The Barbados Licensing Authority (BLA) has initiated a phased restoration of vehicle inspections and the issuance of roadworthy certificates at its Pine, St Michael headquarters, following a week-long disruption caused by a malfunctioning online platform. The issue began on October 20 when the BLA’s outdated vehicle registration system experienced a critical failure, rendering the server inoperative. Andre Lashley, the Authority’s IT consultant, stated, ‘The legacy system managing vehicle registrations suffered a severe breakdown, necessitating the replacement of the old IT infrastructure with a modern platform.’ Immediate efforts to resolve the issue involved collaboration between the IT consultant, BLA staff, and the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Smart Technology (MIST). Due to the system’s complexity, restoration is still ongoing. However, a strategic approach was adopted to prioritize essential services, such as weighbridge operations and vehicle inspections. An interim solution combining manual processes and a partially online platform has been implemented to resume critical vehicle services while the new system undergoes testing. BLA staff are also addressing a backlog of pending inspections and registrations. Chief Licensing Officer Treca McCarthy-Broomes assured Public Service Vehicle (PSV) permit holders that permits expiring during the outage will remain valid until full system functionality is restored. To manage the anticipated surge in demand, the BLA plans to enlist approved private garages to assist with vehicle inspections, with a list to be published soon. McCarthy-Broomes urged agents and customers to ensure all required documentation, including application forms, insurance documents, and inspection certificates, is complete before attempting vehicle registration.
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PM Browne invites Opposition Leader to join COP delegation in show of climate solidarity
In a remarkable demonstration of national solidarity, Antigua and Barbuda is preparing to send a unified delegation to the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP) in Belém, Brazil. Prime Minister Gaston Browne has extended a formal invitation to Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle to join the delegation, emphasizing the importance of presenting a united front on one of the country’s most critical global issues. Maurice Merchant, Director-General of Communications, confirmed the invitation, stating that the Prime Minister views Pringle’s participation as an opportunity to engage him in the global climate discourse and showcase Antigua and Barbuda’s collective advocacy for environmental justice. The delegation will amplify the voices of small island developing states (SIDS), calling for increased climate finance and loss-and-damage compensation from major emitters and developed nations, particularly the United States. The conference will also serve as a platform to highlight the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica, underscoring the escalating threats posed by climate change to Caribbean economies and livelihoods. Prime Minister Browne is set to attend key meetings in Belém, expressing confidence that the Opposition Leader will accept the invitation given the issue’s significance for the nation and the region.
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Cabinet Tightens Tax Concession Policy — Three-Year Limit Set
In a decisive move to enhance fiscal accountability and address systemic abuses, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda has introduced a policy capping all tax concessions to a maximum of three years, effective December 1, 2025. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to ensure that fiscal incentives are transparent, time-bound, and aligned with the nation’s economic goals. Maurice Merchant, Director-General of Communications, announced that all existing concessions will expire on November 30, 2025, and businesses seeking continued benefits must reapply under the revised guidelines. Applicants will be required to provide documented proof of active business operations and compliance with tax obligations to the Inland Revenue Department. Merchant highlighted that the Cabinet’s decision was driven by concerns that certain long-standing concessions had become outdated and were being exploited for purposes beyond their original intent. For instance, benefits initially granted for hotel development were later diverted to unrelated ventures such as restaurant operations or equipment imports. ‘The government believes that three years is an adequate period for any new project to establish itself,’ Merchant stated, adding that companies would be eligible to reapply once their concession term concludes. This policy overhaul underscores the administration’s commitment to fostering a more equitable and efficient fiscal environment while supporting sustainable economic growth.
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Antigua Government in Active Talks on Cargo Plane Partnership
The government of Antigua and Barbuda is actively engaging in discussions with regional transport companies to forge a cargo aircraft partnership, aimed at enhancing trade and logistics across the Eastern Caribbean. Maurice Merchant, the Director-General of Communications, confirmed that while negotiations are ongoing, the procurement of a government-owned cargo plane has been temporarily suspended pending the outcome of these talks. Merchant emphasized that a successful agreement with these companies would streamline the acquisition process. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to fortify regional trade links and supply chains, particularly within the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). Additionally, the partnership could improve access to cost-effective goods from neighboring markets, such as the Dominican Republic. Merchant highlighted that this effort is seen as a pivotal step to make regional commerce more efficient and resilient, while also bolstering Antigua and Barbuda’s role in regional trade and transport logistics.
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Caribbean Vegan Conference spotlights diet, environment, animal rights
The Caribbean Vegan Conference, a groundbreaking event held on October 25, 2025, at the Courtyard Marriott Hotel, united legal experts, environmental activists, and plant-based advocates from across the Caribbean, the Americas, and Europe. Co-hosted by the Caribbean Vegetarian-Vegan Charity (CVVC) and the British Vegan Society, the conference spotlighted the intersection of animal rights, environmental sustainability, and dietary choices. Chief Justice Leslie Francis Haynes, a keynote speaker, framed animal rights as “the new legal frontier,” challenging attendees to rethink societal norms regarding animal treatment. He questioned, “If a being can feel, express, and emote, does it not deserve legal rights?” Haynes also critiqued societal conditioning that distances children from the origins of their food, stating, “We desensitize them by renaming pigs as pork and cows as beef, obscuring the reality of consumption.” Lalu Hanuman, a CVVC trustee, emphasized veganism as “the diet of the future,” citing Albert Einstein’s belief in the transformative power of plant-based diets for human health and survival. Hanuman highlighted the meat industry’s devastating environmental impact, including deforestation, greenhouse gas emissions, and antibiotic overuse, which contributes to antimicrobial resistance. He criticized selective animal welfare advocacy, noting, “Animal welfarists often champion only ‘cuddly’ animals while consuming meat and fish without hesitation.” Cheryl Haynes, CVVC co-trustee, celebrated the nutritional potential of Caribbean herbs and plants, urging attendees to embrace the region’s natural bounty. The conference concluded with an inspiring video of the late Benjamin Zephaniah, leaving participants motivated to align their lifestyle choices with their values and their impact on the planet.
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Twelve Nationals to Receive Independence Honours on Monday
Antigua and Barbuda will celebrate its 44th Independence Day by honoring twelve distinguished citizens for their exceptional contributions to national development. The ceremony, set to take place at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, will include the knighting of five individuals for their outstanding service. The event, scheduled to begin at 5 p.m., is part of the broader Independence Parade and Food Fair, which also features National Dress Day and a vibrant food fair. Maurice Merchant, Director-General of Communications, emphasized that the national honors symbolize the nation’s gratitude toward its citizens for their dedication to education, community service, nursing, artistic and cultural development, and youth empowerment. The festivities mark the country’s 44-year journey of resilience and nation-building since gaining independence in 1981, showcasing the collective spirit and progress of Antigua and Barbuda.
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Preparations underway for ‘Market Day with a Difference’ as independence anniversary celebrations continue
The Dominica Export Import Agency (DEXIA) is gearing up to host its annual “Market Day with a Difference” on Saturday, November 1, 2025, in honor of Dominica’s 47th Anniversary of Independence. The event, themed “47 Years of Progress and Purpose,” will be held at the Roseau Market, commencing with an official opening ceremony at 8:00 a.m. The ceremony will be graced by high-profile attendees, including Their Excellencies Mrs. Sylvanie Burton and Mr. Burton, and Prime Minister Hon. Roosevelt Skerrit. Government officials and invited guests will embark on a guided tour of the market, interacting directly with vendors and patrons.
A key feature of the celebration will be the recognition of farmers, vendors, and fisherfolk for their significant contributions to the development of the Roseau Market and Fish Market. Awards will be distributed across various categories such as Best Dressed Vendor, Best Decorated Stall, Best Butcher, Best Mobile Vendor, Most Outstanding Vendor/Farmer, Best Traditional Food Vendor, Fisherfolk with the Highest Catch, and Most Consistent Fish Supplier.
The event aims to highlight the dedication and resilience of Dominica’s agricultural and fisheries communities, whose efforts are crucial to national development. Attendees can look forward to vibrant displays of fresh produce, meats, and locally crafted goods, along with a mini-expo showcasing Dominican-made products available for purchase.
Cultural performances will enhance the festive atmosphere, featuring bouyon artists Quan and Trixx, drumming ensemble Veteran 7, the Patriotic Dancers, and cadence-lypso artist Lobster. Remarks will be delivered by the Acting Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Business, Trade and Energy, alongside Prime Minister Skerrit.
DEXIA and the Roseau Market Authority are urging all participants to don traditional creole attire and decorate their vending spaces. The public is warmly invited to attend and partake in the activities, making it a truly communal celebration of Dominica’s independence and cultural heritage.
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Noah Lyles donates essential supplies to Junelle Bromfield’s hurricane-hit hometown
In a heartwarming display of solidarity, US Olympian Noah Lyles, alongside his Lyles Brothers Sports Foundation, has extended a helping hand to the hurricane-ravaged community of Georges Valley in St Elizabeth, Jamaica. This initiative was particularly poignant as it targeted the hometown of Lyles’ fiancé, Junelle Bromfield, a fellow track and field athlete. The donation, comprising essential groceries and toiletries, was facilitated by retired Jamaican sprinter Asafa Powell and his wife Alyshia, who were instrumental in packing and distributing the supplies. Powell, in a heartfelt video shared on his social media, emphasized the dire need for collective action, stating, ‘People are really suffering, as much as I can help, I will help.’ He further highlighted the importance of unity in these trying times, ‘The more people come together is the more people we can feed.’ Adding to the chorus of support, Orlando Bennett, a silver medalist in the 110m hurdles, also lent his voice to the cause, urging others to contribute to the relief efforts if possible. Bromfield, reflecting on her deep-rooted connection to the community, shared a video message expressing her desire to give back to the place that had supported her throughout her athletic journey. ‘The community was always helping me out, whether it was in high school to go to Penn Relays, they raised money, taking me to school for free… So I really wanted to give back,’ she said. The devastation wrought by Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm that recently struck the southwest of Jamaica, has left St Elizabeth and its neighboring parishes in dire need of assistance. This collaborative effort by Lyles, Bromfield, Powell, and Bennett serves as a beacon of hope and a call to action for others to join in the recovery efforts.
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Golding urges equitable recovery support after touring flood-ravaged St Elizabeth
ST ELIZABETH, Jamaica — Mark Golding, the Leader of the Opposition, embarked on a comprehensive tour of St Elizabeth on Saturday to evaluate the extensive damage inflicted by Hurricane Melissa. Accompanied by local officials and emergency personnel, Golding visited both the north-eastern and south-western regions of the parish to gain firsthand insights into the destruction and to engage with affected residents. The Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) Air Wing facilitated a courtesy flight, enabling Golding to survey the devastation from the air. The delegation landed at STETHS, where they were greeted by MP Zuleika Jess and Councillor Donovan Pagon, marking the beginning of their ground assessments. In Elim, Golding witnessed severe flooding and widespread damage to homes and farmlands. The Sydney Pagon STEM Academy’s agriculture department suffered significant losses, with all livestock destroyed. Later, Golding met with PNP Caretaker Miranda Wellington in Independence Park to inspect affected areas. He also visited critical institutions such as the Black River Police Station and Fire Department, where Assistant Superintendent Mark Edwards detailed the damage to their equipment, including a fire truck submerged up to its bonnet. During his visit, Golding held discussions with Police Commissioner Kevin Blake, Superintendent Minto, and Courtney King from CDEMA to address ongoing recovery challenges. ‘The devastation here is heartbreaking. People have lost homes, crops, and livelihoods. But I’ve also seen remarkable resilience among residents and first responders. They need immediate assistance, not promises,’ Golding remarked. He emphasized the urgency of equitable resource distribution, calling for national unity and swift action to aid recovery efforts.
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Ras Mista Fyah eyes Grammy glory with ‘Infinity’
Colombian roots-reggae artist Ras Mista Fyah has been on a whirlwind promotional tour since the release of his latest album, *Infinity*, in August. Based in Miami, the Bogota-born singer has engaged with fans and media alike, while also performing alongside roots-reggae icon Mykal Rose. These experiences have fueled his ambition to perform in Jamaica, the birthplace of reggae music. ‘Mi got a dream one day! Mi not going to Jamaica like a regular guest or visitor. I’m gonna be there with my whole family and people, and all di world gonna listen that my life is reggae music,’ he shared with *Observer Online*.
Growing up in Colombia, Ras Mista Fyah was deeply influenced by reggae legends such as Bob Marley, Dennis Brown, and Gregory Isaacs. His album *Infinity*, produced by Argentina’s Fela Roland, stands out as his most authentic roots-reggae work to date. The album features collaborations with renowned musicians like Bernard ‘Touter’ Harvey, keyboardist for Inner Circle, and bass guitarist Dennis Burt, known for his work with Garnet Silk and Buju Banton.
*Infinity* is now under consideration for a Best Reggae Album Grammy nomination, a milestone Ras Mista Fyah describes as a pivotal moment in his career. ‘Just to be considered for a Grammy nomination is an important part in my life and RMF (Ras Mista Fyah) reggae music! It took years of hard work and dedication, and I am grateful for the love and support of all the people,’ he expressed. The Recording Academy will unveil the official nominations for the 68th Grammy Awards on November 7 in Los Angeles.