A heated protest by members of the Bahamas Taxi Cab Union (BTCU) brought Nassau Cruise Port to a standstill yesterday morning, as dozens of taxi drivers blocked the entrance with their vehicles, demanding action on long-standing grievances. The demonstration, which escalated into clashes with police and tow truck operators, resulted in the arrest of three drivers who refused to clear the road. The protest highlighted years of frustration over what drivers describe as unfair treatment, worsening working conditions, and a lack of basic amenities. Taxi operators claim they are being marginalized in favor of private tour and livery drivers, receiving less than 40% of ground transportation business from cruise passengers. Union president Tyrone Butler defended the drivers’ actions, calling them a desperate response to years of neglect and broken promises. Despite ongoing meetings with port executives, little progress has been made to address the drivers’ concerns. The protest underscores broader tensions within the taxi industry, which has faced challenges from unlicensed operators and government inaction. Authorities and port officials have yet to comment on the situation.
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All major Junkanoo groups will participate in upcoming parades
In a significant development for Bahamian culture, all major Junkanoo A-groups will participate in the upcoming Boxing Day and New Year’s Day parades on Bay Street, dispelling weeks of uncertainty. The announcement was made at a press conference held at the Office of the Prime Minister on Friday by the National Junkanoo Committee (NJC). The Shell Saxon Superstars, Valley Boys, Roots, One Family, Genesis, and Music Makers have all confirmed their involvement, marking a resolution to the recent tensions between the government and the Junkanoo Corporation of New Providence (JCNP).
The dispute arose when the government transferred oversight of the parades to the NJC and initiated an audit of the JCNP, raising concerns about transparency, consultation, and funding. This led to fears that the A-groups might boycott the events. However, the NJC’s intervention has restored unity within the Junkanoo community. NJC Chairman Andrew Pinder described the resolution as “a defining moment,” emphasizing the importance of fairness and collaboration in preserving this cherished tradition.
Youth, Sports, and Culture Minister Mario Bowleg reiterated that the audit aimed to enhance accountability and public trust, ensuring the parades remain a national priority. NJC Co-Chair Kishlaine Smith highlighted plans to expand Junkanoo’s reach, including bolstering Family Island parades and supporting Junior Junkanoo initiatives. Meanwhile, Bahamas Junkanoo Festival Co-Chair Anthony Bostwick announced a 15-day national celebration, transforming Junkanoo into a broader cultural experience featuring Bahamian music, art, fashion, and cuisine.
Leaders of the six major A-groups expressed their enthusiasm for the upcoming parades, pledging to deliver unforgettable performances. Parade Management Team leader Douglas Hanna assured that preparations are nearly complete, with a focus on safety, efficiency, and adherence to existing rules. The resolution ensures that Junkanoo, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, will continue to thrive as a cornerstone of Bahamian identity.
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Digicel aids Jamaica with hardware supplies, care packages
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s catastrophic impact on Jamaica, the Digicel Group has spearheaded a comprehensive humanitarian campaign to aid recovery efforts across the island’s most devastated regions. The Category 5 storm, which struck on October 28, claimed 32 lives, decimated homes, and crippled critical infrastructure, leaving countless families in dire need.
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President of Suriname says country will not export bauxite under any circumstances
PARAMARIBO, Suriname (CMC) – Suriname’s President Jennifer Greelings-Simons has moved to dispel rumors suggesting that her government is engaged in formal negotiations with the Chinese multinational Chinalco. Speaking to reporters upon her return from Brazil, President Greelings-Simons clarified that while Vice President Gregory Rusland recently met with a Chinalco delegation, these discussions were not indicative of official government talks. ‘Chinalco requested a meeting with the vice president, and that happened. He listened to their proposals, but this does not constitute formal negotiations,’ she stated. The meeting reportedly focused on the bauxite sector, a key industry for Suriname. Earlier, the Directorate for Public Communications (DVC) had announced that the cabinet would renegotiate with Chinalco to secure a more favorable agreement for the country. President Greelings-Simons emphasized that her administration remains committed to protecting Suriname’s interests in any future dealings with foreign entities.
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Guyana to introduce website to report bullying schools
The Ministry of Education in Guyana has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fostering moral and civic education within the national school curriculum, alongside the introduction of a dedicated website for reporting bullying incidents. Education Minister Sonia Parag announced the plan during a national anti-bullying consultation, emphasizing its role in a broader strategy to eliminate bullying and instill positive values among students. Parag highlighted that moral education is essential for cultivating empathy, kindness, and responsibility in the younger generation. ‘Moral education should serve as the cornerstone for personal growth, helping us become better individuals,’ she stated, underscoring the importance of making acts of kindness and goodwill habitual. As part of this initiative, the Ministry also launched the Management Information System Unit (MISU) platform, a secure digital tool designed to enable students, parents, and teachers to report instances of bullying or harassment effectively.
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Guyanese gov’t outlines new initiatives for increased rice production
The Guyana government has allocated more than GUY$7.2 billion (equivalent to approximately US$28.8 million) to support the rice industry this year. This substantial investment aims to mitigate the impact of declining global rice prices, enhance agricultural yields, and reduce production costs for local farmers. Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha highlighted these efforts during a recent engagement with rice farmers in Region Three, emphasizing the government’s commitment to sustaining the sector.
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Review shows no link between paracetamol and autism
A comprehensive review published in the British medical journal BMJ has found no clear evidence linking the use of paracetamol during pregnancy to autism or ADHD in children. This conclusion comes in response to repeated claims by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who asserted that the common painkiller could increase autism rates. Trump’s comments, urging pregnant women to avoid paracetamol, sparked widespread criticism from the medical community, who warned that such statements could deter women from using one of the safest pain relief options available. The World Health Organisation has also emphasized the lack of robust evidence supporting such a link. The umbrella review, led by a UK-based team of researchers, analyzed all existing scientific studies on the topic and found that previous research suggesting a connection was of ‘low to critically low’ quality. These studies failed to account for confounding factors, such as genetic predispositions, and could not establish a causal mechanism. The review also highlighted the historical underinvestment in women’s health research and called for more rigorous studies. Experts praised the findings, with Professor Dimitrios Siassakos of University College London stating that the review ‘confirms what experts around the globe have been saying.’ Steven Kapp of the University of Portsmouth, an autistic researcher with ADHD, emphasized the importance of improving life for neurodivergent individuals rather than attempting to prevent neurodivergence. Beyond paracetamol, Trump and his vaccine-skeptic Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have made unfounded claims about an autism ‘epidemic,’ which experts attribute to improved diagnostic methods and increased awareness.
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McKenzie saddened by Falmouth’s devastation
FALMOUTH, Trelawny — Following an extensive five-hour tour of Falmouth, Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Desmond McKenzie, described the state of the historic town’s infrastructure as “frightening.” The assessment comes in the wake of Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm that wreaked unprecedented havoc across Jamaica, leaving Falmouth in ruins. McKenzie drew parallels between the devastation in Falmouth and the severely impacted capital of St. Elizabeth, Black River, noting that the only advantage Falmouth holds is its ongoing commercial activity. However, the extensive damage to infrastructure remains a grave concern. One of the most distressing sights was the Falmouth Infirmary, which once housed over 100 residents and staff. McKenzie emphasized that the facility is now uninhabitable, and alternative arrangements are being explored to accommodate its former occupants. In contrast, the nearby drop-in center and shelter fared better, sustaining only minor damage and already providing refuge to several individuals. McKenzie also highlighted the severe damage to Falmouth’s famed Georgian architecture, particularly the Falmouth Court House, which serves as the headquarters of the Trelawny Municipal Corporation. He stressed the need to engage with the Minister of Culture to address the restoration of heritage buildings, acknowledging that repairs may not meet current standards due to the extent of the damage. Mayor of Falmouth, C Junior Gager, echoed these concerns, noting the destruction of the main municipal building and suggesting that constructing a new facility on alternative land might be more practical than restoration. Despite the devastation, McKenzie commended the resilience of the Jamaica Fire Brigade in Falmouth, who continue to operate under challenging conditions, even as some firefighters have lost their homes. The minister’s tour is part of the government’s broader damage assessment and emergency relief efforts in areas hardest hit by Hurricane Melissa.
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Marissa Yung Lee on show at Horizons Art Gallery
Horizons Art Gallery is proud to present a captivating new exhibition by Marissa Yung Lee, a self-taught artist renowned for her evocative oil portraits of cultural and traditional mas performers. Titled ‘A Love Letter to Trinidad and Tobago,’ the exhibition showcases Lee’s mastery of oil painting, blending Contemporary Realism with Impressionism to create works that transcend mere representation, evoking deep emotion and mystery. Each piece tells a unique story, capturing fleeting moments through her alla prima brush and knife techniques. Lee’s inspiration stems from the profound connections she forms with her subjects and the inherent beauty and challenge of the medium itself. Her latest collection celebrates the people, culture, and spirit of Trinidad and Tobago, offering both heartfelt tributes and playful twists. Lee’s work has been featured in prestigious venues such as the National Museum and The Art Society of Trinidad & Tobago, and her accolades include a distinction from the Portrait Society of America and a finalist spot in The Almenara 2025 Art Prize in Spain. The exhibition opens on November 11 at 6:30 pm and runs until November 22 at Horizons Art Gallery, 37 Mucurapo Road, St James. Admission is free.
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Women In Art Organisation of Trinidad and Tobago hosts Transformations
The Women In Art Organisation of Trinidad and Tobago (WIAOTT) is set to host its 29th annual exhibition, themed ‘Transformations,’ at Arnim’s Art Galleria’s south branch in La Romaine. The event, which runs from November 11 to November 22, will showcase the works of 29 talented female artists, highlighting themes of resilience, transition, and reinvention. Founded in 1996, WIAOTT has been a cornerstone in promoting and empowering women in the visual arts, providing a platform for artistic growth and visibility. This year’s exhibition features a diverse range of media, including acrylic painting, drawing, mixed media, oil, fabric, pastel, architecture, watercolour, and abstract expressions. Participating artists such as Andrea Barry, Bernadette Hospedales, and Gizelle Winter will present their interpretations of personal and collective transformations, reflecting the dynamism of Trinidad and Tobago’s women artists. The exhibition will also include several categories of artist awards, recognizing excellence across various artistic disciplines. Artworks will be available for purchase both at the exhibition and online via the WIAOTT website. For more information, contact 610-9289.