Disability rights advocate Felicia Inniss has called for significant reforms to support parents raising children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Speaking at the St James Ideas Forum town hall meeting at Frederick Smith Secondary School, Inniss emphasized the need for extended maternity and paternity leave, as well as enhanced community-based support systems. She argued that traditional leave policies are inadequate for parents of children with complex needs, who often face psychological and financial challenges. Inniss highlighted the lack of daycare facilities willing to accommodate children with disabilities, making it nearly impossible for parents to return to work within the standard leave period. She also pointed out the scarcity of developmental pediatricians in Barbados, with only one currently serving the island, and urged the government to improve access to assessments and therapeutic services. Drawing from her personal experience as a parent of a child with a disability, Inniss stressed the importance of creating supervised housing for adults with disabilities to ensure their well-being after their parents pass away. She proposed community-based respite programs, likening them to foster care, to provide temporary relief for families. Inniss concluded by emphasizing the need for compassionate, people-centered solutions rather than focusing solely on infrastructure.
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Union urges CARICOM protocol to safeguard migrant workers
With the imminent implementation of full free movement between Barbados and three other CARICOM states, the Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB) is advocating for a binding regional protocol to safeguard the rights of migrant workers. CTUSAB President Ryan Phillips emphasized the urgent need for enforceable standards to prevent wage suppression and exploitation, stating, “The freedom of movement within the Caribbean must be addressed with clarity and resolve. While the region benefits from shared human capital and collective growth, coherent integration policies, proper labour documentation, and enforcement of social protections are essential.” Phillips made these remarks during CTUSAB’s mid-term delegates’ conference, titled *A Shared Vision for a Stronger Tomorrow: Through Change and Increased Dialogue*, held at the Seventh-Day Adventist Conference Centre. He also highlighted unresolved issues in the public sector, including the non-payment of overtime to nurses, uniform allowances, and the reinstatement of leave for teachers. Phillips called on the government to honor its commitments comprehensively, stressing that these benefits are crucial to workers’ dignity and productivity. Additionally, he criticized CTUSAB’s exclusion from key decision-making bodies, such as those overseeing immigration, education reform, and climate transition, urging for substantial labor representation in shaping Barbados’ future.
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ABWU Shines Spotlight on Workplace Stress and Mental Health
The Antigua & Barbuda Workers’ Union (ABWU) is set to tackle the pressing issue of workplace stress and its impact on mental health during its 58th Annual Delegates Conference. A special panel discussion, scheduled for September 22, will bring together experts to explore strategies for managing stress, reducing stigma, and fostering a supportive work environment. The panel will feature notable speakers, including clinical psychologist Feona Charles-Richards, counsellor Harriet Warner, and Edgar Diaz, Regional Secretary for Latin America and the Caribbean at the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF).
Workplace stress has emerged as a significant concern, with many employees grappling with burnout, anxiety, depression, and declining productivity due to the demands of modern work environments. ABWU Deputy General Secretary Chester Hughes emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue, stating, ‘Stress on the job is not just a personal matter—it’s a workplace issue. Employers and unions must collaborate to create healthier environments where employees feel supported, respected, and valued. Mental health must be treated with the same urgency as physical safety.’
The discussion is part of the ABWU’s broader initiative to prioritize mental health support and stress management in collective bargaining, workplace policies, and employer practices. The forum will take place during the conference’s business session on September 22 at 2:00 p.m., aiming to equip stakeholders with practical tools to address this growing challenge.
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Antigua Girls’ High School Graduate Named Top Matriculant at UWI Five Islands
Nelisha Mirage, a distinguished graduate of Antigua Girls’ High School, has been honored as the top matriculant for 2025 at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus. This prestigious recognition was bestowed upon her during the university’s matriculation ceremony, where she signed the register on behalf of the incoming class—a tradition reserved for the student with the highest academic performance.
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UWI Five Islands Welcomes 443 New Students at Matriculation Ceremony
The University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus marked a historic milestone as it welcomed its largest-ever cohort of students during the 2025 Matriculation and Welcome Ceremony in St. John’s, Antigua. Despite inclement weather, over 400 new students, accompanied by their families and university staff, gathered to celebrate their formal induction into the UWI community. This year’s intake saw 443 students admitted from a record 750 applicants, pushing the campus’s total enrolment beyond 1,300. The diverse cohort includes students from Antigua and Barbuda, as well as virtual participants from across the Eastern Caribbean, such as St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Montserrat, St. Kitts, Dominica, Grenada, and St. Lucia. Campus Principal Professor Justin Robinson emphasized the institution’s rapid growth and urged students to view themselves as catalysts for Caribbean transformation. The ceremony featured symbolic traditions, including the signing of the matriculation register, the recitation of the academic vow, and the lighting of the ‘Flame of Excellence,’ which symbolizes knowledge, truth, and shared responsibility. Dr. Camille Samuel, Campus Registrar, reminded students of their lifelong commitment to the UWI community, while Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, joining virtually, highlighted UWI’s global standing and the pivotal role students play in regional development. The event concluded with the university song, performed by the Five Islands Chorale, marking the beginning of the students’ academic journey. This matriculation ceremony not only celebrated a significant milestone but also underscored the institution’s mission to nurture future leaders and change-makers for the Caribbean.
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Sunrise Airways to Launch Antigua–Barbados Flights This Winter
Sunrise Airways is set to enhance its regional connectivity with the introduction of a new service linking Antigua and Bridgetown, Barbados, during the Northern Winter 2025/26 season. The airline announced that the route will commence on 29 October 2025, operating two weekly flights using Embraer ERJ145 aircraft. Departures from Antigua are scheduled for 10:00 on Fridays and 12:15 on Wednesdays, with a flight duration of just over an hour. Return flights from Bridgetown will depart at 12:05 on Fridays and 15:00 on Wednesdays. This strategic expansion underscores Sunrise Airways’ commitment to strengthening short-haul travel options across the Eastern Caribbean islands. The launch event on 1 July 2024 saw the participation of government officials, highlighting the significance of this new route for regional tourism and economic development. The airline’s move is expected to provide travelers with greater flexibility and convenience, fostering closer ties between the two popular Caribbean destinations.
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Antigua’s Culinary Heritage Spotlighted in CruiseCritic Feature
Antigua and Barbuda’s vibrant culinary traditions have taken center stage in a recent feature by CruiseCritic, highlighting how the twin-island nation’s history and cultural diversity are best savored through its food. Authored by Rafael Peña, the article titled “From West African Stews to Latin Spices, Antigua’s Flavors Run Deeper Than the Waters” positions the Caribbean destination as a place where cuisine narrates tales of heritage, resilience, and cultural fusion. The piece delves into the island’s culinary evolution, tracing its roots to colonial influences, including Spanish introductions of garlic, onions, and rice, alongside Mesoamerican staples like beans and tomatoes. These elements, combined with African traditions and local produce, have created a layered and distinctive gastronomic identity. Peña emphasizes that Antigua’s story is not told through generic cruise offerings but through bold flavors of pepper, smoke, and citrus, echoing centuries-old kitchens. The feature spotlights local establishments such as Papa Zouk in St. John’s, celebrated for its fresh fish and extensive rum collection, and OJ’s Beach Bar & Restaurant in Johnson’s Point, known for its buttery lobster and freshly caught snapper. Island Fusion also earns praise for blending Latin influences with Caribbean classics like jerk and conch fritters. By showcasing Antigua’s authentic culinary scene, the article underscores the island’s ability to stand out in the competitive cruise market, offering travelers a taste of living history. With its rich flavors gaining international recognition, Antigua and Barbuda is emerging not just as a tropical paradise but as a must-visit food destination that reflects the depth of its cultural heritage.
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Antigua and Barbuda Spotlighted as Top Family Destination by The Sunday Times
Antigua and Barbuda, a picturesque twin-island nation in the Caribbean, has recently been celebrated as one of the region’s most family-friendly destinations. This recognition comes following a feature in *The Sunday Times*, which lauded the islands for their unique blend of luxury, relaxation, and child-centric activities. Under the headline ‘This Caribbean Island is Perfect for Families,’ the publication highlighted Antigua’s serene resorts, exceptional kids’ clubs, and crystal-clear turquoise waters, describing it as a ‘crowd-pleaser’ that caters to every family member. The article emphasized Antigua’s famed 365 beaches—’one for every day of the year’—and its safe, shallow waters, ideal for children to explore. Resorts like Carlisle Bay and Blue Waters were praised for offering a range of activities, from bracelet-making workshops and reggae dance sessions to turtle-watching excursions. While children engage in these activities, parents can enjoy yoga, spa treatments, or simply relax on sun loungers. The islands’ rich marine life was also highlighted, with families often encountering hawksbill turtles, stingrays, and parrotfish during snorkeling and boat trips. Beyond the beaches, Antigua’s cultural and historical attractions, such as Nelson’s Dockyard—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and Shirley Heights, known for its steel bands and sunset barbecues, add depth to the visitor experience. Road trips through vibrant villages, stops at local fruit stalls, and visits to Catherine’s Café in English Harbour were recommended for those seeking to immerse themselves in the islands’ charm. The feature also noted the islands’ appeal to celebrities, including Eric Clapton, Oprah Winfrey, Michael Jordan, and Robert De Niro, who owns the luxurious Nobu Hotel on Barbuda. With direct flights from the UK and a growing array of family-oriented resorts, Antigua and Barbuda continues to solidify its reputation as a top choice for holidaymakers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
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Haiti Needs a Single Strategy, Real Money, and Political Discipline
Haiti, a nation long plagued by instability, faces an escalating crisis that demands immediate and coordinated international intervention. The situation, as highlighted by recent reports from the Réseau National de Défense des Droits Humains (RNDDH) and the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime (GI-TOC), reveals a fragmented and ineffective approach to security, governance, and humanitarian relief. Armed gangs have seized control of critical infrastructure, roads, and revenue streams, while the Haitian National Police, even with support from the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, remains overstretched and inconsistent in its efforts. The Transitional Presidential Council (TPC) has stalled, and the planned November 2025 elections are unlikely to proceed, leaving the country in a governance vacuum. Political elites continue to engage in power struggles, further weakening the state and emboldening armed groups. A viable solution requires a unified strategy that includes securing transport infrastructure, cutting off arms and illicit financing to gangs, and establishing humanitarian corridors. The international community, particularly the United Nations, the Organization of American States (OAS), and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), must act decisively. A transparent, audited Haiti Fund, financed by key stakeholders like the United States and France, should be established to support a comprehensive plan that integrates security, governance transition, and economic measures. The UN Security Council must back this plan with a unified mandate and operational support. Without immediate action, Haiti risks further state collapse, with dire consequences for the Caribbean and the Americas.
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Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon Shirley Botchwey, Statement In response recent incursions by the Guatemalan military into Belize
The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon Shirley Botchwey, has issued a strong statement condemning recent incursions by the Guatemalan military into Belizean territory. The incidents, which included the hoisting of the Guatemalan flag on Belizean soil, attempts to intercept a Belizean military vessel, and obstruction of Belizeans using the Sarstoon River, have raised significant concerns about regional stability. Botchwey described these actions as “unacceptable” and emphasized their potential to undermine the growing ties between the two neighboring nations. She commended the Belizean military for their professional and restrained response, which helped prevent further escalation. Botchwey urged both countries to exercise restraint, respect international law, and engage in peaceful dialogue to resolve the territorial dispute. She also called for continued efforts to seek a resolution through the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the establishment of a cooperation mechanism for the Sarstoon River and maritime areas, supported by the Organization of American States. The Commonwealth reaffirmed its support for Belize’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and security, emphasizing the importance of adherence to confidence-building measures and international agreements. Botchwey’s statement underscores the global attention on the situation and the Commonwealth’s commitment to fostering lasting peace in the region.