The Women in Maritime Association Caribbean (WiMAC) Antigua and Barbuda Chapter Inc. recently celebrated World Maritime Day with a powerful message centered on ocean conservation and gender equity. Under the theme “Our Ocean, Our Opportunity, Our Obligation,” the organization highlighted the critical role of the ocean in connecting communities, driving economies, and shaping Caribbean identity. WiMAC President Dr. Evette Smith Johnson emphasized the dual responsibility of protecting marine resources and fostering inclusivity in maritime leadership. In her address, Dr. Smith Johnson stated, “Happy World Maritime Day! WiMAC celebrates the sea that sustains, connects, and inspires our Caribbean. Together, we must protect it, embrace opportunities, and ensure women’s equal role in shaping the maritime future.” The association stressed that gender equity in the maritime sector enhances innovation, resilience, and long-term growth. WiMAC called on governments, industry stakeholders, and communities to collaborate in safeguarding the ocean, emphasizing that sustainable stewardship is vital for livelihoods and resilience against global challenges. The event also showcased the leadership of WiMAC’s executive team, including Immediate Past President Mrs. Tamara Lowe-James, President Ms. Shenica Sebastian, and Vice President Mrs. Jemella Bascus-Sharpe, among others.
分类： society
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Man Jailed After Failing to Pay Court-Ordered Fine in Child Sex Case
A 25-year-old man has been sentenced to six months in prison after failing to fulfill court-ordered financial obligations related to his conviction for sexual offenses involving a minor. The man, who pleaded guilty in October 2023 to charges of engaging in sexual intercourse with a girl under the age of 14, was ordered to pay $6,000 in fines and compensation. The offenses occurred in 2020 when the victim was just 13 years old and the defendant was 21. The pair initially met at a local beauty salon in March 2020, and their interactions evolved into what the victim perceived as a relationship. This led to three instances of sexual activity during the summer of 2020, resulting in the girl’s pregnancy and subsequent childbirth in 2021. The defendant and his mother approached the victim’s mother, agreeing to take responsibility for the child. However, medical staff reported the case to the police at the time of delivery, triggering an investigation. In January 2024, Justice Ann-Marie Smith mandated the defendant to pay $500 monthly installments as part of his penalty. After making only one payment, the man absconded, leading to a months-long search. He was eventually arrested in August 2024 and ordered to serve the six-month custodial sentence as an alternative to the unpaid fines.
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Parl Rep Roland Royer says Clifton Back Road proves no community is left behind
In a significant stride toward community development, Agriculture Minister and Parliamentary Representative for the Cottage Constituency, Roland Royer, inaugurated the $1.2 million Clifton Back Road project on Wednesday. This initiative underscores the government’s unwavering dedication to ensuring that no community, irrespective of its size, is overlooked. The project, which commenced in late 2024, encompasses the rehabilitation of 400 meters of roadway, featuring new slipper drains, retaining walls, culverts, and the replacement of the main water line. Funded by the Government of Dominica and the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF) 10 program, the project is administered by the Caribbean Development Bank. Royer expressed profound pride and gratitude during the commissioning ceremony, acknowledging the collaborative efforts of the BNTF Country Office and the Ministry of Community Development. He emphasized that the project would provide safer access, enhanced connectivity, and an improved quality of life for residents. Additionally, Royer highlighted the contribution of the Dominica Water and Sewerage Company (DOWASCO), which invested $100,000 in new water lines, ensuring the project not only meets transportation needs but also fortifies essential infrastructure. This development marks a tangible step toward inclusive growth and community empowerment in Dominica.
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Melvin Hill Bridge repairs to start this weekend
The much-anticipated repair work on the Melvin Hill Bridge in St Joseph is finally set to move forward, with preparatory activities scheduled to begin this weekend. The bridge, a critical infrastructure link, was closed over a month ago due to safety concerns, leaving residents and commuters reliant on an alternate route. Contractors from the China National Complete Plant Import and Export Corporation (COMPLANT), in collaboration with local sub-contractor C.O. Williams Construction Ltd., will initiate debushing operations to facilitate a comprehensive site assessment by utility companies. Adrian Mayers, Project Manager at C.O. Williams Construction, emphasized that this assessment is crucial for identifying necessary relocations of utility services before full-scale repairs can commence. Since the bridge’s closure, the bypass route from Springfield to Newton Crescent has served as the primary alternative. The Ministry of Transport and Works has recently upgraded this route, addressing issues such as tree trimming, pothole repairs, and culvert replacement. Jenifer King, Chief Technical Officer at the Ministry, announced that paving of the bypass road is expected to begin next week. The Transport Board, which had initially expressed concerns about vehicle safety on the alternate route, has lauded the Ministry’s efforts. Operations Manager Gena Boyce confirmed the Board’s satisfaction with the improvements and anticipates the road will be fully operational for buses and other vehicles within two weeks. The Melvin Hill Bridge was deemed unstable and closed last month, prompting the Ministry to reiterate its warning to the public to avoid the bridge and use the bypass route once it officially opens.
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Court Adjourns Tresspassing Case Against UPP Members and Supporters
The Magistrates’ Court has postponed a high-profile case involving citizens charged with trespassing for accessing a beach, leaving the legal dispute unresolved until later this year. Defense attorney Sherfiel Bowen, representing the defendants, has filed an application to dismiss the charges, citing 16 legal grounds for the case’s alleged defects. Oral arguments on the dismissal motion are scheduled for November 6, with the prosecution required to submit their response by October 23. Bowen expressed confidence in the application’s success, stating, ‘If my application prevails, and I’m very confident that it will, it will be the end of the matter.’ Should the motion fail, the trial is set to commence on December 15. Bowen also emphasized the broader implications of the case, noting that it could spark a vital public discussion about beach access as a fundamental right in Antigua. ‘Access to a beach is one of the fundamental rights of Antigua,’ he asserted, suggesting that a trial might help clarify and reinforce this right. Opposition members were present at the courthouse, showing solidarity with the defendants and reaffirming their commitment to protecting public beach access. ‘We have to continue to fight for access to our beaches,’ one member declared, vowing to ensure that public entry remains protected and visible. The case has drawn significant attention, highlighting the tension between public rights and private interests in the region.
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Creatives and artistes called to register for national insurance
In a significant move to bolster support for self-employed individuals, Barbados has introduced a new Self-Employed Unit under the Ministry of Labour, Social Security, and The Third Sector. Minister Colin Jordan emphasized that creative professionals and artists are now eligible for the same National Insurance protections as traditional employees, marking a pivotal step in recognizing their contributions to the island’s culture and economy. Speaking at the unit’s launch, Jordan highlighted the vital role of creatives as ‘custodians’ and ‘storytellers’ who preserve Barbados’ rich history and heritage. He urged them to register for National Insurance, a benefit many in the arts sector have overlooked. Jordan acknowledged the challenges faced by self-employed creatives, whose work is often undervalued and perceived as a hobby rather than legitimate employment. To address this, the initiative offers flexible payment options tailored to their seasonal income, ensuring they can contribute during peak periods like Carnival or Crop Over without financial strain. While the unit is open to all self-employed individuals, Jordan singled out creatives as a ‘special group of people’ essential to maintaining Barbados’ cultural identity. This initiative aims to provide long-overdue security and recognition to those who enrich the nation’s cultural landscape.
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59 seniors graduate from National Digital Literacy programme
KINGSTON, Jamaica – In a landmark event marking Senior Citizens Month 2025, 59 senior citizens graduated from the Digital Literacy Programme, a collaborative initiative by the National Council for Senior Citizens (NCSC) and the HEART/NSTA Trust. The programme, designed to empower older Jamaicans with essential digital skills, underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a digitally inclusive society. The graduation ceremony, themed “Respect, Protect, Empower, Connect,” celebrated the participants’ achievements and highlighted their transformative journey into the digital age. Minister of Labour and Social Security Pearnel Charles Jr, addressing the graduates, praised their resilience and adaptability, stating, “This proves that age is no barrier to learning or growth.” He emphasized the practical applications of their newfound skills, from reconnecting with family abroad to accessing online health and banking services. The programme, which trains seniors in using smartphones, tablets, and computers, aims to bridge the digital divide and ensure no senior is left behind in Jamaica’s rapidly evolving technological landscape. Dr. Taneisha Ingleton and her team were commended for their pivotal role in expanding digital inclusion opportunities. Minister Charles Jr reaffirmed the government’s dedication to enhancing digital equity through expanded training programmes, improved internet connectivity, and community support. He encouraged families to assist their senior members in embracing technology, emphasizing, “It’s never too late to start this journey.”
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Argentine victims of live-streamed murder laid to rest on eve of protest
BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — The nation of Argentina is reeling in shock and grief after the brutal torture and murder of two young women and a teenage girl, whose deaths were live-streamed on Instagram. The victims, identified as 20-year-old cousins Morena Verdi and Brenda Del Castillo, and 15-year-old Lara Gutierrez, were laid to rest on Friday in separate ceremonies attended by mourning relatives and community members. Their bodies were discovered buried in the yard of a house in a southern suburb of Buenos Aires, five days after they went missing. The crime, linked to narco activity, has sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice. Investigators revealed that the victims were lured into a van under the pretense of attending a party, only to be subjected to horrific violence as a warning to others. The live-streamed footage, viewed by 45 members of a private Instagram account, depicted the gang leader declaring, “This is what happens to those who steal drugs from me.” Argentine media reported that the victims endured unimaginable torture, including the removal of fingers and nails, beatings, and suffocation. Rights groups have organized nationwide protests under the slogan, “There are no good or bad victims, only femicides,” emphasizing the need to address gender-based violence regardless of the victims’ backgrounds. Maria Eugenia Luduena, director of the NGO Presentes, highlighted the socio-economic vulnerabilities that often push women into dangerous situations, exacerbated by Argentina’s ongoing economic crisis. The suspected gang leader, known as “Little J” or “Julito,” remains at large, while the families of the victims have reportedly received death threats, prompting calls for police protection. The case has drawn condemnation from political, cultural, and social leaders, who are demanding an end to femicide and systemic violence against women.
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Aubyn Foundation gifts scholarships to deserving students
The Aubyn Foundation has once again demonstrated its commitment to fostering education and sustainable development by sponsoring scholarships for four deserving students at the Morgan’s Family Foundation back-to-school event on August 17 in Curatoe Hill, Clarendon. Each student received $50,000 to support their academic pursuits. The foundation’s chairman, Aubyn Henry, and CEO Toni-Ann Gayle were present to personally deliver the awards.
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Court of Appeal records 560 per cent judgment delivery rate in 2024
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican Court of Appeal has achieved an unprecedented judgment delivery rate of 560% in 2024, far surpassing international standards. This remarkable milestone was announced by Justice of Appeal Paulette Williams during the opening of the Michaelmas Term on September 22 in Kingston. Williams explained that for every 10 newly reserved judgments, approximately 56 were delivered, significantly exceeding the global benchmark of 100%.