分类: society

  • Autobestuurder slachtoffer gewapende overval Mawakaboweg

    Autobestuurder slachtoffer gewapende overval Mawakaboweg

    In the early hours of November 9, a driver fell victim to a violent armed robbery near a shop on Mawakaboweg. The incident occurred around 3:13 AM when the victim was boxed in by a gray Toyota Vitz. Three masked individuals emerged from the vehicle, forcibly taking a bag containing cash in US dollars, euros, and Surinamese dollars, along with important documents and personal belongings. During the altercation, the victim sustained a gunshot wound to his right knee and was promptly transported to a medical facility for treatment. The perpetrators fled the scene in the direction of Mohamed Rashid Pierkhanweg, leaving authorities to investigate the crime. This brazen act of violence has raised concerns about safety in the area, as police work to apprehend the suspects and prevent further incidents.

  • RT Performers Receive Most Outstanding Payments After Six-Month Delay

    RT Performers Receive Most Outstanding Payments After Six-Month Delay

    The RT Performers, a prominent local cultural group celebrated for their dynamic showcases of Antiguan and Caribbean traditions, have recently received three out of four outstanding payments for their performances at national events held over six months ago. Group leader Renee Thomas expressed the group’s frustration and demoralization caused by the prolonged delay, despite numerous appeals to officials. The situation drew media attention, prompting authorities to act, with Thomas confirming that most of the funds have now been settled, and the final payment is anticipated shortly. Renowned for their contributions to key national celebrations such as Independence and Carnival events, the RT Performers’ experience has shed light on broader concerns regarding the valuation and support of the creative sector. Thomas emphasized the need for better recognition and timely compensation for artists and performers who play a vital role in preserving and promoting cultural heritage.

  • Bestaat het recht van allodiale eigendom en erfelijk bezit nog?

    Bestaat het recht van allodiale eigendom en erfelijk bezit nog?

    In the October 2025 edition of the Dutch legal monthly journal Ars Aequi, Dr. Chequita Akkal-Ramautar published a comprehensive article titled ‘The New Surinamese Civil Code: Influences and Parallels with the Dutch Civil Code.’ The article delves into the implications of Suriname’s new Civil Code, which came into effect on May 1, 2025, particularly focusing on the status of allodial property and hereditary possession (aeeb). Article 5:1a of the new Civil Code states, ‘Allodial property is considered as property under this book.’ This provision was intended to resolve a long-standing legal dispute that had caused significant confusion among legal scholars. Akkal-Ramautar highlights that the legislative explanation (Memorie van Toelichting) reveals the lawmakers’ intent to clarify this contentious issue. Historically, there were two prevailing interpretations of aeeb among legal experts: one viewing it as a limited real right and the other as full ownership. The former interpretation posits that there are two rights holders: the bare owner (the State) and the limited real rights holder (the user of the land). The latter interpretation, supported by prominent legal figures such as Dr. C.A. Kraan and Mr. F. Kruisland, argues that aeeb constitutes full ownership. The new Civil Code appears to align with this latter view. However, Akkal-Ramautar points out a critical oversight: the new Code refers to ‘allodial property’ but omits ‘hereditary possession,’ a term legally recognized since the 1820 Royal Decree and the Principles of Land Policy Decree. This omission raises questions about whether the legislature intended to abolish aeeb or merely redefine it. Akkal-Ramautar emphasizes that this legislative ambiguity creates legal and practical uncertainty. She also critiques the lack of attention to earlier scholarly recommendations for clearer legal drafting. In conclusion, Akkal-Ramautar advocates for legislative revision to accurately reflect the legal status of aeeb and ensure legal certainty, asserting that the concept of allodial property and hereditary possession remains unresolved.

  • WEATHER (6:00 AM, Nov 9): Small craft advisory remains in effect, lingering moisture behind tropical wave with pockets of cloudiness

    WEATHER (6:00 AM, Nov 9): Small craft advisory remains in effect, lingering moisture behind tropical wave with pockets of cloudiness

    As a tropical wave gradually dissipates this morning, lingering moisture and upper-level instability will continue to influence the region, resulting in partly to occasionally cloudy skies with sporadic passing showers. A ridge pattern is developing across the area, which will help reduce moisture levels throughout the day. However, a surface to low-level trough is anticipated to move in overnight, intensifying shower activity from late tonight into Monday morning. Breezy conditions are expected to persist during this period. Additionally, low concentrations of Saharan dust are present in the area, prompting individuals with respiratory sensitivities to take necessary precautions. Marine conditions remain moderate through Tuesday, with wave heights reaching up to 5 feet on the west coast and 8 feet in open waters on the east coast. A Small Craft Advisory is in effect for above-normal seas and strong winds, particularly on the eastern side. Sea-bathers and small craft operators are urged to exercise extreme caution.

  • Home cooks shine at Food and Rum Festival’s Community Cook-Off

    Home cooks shine at Food and Rum Festival’s Community Cook-Off

    The vibrant spirit of Barbados came alive at Queen’s Park in The City on Friday evening as the inaugural Barbados Food and Rum Simplex Trading Community Cook-Off Finals showcased the island’s rich culinary traditions. Six talented home cooks from across the parishes of Barbados competed fiercely for the coveted title of top community chef, with Heather Aimes of St Joseph emerging victorious. Her winning dish—cornmeal cou-cou paired with steamed fish, pickled cucumber, tomatoes, and sweet potatoes—captured the essence of authentic Bajan cuisine and earned her the $7,500 grand prize. The competition, a highlight of the 2025 Barbados Food and Rum Festival, celebrated the creativity and skill of everyday cooks, bringing communities together through food. Second place went to Sarah Hoppie of St Andrew, who took home $5,000, while Chade Marshall of St George secured third place with a $2,500 prize. Executive Chef Henderson Butcher, the festival’s culinary director, praised the event for fostering unity and showcasing the depth of Barbadian food culture. He emphasized the importance of such initiatives in strengthening community bonds and preserving culinary heritage. For Heather Aimes, the win was a proud moment, as her traditional cou-cou dish resonated deeply with the judges and audience alike. The event not only highlighted the island’s gastronomic excellence but also underscored the power of food as a unifying force in Barbados.

  • Emergency simulation exercise at Vigie Airport on Tuesday

    Emergency simulation exercise at Vigie Airport on Tuesday

    The Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA) has announced a comprehensive emergency simulation exercise scheduled for November 11, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, at the George F L Charles Airport in Vigie. This initiative is a critical component of SLASPA’s commitment to maintaining safety standards as mandated by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). During the exercise, flight operations will be temporarily suspended to ensure the simulation’s effectiveness. Residents and travelers may observe heightened activity around the airport, which is directly related to the drill and should not raise alarm. Additionally, traffic flow along Nelson Mandela Drive, the primary access route to the airport, will experience temporary restrictions. Motorists are advised to adhere to instructions from the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force Traffic Department to facilitate orderly movement during this period.

  • Regering bespreekt nieuw onderwijssysteem met donoren en investeerders

    Regering bespreekt nieuw onderwijssysteem met donoren en investeerders

    The Surinamese government is spearheading a groundbreaking initiative to overhaul its education system, aiming to bolster economic diversification. President Jennifer Simons recently engaged in high-level discussions with representatives from Scandinavian nations—Norway, Sweden, and Finland—and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) during her visits to New York and Brazil. These talks focused on the development of a new educational curriculum and investments in training programs for production-oriented sectors, particularly agro-industry.

  • Several undocumented Haitians injured in accident in Dajabón

    Several undocumented Haitians injured in accident in Dajabón

    A group of undocumented Haitian immigrants sustained injuries during a vehicular accident in the province of Dajabón, Dominican Republic. The incident took place at the intersection of Santiago de la Cruz, where the vehicle they were traveling in was reportedly being pursued by military personnel. Authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. The injured individuals were promptly transported to Matías Ramón Mella Hospital, where they are currently receiving medical treatment for various injuries sustained in the accident. Meanwhile, the driver of the SUV fled the scene, prompting law enforcement to intensify efforts to identify and apprehend the fugitive. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges and risks faced by undocumented migrants in the region.

  • The cost of ignoring music copyright in the OECS

    The cost of ignoring music copyright in the OECS

    Across Saint Lucia and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), musicians are achieving international acclaim, yet many are still deprived of a crucial income source: royalties. While the Caribbean music industry contributed an estimated $104 million to the global $29.6 billion revenue in 2024, a significant portion of this value eludes local creators. This figure excludes royalties owed to composers from broadcasters, festivals, and other music users in the region, many of whom fail to compensate for the music they utilize, thereby violating copyright laws and depriving composers, songwriters, and producers of their rightful earnings. The Eastern Caribbean Collective Organisation for Music Rights (ECCO), responsible for collecting and distributing royalties, faces persistent challenges in ensuring compliance. CEO Martin James highlights that out of Saint Lucia’s 24 radio stations, only five are licensed, while in Grenada, Dominica, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Antigua, not a single station adheres to licensing requirements. James emphasizes that obtaining licenses for music use is essential, even when performers are paid separately, as the composer or songwriter may not be the performer. ECCO, through reciprocal agreements with global collective management organizations (CMOs), also collects royalties for international artists played in the OECS, from Burning Flames to BTS. However, local artists must register and properly credit their works to benefit. Unclaimed royalties for unregistered artists are held in escrow for three years before being redistributed elsewhere. James attributes the issue to both legal and cultural factors, advocating for increased local content on airwaves to retain more royalties within the region. ECCO, a non-profit based in Saint Lucia, distributes royalties annually, with 44% of its $1.4 million payout in 2025 going to its members. Despite these efforts, James acknowledges that the battle for fair compensation continues, with ECCO focusing on moral persuasion and government collaboration to address systemic challenges.

  • Leger des Heils maakt met SRD 50.000 goede start bij kerstpottenactie

    Leger des Heils maakt met SRD 50.000 goede start bij kerstpottenactie

    The Salvation Army has kicked off its annual Christmas pot campaign with a strong start, raising over SRD 50,000 and securing commitments for 100 food packages during its launch event on Saturday. This year, the organization aims to collect a total of SRD 1 million, which will enable them to provide 2,000 individuals with essential food supplies during the holiday season.