In a remarkable display of environmental commitment and community spirit, the Grenada Fund for Conservation and the Sandals Foundation joined forces to lead this year’s International Coastal Cleanup Day (ICCD) on September 20. Over 50 volunteers, including students, Girl Guides, Scouts, Youth and Climate Ambassadors, and staff from Sandals Grenada Resort, gathered at Simon (Seamoon) Beach in St. Andrew to tackle marine pollution and safeguard the island’s precious marine ecosystems. The event, part of a global initiative, focused on solid waste management to improve water quality and protect aquatic habitats. The volunteers collected an impressive 1,134 pounds of trash, including 7,207 plastic bottles, clothing, household items, and more. Tyrone Buckmire, Founder of the Grenada Fund for Conservation, hailed the effort as one of their largest to date, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in environmental preservation. Heidi Clarke, Executive Director of the Sandals Foundation, underscored the critical role of marine ecosystems in providing sustenance, economic stability, and natural disaster protection. Beyond the one-day cleanup, the Sandals Foundation has been a leader in marine conservation for 16 years, supporting coral restoration, environmental education, and biodiversity projects. The Grenada Fund for Conservation has also benefited from four grants over the past six years, enabling initiatives like eco-tourism development and coastal restoration. This year’s ICCD not only revitalized Simon Beach but also inspired a broader movement for environmental sustainability in Grenada.
分类： society
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GUT wants government to resume principals’ allowances
As World Teachers’ Day approaches on October 5, Jude Bartholomew, President of the Grenada Union of Teachers (GUT), has urged the government to reinstate allowances for school principals that were eliminated following the enforcement of the latest collective bargaining agreement. Bartholomew emphasized the disparity in compensation, noting that principals were previously among the lowest-paid educators, earning less than regular teachers. During a press conference on September 29, 2025, he highlighted that while the union successfully negotiated higher pay grades for principals—elevating primary school principals from Grade H to I and secondary school principals from Grade I to J—the Ministry of Education subsequently removed their allowances. Bartholomew described this move as ‘unjust and unfair,’ calling for the restoration of these benefits in honor of World Teachers’ Day. The GUT plans to commemorate the occasion with an event at St John’s Anglican School on October 3. Additionally, Bartholomew advocated for compensation for teachers serving as acting principals and the payment of seniority allowances to qualified teachers who have completed college and passed three appraisals. He criticized successive administrations for failing to uphold this clause in the collective agreement, stressing that such payments should continue until a new pay structure is established.
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Police Probe Burglary at Medical Surgical Associates in Woods Centre
Authorities are currently investigating a burglary that occurred at the Medical Surgical Associates office located in the Woods Centre, Gambles. The facility, owned by Dr. Joey John, was reportedly broken into between the evening of September 26 and the early hours of September 28. According to preliminary investigations, the perpetrators gained access by prying open a rear door on the eastern side of the building. Once inside, they forcibly entered the accounts office, broke into a locked filing cabinet, and made off with an undisclosed amount of cash and cheques. The suspects are believed to have exited through the same door they used to enter. Forensic teams have already processed the crime scene, and detectives are reviewing CCTV footage as part of their ongoing investigation. The incident has raised concerns about security measures in the area, and further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
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‘Bounty’ remanded for multiple murder charges
Nigel ‘Bounty’ Pinder, a 49-year-old resident of Cox Hill, St Philip, has been remanded to Dodds Prison following his appearance in the District C Magistrates’ Court. Pinder faces a series of grave charges, including multiple counts of murder and conspiracy to murder. The allegations span a period from June 2023 to January 2024, involving the deaths of Randy Brathwaite, Junior Taitt, and Shane Renaldo Parris. Pinder is accused of directly committing these murders as well as conspiring with others to carry out the killings. Appearing before Acting Magistrate Angela Knight under heavy police escort, Pinder was represented by Senior Counsel Angella Mitchell-Gittens. As the charges are indictable, no plea was required at this stage. The case has been adjourned, with Pinder scheduled to reappear in court on October 8. The proceedings have drawn significant attention due to the severity and complexity of the charges.
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Orthopaedic technician charged with transmitting image of “Lola Doll’s” private parts
A 20-year-old orthopaedic technician from Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has been charged under the Cyber Crime Act for transmitting an image of a patient’s private area. Treveir ‘Tratts’ Sinclair, residing in West Ruimveldt, Georgetown, pleaded not guilty and has been remanded to prison until October 6. If convicted, he faces a fine of GY$3 million and up to three years in prison. The incident occurred on September 19 when Sinclair, who was off-duty at the time, allegedly recorded Lolita ‘Lola Doll’ Callendar, a well-known make-up artist and singer, while she was receiving treatment at GPHC after being shot eight times. Sinclair reportedly admitted to sending the recording via WhatsApp to his ex-girlfriend, but deleted it after it began circulating on social media. The GPHC has issued a public apology to Callendar and her family, emphasizing their commitment to patient privacy and dignity. The hospital has pledged to take all necessary measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
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Health tips from Dr. Reefe on World International Heart Day
A grassroots community initiative has unexpectedly evolved into a global movement, inspiring individuals and organizations worldwide to take action for social change. What began as a local effort to address neighborhood challenges has gained momentum through social media, with hashtags like #Share, #Tweet, #Pin, and #Related trending across platforms. The movement emphasizes collective action, encouraging people to share ideas, collaborate, and implement solutions to pressing societal issues. The initiative’s success lies in its inclusive approach, fostering connections between diverse communities and amplifying voices that often go unheard. As the movement continues to grow, it serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of unity and shared purpose in driving meaningful change.
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STATEMENT: CPSU on the formation of the first trade union congress in Dominica
On September 26, 2025, the Commonwealth of Dominica witnessed a groundbreaking moment with the establishment of the Dominica Trade Union Congress (DTUC). Under the theme ‘Consolidating Trade Union Power through Unity and Solidarity,’ this historic event brought together four prominent trade unions: the Dominica Public Service Union (DPSU), Dominica Association of Teachers (DAT), Dominica Amalgamated Workers Union (DAWU), and Waterfront and Allied Workers Union (WAWU). Supported by the International Labour Organization (ILO), the DTUC aims to unify worker representation, amplify advocacy for fair wages, and improve working conditions across the nation. The keynote address was delivered by ILO Director Mr. Joni T. Musabayana, who emphasized the significance of unity in shaping the national agenda and strengthening workers’ voices both regionally and internationally. The event, attended by trade unionists, delegates, government officials, and media representatives, also saw the adoption of a progressive constitution described as the most modern in the Caribbean. The first Executive Council of the DTUC includes President Steve Michael Joseph (DPSU), 1st Vice President Elias Leah Shillingford (DAWU), 2nd Vice President Donald Rolle (WAWU), General Secretary Thomas Letang (DPSU), Treasurer Kathleen Cornelius (DAT), Assistant Secretary Mervin Alexander (DAT), and Assistant Treasurer Frederica Riley (WAWU). Affiliate representatives from each union were also appointed, marking a new chapter in Dominica’s labor movement.
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Police probe abandoned car in Pares Village
Authorities in Pares Village have launched an investigation after a silver Honda Fit was discovered abandoned in a remote bushland area near Lindsey’s Estate. The vehicle, found without its keys, was reported by a concerned passerby who alerted local law enforcement. Upon arrival, officers cordoned off the scene and called in forensic teams to process the car for potential evidence. After a thorough examination, the vehicle was towed to Police Headquarters for further analysis. The circumstances surrounding how the car ended up in such an isolated location remain unclear, and police are continuing their inquiries to determine the cause. This incident has raised questions among residents about safety and the potential implications of abandoned vehicles in the area. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have urged anyone with relevant information to come forward.
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RayAsta Foundation hosts third group for basic caregiver training course
The RayAsta Foundation has officially inaugurated its third Level 1 Caregiver Training Course, marking a significant step in its mission to enhance caregiving standards in Dominica. This latest cohort comprises 18 dedicated students who will undergo a comprehensive 12-week training program. The curriculum is designed to equip participants with critical skills, foster empathy, and build confidence through a blend of practical exercises, interactive sessions, and guided learning experiences. These efforts aim to prepare caregivers to deliver high-quality support in diverse settings, including homes, communities, and professional healthcare environments. Cecilia St. Hilaire, CEO of the RayAsta Foundation, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, ‘Each course brings us closer to a robust network of trained caregivers across Dominica. We are excited to welcome this new group and anticipate their growth into skilled, compassionate professionals who will positively impact lives.’ The Caregiver Training Course has become a cornerstone of the Foundation’s initiatives, successfully preparing individuals to support patients, strengthen family bonds, and bolster Dominica’s healthcare system. The program has garnered strong support from the Ministry of Welfare and Social Services, which views it as a vital investment in social progress and the welfare of vulnerable populations. With this latest launch, the RayAsta Foundation reaffirms its commitment to empowering caregivers to serve with dignity, resilience, and compassion, further solidifying its role in advancing caregiving excellence in Dominica.
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Police probe break-in at All Saints school
Authorities in All Saints are currently investigating a burglary that occurred at a local primary school during the early hours of Friday night. Intruders reportedly forced their way into the principal’s office, leaving the premises in disarray. The storeroom was also breached, resulting in the theft of a Stihl weed wacker and a set of keys. The total value of the stolen items is yet to be determined. Police conducted a thorough search of the area but were unable to locate any suspects or recover the stolen property. Crime scene investigators have been notified and are actively pursuing leads. The incident has raised concerns among the community, prompting calls for increased security measures at educational institutions. The school administration has yet to release an official statement regarding the break-in. Meanwhile, local law enforcement has urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.