LONDON, United Kingdom—Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, has issued a heartfelt plea for the public to remember and honor military veterans, emphasizing the enduring sacrifices they have made. Speaking ahead of Britain’s annual Remembrance Day commemorations, the 41-year-old royal, who served two tours in Afghanistan, expressed his unwavering pride in his British heritage despite now residing in California.
分类： society
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10 motorised wheelchairs donated to Sir John Golding Rehabilitation Centre
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant move to support rehabilitation services, the Western Shamrock Lodge, in collaboration with Jiangsu Construction Group, donated 10 motorized wheelchairs to the Athlone Wing of the Sir John Golding Rehabilitation Centre on Wednesday. The handover ceremony marked a milestone in the long-standing partnership between the organizations and the Jamaican community. Dr. Christopher Tufton, Jamaica’s Minister of Health, praised the initiative, emphasizing its timely and symbolic importance. He highlighted the donation as a testament to the power of partnerships and friendships, stating, ‘Humanity depends on partnerships. It also symbolizes the strength of friendships, and out of friendship has come these long-standing partnerships. Everyone needs a friend at some point in time — they say no man is an island, no man stands alone.’ The motorized wheelchairs are expected to significantly improve the quality of life for patients with severe mobility challenges, offering them greater independence, comfort, and dignity. This donation continues the Western Shamrock Lodge’s two-decade tradition of supporting the Athlone Wing, reinforcing its commitment to community welfare and rehabilitation efforts.
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Sandals, Beaches returning strong
Sandals Resorts International (SRI) has unveiled its phased reopening plan for its Jamaican properties following the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. The luxury resort chain confirmed that its Ocho Rios and Negril locations will resume operations on December 6, 2025, allowing team members ample time to recover and support their families and communities. SRI Executive Chairman Adam Stewart praised the resilience of the staff, stating, ‘Our team members have shown extraordinary commitment, and their spirit is indomitable. We are dedicated to helping those affected by the storm rebuild stronger.’ The decision follows a thorough assessment of all eight resorts across Jamaica, with Sandals Dunn’s River, Sandals Royal Plantation, Sandals Ocho Rios, Sandals Negril, and Beaches Negril set to reopen fully restored. Meanwhile, Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals Royal Caribbean, and Sandals South Coast will undergo extended improvements and are scheduled to welcome guests on May 30, 2026. Stewart, who also serves on Jamaica’s Hurricane Melissa Recovery Task Force, emphasized the critical role of tourism in the island’s recovery. ‘Tourism is vital to Jamaica’s national recovery. Guests can support the region by returning to the island they love,’ he said. Additionally, the Sandals Foundation, SRI’s philanthropic arm, is spearheading relief efforts to aid affected communities through education, development, and environmental initiatives, ensuring 100% of donations go directly to rebuilding efforts.
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Suspect in Rio Claro businessman’s murder at large
The investigation into the fatal shooting of 58-year-old businessman Sylvan ‘Lawah’ Boodan in Rio Claro remains ongoing, with the perpetrator still at large. Boodan, owner of Gloria’s Bar located at Jeffers Crossing on Tabaquite Road, was tragically gunned down on the morning of November 3. The incident occurred around 8:30 am on the premises of R. Baldeosingh Services Ltd (RBSL), a construction company in Poole Village, Rio Claro, where Boodan worked as a straightener and painter. Witnesses reported that an unidentified masked man approached Boodan near his car, called him by name, and after a brief exchange, fired a single shot. The assailant fled the scene, leaving Boodan to collapse and die in front of his vehicle. A relative suggested the murder might be connected to a dispute involving unpaid services to a spiritual advisor, or ‘obeah man,’ earlier this year. However, police have yet to confirm the motive. An autopsy is scheduled to be conducted this week at the Forensic Science Centre in St. James. The Homicide Bureau of Investigations, Region Three, is leading the case.
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Woman charged in $161,000 drug bust at port Castries
A significant drug interception at Port Castries on October 29, 2025, has led to the arrest of Kermisha Florent, a woman from La Croix, for possessing 5.38 kg of suspected cannabis. The illicit shipment, with an estimated street value of EC$161,000, was discovered during a routine inspection by law enforcement officers. Florent was apprehended on-site and later granted bail of $14,000 when she appeared before the First District Court on November 3, 2025. Her next court appearance is scheduled for December 9. According to police reports, Florent had arrived at the port to clear a shipment when officers inspected a box in her presence, uncovering six concealed packages of suspected cannabis. Inspector Shervon Mathieu, Head of the Gangs, Narcotics, and Firearms Unit, emphasized the critical role of such operations in combating the influx of drugs and weapons into Saint Lucia. ‘The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force remains steadfast in its commitment to public safety,’ he stated. ‘These targeted efforts are essential in reducing illegal firearms, intercepting narcotics, and holding suspects accountable in court.’ This bust is part of a broader initiative by law enforcement to disrupt organized crime and enhance border security through intelligence-led operations at the island’s ports.
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BNTU President Claps Back at Minister Requena
The President of the Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU), Nadia Caliz, has vehemently criticized Education Minister Oscar Requena for his handling of the ongoing teacher pay controversy. In a late-night Facebook livestream, Caliz labeled Requena’s explanation as “nonsense” and “disrespect to the highest level,” expressing deep frustration over what she described as misinformation and a lack of transparency. Caliz refuted Requena’s claim that salary deductions were due to advance payments made in December, asserting that no such agreement existed with the union. She clarified that the payments were long-overdue increments and allowances, not advances. Additionally, Caliz highlighted that some teachers have yet to receive salaries dating back to June, July, September, and October. Beyond the financial delays, Caliz condemned the lack of respect and transparency toward educators, many of whom are facing severe financial hardships. She emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that some teachers are being forced to vacate their homes due to unpaid rent. The union is demanding accountability and warning that this issue will not be ignored. Caliz vowed, “We’re going to get to the bottom of this. There’s a storm on the horizon, and this time, it’s a big one.”
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TVET Council and BNSI sign landmark MOU
In a significant step toward transforming Barbados’ workforce development framework, the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Council and the Barbados National Standards Institution (BNSI) have inked a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This agreement, signed at the BNSI headquarters, aims to formally recognize the skills of BNSI member employees while bolstering the island’s quality infrastructure. The collaboration seeks to bridge the gap between competence and quality, offering workers new avenues for formal certification through the TVET Council’s Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) programme. PLAR enables individuals to earn qualifications by validating skills acquired through work experience, informal training, or other non-traditional learning methods. Fabian Scott, acting deputy director of BNSI, emphasized that the MOU is fundamentally about people, ensuring that Barbadians’ skills—whether gained on the job or in the classroom—are recognized, certified, and aligned with international standards. Under the agreement, BNSI members and their employees will enjoy discounted access to the PLAR programme, which awards National and Caribbean Vocational Qualifications (NVQs and CVQs) based on both formal education and real-world experience. This initiative aligns with the Government of Barbados’ objective to reduce the number of uncertified workers and enhance national productivity. Hadyn Rhynd, director of BNSI, highlighted the partnership’s role in safeguarding competence and boosting the global competitiveness of Barbadian industries. The MOU also paves the way for deeper collaboration in joint promotions, training, and strategic workforce planning. Henderson Eastmond, Executive Director of the TVET Council, stressed that the partnership extends beyond certification, focusing on building industries, saving foreign exchange, and addressing workforce needs strategically. A key innovation under the MOU is the planned establishment of Sector Skills Councils, industry-led bodies tasked with identifying skills gaps and guiding the development of relevant training and standards. BNSI’s diverse membership base is expected to play a crucial role in this initiative, with sectors like the Creative Industries (film and animation) and Health and Wellness already in focus. Eastmond described the partnership as forward-looking, aimed at creating a future-ready workforce that is competent, confident, and globally recognized. The MOU takes immediate effect and will remain in force for three years, with potential for renewal, marking a major stride in aligning Barbados’ skills development with international best practices and economic resilience.
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Police Search For Suspects Involved in Shooting Incident at Golden Grove Extension
Authorities in Antigua and Barbuda are intensifying efforts to apprehend suspects linked to a brazen shooting incident that unfolded in the Golden Grove Extension area on Monday, November 3, 2025. The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda reported that the incident occurred between 2:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. on Mount Zion Baptist Drive. According to preliminary investigations, the driver of a green Toyota Vitz was allegedly pursued by unknown assailants in a silver Toyota RAV4. The occupants of the RAV4 reportedly pulled alongside the victim’s vehicle and opened fire. Miraculously, the driver escaped unharmed and promptly reported the incident to the Gray’s Farm Police Station. The police have launched a full-scale investigation and are urging anyone with information to come forward. Witnesses or individuals with relevant details are encouraged to contact the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) at 462-3913, the Gray’s Farm Police Station at 462-0481, or the Crimestoppers Hotline at 800-Tips (8477). The incident has raised concerns about public safety in the area, and authorities are working diligently to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.
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Shein bans sale of sex dolls following French threat to block platform
In a significant move to comply with international regulations and societal norms, Shein, the global fast-fashion e-commerce giant, has announced the immediate cessation of sex doll sales on its platform. This decision comes in response to mounting pressure from French authorities, who had threatened to block the platform over concerns regarding the sale of such products. The French government argued that the availability of sex dolls on Shein’s platform violated national laws and ethical standards, prompting swift action from the company. Shein’s decision underscores the growing challenges faced by e-commerce platforms in navigating diverse legal and cultural landscapes across global markets. The company has emphasized its commitment to adhering to local regulations and maintaining a responsible marketplace. This development highlights the increasing scrutiny of online platforms by governments worldwide, particularly concerning products that raise ethical or legal concerns. Shein’s proactive response may serve as a precedent for other e-commerce platforms facing similar dilemmas.
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City store closures overshadow Independence decorations, says Abed
The festive spirit of Independence Day in Bridgetown, Barbados, is being overshadowed by a surge of vacant shopfronts along Broad Street, with local merchants attributing the lack of patriotic displays to economic challenges rather than apathy. Eddy Abed, head of the Barbados Chamber of Commerce’s Revitalisation of Bridgetown Committee, emphasized that empty stores, not a lack of patriotism, are to blame for the subdued celebrations. ‘Vacant stores cannot show Independence or Christmas decorations because they are unoccupied,’ Abed explained. He urged a realistic assessment of Bridgetown’s evolving retail landscape, pointing to declining fortunes as the primary cause. Despite this, many businesses continue to showcase national pride by adorning their stores with blue, gold, and black decorations, blending Independence and Christmas celebrations. Abed highlighted the coexistence of these two events, stressing that neither should overshadow the other. Reflecting on the past, he noted that over half of Broad Street’s retail spaces now lie vacant, a stark contrast to its former vibrancy. The shift towards minimalist holiday decorations, both in Barbados and globally, reflects changing trends rather than a lack of participation. Abed’s comments came in response to Minister of Home Affairs Wilfred Abrahams, who recently encouraged businesses to engage in Independence festivities. Abrahams acknowledged the challenges businesses face but emphasized the importance of celebrating national identity. Abed concluded by urging the public to view the two celebrations as complementary, not competing, events.