Retired Assistant Commissioner of Police Nuffield Burnett has launched a scathing critique of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, labeling it as ‘non-functional’ and accusing its leadership of lacking courage. Burnett’s remarks were made during a town hall meeting organized by the United Progressive Party, where he joined a panel of former civil servants, attorneys, and political figures to discuss the alleged multimillion-dollar government vehicle scandal. Burnett asserted that the police force is currently at its lowest point in history, citing weak leadership and a severe lack of integrity as primary issues. He acknowledged recent academic achievements by officers but emphasized that these accomplishments have not translated into effective policing. ‘Acquiring degrees—this is the worst we have seen the Royal Police Force. There is the head of the constabulary who doesn’t have anything named courage,’ Burnett stated. He argued that courage and integrity, rather than academic credentials, are essential for effective law enforcement. ‘In these institutions, you must have a measure of courage. It’s not about all these degrees and scholarships. You must have courage and integrity about you,’ he said. Burnett called for the police administration to ‘get its act together’ to fulfill its legal mandate, stressing that every officer has a duty to investigate crimes regardless of the individuals involved. He also highlighted the need for government support in certain investigations, particularly in the vehicle scandal, suggesting that the Director of Public Prosecutions should take the lead. Burnett warned that the failure of the police hierarchy to act decisively erodes public trust and undermines the rule of law. He concluded by urging the force to demonstrate courage and integrity, starting with those entrusted to uphold the law.
作者： admin
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‘Ralph, leave Mommy out of your duttyness,’ Bramble tells PM
In a heated exchange during the New Democratic Party’s (NDP) campaign event in Belmont, East Kingstown MP Fitz Bramble issued a stern warning to Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, urging him to cease bringing his mother into the political discourse. Bramble’s remarks came in response to Gonsalves’ comments at a Unity Labour Party (ULP) rally in Calliaqua, where the Prime Minister criticized Bramble, 64, for allegedly never building a home and residing with his mother.
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Bowen: DPP, Police, and Integrity Commission All Have Power to Act in Vehicle Probe
Sherfield Bowen, Member of Parliament for St. Philip South and a prominent attorney, has called on key institutions to promptly investigate the alleged multimillion-dollar government vehicle scandal. Speaking at the United Progressive Party’s “Vehicle Gate” town hall on October 21, Bowen emphasized that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), the police, and the Integrity Commission each possess the authority and responsibility to act without delay. He asserted that no legal or constitutional barriers prevent these bodies from launching inquiries into what has been labeled one of the nation’s most significant corruption allegations.
Bowen highlighted the statutory powers of these institutions, stressing their independence from political influence. “The police can act, the DPP can act, and the Integrity Commission can act,” he declared. He argued that the evidence already available publicly is sufficient to warrant immediate action. “So long as [the DPP] has enough information that would guide him to the need to continue and to mount the investigation, he should begin,” Bowen stated. “At this very moment… there is enough information in the public domain that will cause him to get on his horse and get people, hire forensic accountants, whatever he needs to do.”
Bowen further noted that the police are legally obligated to investigate suspected offenses, while the Integrity Commission has the jurisdiction to probe matters involving public officials and potential corruption. He warned that inaction by any of these bodies would raise serious concerns about accountability and institutional integrity.
The town hall forum, which featured contributions from former senior civil servants and retired law enforcement officers, focused on systemic weaknesses in government oversight and financial management. Attendees called for full transparency and urged independent agencies to act swiftly to restore public trust.
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P&O Cruises adds Barbados to Caribbean beach wedding line-up
Barbados has solidified its reputation as a premier wedding destination by partnering with P&O Cruises to offer exclusive beach wedding packages for couples sailing on Caribbean itineraries. This initiative follows the island’s recent accolade as the Caribbean’s Leading Wedding Destination for the second consecutive year at the World Travel Awards (WTA) Caribbean & North American Gala Ceremony on October 4 in Saint Lucia. The new Barbados Beach Weddings package allows couples aboard the Arvia and Britannia ships to host their ceremonies on one of three picturesque beaches: Batts Rock, Needham’s Point, or Little Good Shepherd. Alternatively, they can choose the private beach or garden at the Fairmont Royal Pavilion. The package, starting at £4,999 ($13,478) for the ceremony and £850 ($2,292) for legal fees, excludes cruise fares and guest costs. Up to eight guests can join the celebration for £600 ($1,618), which includes transportation, reserved seating, champagne, and refreshments. Couples will also enjoy breakfast in bed on their wedding day, transfers to and from the ship, a wedding arch with floral arrangements, and matching bouquets and buttonholes. P&O Cruises provides ceremony specialists and wedding coordinators to ensure a seamless experience. Cheryl Carter, Chief Operations Officer at Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc (BTMI), expressed pride in the recognition, highlighting the island’s dedication to delivering world-class destination weddings. She emphasized the creativity and expertise of local wedding planners in crafting unforgettable ceremonies that showcase Barbados’ rich culture, stunning venues, and exceptional hospitality.
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Thorne urges PSV music ban after school crash
In the wake of a recent accident involving a ZR vehicle near Lester Vaughan School, Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne has urged the government to impose restrictions or outright bans on music played in public service vehicles (PSVs). Thorne emphasized the need to shield children from explicit lyrics and degrading content during their daily commutes, arguing that such exposure undermines their dignity and moral development. Speaking during a parliamentary debate on the Copyright Bill, he called on the administration to prioritize the protection of young citizens over popular opinion. ‘Public transport should not serve as a platform for disseminating inappropriate music,’ Thorne asserted, suggesting the government consider removing music entirely from PSVs. Minister of Home Affairs Wilfred Abrahams countered Thorne’s remarks, stating that the government is neither complacent nor indifferent to the challenges within the PSV industry. Abrahams revealed that ministers had discussed the accident and agreed to adopt a zero-tolerance approach to improve safety and regulation. He also criticized Thorne for politicizing the issue, emphasizing that the incident is a national concern requiring collective action. While the government has already passed legislation to strengthen the Transport Authority, Abrahams acknowledged the need for stricter enforcement to address ongoing issues in the sector.
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Sinking of the Bianca C: 22 October 1961
On a serene Sunday morning, October 22, 1961, the Italian luxury liner Bianca C was preparing to depart from Grenada. The vessel, a prominent member of the Costa Line fleet, had just boarded a mix of emigrants bound for Britain and tourists who had enjoyed a day exploring the island. Due to its immense size, the ship was anchored in the outer harbor of St. George’s. However, tragedy struck before it could set sail. A catastrophic explosion erupted in the engine room, igniting a fierce fire that rapidly engulfed the ship. The Bianca C immediately sounded its horn and raised a distress flag, signaling the dire situation to nearby vessels. Witnesses from the Grenada Yacht Club observed the billowing black smoke and quickly alerted harbor authorities. Despite the chaos, all passengers and crew, except for two unfortunate crew members, were successfully rescued. Nearly 700 individuals were temporarily housed in a government-organized camp, local hotels, and guesthouses, while many Grenadians generously opened their homes to the stranded travelers at no cost. The Costa Line later arranged for their safe departure from the island. The following day, as the ship was being towed out of the harbor, the towing chain snapped, causing the Bianca C to sink approximately 1.25 miles off Point Salines, resting at a depth of 160 feet. In a gesture of gratitude for the Grenadian community’s selfless assistance, the Costa Line gifted the island a monumental bronze statue, ‘Christ of the Abyss’ or ‘Christ of the Deep,’ which now stands on the Carenage. Today, the wreck of the Bianca C, often referred to as the ‘Titanic of the Caribbean,’ is celebrated as one of the world’s premier shipwreck diving sites, attracting adventurers and history enthusiasts alike.
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A Response to Eugene Silcott Regarding Airport Safety Concerns
In response to recent concerns raised by Eugene Silcott regarding airport safety, authorities have issued a detailed statement outlining the measures in place to ensure passenger security. The statement emphasizes the multi-layered approach adopted by airports, which includes advanced screening technologies, rigorous staff training, and continuous monitoring systems. Additionally, the authorities highlighted the importance of public cooperation in maintaining safety standards, urging passengers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. The response also addressed specific issues raised by Silcott, such as the adequacy of emergency response protocols and the frequency of safety drills. Authorities reassured the public that all concerns are taken seriously and that ongoing evaluations are conducted to identify and mitigate potential risks. The statement concluded with a commitment to transparency and continuous improvement in airport safety measures, ensuring that passengers can travel with confidence.
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Urgent PSV reform call after ZR overturns with children aboard
In the wake of a harrowing accident involving a ZR route taxi carrying schoolchildren, child rights advocate Faith Marshall-Harris has called for immediate government intervention to tighten regulations within the public service vehicle (PSV) industry. The incident, which occurred outside The Lester Vaughan School, saw the vehicle overturn, injuring several students and prompting a mass casualty response. Marshall-Harris, a member of the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child, expressed deep concern over the persistent failure to safeguard schoolchildren from reckless operators, describing the situation as having reached a critical juncture. She recounted her decade-long advocacy for improved safety measures, lamenting the lack of progress despite repeated warnings. The recent crash, involving 25 students and the driver, should serve as a pivotal moment for change, she emphasized. Marshall-Harris also highlighted troubling reports of PSV operators engaging in dangerous behaviors, such as consuming illegal substances while on duty. She urged authorities to use this tragedy as a ‘teachable moment’ to implement stricter oversight and enforcement mechanisms. Her plea was supported by the National Council of Parent Teacher Associations (NCPTA), which expressed solidarity with the affected families and called for urgent action to prevent future incidents.
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One from 15 leaves nought
In 1962, Dr. Eric Williams, the first Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, famously declared ‘one from ten leaves nought’ as his nation withdrew from the West Indies Federation, marking a pivotal moment in the region’s history. Sixty-three years later, another Trinidadian leader, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, appears to be echoing this divisive sentiment. Her administration’s unwavering support for US-led militarization in the Caribbean has raised concerns about the future of regional unity and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
Last week, CARICOM leaders reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the Caribbean as a ‘Zone of Peace,’ grounded in dialogue, diplomacy, and respect for sovereignty. However, Trinidad and Tobago notably ‘reserved its position,’ refusing to endorse the declaration. Persad-Bissessar has defended this stance, arguing that US military operations, including naval patrols and strikes—some of which have reportedly resulted in the deaths of Trinidadian citizens without due process—are essential to combat narco and human trafficking. She claims these actions will ultimately secure peace in the region.
This justification, however, stands in stark contrast to the principles of the ‘Zone of Peace,’ which emphasizes collective self-determination and non-militarization. By aligning with US military interests, Trinidad and Tobago risks undermining the moral contract that binds CARICOM nations together. This not only threatens regional integration but also jeopardizes critical economic and social lifelines, including trade, tourism, and food security.
Persad-Bissessar’s assertion that ‘every nation state in CARICOM has the right to exercise their sovereign rights as they think best’ echoes the narrow self-interest that led to the dissolution of the West Indies Federation in 1962. Her actions suggest that Trinidad and Tobago, buoyed by its mineral wealth and geopolitical leverage, is willing to prioritize its strategic interests over regional solidarity. This approach contrasts sharply with her predecessor, Dr. Keith Rowley, who emphasized the importance of sovereignty rooted in collective action and warned against aligning with US militarization, which he argued would endanger both Trinidad and Tobago’s sovereignty and CARICOM unity.
The erosion of the ‘Zone of Peace’ has far-reaching implications beyond geopolitics. The Caribbean’s blue economy, which relies on stability and predictability, is at risk as the region’s waters could be perceived as militarized zones rather than hubs of commerce. This could deter investment, disrupt fisheries and shipping, and harm tourism-dependent economies like Barbados and Saint Lucia. Moreover, a militarized Caribbean normalizes dependency on foreign powers, threatening to reduce CARICOM to a collection of vassal states.
At its core, this issue is not merely a foreign policy divergence but a test of Caribbean cooperation and the legacy of regional unity. The ‘Zone of Peace’ represents the political maturity the West Indies Federation never achieved—a commitment to shared sovereignty rather than its surrender. If Trinidad and Tobago abandons this principle, it risks reopening old wounds that could bleed into every trade negotiation, cultural accord, and regional emergency.
The Caribbean must decide how to confront crime, instability, and strife. Peace and diplomacy are not naïve ideals but strategic imperatives. History has shown that the region’s survival depends not on the strength of foreign empires but on the endurance of collective action. While the fragility of regional integration cannot be ignored, neither can its resilience. From CARIFTA to the CSME, from cricket to climate diplomacy, the Caribbean’s strength lies in unity. When one member aligns with zero-sum realpolitik, the delicate arithmetic of regional cooperation is threatened: one from fifteen leaves nought.
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LETTER: Senator fails to keep his promise to develop land I bought from him 3 years ago
As a 33-year-old woman who invested in a plot of land in New Winthropes three years ago, I find myself deeply disappointed by the unfulfilled promises of the developer, a Senator who sold me the property. At the time of purchase, I was assured that essential infrastructure—water, electricity, and a concrete road—would be provided to support the area. While electricity was eventually installed, albeit under pressure from other buyers, the water supply remains unresolved, and the road is still a dirt path riddled with potholes. This situation is not only inconvenient but also a blatant violation of the developer’s responsibilities. Despite my persistent and respectful efforts to communicate with the Senator, I have been met with excuses, avoidance, and, most recently, the shocking act of being blocked by him. This lack of accountability and professionalism has left me feeling frustrated, disheartened, and regretful of my investment. As a young woman striving to establish myself, I relied on these promises to create a livable environment for my future. It is deeply disheartening to be treated with such disregard, especially when I have upheld my end of the agreement. This experience highlights the need for greater accountability and transparency in property development deals.