The Nunez family, The Montessori Centre, and the Saint Lucia Chess Federation (SLCF) are celebrating the remarkable achievements of Leon and Noah Nunez at the Central America and Caribbean School Chess Championship. Held from October 13 to 19 in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, the tournament showcased the brothers’ exceptional talent. Nine-year-old Leon secured second place in the Under-9 Absolute division, while five-year-old Noah claimed third in the Under-7 category. Both also excelled in the Blitz time control, with Noah finishing second in Under-7 and Leon fourth in Under-9. The Montessori Centre of Saint Lucia further bolstered the nation’s pride by securing third place overall in the regional competition. Minister for Youth Development and Sports Kenson Casimir lauded the achievements, emphasizing the importance of school sports programs in national development. The event also saw a visit from Carlos Rivero, Zonal Head of the Confederation of Chess for the Americas and President of the Cuban Chess Federation, who engaged with SLCF executives and witnessed the Classic Rated Tournament, won by Justin James.
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Tourism Minister: No theatre of war in the Caribbean
As the winter tourism season gains momentum, Saint Lucia anticipates a significant economic boost driven by an expected surge in both cruise and stay-over arrivals. However, Dr. Ernest Hilaire, Minister for Tourism and Deputy Prime Minister, has expressed concerns over the escalating tensions between Venezuela and the United States, warning that any regional aggression could negatively impact the tourism sector.
Speaking on October 27, Hilaire emphasized the broader consequences of conflicts, stating, ‘Wars always have consequences beyond the theatre of engagement. Sometimes, decision-makers fail to consider the collateral damage.’ He reiterated Saint Lucia’s commitment to promoting the Caribbean as a ‘Zone of Peace,’ advocating for the exclusion of nuclear weapons and warships from the region.
Hilaire stressed the importance of maintaining the Caribbean as a safe and peaceful area, adding, ‘We do not want to be a theatre of war.’ Despite these concerns, he acknowledged that some geopolitical issues are beyond the nation’s control, and the government is closely monitoring developments to respond swiftly if necessary.
Meanwhile, Minister for Education Shawn Edward highlighted the impact of regional tensions on Saint Lucian students abroad. While the primary focus has been on ensuring the safety of students in Jamaica following Hurricane Melissa, Edward revealed that the government has also engaged with students in Trinidad and Tobago, where US military presence has heightened anxieties.
Edward assured the public that the situation does not warrant panic, but the government remains prepared to support students if circumstances change. The recent deployment of US military assets, including warships and surveillance planes, to the Caribbean has drawn criticism from Venezuelan officials, particularly after the USS Gravely’s arrival in Port-of-Spain on October 26.
As Saint Lucia navigates these challenges, Hilaire remains hopeful that diplomacy and good sense will prevail, safeguarding the region’s stability and economic prospects.
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Pay up or miss out on Christmas rebate
The Barbados government has issued a stern reminder to taxpayers to settle their personal income tax obligations, originally due in April, to avoid forfeiting a promised $1300 rebate scheduled for December. Ryan Straughn, Minister in the Ministry of Finance, revealed on Tuesday that thousands of low-income Barbadians are set to receive their 2024 reverse tax credits in early December. However, he emphasized that this financial relief is contingent upon taxpayers clearing any outstanding balances.
Straughn cautioned that individuals who fail to file their taxes will not qualify for a refund, and those who have filed but still owe money will remain in debt. He urged prompt payment to prevent accumulating penalties. Under normal circumstances, Barbadians are required to pay half of their owed taxes by April and the remainder by September. Missing these deadlines disqualifies taxpayers from automatically receiving the rebate, though the Barbados Revenue Authority may, in certain cases, offset previous refunds against unpaid amounts.
The Minister reiterated that all 2024 refunds are being processed in October, but eligibility hinges on full compliance with tax obligations. The reverse tax credit scheme is specifically designed to assist individuals earning below the standard personal tax allowance. To qualify, applicants must be Barbados residents with an annual gross income of $25,000 or less, employed for at least four months during the income year, paid at least $1300 in National Insurance Scheme (NIS) contributions, and less than $500 in income tax for the year.
Straughn encouraged taxpayers to act swiftly, highlighting that timely payments to the Barbados Revenue Authority not only avoid penalties but also ensure eligibility for the December rebate.
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Grace queries Shevern’s grading of her hospital performance
In a heated exchange during the North Windward election campaign, political candidates Shevern John and Grace Walters sparred over the state of healthcare services under Walters’ administration. John, the New Democratic Party (NDP) candidate, criticized the deteriorating conditions at local hospitals during the NDP’s Warm-Up Rally in London, a village in North Windward. She highlighted issues such as collapsing roofs, mould-infested walls, and inadequate facilities, accusing Walters of neglect despite her dual role as hospital administrator and Unity Labour Party (ULP) candidate. John emphasized that leadership, not titles, is essential for improving healthcare and vowed to prioritize health services if elected. Walters, in her response, defended her record, stating that no one raised concerns during her leave from the hospital and that her focus has always been on community service and youth empowerment. She acknowledged the need for healthcare improvements but argued that the ULP has already initiated significant reforms, including the Strengthening Health System Resilience Project and the construction of the Acute Referral Hospital at Arnos Vale. Walters urged voters to reject the NDP, claiming their policies would reverse progress and make healthcare inaccessible. The election, set for November 27, will determine the future of North Windward’s healthcare system and political leadership.
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Government renews Christmas Barrel Concession Programme
The government of Saint Lucia has reintroduced its annual Christmas Barrel Trade Concession, providing significant financial relief to households during the holiday season. The initiative, administered by the Ministry of Finance through the Customs and Excise Department, will be in effect from October 15, 2025, to February 28, 2026, as per Cabinet Conclusion No. 910 of 2025. This program offers a 100% waiver on import duties for essential goods such as personal items, food, clothing, toys, and household consumables, though electronic items remain excluded. Each household is permitted up to two barrels, with a maximum declared value of $3,000 per barrel, strictly for personal use and not for resale or commercial purposes. Violations will incur standard penalties and fines. Additionally, the Cabinet has approved exemptions from the Health and Citizen Security Levy (HSL) and the Value Added Tax (VAT), pending parliamentary approval. However, a 6% Customs Service Charge will still apply to eligible barrels.
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UWP Dennery North hopeful supports pension plan for farmers
Bradley Marcelle Fulgence, the United Workers Party (UWP) candidate for the Dennery North constituency, has publicly supported Opposition Leader Allen Chastanet’s proposal to implement a pension plan for farmers should the UWP secure victory in the upcoming general elections. Speaking at a UWP press conference on October 28, Fulgence emphasized the critical role played by Saint Lucia’s banana farmers, who have long been the backbone of the nation’s agricultural sector. He highlighted their relentless efforts, often under harsh conditions, to sustain both their families and the country’s economy. Fulgence lamented that many of these farmers have been neglected, lacking access to pensions, financial security, and proper recognition. He revealed that some have even passed away without receiving the compensation they rightfully deserved. To address this, the UWP has introduced the ‘Save our Saint Lucia’ initiative, a comprehensive policy framework designed to restore dignity to farmers. Under this plan, banana farmers who dedicated years to the industry but were unable to contribute to the National Insurance Corporation (NIC) will receive monthly government payments. Additionally, families of farmers who have passed away in the last five years will be granted a one-time payment as a gesture of gratitude. Fulgence stressed that this initiative is not an act of charity but a long-overdue act of justice for those who have fed the nation and sustained rural communities. The proposed plan will be administered through the Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with the NIC and local farmers’ cooperatives. Fulgence concluded by affirming the UWP’s commitment to fairness, dignity, and respect, promising that the ‘Save our Saint Lucia’ policy will ensure that the contributions of farmers are never forgotten.
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WCMF 2025: Video snippets of Night Two performances
In the ever-evolving landscape of social media, the act of sharing content has become a cornerstone of digital interaction. Platforms like Twitter and Pinterest have transformed the way users engage with information, fostering a culture of instant dissemination and community-driven content curation. The image attached to this article, sourced from a reputable news repository, underscores the visual appeal that often accompanies viral posts. As users continue to share, tweet, and pin, the dynamics of online communication are being reshaped, emphasizing the importance of visual elements in capturing audience attention. This trend highlights the growing influence of social media in shaping public discourse and the rapid spread of information across global networks.
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ABHTA Announces National Culinary Team of Antigua and Barbuda for 2025 CHTA Taste of the Caribbean Competition
The Antigua & Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA) has unveiled the National Culinary Team of Antigua and Barbuda 2025, a talented group of chefs and mixologists poised to represent the nation at the prestigious Taste of the Caribbean culinary competition. Organized by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), the event will take place from November 16 to 18, 2025, in a celebration of Caribbean culture, cuisine, and hospitality. Since its inception in 1993, Taste of the Caribbean has served as a platform for the region’s top culinary professionals to compete, collaborate, and showcase their heritage through food and beverage. This year’s team includes Eustance Cabral Jr. (Caribbean Chef of the Year), Azarie Crump (Caribbean Junior Chef of the Year), Arielle Mills (Caribbean Pastry Chef of the Year), and Auslando Davis (Bartender of the Year), supported by a dedicated team of mentors and logistics experts. Minister of Tourism Charles “Max” Fernandez emphasized the significance of the event, stating that it not only highlights local talent but also strengthens the nation’s culinary tourism brand. ABHTA Chairman Craig Marshall and Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority CEO Colin C. James echoed this sentiment, expressing confidence in the team’s ability to deliver a true taste of Antigua and Barbuda. The ABHTA also extended gratitude to sponsors, including Jumby Bay Island, Curtain Bluff Resort, and the Citizenship by Investment Unit, whose contributions ensure the team’s success. As the countdown to November 16 begins, Antigua and Barbuda’s culinary stars are ready to shine on the regional stage.
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Vincy archers medal at regional event
The WAA Caribbean Development Championships, held recently in Trinidad and Tobago, brought together 232 archers from 11 Caribbean nations, marking the region’s largest archery tournament. The Archery Association of SVG (AASVG) proudly represented their country with a team of seven archers, securing multiple medals across 10 categories and divisions during the four-day event. The competition featured both individual and team events, with teams formed after the qualifying rounds, some comprising archers from different nations. Notable achievements included Rayon Clarke’s gold medal in the RDM 50m category, Richol Richards’ bronze in RDW 50m, and Divya Jiandani’s silver in RDU18W 50m. In doubles, Richards and Karen Palmer set a CDC record with 1077 points, earning silver in RDW 50m. Mixed doubles saw Divya Jiandani and Saifullah Gani clinch gold and set another CDC record with 1090 points in RDU18/21X 50m. The AASVG expressed pride in their team’s performance and urged the public to support this emerging Olympic sport.
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United Nations Overwhelmingly Calls for End to US Embargo on Cuba
In a resounding display of international consensus, the United Nations General Assembly has once again urged the United States to terminate its long-standing economic embargo on Cuba. The resolution, passed on October 29, 2025, garnered support from 165 nations, with only seven opposing and 12 abstaining. This annual vote, a tradition spanning over three decades, underscores the global community’s persistent disapproval of the embargo, which has been in effect since the Cold War era. The embargo restricts most commercial and financial interactions between the U.S. and Cuba, a policy critics argue inflicts collective punishment on the Cuban people. Despite the overwhelming support for the resolution, the U.S., alongside Israel, Argentina, Hungary, North Macedonia, Paraguay, and Ukraine, voted against it. Belize was among the nations advocating for the embargo’s end. Notably, this year’s vote reflects a slight shift from the previous year, when 187 countries supported the resolution and only the U.S. and Israel opposed it. The U.S. attempted to justify its stance by accusing Cuba of deploying troops to support Russian forces in Ukraine—a claim vehemently denied by Cuban officials. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez condemned the embargo as a punitive measure, while U.S. Deputy Ambassador to the UN, Jeff Bartos, defended the policy, emphasizing Washington’s commitment to holding Cuba’s communist regime accountable. While the UN vote carries significant symbolic and political weight, it lacks the authority to lift the embargo, a decision that remains the sole prerogative of the U.S. Congress.