The newly released picture book, ‘Luan and the Magical Fireflies,’ by filmmaker and writer Ida Does and illustrator Nazrina Rodjan, was unveiled in a festive ceremony at the Children’s Book Museum in The Hague. The book commemorates the 50th anniversary of Srefidensi, a term coined by the poet Trefossa, who authored Suriname’s national anthem. Bertram Mourits, Head of Collections at the Literature Museum/Children’s Book Museum, opened the event by highlighting the literary significance of Trefossa’s poetry. Ida Does read excerpts from her work, which follows Luan, a boy attuned to nature, as he poetically explores the meaning of Srefidensi. The story also addresses the environmental impact of gold mining and deforestation on rivers and forests. A pivotal moment occurs when Luan notices the creek’s water has turned murky, subtly teaching young readers about the tension between nature and human intervention. Illustrator Nazrina Rodjan, who has Surinamese roots, shared how her recent visit to Suriname inspired her artwork. The first copy of the book was joyfully received by actress Gerda Havertong, who entertained the audience with her warmth and stage presence. Additionally, Ida Does announced that 200 copies will be donated to Suriname, distributed through the Writers’ School Paramaribo to schools, libraries, and children’s homes. The book will also include an educational guide created by the Writers’ School.
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UK Says Russian Spy Ship Fired Lasers at RAF Pilots in “New Era of Threat”
In a significant escalation of diplomatic tensions, the United Kingdom has accused a Russian intelligence vessel of targeting Royal Air Force (RAF) pilots with lasers. The incident occurred near the UK’s exclusive economic zone north of Scotland, where the Russian ship Yantar was reportedly conducting intelligence-gathering operations. Defence Secretary John Healey, in a speech in London, confirmed that an RAF Poseidon P-8 aircraft was deployed to monitor the vessel and that its crew reported being targeted by laser beams. Healey described the incident as part of a broader pattern of increasingly aggressive Russian behavior, including recent drone incursions into NATO airspace and acts of sabotage across Europe. The Russian Embassy in London dismissed the accusations as “provocative,” asserting that the Yantar is an oceanographic research vessel operating legally in international waters. This marks the second time this year the UK has publicly called out the Yantar for activities linked to Russia’s secretive deep-sea intelligence unit, GUGI, but the first time Britain has accused Russia of directing lasers at its aircraft.
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Barbados’ ruling party sends members to help ULP
Members of the Barbados Labour Party (BLP) arrived in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) on Thursday, just one week before the general election scheduled for November 27. Their presence is reportedly aimed at bolstering the election day operations of the incumbent Unity Labour Party (ULP). This development comes as recent, yet undisclosed, polling data suggests that the ULP is trailing behind the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP). Among the arrivals were Kevin Henry, Kevon Henry, Alicia Deane, and Marcus Stephens, some of whom were seen wearing BLP-branded attire upon exiting the Argyle International Airport. Additional BLP representatives are expected to join them on Friday. The BLP members are part of a broader regional effort by Labour Party representatives to support the ULP’s bid for a sixth consecutive five-year term. Earlier, on October 22, the prime ministers of Dominica and St. Lucia, Roosevelt Skerrit and Phillip J. Pierre, visited SVG to endorse ULP leader Ralph Gonsalves for another term, despite their differing policy stances. Gonsalves has also pledged to campaign for Pierre’s St. Lucia Labour Party after the SVG elections. Furthermore, endorsements from regional figures like Grenadian MP Tevin Andrews and Dominica Labour Party member Ian Douglas have added momentum to the ULP’s campaign, with Douglas urging Vincentians to vote for the ULP despite their concerns, emphasizing a brighter future under the party’s leadership.
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Community Groups Donate 19 VHF Radios to Barbuda Fisheries Department
Barbuda’s fishing community has achieved a significant milestone with the recent handover of 19 new VHF radios to the Fisheries Department. This event, held during the annual Ocean Fest celebration on November 15th, underscores the power of collective effort in enhancing safety for the island’s fishers. The radios, funded through community fundraising, contributions from civic society groups, and the GlobalGiving network, are a vital step toward improving communication and safety for licensed fishers, particularly during adverse weather or emergencies at sea. The handover ceremony, attended by key figures such as Brandon Walker of barbudanGO, Devon Warner of the Fisherfolk Association, and Sophia Charles of Team Buda, highlighted the culmination of sustained community efforts. These radios enable fishers to communicate with each other and coastal authorities, receive weather updates, and call for assistance when necessary. Earlier this month, 22 beacon locators were also donated, further bolstering the safety infrastructure. These devices transmit a vessel’s location during emergencies, aiding search-and-rescue operations. Together, the radios and beacon locators bring Barbuda closer to equipping all 30 licensed fishing vessels. Anessa Hopkins, Head of the Fisheries Department, emphasized the life-saving impact of this initiative, noting its alignment with safety regulations set by the Antigua and Barbuda Fisheries Authority. Despite this progress, the campaign continues, requiring 8 more beacon locators, 11 additional VHF radios, and 30 GPS units to fully equip the fleet. Organizers remain optimistic, supported by local partnerships and the generosity of the GlobalGiving community. This initiative not only safeguards lives but also preserves Barbuda’s cultural and economic reliance on the sea, demonstrating the transformative power of community collaboration.
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ABHTA Names 2025 Tourism Nominees for Frontline and Transport Service Awards
The Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) has unveiled the nominees for two prestigious categories in the 2025 Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Awards Gala. This year’s event shines a spotlight on six exceptional individuals whose contributions have significantly enhanced the nation’s tourism sector. The nominees were announced in two key categories: Port Frontline Employee of the Year and Transportation Service Provider of the Year. In the Port Frontline Employee of the Year category, four individuals have been recognized for their outstanding service at critical border-control and security points. These include Vivian Simon from the Antigua and Barbuda Customs & Excise Division, Jahlyn Turner from the Department of Immigration, Philmore Floyd from Antigua Cruise Port, and Malvern Charles from the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda. Their nominations underscore the indispensable role frontline personnel play in delivering safe, efficient, and welcoming experiences for visitors. Meanwhile, the Transportation Service Provider of the Year category features two nominees: Carl Warner from the St John’s Taxi Association and Ian Richards from the United Taxi Company Limited. Both have been lauded for their excellence in visitor transport and customer service. According to the ABHTA, all six nominees exemplify the professionalism and dedication that drive the success of Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism industry. The winners will be revealed on 29 November 2025 at the highly anticipated Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Awards Gala, hosted at Sandals Grande Antigua. The event, themed ‘Mirror Ball Gala – A Night to Reflect and Shine,’ is organized by the ABHTA in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority.
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Dominica to host regional seminar on role of cooperatives in facilitating social equitability
Dominica is set to host a pivotal two-day regional workshop titled “The Role of Social and Solidarity Economy in Advancing Social Justice.” Organized by the Cooperative Development Division (CDD), the event will convene government officials, cooperative leaders, and technical experts from across the Eastern Caribbean. The workshop aims to foster the exchange of successful practices, develop actionable strategies, and establish priority initiatives to strengthen cooperatives in the agricultural and fisheries sectors. The focus on Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) organizations highlights their critical role in revitalizing rural economies, enhancing social cohesion, and promoting inclusive economic growth. However, the sector faces significant challenges, including outdated legal frameworks, data collection gaps, limited institutional coordination, and restricted access to financial and non-financial support services. The seminar is part of the EUCaN project, funded by the European Union and implemented by FIAP in collaboration with the Caribbean Public Vehicle Association (CPVA), the OECS Commission, the International Labour Organization (ILO), the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), and Dominica’s Ministry of Culture, Youth, Sports, and Community Development. Aligned with the International Year of Cooperatives 2025, the event will emphasize the transformative potential of SSE and cooperatives in creating inclusive economic opportunities, particularly for women, youth, and marginalized groups. Key speakers include Gretta Roberts, Minister of Culture, Youth, Sports, and Community Development; representatives from the EU Delegation; Joni T. Musabayana, Director of the Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean at ILO; and Dr. Roxanne Brizan-St. Martin, Programme Director for Health, Social Inclusion, and Social Protection at the OECS Commission. The workshop will also feature presentations on international frameworks and national experiences from the Ministry of Labour and Social Economy of Spain and the Spanish Confederation of Social Economy, exploring legal structures, institutional support systems, and innovative financing models. Expert contributions from organizations like ILO, FAO, IICA, and Cipriani College of Labour and Cooperative Studies will provide practical insights into governance, market aggregation, inclusive finance, and climate-resilient practices. Participating countries will present analyses of their cooperative landscapes, identifying legislative gaps, capacity-building needs, data system improvements, and market development opportunities. The CDD emphasized that cooperatives are essential for generating decent work, improving market access for small producers, strengthening community resilience to climate shocks, and enabling shared investment in infrastructure, processing, and logistics.
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Opposition MP Says Real Test Will Be the Budget, Not the Throne Speech
Opposition Member of Parliament Richard Lewis has expressed his dissatisfaction with this year’s Throne Speech, describing it as a reiteration of the government’s usual overview with little substantive content. Speaking shortly after the Governor General delivered the address, Lewis criticized the speech for its narrow focus on developments since 2020, while neglecting to acknowledge the significant achievements made between 2004 and 2014, which he believes were pivotal in the development of Antigua and Barbuda. Lewis emphasized that the Throne Speech holds limited importance in his assessment of the government’s direction, stating that the true measure of its priorities will be revealed in the upcoming national budget, set to be presented in December. He expressed his eagerness for the budget presentation, which he believes will provide a platform for a more meaningful discussion on critical issues such as persistent water shortages, strategies to address the wealth gap, and improvements to roads and education infrastructure. Lewis stressed that these issues demand clear answers and actionable plans, which he hopes the budget will deliver.
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Emergency Drill Tests Readiness at George Charles Airport
On Tuesday, November 11, the Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA) orchestrated a large-scale emergency response drill at the George F. L. Charles Airport. The exercise simulated an aircraft crash to rigorously assess the airport’s emergency preparedness and inter-agency coordination capabilities. This biennial drill, conducted in alignment with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards, involved over 100 participants, including emergency responders, volunteers, and aviation stakeholders. The scenario depicted a mock aircraft accident near the runway’s northern end, with simulated passengers and crew requiring immediate rescue and medical attention. SLASPA officials emphasized that the drill aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the airport’s emergency response plan, particularly in communication, command, and coordination among various agencies. Exercise Director Aubert Regis highlighted the simulation as a crucial test of operational readiness, stating, ‘This exercise allowed us to activate the emergency response plan and assess how efficiently our agencies would perform in a real-life situation. Our goal is not only to test our response capacity but also to enhance collaboration and overall performance.’ Acting Airport Manager Alexandria Alexander underscored the drill’s proactive nature, noting its role in ensuring swift and effective responses during actual emergencies. ‘This exercise provided a valuable opportunity for all response agencies to evaluate their performance, improve coordination, and ensure that in the event of a real aircraft incident, the response will be efficient and effective,’ she said. The simulation also tested the capabilities of the airport’s Emergency Operations Centre, which coordinates recovery and restoration efforts post-incident. Participating agencies included the National Emergency Management Organisation, the Ministry of Health, Aerodrome Rescue and Fire Fighting Services, the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, Ports Police, Owen King European Union Hospital, the Saint Lucia Red Cross, airline representatives, and airport personnel. Chief Evaluator Andrew George praised the high level of coordination observed during the drill, stating, ‘We assessed everything from scene management to communication and response timelines. The coordination among agencies was very positive and aligned with international emergency standards.’ A formal debriefing session is expected to follow, during which lessons learned and areas for improvement will be reviewed. SLASPA expressed gratitude to all participants and the public for their cooperation during the exercise.
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Gov’t, investor sign deal for US$100m redevelopment of Palm Island
The government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has finalized a landmark $100 million agreement with a UK-based investor for the comprehensive redevelopment of Palm Island, a private resort island severely impacted by Hurricane Beryl in July 2024. Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves announced the partnership with Palm Island Resorts Ltd. during a signing ceremony in Kingstown, emphasizing the project’s potential to transform the island’s tourism and economic landscape. The investment will span 20 to 30 months, focusing on rebuilding and expanding the Palm Island Resorts and Spa, as well as the Anchorage Yacht Club on Union Island. The redevelopment will feature 34 freestanding bungalows, 31 private villas, and a range of luxury amenities, including restaurants, swimming pools, a spa, and aquatic activity centers. The Anchorage Resort will be upgraded to a four-star bohemian luxury property, complete with a kite surfing school. The project is expected to generate over 200 full-time jobs and significantly boost the local economy by sourcing agricultural products, seafood, and other inputs from Vincentian businesses. Additionally, the government has granted duty-free concessions on construction materials and equipment, along with a 15-year tax holiday under the Hotel Aids Act. Prime Minister Gonsalves highlighted the project’s role in revitalizing the Southern Grenadines and enhancing the country’s tourism appeal. Investor Zachary Bayman praised the resilience of the Vincentian people and expressed commitment to preserving Palm Island’s legacy while delivering lasting benefits to the region.
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MS13 Gang Member Arrested at Western Border
In a significant law enforcement breakthrough, Julio César Murillo Mena, a high-profile member of the notorious Mara Salvatrucha (MS13) gang, was apprehended at the Guatemalan Migration Institute in Melchor de Mencos, Petén. The arrest was the result of a meticulously coordinated operation involving INTERPOL and Belizean immigration authorities. Murillo Mena, a Salvadoran national, is wanted in his home country for grave offenses, including homicide and illegal possession of firearms, which carry prison sentences ranging from 4 to 15 years. MS13, a transnational criminal organization with roots in the aftermath of El Salvador’s civil war, has gained infamy for its violent activities, including extortion, drug trafficking, human smuggling, and contract killings. The gang’s origins are deeply tied to the recruitment of child soldiers during the conflict, which displaced nearly one million Salvadorans and left the nation in turmoil. This arrest underscores the ongoing international efforts to combat organized crime and dismantle violent networks.