Vescort Jones has officially returned to his position as Aviation Security Officer at the Dominica Air and Seaports Authority (DASPA), nearly eleven years after his dismissal in December 2014. This reinstatement follows an extensive legal and public campaign, culminating in a mutually agreeable settlement between Jones and DASPA, which includes a compensation package satisfactory to Jones. The original dismissal occurred after Jones allowed United Workers Party (UWP) leader Lennox Linton to dispose of crab backs at the Douglas-Charles Airport, an incident that lacked the required permit. This event sparked widespread public support in Jones’s home community of Marigot, where many viewed the dismissal as politically motivated. In January 2015, over 500 residents signed a petition demanding Jones’s reinstatement, which was delivered to DASPA CEO Benoit Bardouille by Linton and members of the Marigot community. The petition described Jones’s termination as a ‘clear act of political victimization’ and called for accountability within DASPA. Despite the public outcry and the submission of the petition, the Labour Tribunal failed to reach a decision on Jones’s wrongful dismissal claim for over a decade. A second tribunal was eventually appointed, and recent negotiations led to a resolution that allowed Jones to return to his post. Jones expressed his gratitude for the outcome, stating, ‘I am very happy to return to the job I have always loved. Aviation security has been my passion and my calling.’ He also thanked his family, attorney, and supporters for standing by him during his pursuit of justice. Jones now looks forward to continuing his service to Dominica, contributing to the safety and efficiency of the nation’s air and sea port operations. His reinstatement marks the end of a long-standing dispute and a return to a profession in which he has been recognized for his dedication and integrity.
分类： society
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NEMO seeks donations for Hurricane Melissa relief in Jamaica
In response to the extensive devastation wrought by Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica, Saint Lucia’s National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO) has initiated a comprehensive donation drive to support recovery efforts. The initiative aims to gather essential relief items for distribution to affected communities in Jamaica, where the hurricane has caused widespread displacement and destruction. NEMO is calling upon citizens, organizations, and businesses to contribute to this humanitarian effort, emphasizing solidarity with the Jamaican government and people. Donations will be strictly limited to items specified on the official needs list provided by the Government of Jamaica, with clothing items currently excluded. Financial contributions and the full list of required items can be accessed via the official link: https://supportjamaica.gov.jm/needs. Donations can be delivered to the NEMO Secretariat in Bisee, Castries, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. NEMO has expressed gratitude for the public’s generosity and cooperation as Saint Lucia extends vital support to its Caribbean neighbors during this challenging time.
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Teacher to Stand Trial on Sexual Assault Charges
A former teacher in Antigua is preparing to stand trial following serious allegations of sexually assaulting a student. The case, which has drawn significant attention, stems from a complaint filed by a female student during the 2023–2024 academic year. Police investigations led to the teacher’s arrest earlier this year, and he was subsequently charged with rape and other offences under the Sexual Offences Act. The accused has since resigned from his position at the educational institution where the alleged incident occurred. School authorities have emphasized their full cooperation with law enforcement and reaffirmed their dedication to ensuring student safety. The case is set to proceed to the High Court after an initial committal hearing in the St. John’s Magistrates’ Court. While the accused has been granted bail and is scheduled to return to court later this year, officials have reminded the public that the presumption of innocence applies until proven guilty. Individuals with pertinent information are encouraged to contact the police’s Family and Sexual Offences Unit to aid the investigation.
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Cedar Valley Man Jailed for Three Years Over $6,800 Liquor Theft Spree
A Cedar Valley resident, Wilbur Edwards, has been handed a three-year prison sentence after confessing to a series of high-value alcohol thefts across multiple supermarkets in St. John’s. The theft spree, which spanned three months and amounted to over $6,800, culminated in Edwards pleading guilty to six counts of larceny during his appearance at the Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday. The court imposed six-month sentences for each charge, to be served consecutively, reflecting the severity of the crimes. Prosecutors revealed that Edwards meticulously disguised his thefts as ordinary shopping trips, utilizing an extra bag in his cart to conceal bottles of liquor while only paying for other groceries. Notably, one supermarket was targeted twice during his spree. The magistrate emphasized that consecutive sentences were warranted, as each offense involved distinct thefts from different businesses. Edwards was acquitted of additional charges related to battery and resisting arrest during his apprehension.
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Jury Selection, Testimony Underway in Delano Forbes Murder Trial
The murder trial of Delano Forbes, accused of killing postal worker Maurison Thomas in 2018, began this week with jury selection and initial testimonies. Forbes, 31, faces four separate murder charges and remained composed throughout the proceedings at the High Court, communicating with his attorney via written notes. After two potential jurors were challenged, a panel of nine women and two men was sworn in to oversee the case. The first witness, a neighbor of the deceased, recounted visiting Thomas’ home on March 7, 2018, after failing to reach him. The group noticed the television was on but found no trace of Thomas. Upon opening the kitchen door, they were met with a strong odor of blood. Inside, Thomas was discovered face down in the living room, partially concealed under clothing and pinned beneath a couch, with bloodstains visible on the floor. Testimonies also detailed Forbes’ recapture weeks after his alleged escape from police custody. Officers located him hiding in a pump house in the Folly’s area, guided by a light and the scent of marijuana. A search uncovered wallets, cash, a camouflage hoodie, floral pants, red water boots, and scissors believed to bear bloodstains. Forbes reportedly claimed ownership of all items. Notably, he was acquitted in 2020 of charges related to his alleged escape. The trial is set to continue this week.
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St Lucy residents finally secure title to family lands after decades of waiting
After nearly 40 years of uncertainty, residents of River Bay, St. Lucy, including seven elderly pensioners, will finally receive legal title to the land they have called home for generations. This historic change comes as part of a new government resolution introduced in Parliament on Tuesday, aimed at transferring ownership to eligible tenants. The resolution, spearheaded by Housing Minister Christopher Gibbs, marks his first legislative initiative since assuming the housing portfolio in September. It involves the transfer of over three acres of state-owned land to the National Housing Corporation for sale and distribution under the Tenantries Freehold Purchase Act. Minister Gibbs emphasized that this resolution, enacted under Section 5 of the Crown Lands Vesting and Disposal Act, is a key component of the government’s broader mission to empower Barbadians who have lived on tenantries without legal ownership. “Land ownership is transformative,” Gibbs stated. “It provides dignity, social justice, and the opportunity to build wealth and stability for families.” The 21 River Bay lots were professionally surveyed in 2021, with ten already occupied and approved for sale. Seven elderly pensioners will receive their lots free of cost, while the remaining three occupants will purchase at the statutory price of $2.50 per square foot. The remaining 11 lots will be subdivided for future housing development. Gibbs described the resolution as a tangible step toward fulfilling the government’s social contract, emphasizing its significance beyond legal formalities. “This is about correcting historical inequities and delivering justice to those who have contributed to their communities for decades,” he said. MP for St. Lucy, Peter Phillips, expressed deep gratitude to Gibbs and former Housing Minister Dwight Sutherland for their efforts. “This resolution ensures that the people of River Bay finally have a piece of the rock,” Phillips remarked. The initiative is part of a long-standing policy of economic enfranchisement through land ownership, first introduced under the 1980 Tenantries Freehold Purchase Act. Gibbs also highlighted ongoing efforts to regularize land tenure across Barbados, including recent conveyances in Bath, St. John, and Six Men’s, St. Peter. Additionally, plans are underway to empower small business owners through land ownership, such as at the Parkinson Business Centre, where tenants will soon receive titles to secure their businesses.
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MP criticises BWA remarks on northern water
Peter Phillips, Member of Parliament for St Lucy, has called for a public apology from the Barbados Water Authority (BWA) following controversial remarks by a senior official. The official had asserted that the discoloured, brown water affecting northern residents was safe to drink, a statement Phillips described as ‘careless and insensitive.’
During a House of Assembly debate on legislation granting land ownership to River Bay residents, Phillips criticized the comments as ‘unfortunate’ and ‘disrespectful.’ He emphasized that St Lucy residents have endured unreliable and discoloured water supplies for years, making the official’s remarks particularly offensive.
Phillips urged the official to retract the statement and apologize to the people of St Lucy. ‘I ain’t going to drink brown water. None of us in here would do it,’ he declared. ‘Withdraw that statement and apologise to the people of St Lucy for that comment.’
The controversy stems from a recent press conference where Acting CEO of the BWA, Christopher Mapp, claimed the discoloured water in St Lucy and St Peter was potable. ‘All indications show that the water is safe for consumption,’ Mapp stated. ‘Would I feel comfortable drinking it? Yes.’ However, he acknowledged that others might not share his comfort level.
The BWA has faced significant public criticism over persistent complaints of brown water in northern parishes. Mapp revealed that the authority has invested nearly $20 million in mains replacement, including $7 million since April, with the project expected to conclude by early 2026. Water quality technologist Jatobi Greaves confirmed that tests showed the water met health and safety standards, attributing the discolouration to sediment that does not compromise safety.
Phillips acknowledged the BWA’s efforts to improve water supply but stressed that the official’s comments had caused unnecessary distress. ‘That same officer is working hard as head of the mains replacement team to better the situation in St Lucy,’ he said. ‘It is just a mistake, and I would ask him simply to come, apologise, and let us move forward.’
Phillips highlighted the importance of reliable access to clean water, especially as the government moves to grant land ownership to residents. ‘In order for the people to enjoy life and truly be happy, there are a number of amenities that must be in place,’ he said. ‘One of those amenities is clean, running, proper water.’
He also addressed other pressing issues in St Lucy, including road repairs, coastal damage from Hurricane Beryl, and the condition of Crab Hill roads. Phillips assured residents that he is collaborating with government ministries to resolve these challenges. ‘My voice will not be silent if there are issues that affect the people of St Lucy and the issues go unaddressed,’ he vowed.
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Nine-Year-Old’s Phone Vanishes After Lending It to Cousin
Authorities in St. John’s have launched an investigation following the theft of a mobile phone belonging to a nine-year-old girl on Monday afternoon. The incident occurred around 1 p.m. when the child lent her Samsung A51 smartphone to a cousin to make a call. However, the device was never returned. The matter was promptly reported to the Criminal Investigations Department, where officers initiated a search for the suspect. Despite their efforts, the alleged offender remains at large. The stolen phone, valued at approximately EC$1,200, is still missing as the investigation continues. Police are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist in resolving the case.
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Nevis Co-operative Credit Union Limited
The Nevis Co-operative Credit Union Limited has officially announced that it is now hiring. This announcement was made on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at 5:52 PM. The credit union, known for its commitment to financial services and community development, is seeking qualified individuals to join its team. This hiring initiative is part of the organization’s ongoing efforts to expand its services and enhance its operations. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to contribute to a well-established financial institution that plays a vital role in the local economy. Further details regarding the available positions and application process are expected to be released soon.
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Suriname viert tien jaar Women in Maritime Caribbean: Focus op gelijke kansen
From November 3 to 5, 2025, Suriname proudly hosted the regional workshop and general assembly of the Women in Maritime Association, Caribbean (WiMAC). Organized by the Maritime Authority Suriname (MAS), the event brought together representatives from across the Caribbean to strengthen collaboration and advance the role of women in the maritime industry. The opening ceremony, held at Hotel Torarica, also celebrated WiMAC’s 10th anniversary under the theme ‘LeadHERship: WiMAC 10 Years Strong! Looking Ahead, Sailing Forward,’ emphasizing leadership and equal opportunities for women in the maritime world. Minister Raymond Landveld of Transport, Communication, and Tourism (TCT) commended the contributions of women in the sector and highlighted the government’s commitment to gender equality, particularly in technical and maritime professions. He noted the increasing number of female students in maritime training programs as evidence of Suriname’s progress in women’s empowerment. Currently, MAS employs 32 women in various roles, and the WiMAC Suriname Chapter has 34 female maritime professionals. Chairperson Marita Kramp emphasized the organization’s focus on creating opportunities for women to grow, receive training, and work in a safe and supportive environment. She also stressed Suriname’s obligation to implement gender equality policies as a signatory to international treaties. The three-day workshop addressed challenges and opportunities in the regional maritime sector, underscoring MAS’s commitment to inclusion and equal opportunities for women in Suriname’s maritime industry.