Attorney General Dale Marshall has called on Caribbean governments to take the landmark Tot Lampkin v Attorney General of Trinidad and Tobago ruling as a critical warning. The 2024 judgment highlighted systemic failures in state responses to domestic violence, which led to the tragic death of Samantha Isaacs in 2017. Marshall emphasized this case during a two-day Regional Symposium to Advance State Responses on Domestic Violence, urging regional institutions to assess their own readiness to handle similar situations effectively. The case involved Samantha Isaacs, who was murdered by her former partner after years of escalating abuse. Despite her repeated reports of assault, death threats, stalking, harassment, and revenge pornography, police and judicial authorities failed to act, even with clear evidence of imminent danger. The Trinidadian High Court ruled in May 2024 that the State breached Samantha’s constitutional rights to life, equality before the law, and protection of the law. The court also found that the State violated the family-life rights of Samantha’s son and mother, establishing that governments have a constitutional duty to protect victims of gender-based violence when risks are known or should reasonably be known. Marshall stressed that the symposium, supported by the Inter-American Development Bank, the Caribbean Development Bank, and regional governments, aims to drive systemic changes to improve state responses to domestic violence. He highlighted the need for legislative and structural initiatives, drawing on successful practices from countries like Guyana, Trinidad, and Jamaica. Marshall acknowledged that even with reforms, states must remain vigilant in protecting victims and their families from ongoing abuse. Earlier this year, Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs Kirk Humphrey also called for stronger implementation of domestic violence policies, citing over 1,000 reported cases in the past two years.
分类： society
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BFS operating from its new headquarters
The Barbados Fire Service (BFS) has officially moved all its headquarters operations, including the Fire Prevention and Code Enforcement Unit, to the Cadogan, Mayers, Marshall (CMM) Emergency Services Complex. Located at Prince Road, Pine Plantation Road, St Michael, the new facility is now the central hub for BFS activities. Members of the public can access a range of services, such as fire coverage for events, building plan reviews for commercial properties, inspections, and burn permits. These services can be applied for either in person or electronically through the BFS website at https://fireservice.gov.bb/fees-schedule/. Additionally, payments for services can be made in person at the new headquarters or online via the government’s EZpay platform at https://ezpay.gov.bb/login. This relocation aims to enhance operational efficiency and provide better service to the community.
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President Simons belooft snelle aanpak knelpunten Ewald P. Meyer Lyceum
President Jennifer Simons conducted an orientation visit to the Ewald P. Meyer Lyceum (Lyco 2) on Monday to gain firsthand insight into the school’s pressing issues. Acting Principal Letitia Philips-Denswil welcomed the president and guided her through the facility, highlighting critical concerns such as outdated infrastructure, a shortage of school furniture, and damage caused by woodlice in several classrooms. Philips-Denswil emphasized the importance of the president witnessing these challenges directly, stating that the school has long been taking independent initiatives to address these issues, as reported by the Suriname Communication Service.
President Simons immediately engaged Vice President Gregory Rusland, instructing him to prioritize the identification and resolution of Lyco 2’s challenges, as well as those of other schools facing similar conditions. The president assured that swift action would be taken to implement structural improvements in both infrastructure and educational resources.
Despite these limitations, Lyco 2 has been actively seeking solutions. For instance, the school utilizes sports facilities provided by the Venezuelan Embassy and Parima for physical education classes. Philips-Denswil expressed hope that the president’s visit would lead to sustainable support, emphasizing the school’s goal of creating a safe and inspiring environment for both students and teachers.
Through this visit, President Simons underscored that educational facilities are a top priority for her administration and that urgent situations demand immediate attention.
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Dominican ports fully operational after Hurricane Melissa
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, the Dominican Port Authority (Apordom) has confirmed that all ports across the Dominican Republic are fully operational and have sustained no significant damage. Comprehensive technical inspections and structural evaluations conducted at major cargo, container, and cruise terminals have verified the stability of port infrastructure, as well as the uninterrupted functionality of electrical systems and access routes.
Jean Luis Rodríguez, Apordom’s executive director, attributed this resilience to the institution’s proactive preventive measures and unwavering commitment to port safety. He detailed that emergency protocols were activated well before the hurricane’s arrival, safeguarding docks, equipment, vessels, and personnel. This strategic preparedness facilitated a swift return to normal operations.
Rodríguez also underscored the Port Authority’s advancements in modernization and climate resilience, which have significantly bolstered its capacity to maintain seamless maritime activities. Apordom has reaffirmed that cargo, coastal shipping, and cruise operations are proceeding without disruption nationwide, highlighting its dedication to ensuring the security, stability, and competitiveness of the Dominican port system.
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Warme dag met ‘s middag enkele lokale buien
Suriname is set to experience another warm and predominantly dry day today, with localized cloud cover expected to increase in the afternoon. The early morning will remain calm and relatively clear, offering pleasant temperatures ranging between 24 to 26 degrees Celsius, particularly in Paramaribo and Wanica. By late morning, temperatures are forecasted to rise rapidly, reaching 32 to 35 degrees Celsius, with a muggy heat index exceeding 38 degrees Celsius. Humidity levels will remain high, especially in low-lying and densely built-up areas. Inland regions, particularly around the Upper Suriname area and Brokopondo, may experience even higher localized temperatures. During the afternoon, light cloud cover is anticipated in parts of the interior, with a possibility of brief local rain or thunderstorms, especially towards Sipaliwini and southern Brokopondo. Coastal districts are expected to stay largely dry, though a short-lived shower in the late afternoon cannot be ruled out. Winds will be easterly to northeasterly, generally weak to moderate, with occasional cooling breezes in the afternoon. By evening, skies will clear in most areas, and temperatures will gradually drop to a more comfortable 26 to 27 degrees Celsius.
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Tourism Charity Day 2025 to Support the Most Vulnerable Across Antigua and Barbuda
In a groundbreaking initiative, Antigua and Barbuda has announced the launch of Tourism Charity Day 2025, a dedicated event aimed at supporting the most vulnerable populations across the twin-island nation. Scheduled for early 2025, this event will leverage the country’s thriving tourism industry to raise funds and awareness for those in need. The initiative is a collaborative effort between the government, local businesses, and international partners, reflecting a shared commitment to social responsibility and community development. Activities will include charity walks, fundraising galas, and special tourism packages, with proceeds directed towards healthcare, education, and housing projects for disadvantaged groups. This initiative not only highlights the islands’ philanthropic spirit but also underscores the potential of tourism as a force for positive societal change.
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Rats force closure of Deacons Primary
The Barbados Union of Teachers (BUT) has issued a stark warning following a rat infestation at Deacons Primary School in St. Michael, which forced an abrupt closure on Monday. The incident has reignited calls for routine inspections and industrial-level deep cleaning across all public schools to ensure a safe learning environment. Parents were reportedly notified via WhatsApp messages around 10 a.m. to collect their children, though the reason for the early dismissal was not immediately disclosed. Later, officials from the Ministry of Health’s Vector Control Unit, the Ministry of Educational Transformation, and the BUT confirmed the closure was due to rodent sightings on campus. Julian Pierre, first vice-president of the BUT and head of its health and safety committee, revealed that the school had been grappling with environmental issues for over a week. Last week, concerns were raised about the school’s hall, prompting an inspection by the Vector Control Unit and the Ministry of Health. Industrial cleaning was subsequently conducted in the affected areas, but problems persisted. On Monday, another rodent sighting led teachers to evacuate students from the compromised area. Pierre emphasized that teachers have long been concerned about the general cleaning standards in public schools. He argued that schools should not wait for infestations or environmental incidents to justify deep cleaning, noting that while households undergo regular spring cleaning, schools often lack such proactive measures. He called for a structured maintenance regime, including scheduled inspections, regular cleaning, and water quality testing, in collaboration between the Ministries of Educational Transformation and Health. Deputy Chief Education Officer Julia Beckles confirmed that rodent droppings were identified at the school, prompting industrial cleaning. She assured that the school had been sanitized and would reopen on Tuesday. Pierre highlighted that rodent issues are not unique to Deacons Primary, urging a national focus on school hygiene and surrounding environments. He also stressed the importance of rodent-proofing measures, such as meshing and door sweeps, to prevent future infestations. The BUT has been advocating for systemic changes to ensure schools maintain a clean and safe environment for students and staff.
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COE warns of continued rainfall and flood risks until Thursday
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic – Juan Manuel Méndez-Gracia, the director of the Emergency Operations Center (COE), issued a stark warning on Tuesday regarding the continuation of heavy rainfall across the country until Thursday. The forecast, provided by the National Institute of Meteorology (INDOMET), underscores the urgency for residents to remain prepared, especially in provinces under red and yellow alerts. Méndez emphasized that the already saturated soil significantly heightens the risk of landslides and flash floods, posing threats to both urban and rural communities. He urged the public to stay vigilant and maintain contingency plans, even if temporary weather improvements occur, to safeguard lives and property. The COE continues to monitor the situation closely, coordinating efforts to mitigate potential disasters.
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Faced with the imminent impact of Melissa, be alert, show solidarity, and remain disciplined
In a heartfelt message to the people of eastern Cuba, President Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, head of the National Defense Council, called for unity and discipline as Hurricane Melissa threatens the region. Drawing inspiration from Fidel Castro’s resilience during Hurricane Flora, Díaz-Canel emphasized the importance of protecting lives above all else. He urged citizens to remain alert, act with solidarity, and adhere to safety protocols to mitigate the storm’s impact. Hurricane Melissa, a highly dangerous system with destructive winds and heavy rainfall, has prompted extensive preparations, including evacuations, resource safeguarding, and the reinforcement of critical infrastructure. Despite these efforts, the President acknowledged the unpredictability of such events and stressed the need for personal responsibility. He advised families to prioritize the safety of children and elderly relatives, keep essential supplies on hand, and maintain communication. The President’s message underscored the Cuban spirit of mutual care and resilience, urging citizens to avoid complacency and work together to minimize vulnerabilities. As Melissa approaches, the nation remains focused on preserving life and minimizing destruction.
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Security : Successful sea rescue operation
In a swift and coordinated effort, the Haitian Coast Guard successfully carried out a critical sea rescue operation on the night of October 24, 2025. The operation was launched after the landing craft ‘PRINCESS SAM ASIA,’ registered under the flag of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, was reported adrift off the coast of Léogâne. Responding promptly, the Coast Guard dispatched two shuttles to the scene. Through meticulous coordination, all crew members were rescued unharmed, and the vessel was safely towed to Petit-Goâve by 2:00 a.m., with assistance from the tactical boat ‘Dragon.’ This operation highlights the Coast Guard’s commitment to maritime safety. However, authorities have issued a stern reminder to the public about the severe risks of navigating during extreme weather conditions, especially with Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm, intensifying sea dangers. The Haitian Hydrometeorological Unit (UHM) and the Haitian Maritime and Navigation Service (SEMANHA) have urged strict adherence to safety guidelines, emphasizing the importance of avoiding sea travel during such hazardous periods. The Coast Guard remains on high alert to safeguard lives at sea, but public caution is equally vital in ensuring safety.