The Saint Lucia Fire Service (SLFS) experienced an exceptionally active weekend from October 10 to October 13, 2025, responding to a total of 86 emergency calls, as confirmed by SLFS representative Cheria St. Rose. The majority of these calls—84 in total—were ambulance responses, with only two incidents involving fires. Medical emergencies dominated the ambulance calls, with 50 cases reported island-wide. Additionally, the SLFS addressed five assault-related injuries, eight motor vehicle collisions, ten trauma incidents such as falls and cuts, and 11 non-emergency cases. On October 11, the Babonneau Fire Station was particularly busy, handling two consecutive road accidents in Union, Gros Islet. The first collision involved a motorcycle, a minibus, and an SUV, resulting in abrasions to a male motorcyclist. While emergency teams were managing this scene, a second accident occurred just 50 feet away when a truck was forced off the road by a white Mitsubishi van, injuring a male passenger. Both individuals were treated on-site and transported to the Owen King European Union (OKEU) Hospital. Later that evening, another severe motorcycle accident took place on the Millennium Highway involving a white minibus, leaving the motorcyclist with head, jaw, and arm injuries. He was rushed to OKEU Hospital in serious condition. On October 12, a BMW X3 veered off the road in Soufrière, injuring the female driver, who was taken to Soufrière Hospital in stable condition. That same night, a Toyota Rush carrying five passengers crashed into a ditch south of the Ti Rocher Micoud junction. One passenger was unresponsive, while another left the scene privately. The remaining passengers were treated and transported to St Jude Hospital. The SLFS also dealt with two fire incidents: a bush fire in Cas En Bas, Gros Islet, and a pole fire in La Pointe, Micoud. The SLFS has urged motorists to drive cautiously, especially in high-risk areas, and to report emergencies promptly.
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San Ignacio Police Seize High-Powered Weapon, Ammunition
In a significant operation on October 17, 2025, the San Ignacio Police conducted a search at a residence on Maya Street, leading to the seizure of a high-powered firearm and a substantial cache of ammunition. The raid resulted in the detention of three individuals who failed to produce a valid firearm license. Among the confiscated items were a GIVATI-brand 9mm rifle-type firearm (serial number GFX0006), two magazines, a drum magazine, 195 rounds of 9mm ammunition, and 20 rounds of .223 ammunition. These were concealed in a bucket within a room of the property. The suspects were transported to the San Ignacio Police Station and are awaiting formal charges related to the possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. The police have indicated that their investigation is still ongoing.
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Regering werkt aan schuldenverlichting, meer inkomsten en klimaatfinanciering
President Jennifer Simons delivered a comprehensive update on the government’s agenda and priorities during a press conference on Friday. Emphasizing the administration’s focus on reducing the national debt, increasing state revenues, and bolstering key sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and climate policy, Simons outlined a roadmap for the coming months. She highlighted efforts to narrow the budget deficit relative to GDP, stating, ‘We are collaborating with various sectors to explore ways to enhance state revenues. While challenging, improvements in tax collection and customs efficiency are beginning to yield results.’ Simons assured that these measures would not impose additional burdens on citizens but rather optimize the collection of existing taxes like VAT and customs duties.
To enhance transparency and efficiency, audits are being conducted across state-owned enterprises. Additionally, task forces for tourism and agriculture will be formally established in the coming weeks, with the goal of elevating both sectors to higher productivity levels within two years. ‘These task forces will engage with the president, ministers, and the private sector to achieve their objectives,’ Simons explained. She also announced initiatives to stabilize the prices of essential goods, ensuring affordability through a transparent pricing system.
A significant portion of the president’s address focused on climate financing and forest conservation. Simons cautioned that international climate funds often consist of commercial loans that offer limited benefits to developing nations. ‘We aim to preserve our forests, but this requires adequate compensation,’ she stated. She referenced discussions with carbon-negative countries like Bhutan and Panama, as well as climate-neutral Madagascar, to explore opportunities such as debt-for-nature swaps and carbon credits. However, Simons stressed the need for caution, advising, ‘Countries must carefully evaluate agreements labeled as climate financing. Not all proposals are advantageous for forest-rich nations.’ The government is committed to ensuring that international resources directly benefit inland communities, demonstrating the tangible advantages of forest conservation.
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Landmark Tobacco Control Bill Introduced
In a groundbreaking move to safeguard public health, Belize’s Minister of Health and Wellness, Kevin Bernard, unveiled the Tobacco Control Bill 2025 in the House of Representatives on October 17, 2025. Described as a “decisive step” toward protecting the nation’s youth and future generations, the bill aligns with the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. It aims to regulate the sale, advertising, packaging, and labeling of tobacco and nicotine-related products, including e-cigarettes, while banning the tobacco industry’s involvement in health policy decisions. Bernard emphasized the urgency of the crisis, citing WHO data that reveals tobacco kills over eight million people annually, including 1.2 million non-smokers exposed to secondhand smoke. In Belize, 8.7% of adults and 15% of youth aged 13 to 15 use tobacco, with e-cigarette use among teens reaching 12%. The bill, backed by the Cabinet and international health organizations like PAHO and WHO, seeks to prevent the tobacco epidemic through effective legislation. Bernard called on lawmakers to prioritize public health over industry profits, warning of potential resistance from powerful tobacco manufacturers. The bill’s introduction marks the beginning of parliamentary debate, with Bernard urging unity to save lives and protect the nation’s youth.
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Haiti now under umbrella of ILO Caribbean, as organization increases engagement with regional branch
The International Labour Organization (ILO) has announced a significant restructuring of its operational framework in Haiti, marking a pivotal shift in its regional strategy. Effective January 1, 2026, the oversight of Haiti’s institutional engagement will transition from the ILO Office for Central America in San Jose, Costa Rica, to the ILO Office for the Caribbean in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago. This strategic decision, endorsed by ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo, stems from a thorough review of the organization’s regional structures as it nears the 56th anniversary of its Caribbean presence. The move aims to enhance technical assistance, responsiveness, and support mechanisms tailored specifically for Haiti, while fostering stronger collaboration with tripartite stakeholders—government authorities, workers’ representatives, and employers. Ana Virginia Moreira Gomes, ILO Assistant Director-General and Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean, emphasized that the relocation underscores the ILO’s commitment to optimizing its support in the Caribbean and ensuring uninterrupted progress toward productive employment, decent work, and social justice. The transition process, though in its early stages, is being meticulously managed to ensure a seamless shift, with existing commitments and initiatives in Haiti expected to continue without disruption. This realignment also opens new avenues for regional cooperation under the Caribbean Office’s guidance. Since its inception in 1969, the ILO Office for the Caribbean has worked closely with governments, worker organizations, and employer groups to advance the Decent Work Agenda and promote inclusive economic growth across the region. The inclusion of Haiti into this framework further solidifies the ILO’s regional commitment and expands its influence. Joni Musabayana, Director of the ILO Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean, welcomed the announcement, highlighting the importance of increased engagement with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), of which Haiti is a member. He reiterated the ILO’s dedication to collaborating with Haitian partners to strengthen labor institutions, improve employment outcomes, and support the country’s journey toward social justice and sustainable development.
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Belize Nears “Safe Country” Agreement with the U.S.
Belize is on the brink of finalizing a significant migration agreement with the United States, known as the ‘Safe Third Country Agreement.’ Foreign Minister Francis Fonseca announced that the negotiations are nearing completion, emphasizing that the deal aims to balance Belize’s sovereignty with its humanitarian commitments. Speaking in the House of Representatives, Fonseca addressed concerns and misinformation surrounding the agreement, clarifying its purpose and legal framework. He highlighted Belize’s long-standing adherence to the 1951 UN Refugee Convention and its reputation as a leader in migration and refugee management. The agreement, which includes strict safeguards, would allow the U.S. to transfer asylum seekers to Belize for claim determination under controlled conditions. These safeguards include veto power over transfers, nationality restrictions, annual caps, and considerations of criminal records and professional skills. The deal, initially set for two years, can be suspended or terminated by either party with written notice. Fonseca also noted that the U.S. will provide financial and technical support to strengthen Belize’s asylum system. However, the agreement requires ratification by the Belizean Senate before it can take effect, ensuring compliance with domestic legal procedures. Fonseca stressed that the agreement’s activation will follow detailed implementation planning and will only be used if necessary. He concluded by affirming Belize’s commitment to international law, cooperation with the U.S., and the protection of persecuted individuals, reflecting both compassion and pragmatism.
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Ansa McAl agrees to buy, distribute Guyanese products in Caribbean
In a landmark decision, the Trinidad-based Ansa McAl Group of Companies has committed to purchasing and distributing Guyanese products across its Caribbean supermarket chain. The announcement was made during a sod-turning ceremony at Chateau Margot, East Coast Demerara, where a state-of-the-art mall valued at over US$50 million is set to be constructed. The project, spearheaded by a Chinese company, is expected to be completed within two years and will include sporting facilities such as volleyball and basketball courts, as well as a farmers’ market and stalls for Indigenous Peoples to showcase their products.
Ansa McAl’s CEO, Anthony Sabga II, was inspired by Guyana’s President Irfaan Ali’s ambitious vision for collaboration between the government and private sector. President Ali emphasized the importance of removing trade barriers and ensuring Guyanese products gain a foothold in Caribbean markets. He also highlighted the need for investment in the value chain to position Guyana as more than just a retail hub.
The partnership aims to support small farmers and producers by consolidating their goods into shipping containers for distribution. President Ali expressed his disappointment at the lack of Guyanese products on Caribbean shelves and urged Ansa McAl to work with the New Guyana Marketing Corporation to facilitate this initiative.
This collaboration marks a significant step in regional trade, with Guyana seeking to leverage its contributions to the Caribbean for mutual economic growth. The project also underscores the potential for further investment in Guyana’s agricultural and industrial sectors, with a focus on value creation and infrastructure development.
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Hof beslist: Vervolging Hoefdraad rechtmatig
The Court of Justice in Suriname has ruled that the 2020 decision by the National Assembly (DNA) to place former Minister Gillmore Hoefdraad under formal accusation was lawful. This decision, made after nearly five years of legal battles, renders Hoefdraad’s civil lawsuit against the State, the National Assembly, and the Public Prosecution Service (OM) inadmissible. Hoefdraad, who remains a fugitive, had contested his prosecution, which stemmed from his alleged involvement in the high-profile case concerning the Central Bank of Suriname (CBvS).
Hoefdraad and his legal team argued that the National Assembly’s decision was unlawful, as the parliament, then led by Jennifer Simons, had previously decided not to prosecute him during the second term of the NDP government. However, following the May 2020 elections, then Attorney General Roy Baidjnath Panday resubmitted a request to prosecute Hoefdraad. The new parliament, led by Marinus Bee and comprising a coalition of VHP, ABOP, NPS, and Pertjajah Luhur, approved the prosecution. Hoefdraad claimed this decision was politically influenced, asserting that the parliament could not revisit a prior decision unless new evidence emerged—a condition not met in this case.
In 2023, Hoefdraad was convicted in absentia, alongside other key figures, including former CBvS Governor Robert van Trikt and legal director Faranaaz Hausil. All defendants appealed their convictions, while Hoefdraad continued his civil case to challenge the legitimacy of his prosecution. The court handling the criminal appeal has completed its investigation but awaits the outcome of this civil case, which has been delayed multiple times.
Hoefdraad’s lawyer, Murwin Dubois, argued that a favorable ruling in the civil case could have impacted the criminal proceedings. Notably, Interpol refused to extradite Hoefdraad to Suriname, removing him from its wanted list and barring Suriname from using its channels, citing the prosecution as politically motivated. With the Court’s ruling affirming the legitimacy of the prosecution, the path is now clear for a final verdict in the criminal appeal.
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Karim Warner Challenges Sentence for Gunfire Incident
Police Constable Karim Warner is challenging his one-year prison sentence after being convicted of unlawfully discharging a firearm during a heated confrontation in Willikies last December. The incident occurred near the Emerald Cove Resort, where Warner was involved in a dispute over a rental vehicle he owned. According to court testimonies, Warner allegedly blocked the renters’ Toyota Mark X with his Lexus and demanded they exit the vehicle. When a female passenger suggested resolving the matter at a police station, Warner reportedly drew his firearm and fired multiple shots, striking the car’s rear panel, trunk, and a front tire. The passenger testified that she was so terrified during the incident that she lost control of her bladder. Warner denied the prosecution’s claims, stating he only fired a few shots in self-defense to protect his property. However, Senior Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel dismissed his defense, ruling that firing twelve bullets was a “grossly disproportionate” use of force. Warner, who wept as the verdict was read, has now taken his case to the Court of Appeal. His attorney, Andrew Okola, filed the appeal shortly after the October 1 conviction. The case continues to draw attention as it highlights issues of property disputes and the appropriate use of force by law enforcement officers.
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Antigua and Barbuda Celebrates Tourism Week 2025 Under the Theme: “Our People, Our Culture, Our Environment in Full Thrive, Tourism Week 2025.
The Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment has unveiled the eagerly awaited Tourism Week 2025, set to take place from November 22 to 29. This year’s theme, “Our People, Our Culture, Our Environment in Full Thrive,” highlights the integral role of Antigua and Barbuda’s citizens, cultural heritage, and natural beauty in fostering a sustainable and prosperous tourism industry. The event marks the official commencement of the Winter Tourism Season, serving as a platform for reflection, celebration, and renewed dedication to the nation’s leading economic sector.