brought capital murder charges against Javier Cleveland Bailey, a Jamaican national, for the January 19th fatal shooting of 27-year-old security guard Cresean Biscombe. The incident occurred during an apparent robbery attempt at a Castries supermarket where Biscombe was employed.

    The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force confirmed Bailey’s arrest came following an intensive investigation into the La Clery homicide. Court documents show prosecutors presented their case before the First District Court on January 28th, where the presiding judge ordered Bailey remanded into custody pending trial proceedings.

    Law enforcement officials have revealed their investigation remains active, with at least one additional suspect currently detained for questioning. Police indicate multiple individuals may have participated in the attempted robbery that resulted in Biscombe’s death. Authorities are continuing investigative operations to identify and locate other potential accomplices.

    The case has drawn attention to workplace safety concerns for security personnel and highlighted ongoing efforts to combat violent crime in commercial establishments. The judicial process will proceed under Saint Lucia’s legal framework for capital offenses, which carries significant penalties upon conviction.

  • Business magnate Noel Cadasse dies at 80

    Business magnate Noel Cadasse dies at 80

    The Caribbean nation of Saint Lucia is mourning the loss of distinguished entrepreneur and public servant Noel Samuel Cadasse, who passed away peacefully at his Canadian residence at the age of 80. The prominent business leader, whose remarkable journey began in the coastal village of Anse La Raye, built an impressive legacy across multiple industries before his eventual migration to Canada.

    Cadasse’s business acumen first emerged through his representation of regional insurance providers, eventually culminating in the establishment of his own successful venture, First National Insurance Company. His entrepreneurial spirit extended beyond insurance into diverse sectors including bakery operations and tourism development. His most notable contribution to Saint Lucia’s hospitality industry was the creation of Caribees Hotel at La Panse, one of the first locally owned and operated hotels during its era.

    Beyond his commercial achievements, Cadasse dedicated significant effort to public service, serving as a former senator and contributing his expertise to numerous organizational boards. His leadership extended to chairing Saint Lucia’s Gaming Control Commission, where he helped shape regulatory frameworks for the industry.

    Following his relocation to Canada with his family, Cadasse continued to demonstrate his business prowess while gradually transitioning toward retirement. His reflective memoir, “Ebb and Flow – The Life Journey of Noel Cadasse,” captured the essence of his extraordinary personal and professional evolution.

    The British Crown recognized his substantial contributions to community development, infrastructure, and economic growth by awarding him the prestigious Office of the Order of the British Empire (O.B.E) during the 2025 King’s Birthday Honors. Cadasse is survived by his wife Julia and their children, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire future generations of Saint Lucian entrepreneurs.

  • Barbados secures top Caribbean passport spot for 11th consecutive year

    Barbados secures top Caribbean passport spot for 11th consecutive year

    Barbados has solidified its position as the Caribbean’s premier passport powerhouse, securing the region’s top spot for an unprecedented 11th consecutive year according to the newly published Henley Passport Index 2026. The island nation’s travel document now claims 19th place globally, providing Barbadian citizens with visa-free or visa-upon-arrival privileges across 162 international destinations.

    The latest rankings reveal a clear hierarchy within the Caribbean travel mobility landscape. The Bahamas follows closely in second position regionally (20th globally with 150 destinations), trailed by St Vincent and the Grenadines (22nd global rank, 156 destinations), St Kitts and Nevis (23rd globally, 155 destinations), and Antigua and Barbuda (24th worldwide, 154 destinations).

    While Eastern Caribbean nations demonstrate remarkable passport strength, the report indicates varying levels of travel freedom across the broader region. Saint Lucia maintains a respectable 29th global position with access to 145 countries, though several other Caribbean territories face substantial mobility limitations in the current global landscape.

    On the worldwide stage, Singapore continues to dominate passport power rankings for 2026, with its citizens enjoying unprecedented access to 192 global destinations without prior visa requirements. The consistent performance of Barbados highlights the nation’s strategic diplomatic relations and international standing, providing significant advantages for both business and leisure travel within the global community.

  • ECTEL Digital Inclusion Survey shows gaps in skills development

    ECTEL Digital Inclusion Survey shows gaps in skills development

    A comprehensive Digital Inclusion Survey conducted by the Eastern Caribbean Telecommunications Authority (ECTEL) has uncovered a critical skills gap in the region, despite significant advancements in broadband connectivity. The official findings were unveiled on January 28, 2026, during a high-profile gathering at the Bougenvelia Conference Room in Rodney Bay, Saint Lucia, attended by telecommunications executives, policy makers, and media representatives.

    The extensive research, conducted throughout 2024 across ECTEL’s member states including Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis, and Saint Lucia, revealed a paradoxical situation. While access to digital infrastructure has dramatically improved since 2014, the majority of users—approximately 60%—possess only basic digital literacy skills. Advanced technical competencies remain exceptionally rare, with fewer than 5% of users demonstrating intermediate or advanced capabilities.

    ECTEL Managing Director David Cox emphasized the significance of these findings in an exclusive statement: ‘The survey’s primary objective was to collect comprehensive data on digital technology usage patterns across these nations. We’ve gathered crucial insights regarding public perception of service costs, accessibility barriers, and usage behaviors that will directly inform future regulatory frameworks.’

    Cox acknowledged the substantial progress in broadband penetration but highlighted persistent challenges: ‘Connectivity has indeed jumped considerably since 2014, indicating that markets are progressing in the right direction. However, significant concerns remain regarding service quality and affordability. Price continues to represent a substantial barrier for many citizens seeking to utilize internet services effectively.’

    The research identifies a fundamental transition from addressing the physical digital divide to confronting a more complex capability divide. While most households now possess laptops as their primary ICT device, residents predominantly consume digital content rather than create it or engage in sophisticated economic activities through digital platforms.

    ECTEL, in collaboration with National Telecommunications Regulatory Commissions and regional governments, is now developing targeted strategies to enhance digital literacy, improve service quality, and reduce cost barriers. These initiatives aim to transform the Eastern Caribbean into a more digitally inclusive society where technological access translates into meaningful economic and social advancement.

  • West Indies U19 fall 22 runs short against Australia

    West Indies U19 fall 22 runs short against Australia

    A spirited fightback from the West Indies Under-19 team ultimately proved insufficient against a formidable Australian side, suffering a 22-run defeat in a crucial ICC Under-19 Men’s World Cup group stage encounter. The match, held at Harare Sports Club on January 28, saw Australia post a commanding total that the Caribbean youngsters could not overcome, severely jeopardizing their tournament progression.

    Electing to field after winning the toss, the West Indies strategy was immediately challenged by a blistering Australian opening partnership. Will Malajczuk (48) and Nitesh Gershom Samuel (56) launched a rapid assault, amassing 73 runs within the first 56 deliveries to establish a dominant platform. The innings was then masterfully anchored by Captain Oliver Peake, who delivered a magnificent century, scoring 109. Supported by Alex Young’s valuable 45, Australia finished their 50 overs at an intimidating 314/7. Jakeem Javier Pollard emerged as the most effective Windies bowler, securing figures of 2/37.

    In response, the West Indies displayed commendable resolve. Openers Zachary Carter and Tanez Francis provided a solid foundation with an 88-run partnership. After both openers were dismissed, Captain Joshua Dorne shouldered the responsibility with a determined 62, forming crucial partnerships with Jewel Andrew (44) and Kunal Tilokani (35) to keep the chase alive.

    However, Australia’s bowling unit expertly seized control during the critical middle and death overs. Leg-spinner Nathan Cooray applied immense pressure with an exceptionally economical spell, conceding just 38 runs from his full quota of ten overs. This stranglehold was complemented by Charles Lachmund’s decisive four-wicket haul for 66 runs, triggering a cascade of wickets that stifled the Windies’ momentum. Requiring an improbable run rate exceeding ten per over in the final phase, the Caribbean team was eventually bowled out for 292, falling short of the target.

  • Losing start for Saint Lucia in Concacaf U17 girls

    Losing start for Saint Lucia in Concacaf U17 girls

    Haiti’s under-17 women’s national team delivered a commanding performance on January 27th, securing a decisive 5-0 victory against Saint Lucia’s Piton Girlz in Group C of the 2026 CONCACAF Women’s Under-17 Qualifiers. The match, held at Stadion Rignaal Jean Francisca in Willemstad, Curaçao, demonstrated Haiti’s offensive prowess as they maintained their perfect record in the tournament.

    Saint Lucia adopted a defensive 4-1-4-1 formation with Alyssa Flavius guarding the net and captain Hayla Samuel leading the defensive line alongside Aria Andrew, LeNeese Robinson, and Ivana Marshall. The midfield setup featured Tori Fanis in a defensive role supporting Dhunya Jn Baptiste, Kayla Polius, Kyla Lionel, and Kennya Richard, while Amaya Emmanuel served as the lone forward.

    The Haitian squad established early dominance when Kyrah Lormil capitalized on a deep throw-in within the opening four minutes, finding the net for an immediate lead. Lormil demonstrated remarkable precision again in the 17th minute, doubling Haiti’s advantage with a well-placed shot from the right edge of the penalty area.

    The match dynamics shifted dramatically in the 54th minute when Saint Lucia’s Ivana Marshall received a straight red card for violent conduct, reducing her team to ten players. Haiti exploited this numerical advantage with three additional goals: Krystel Châtelain scored in the 61st minute, Keisha Gue added another in the 73rd, and Rosalie St Louis completed the rout four minutes before full-time.

    Haiti’s squad, featuring numerous overseas-based players, currently leads the qualifying group ahead of Guatemala. The Grenadières have now netted an impressive 11 goals across two matches while conceding only once. Saint Lucia faces another formidable challenge against Guatemala on Thursday, who recently defeated Antigua and Barbuda 5-0 on Tuesday.

  • Windwards women off to a rollicking start in Super 50

    Windwards women off to a rollicking start in Super 50

    In a remarkable display of resilience, the Windward Islands women’s cricket team decisively overturned their recent T20 Blaze disappointment with a commanding 91-run triumph against defending champions Trinidad and Tobago in their CG United Women’s Super50 Cup opener on January 27th. The match, held at Sion Hill Playing Field in St Vincent and the Grenadines, saw the Windwards post an impressive 225-7 before dismantling their opponents for a mere 134 runs.

    Despite losing opener Ashlene Edwards early for just 4 runs after Trinidad and Tobago captain Karishma Ramharack elected to field first, the Windwards built a formidable innings through strategic partnerships. Saint Lucian opener Zaida James established a solid foundation with veteran Afy Fletcher, contributing 38 runs from 85 deliveries before her dismissal.

    The innings’ centerpiece emerged through Fletcher’s brilliant collaboration with Jannillea Glasgow, who orchestrated a devastating 101-run partnership in just 14.1 overs. Fletcher eventually departed for a well-crafted 61 runs, while Glasgow demonstrated exceptional stamina, remaining until the final over to accumulate 73 runs from 88 balls, including nine boundaries. Nadia Mohammed emerged as Trinidad’s most effective bowler with figures of 2-42, though her team’s discipline waned with 30 extras conceded.

    Trinidad and Tobago’s response proved disastrous from the outset, collapsing to 56-6 within 17 overs against the Windwards’ disciplined bowling attack. Only a late 70-run partnership between Lee-Ann Kirby (31) and captain Ramharack (29) provided temporary resistance before the team folded after 33.2 overs. Fletcher showcased her all-round capabilities with outstanding bowling figures of 4-23 from 8.2 overs, while Glasgow complemented with 2-14 from her four-over spell.

    The victory sets an optimistic tone for the Windwards as they prepare to face the Leeward Islands at Cumberland Playing Field on Thursday, who suffered a 79-run defeat against Barbados in their tournament opener.

  • Health summary reveals chronic diseases account for 80% of deaths

    Health summary reveals chronic diseases account for 80% of deaths

    The Saint Lucian Ministry of Health has released its comprehensive 2025 Health Summary Update, providing a detailed epidemiological portrait of the nation’s public health landscape. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sharon Belmar George presented the findings, which reveal both significant improvements in infectious disease control and ongoing challenges related to chronic illnesses and healthcare infrastructure.

    The report indicates notable demographic shifts, with life expectancy reaching 70.2 years for men and 77.8 years for women. The nation recorded a continued decline in birth rates, with 1,326 live births in 2025 representing a 6.1% decrease from the previous year and a crude birth rate of 7.7 per 1,000 women of childbearing age.

    Infectious disease surveillance showed substantial progress: COVID-19 cases declined from 3.4 to 2.0 per 10,000 population, dengue fever cases plummeted by 91% compared to 2024, and gastroenteritis cases decreased by 85%. However, health officials noted the continued circulation of respiratory viruses including new variants of COVID-19, Influenza A and B, and RSV. The report also documented concerning increases in leprosy cases (16 new cases, eight times higher than 2024) and six cases of leptospirosis.

    The HIV epidemic shows gradual improvement with a 2.6% decrease in new cases, though 1,003 individuals continue to live with the virus, 58% of whom are male.

    Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) remain the dominant health challenge, accounting for over 80% of all deaths. Cancers, cerebrovascular disease/stroke, heart disease, and diabetes mellitus have constituted the top four causes of mortality for the past decade. Behavioral risk factors including low health screening rates, rising obesity, poor nutrition, and physical inactivity continue to drive NCD prevalence.

    The report highlighted concerning gender-specific health impacts: males face higher mortality from violence, transportation accidents, and smoking-related respiratory diseases, while females experience greater losses from breast/cervical cancers and perinatal conditions.

    Healthcare infrastructure challenges persisted throughout 2025, with facility closures and care diversions due to maintenance issues and mold contamination. However, the CMO noted reductions in environmental air quality-related closures compared to previous years.

    Significant achievements included the implementation of free antenatal care, cervical/prostate cancer screening, and snake bite management through the Universal Health Care initiative. The health sector also celebrated the opening of the Dr. Betty Wells Urban Polyclinic and the official handover of the St. Jude Hospital site in November 2025, with plans to commission dialysis and other clinical units at the facility.

    For 2026, the Ministry prioritizes strengthening primary care and NCD programs with enhanced focus on nutrition, wellness promotion, and expanded universal health coverage.