Suriname’s Minister of Transport, Communication, and Tourism (TCT), Raymond Landveld, recently held a constructive meeting with the Suriname Air Traffic Controllers Association (SACTA) to address pressing issues within the air traffic control sector. Key topics included the high workload, staffing shortages, and the urgent need for modernization of equipment and systems. SACTA highlighted that the current workforce consists of only 25 fully qualified air traffic controllers, all of whom are actively engaged in the duty roster. The association raised concerns about the frequent use of Single Person Operations, where one controller manages a shift alone, a practice that deviates from international safety standards. Additionally, SACTA emphasized overdue overtime payments and reiterated its call for a 100% salary increase to prevent staff attrition and attract new talent. Minister Landveld acknowledged these challenges, assuring that overtime payments are a priority and that all requests are processed promptly. He also revealed that $25 million from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) aviation program has been allocated to strengthen the aviation sector, with $5 million earmarked for equipment modernization and system digitization. The selection process for the new Project Execution Unit is already underway. The meeting also addressed the vulnerable communication network of the air traffic control system. TCT’s General Director, Faridy Lila, confirmed that the request for a dedicated network is being seriously considered within existing telecom regulations, with Telesur bundles serving as a temporary solution. Verno Prijor, Acting Director of Transport, announced that funding for the training of assistant air traffic controllers has been approved, allowing the program to proceed. Minister Landveld further committed to examining salary disparities between air traffic controllers and support staff, emphasizing equal treatment within the same service. He stated that the request for salary increases and incentive payments will be included in a broader organizational and financial feasibility study. SACTA is also invited to submit a proposal for an adjusted duty roster for trainees.
分类： society
-
United Nations Development Programme delivers equipment to tackle Dominica’s case backlog
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) PACE Justice Project has taken a significant step toward enhancing Dominica’s judicial system by handing over advanced equipment to the government. This initiative aims to reduce the backlog of criminal cases and streamline justice delivery, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s justice reform efforts. The official handover ceremony was held at the Attorney General’s Conference Room on Wednesday, attended by key stakeholders including Limya Eltayeb, Resident Representative of UNDP Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean. Eltayeb emphasized the project’s timely relevance, noting that justice reform and citizen security are currently at the forefront of public discourse. She highlighted the multifaceted approach of the PACE Justice Project, which integrates technology, human resource development, capacity building, and policy reform to create a more efficient and people-centered justice system. The introduction of digital solutions is expected to expedite case management, ensuring seamless coordination between the police, courts, and other judicial entities. Eltayeb also underscored the importance of infrastructure investment to maintain system reliability and prevent disruptions. Additionally, the project includes training programs in AI, digital criminal justice systems, and alternative dispute resolution, further strengthening Dominica’s judicial framework. The interoperability assessment conducted earlier this year revealed Dominica’s unique advantage in adopting a unified digital system, setting the stage for a transformative approach to justice delivery. This initiative not only aims to enhance efficiency but also to rebuild public trust in the judicial system and, by extension, the government.
-
Banks unveil Independence, We Gatherin’ commemorative beer can
In a move to honor Barbados’ Independence celebrations and the We Gatherin’ initiative, Banks Breweries Ltd. unveiled a limited-edition beer can on Thursday. The specially designed can, launched at the company’s Newton Industrial Estate plant in Christ Church, is described as a patriotic collector’s item aimed at fostering national pride and cultural identity. Janelle Germain, Marketing Manager of SLU Beverages Ltd., revealed the product during a brief ceremony, emphasizing that the project had been in development for six to seven months. “We’re thrilled to finally launch our We Gatherin’ can, which commemorates this significant initiative in a monumental way for an iconic brand like Banks,” she said. The design features symbolic elements of Barbadian culture, including the We Gatherin’ logo, the Broken Trident, and the national colors—blue, gold, and red—prominently displayed. Germain highlighted the importance of incorporating the Barbadian flag’s colors, noting that the blue and gold accents complement Banks’ traditional red branding. The launch also aims to reconnect the diaspora returning home for We Gatherin’, encouraging them to celebrate their heritage and support national events. Germain expressed hope that the can would serve as a symbol of pride and unity for Barbadians abroad. “This can represents true identity, empowerment, and Barbadian culture,” she said. The commemorative beer is expected to hit stores early next week, with pricing details still being finalized to ensure accessibility for all. Germain encouraged Barbadians to embrace the release, emphasizing Banks’ deep connection to national tradition. “Banks is an iconic brand that embodies what Barbados stands for,” she added.
-
Talks Begin on Ladyville and Lord’s Bank Becoming a Town
On Wednesday afternoon, representatives from the Ladyville and Lord’s Bank village councils convened with government officials to discuss the potential transformation of their communities into a township. The preliminary consultation, facilitated by the Ministry of Rural Transformation, Local Government, and Community Development, marked the first step in exploring this significant development. Area Representative Dolores Balderamos-Garcia emphasized that the meeting was exploratory rather than agenda-driven, aiming to gather initial insights and guidance. She expressed satisfaction with the session, which saw approximately 30 participants. Balderamos-Garcia highlighted the rapid population growth in Ladyville, which now spans from Haulover Bridge to Mile 13, encompassing neighborhoods like Vista del Mar, Mitchell Estate, Marage Road, and Los Lagos. This expansion has heightened the need for discussions on governance, infrastructure, and revenue generation to support essential community services. Senior ministry officials Clifford King and Nacio Acosta outlined the potential advantages of township status, including the implementation of modest property taxes to fund local improvements such as street maintenance, drainage systems, parks, and community development projects. Balderamos-Garcia clarified that no decisions have been finalized and stressed the importance of broader community consultations moving forward. She affirmed the commitment to inclusive dialogue, ensuring residents have a voice in shaping the future of their communities.
-
Van Dijk betwist nieuwe aanklachten in strafzaak SPSB
In a significant development in the criminal case involving Ginmardo Kromosoeto, Gardelito Hew-A-Kee, and Robert Putter, the court has allowed additional time for legal rebuttals. Following a 200-page defense plea by attorney Nailah van Dijk, the presiding judge, Ishwardat Sonai, granted the public prosecutor, Roline Gravenbeek, the opportunity to supplement her response. The judge also extended the chance for two absent attorneys, Murwin Dubois and Benito Pick, to present their arguments. The case is set to resume on November 20. Van Dijk argued that the Public Prosecutor’s Office failed to provide substantial evidence linking her clients to participation in a criminal organization. She also contested the late addition of charges to the case file, stating that some allegations were introduced two years after the initial summons, violating both international treaties and local laws. Among the added charges were money laundering and involvement in a criminal organization. Van Dijk further demanded the exclusion of evidence against Putter, citing that he was interrogated as a witness, not a suspect, in 2021. She emphasized that the interrogation should not be used against him if he were later deemed a suspect. Additionally, Van Dijk disputed the classification of Kromosoeto as a public official and provided a detailed analysis of two companies allegedly linked to the Surinamese Post Savings Bank.
-
Official Public and Bank Holidays for 2026
The Belizean government has officially unveiled the public and bank holiday schedule for 2026, as confirmed by the Belize Press Office. The comprehensive calendar features 14 national observances, commencing with New Year’s Day on January 1 and concluding with Boxing Day on December 26. Notably, several holidays, including Holy Saturday, Emancipation Day, and Boxing Day, coincide with weekends, potentially influencing how businesses and institutions plan their operations. This announcement provides clarity for citizens and organizations alike, enabling them to prepare for the year ahead. The full list of holidays ensures that key cultural and historical events are recognized nationwide, fostering a sense of unity and tradition.
-
Free Zone Businessman Survives Cartel-Style Attack
In a harrowing incident on Wednesday night, Nitin Buxani, a well-known businessman from the Corozal Free Zone, narrowly escaped a violent assassination attempt near the Mile 8 roundabout in Hattieville, Belize. Buxani, accompanied by his driver, was traveling in a pickup truck when it was ambushed by gunmen. Witnesses reported hearing at least 19 gunshots during the attack. Despite the severity of the assault, the driver managed to navigate the vehicle to Belize City, where both men received medical attention and are now in stable condition. Buxani reportedly sustained multiple injuries, with a chest plate credited with stopping two potentially fatal bullets. Authorities and sources close to the investigation suggest that the attack may be connected to internal disputes within the Corozal Free Zone, an area notorious for cartel activities, particularly in the tobacco trade. This incident has raised concerns about the escalating violence and the influence of organized crime in the region.
-
Education is the antidote to ignorance
A recent poll conducted in August and September 2025, targeting nearly 230 older teenagers, has shed light on their perspectives regarding the Age of Civil Responsibility (ACR) Bill and sex education. The survey, which focused on critical aspects of reproductive health education, revealed a clear preference for comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) over abstinence-only instruction. A striking 68% of respondents opposed limiting sex education to abstinence-only content, with only 18% in favor. Conversely, an overwhelming 93% supported the inclusion of age-appropriate CSE in schools, with 58% expressing strong agreement. This data underscores the growing demand among youth for informed and inclusive reproductive health education. Critics of the ACR Bill argue that legislation alone cannot address the issue. However, advocates emphasize the need for legal frameworks to create societal space for meaningful action. Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, in his recent address to the UN General Assembly, highlighted education as the antidote to ignorance, particularly in the context of reproductive health. The Caribbean region has long struggled to meet international CSE standards, with no country coming close to compliance. The poll results reflect the high expectations of older adolescents for quality CSE, urging leaders in education and health to take bold steps toward reform. Tonia Frame, President of the Grenada Planned Parenthood Association (GPPA), and Fred Nunes, Consultant at Advocates for Safe Parenthood: Improving Reproductive Equity (ASPIRE), have called for courage and action from policymakers to replace sexual ignorance with education.
-
Hurricane Melissa prompts TOBA Mixed Sale reschedule to December 7
The Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders’ Association of Jamaica (TOBA) has announced the rescheduling of its annual Mixed Sale to December 7, following the catastrophic effects of Hurricane Melissa. Originally slated for November 23, the event was postponed to allow consignors sufficient time to rehabilitate horses potentially impacted by the storm. The new date was strategically chosen to coincide with the US$300,000 Mouttet Mile, scheduled for December 6, ensuring optimal preparation and participation. Hurricane Melissa, the most powerful hurricane to ever hit Jamaica, inflicted severe damage on the island’s breeding sector. Notable among the affected were Orange Valley Estates Limited in Trelawny, owned by TOBA director Alec Henderson and his wife Jacqui, and YS Farm in St Elizabeth, managed by Dawn Browne. Both farms suffered extensive destruction, particularly in the western regions of the island, which bore the brunt of the hurricane’s force. The resilience of the industry is evident, as evidenced by the 2022 sale of Lot #104, a two-year-old filly by Soul Warrior – Lady Belridge, which fetched $2.1 million.
-
Planet Water Foundation and ISRATECH to deliver water filtration systems for Melissa relief
KINGSTON, Jamaica—In a significant humanitarian effort, ISRATECH Jamaica, in partnership with the global non-profit Planet Water Foundation, has introduced six advanced AquaBlock emergency water filtration systems to aid communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa. These critical systems, capable of producing up to 57,600 gallons of potable water daily, were transported from Phoenix, Arizona, to Kingston, Jamaica, aboard a Boeing 737 humanitarian relief flight. This marks the largest single aid flight to Jamaica since the hurricane struck. The systems will be accessible to the public, addressing one of the most pressing needs in the recovery process. Benjamin Hodara, CEO of ISRATECH, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, ‘Each AquaBlock system embodies innovation and hope, designed for rapid deployment and long-term impact, supported by our technical expertise on the ground.’ The systems arrived at Norman Manley International Airport on Thursday, where they will be installed and maintained by a joint technical team from Planet Water Foundation and ISRATECH Jamaica, in coordination with local disaster response agencies. Mark Steele, founder and CEO of Planet Water Foundation, expressed his commitment to the cause, noting, ‘Each system can provide safe water for up to 6,000 people, and we are dedicated to delivering them swiftly to the most affected communities.’ This initiative is funded by Planet Water Foundation’s corporate partners, underscoring the collaborative effort to restore essential water infrastructure in high-impact areas identified by national disaster response teams.