Barbados is on the verge of enacting groundbreaking legislation aimed at safeguarding the rights of its elderly population. Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, Kirk Humphrey, announced on Wednesday that the Rights of Older Persons Bill is in its final drafting phase and could be presented to Parliament by the end of the month. Humphrey made the revelation during the groundbreaking ceremony for a new Residential and Respite facility in Sterling, St Philip. He emphasized that the bill represents the final piece in a comprehensive series of social policy reforms, following the recent passage of the Child Protection Bill, Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill, and the Social Empowerment Agency Bill. Humphrey highlighted the urgent need for the legislation, pointing out that Barbados is nearing the threshold of becoming a super-aged society, with 20% of its population aged 65 and over. He warned that the declining birth rate exacerbates the challenge of supporting an ageing population, stressing the shared responsibility of families, communities, and the state in caring for the elderly. The minister described the bill as both long overdue and transformative, urging the nation to view the ageing population as an opportunity to build a more inclusive and dignified society. ‘When we do this, then we will build a much better Barbados,’ he concluded.
分类： society
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Belize Police Department Rolls Out Online Criminal Record Application System
For years, obtaining a police record in Belize was synonymous with enduring lengthy queues at local police stations. This document, formally referred to as a record of conduct, is a prerequisite for various activities, including job applications, scholarships, professional licensing, and certain travel procedures. However, the process was often burdensome, particularly for residents in rural areas, who faced significant time, cost, and logistical challenges.
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NWD Advises of Brief Water Outages During Meter Replacement in Select Areas
The Nevis Water Department (NWD) has issued a public notice regarding planned water service interruptions in select areas due to a meter replacement initiative. The project, scheduled from Thursday, September 25th, to Monday, September 29th, 2025, aims to replace non-functional water meters with new units to enhance system efficiency and ensure accurate billing. Residents in Brown Hill and Hanley’s Road are expected to experience brief water outages during the process. The NWD emphasized its commitment to improving service quality and promoting water conservation through this initiative. Customers with concerns are encouraged to contact the NWD customer service team at (869) 665-9061, (869) 765-5319, or via email at neviswaterdepartment@gmail.com. The department expressed gratitude for the public’s cooperation and understanding during this essential upgrade.
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New Trade Union Congress to be launched in Dominica on Friday
The Commonwealth of Dominica is set to achieve a significant milestone on September 26, 2025, with the establishment of its first-ever Trade Union Congress (TUC). This groundbreaking initiative, spearheaded by the Dominica Public Service Union (DPSU), aims to consolidate the nation’s diverse trade unions into a unified representative body. The move is designed to amplify efforts in advocating for fair wages, safe working conditions, and broader social justice reforms. The DPSU highlighted that the idea of unifying trade unions had been a long-standing discussion in Dominica, but persistent efforts and strategic planning have now turned this vision into reality. Since April 3, 2025, four major trade unions—the Dominica Public Service Union (DPSU), the Dominica Association of Teachers (DAT), the Dominica Amalgamated Workers Union (DAWU), and the Waterfront and Allied Workers Union (WAWU)—have collaborated closely through a dedicated steering committee. This initiative has received consistent support from the International Labour Organization (ILO). The inaugural Congress, themed ‘Consolidating Trade Union Power Through Unity and Solidarity,’ will feature a keynote address by Mr. Joni T. Musabayana, Director of the ILO. The DPSU emphasized the Congress’s mission to champion decent work, social justice, and the respect and value of workers, proclaiming, ‘Long live the Trade Union Movement.’
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New Trade Union Congress comes online in Dominica
The Commonwealth of Dominica is set to achieve a significant milestone on September 26, 2025, with the establishment of its first-ever Trade Union Congress (TUC). This groundbreaking initiative, spearheaded by the Dominica Public Service Union (DPSU), aims to consolidate the nation’s diverse trade unions under a single representative body. The TUC will focus on advocating for fair wages, safe working conditions, and broader social justice initiatives, marking a transformative step for labor rights in the country. The DPSU emphasized that the creation of the TUC is the culmination of years of discussions and strategic planning, transforming a long-held vision into reality. Since April 3, 2025, four major trade unions—the DPSU, Dominica Association of Teachers (DAT), Dominica Amalgamated Workers Union (DAWU), and Waterfront and Allied Workers Union (WAWU)—have collaborated closely through a dedicated steering committee. This effort has been supported by the International Labour Organization (ILO), which has played a pivotal role in facilitating the establishment of the TUC. The inaugural Congress will be held on September 26, 2025, under the theme “Consolidating Trade Union Power Through Unity and Solidarity.” Mr. Joni T. Musabayana, Director of the ILO, will deliver the keynote address. The DPSU expressed its enthusiasm, stating, ‘Trade Unions stand for decent work, for social justice, and for those who work to be valued and respected. Long live the Trade Union Movement.’
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Nelson’s Dockyard Marks 300 Years as Antigua’s Maritime Icon
Nelson’s Dockyard, the crown jewel of Antigua and Barbuda’s historical landmarks, is commemorating its 300th anniversary this year. Established in 1725 as a strategic naval base in English Harbour, the site was initially developed to provide a safe haven for the British Navy amidst the dual threats of hurricanes and piracy. Over the centuries, it evolved into a fortified hub of maritime strategy and trade, leaving behind iconic structures such as Shirley Heights, Fort Berkeley, Fort Charlotte, and Blockhouse. The Dockyard’s distinctive Georgian architecture, tailored to the Caribbean climate, was a product of the labor of European sailors and soldiers, alongside free and enslaved Africans. Following the Royal Navy’s departure in 1899, the site languished in neglect until the 1960s, when conservation efforts spearheaded by the Friends of English Harbour and Antigua’s burgeoning yacht industry breathed new life into the historic landmark. In 1984, the establishment of Nelson’s Dockyard National Park ensured the legal protection of nearly 16 square kilometers of land and sea. Today, the Dockyard is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a vibrant cultural and commercial center. Managed by the National Parks Authority, its preservation strategy addresses contemporary challenges such as rising sea levels and intensifying storms, while ensuring that heritage conservation benefits local communities. Community-driven initiatives, including the 8th of March Project, have amplified local voices in the narrative of the Dockyard, transforming it into a living heritage site rather than a static relic. As Antigua and Barbuda celebrate this tricentennial milestone, Nelson’s Dockyard stands as a testament to resilience and adaptation, embodying both national pride and international allure.
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Nurse attacks spark opposition calls for urgent security overhaul
The Democratic Labour Party (DLP) has issued a stern rebuke to the Mottley administration following two violent incidents targeting nurses at public clinics in Barbados. Opposition spokesperson on health and wellness, Senator Andre Worrell, condemned the attacks as indicative of a systemic crisis and demanded immediate government intervention to safeguard frontline healthcare workers. “We are seeing street-level violence infiltrating our healthcare facilities,” Senator Worrell stated. “These are not isolated events but symptoms of a deeper societal breakdown and the government’s failure to secure our health institutions.” The incidents occurred at the Randal Phillips Polyclinic in Oistins on Monday evening, where a nurse was injured, and at the Frederick Miller Polyclinic in St. George on Tuesday. The opposition has criticized the Ministry of Health for its sluggish response and inadequate protection measures for staff. Senator Worrell emphasized the vulnerability of healthcare workers, stating, “These individuals care for our nation’s most vulnerable, yet they are left exposed by a deficient security system overseen by a complacent Minister of Health.” The senator outlined five urgent demands: a comprehensive audit and upgrade of security across all public health facilities, deployment of trained security personnel during operational hours, installation of surveillance cameras and secure access systems, transparency from the Ministry regarding violent incidents, and psychological support and compensation for affected workers. “Healthcare workers should not fear assault while performing their duties,” Senator Worrell asserted. “Barbados must act now to prevent further tragedies.” He also called for full emotional, legal, and financial support for impacted workers, warning that “the country is watching.” Senator Worrell concluded, “Let this be the last time a nurse is attacked under this government’s watch.”
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Woman sentenced to two years for attempted service station robbery
Shadesha Phillip, a resident of Gray’s Farm, has been handed a two-year prison sentence for her involvement in an attempted robbery at the Golden Grove Service Station. The incident, which unfolded on June 24, 2021, saw Phillip, then in her early twenties, and a masked accomplice confront a female pump attendant. The situation escalated when police arrived on the scene, leading to a shootout that left Phillip injured in the leg and subsequently arrested. Her accomplice managed to evade capture and remains at large. Security footage of the event was later made public, providing a clear account of the failed robbery attempt. The case highlights the ongoing challenges of crime and law enforcement in the region, underscoring the risks faced by both perpetrators and victims in such incidents.
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Hunting season now open, say officials
The 2025 hunting season in Dominica has officially begun, running from September 22 to December 31, as announced by the Forestry, Wildlife, and Parks Division of the Ministry of Environment, Rural Modernization, Kalinago Upliftment, and Constituency Upliftment. Hunters must possess a valid hunting license to participate, ensuring compliance with national wildlife conservation laws. Additionally, the sale and limited export of wildlife or its parts will be permitted from September 23, 2025, to January 31, 2026, with export permits mandatory for any such transactions. The ministry has issued a stern warning that unauthorized sale or export of wildlife will result in legal penalties, including fines of five thousand Eastern Caribbean dollars (XCD 5,000) per offense. Licensed hunters are allowed to target specific species during the season, including crabs from the Gercarcinidae family, agouti, and manicou (opossums). However, hunting or fishing in freshwater streams without a license is illegal, and the hunting of other species such as frogs, birds, snakes, and iguanas is strictly prohibited. Violators face fines of two thousand five hundred dollars (XCD 2,500) per offense. Hunting licenses and export permits are available for purchase starting September 22 at the Forestry, Wildlife, and Parks Division office on Windsor Park Link Road, as well as at the Sub-Treasuries in Portsmouth and Marigot. The division emphasizes the importance of public cooperation in conserving and sustainably managing Dominica’s natural resources. For further details, individuals can contact the division at Tel. 266-5863 or 266-5852.
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Antigua and Barbuda’s Michael Joseph Named CARICOM Youth Farmer of the Year 2025
Michael Joseph, a young farmer from Antigua and Barbuda, has been awarded the prestigious title of CARICOM Youth Farmer of the Year 2025. This accolade recognizes his innovative approach to agriculture and his unwavering commitment to the sector. The announcement was made this week, with the Ministry of Agriculture hailing it as a moment of pride for the nation.
Joseph’s journey in agriculture began modestly, but his ability to merge traditional farming practices with modern techniques has set him apart. He has been a vocal advocate for food security, climate-smart agriculture, and youth empowerment in the agricultural sector. His work emphasizes the importance of sustainability, as he integrates new technologies and environmentally friendly methods into his farming practices.
The Ministry of Agriculture, led by the Honourable Anthony Smith Jr., Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Fisheries and the Blue Economy, along with Permanent Secretary Walter Christopher and Director Gregory Bailey, extended their congratulations to Joseph. In a statement, the ministry highlighted that his achievement is not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the dedication and creativity of young farmers in Antigua and Barbuda.
The CARICOM Youth Farmer of the Year award underscores the critical role young people play in shaping the Caribbean’s food systems. Joseph’s success is expected to inspire other youth to view agriculture as a dynamic and rewarding career path. The ministry reiterated its commitment to fostering youth engagement in agriculture, emphasizing that Joseph’s accomplishments will encourage more young men and women to contribute to national and regional food security.
Joseph’s story is a powerful reminder of the potential of agriculture to build communities, protect the environment, and create opportunities for future generations. His recognition serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for young farmers across the Caribbean.