The Government of Barbados, under the auspices of the Ministry of Labour, Social Security, and the Third Sector, is set to host the annual National Thanksgiving Service on Sunday, November 23. The event will take place at the Garfield Sobers Sports Complex, commencing at 10 a.m. This year’s ceremony is themed ‘Transforming Our Nation Through Faith, Hope, and Love,’ emphasizing the values that underpin national unity and progress. Among the distinguished attendees will be Her Excellency the Most Honourable Dame Sandra Mason, President of Barbados; Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley; and Chief Justice The Most Honourable Leslie Haynes. They will be joined by a host of government officials and dignitaries, reflecting the significance of the occasion. The service, organized by the Barbados Government Information Service (BGIS), aims to foster a sense of collective gratitude and shared purpose among citizens.
分类： society
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Eighty People Trapped in Cerro de Maimón Mine Collapse
Maimón, Dominican Republic – A significant incident unfolded at the Cerro de Maimón mine on Tuesday afternoon, where 80 workers were trapped following a structural collapse. The mine, operated by the Dominican Mining Corporation (Cormidom), is located in Monseñor Nouel province. As of 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, no injuries had been reported, and rescue operations were swiftly initiated to ensure the safety of those affected. Cormidom confirmed that communication had been established with the trapped workers, who were reported to be in good health and safe. Specialized technical and rescue teams are currently focused on stabilizing the affected area to facilitate the safe extraction of the workers. The company emphasized its collaboration with relevant authorities and adherence to established emergency protocols. Cormidom also pledged to maintain transparent communication, providing regular updates as the situation progresses.
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OPINION: In Defence Of Private Property Rights
In Antigua and Barbuda, the sanctity of private property rights is under threat, raising concerns among citizens about governmental overreach and economic inequality. Yves Ephraim, a concerned citizen, highlights the alarming trend of property acquisitions by the government, which disproportionately affects the poor and middle class. Historically, such acquisitions targeted the wealthy, but recent amendments to the Tax Administration Act have lowered the threshold for government seizures, making it easier to acquire private property with minimal recourse for owners. This shift has sparked fears of widespread displacement and economic instability.
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Bewolking, zon en lokale buien
The day began with warm and humid conditions across much of Suriname, particularly in coastal regions such as Paramaribo, Wanica, and Commewijne. Early morning temperatures hovered around 24 degrees Celsius, accompanied by light cloud cover and a stifling atmosphere due to high humidity and weak winds. As the morning progressed, cumulus clouds began to form, and by midday, temperatures rose to 32-33 degrees Celsius, with inland areas like Brokopondo and Sipaliwini feeling even warmer. Despite regular sunshine, the oppressive air persisted. In the afternoon, the likelihood of rain and thunderstorms increased, particularly in Para, Saramacca, Marowijne, and later Nickerie. These showers, though brief, could be intense, potentially bringing wind gusts and temporary flooding in low-lying areas. Coastal regions may clear up by early evening. The night into Wednesday remained warm and muggy, with temperatures around 23 degrees Celsius and light easterly winds.
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Government prepares preventive measures as Tropical Storm Melissa approaches
Santo Domingo – In a proactive move to address the looming threat of Tropical Storm Melissa, Minister of the Presidency José Ignacio Paliza convened a high-level meeting on Tuesday with the Emergency Operations Center (COE) and other key government agencies. The session aimed to synchronize preventive strategies and ensure a cohesive response to the storm’s potential impacts, which are already affecting weather patterns across the Dominican Republic. The meeting underscored the importance of reviewing contingency plans and maintaining readiness for any escalation in the storm’s intensity. Paliza emphasized that while the storm’s trajectory remains uncertain, the government must prepare for all eventualities. The coordinated plans from each institution are set to be presented to President Luis Abinader later in the day, who may implement special measures based on the storm’s progression. Following the discussions, the COE elevated the alert level to yellow for 14 provinces, including Santo Domingo, the National District, La Vega, San Cristóbal, and Barahona, while eight others remain on green alert. The National Meteorology Institute (INDOMET) has predicted up to 300 millimeters of rainfall in the coming hours, raising concerns about potential flooding and landslides. Authorities have urged residents, particularly those in southern coastal areas, to stay updated through official channels and adhere to safety guidelines. Government institutions remain on high alert to protect lives and property as the situation unfolds.
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Kinderen in Gaza keren terug ‘naar school’ te midden van ruïne en trauma
After more than two years of suspended education in Gaza due to war and destruction, thousands of children have begun returning to classrooms—or what remains of them. According to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), approximately 300,000 students and 8,000 teaching teams are resuming education. However, the situation remains precarious, with over 85% of school buildings reportedly damaged or destroyed. Many children are returning to makeshift learning spaces, such as tents, remote shelters, or emergency government facilities, transforming the traditional classroom setting into improvised environments. For many, this return marks the beginning of recovery—restoring routine, hope, and a sense of childhood that was stripped away. Yet, the scars of war persist, with widespread trauma, hunger, malnutrition, and the loss of parents or educators. The resumption of schooling is seen as an act of resilience and a critical step toward rebuilding. Education is not merely about lessons; it represents safety, normalcy, and the promise of a future.
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Humphrey: Now is the time to act on disability rights
The Caribbean Disability Conference commenced on Sunday evening with a powerful appeal for inclusion and decisive action from Kirk Humphrey, Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs. Addressing attendees at the Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lord’s Castle Resort, Humphrey emphasized the need to transcend policy frameworks and drive transformative changes for people with disabilities (PWD). ‘We have the opportunity over the next few days to achieve something truly transformative,’ he stated, highlighting the presence of policymakers and advocates at the event. The conference, hosted by Kerry-Ann Ifill, a prominent PWD advocate, gathered regional experts, activists, and government officials to discuss pressing issues. Humphrey underscored recent milestones, including the enactment of the Rights for Persons with Disabilities Act and increased funding for the Special Needs Grant, which aim to enhance the quality of life for PWD. However, he cautioned against complacency, urging accelerated efforts amid economic challenges. ‘Social services are often the first to face cuts during economic downturns, directly impacting PWD,’ he lamented, pointing to resource constraints in building facilities and acquiring assistive technologies. Humphrey also highlighted the persistent societal barriers of prejudice and discrimination, calling for inclusive education systems that treat PWD equitably. ‘Equality is not an aspiration; it is an obligation,’ he asserted, emphasizing the urgency of addressing these issues for future generations.
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Overnight fire destroys two bars on Frigate Bay Strip
A devastating fire broke out in the early hours of Tuesday, October 21, 2025, on the Frigate Bay Strip in Basseterre, St. Kitts, completely destroying two well-known bars, Cathy’s and Zanzi Bar. The blaze, which reportedly started around 12:30 a.m., rapidly consumed the establishments despite the efforts of firefighters who battled the flames for several hours. The incident has left several employees without jobs and created a void in the Strip, a vibrant entertainment hub frequented by tourists, locals, and students. Social media was quickly flooded with videos and photos of the fire, sparking widespread concern and sympathy from the public. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire, and further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
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In the work and legacy of Martí, roots of national culture
The José Martí Cultural Society celebrated its 30th anniversary with a grand event at the José Martí Memorial in Havana, attended by prominent Cuban leaders and cultural figures. Lizette Martínez Luzardo, Deputy Minister of Culture, described the Society as a dynamic platform that transforms the legacy of José Martí into a tool for civic engagement. She emphasized its global influence in fostering unity and ethical values, both within Cuba and internationally. The celebration also honored the centenary of Fidel Castro and the 95th birthday of intellectual Armando Hart Dávalos, both pivotal in shaping Cuba’s cultural policies. Víctor Hernández Torres, Vice President of the Society, recounted its founding during the challenging ‘Special Period’ of the 1990s, highlighting its growth to over 20,000 members nationwide. The event paid tribute to the late historian Eduardo Torres Cuevas, with his widow receiving the Order Félix Varela. Additionally, the Society’s founders and provincial branches were recognized for their contributions to promoting Martí’s ideals. The festivities extended to Bayamo, where the ‘La Patria en mi Voz’ gala celebrated Cuban culture and independence, underscoring the enduring significance of the National Anthem as a symbol of resilience and identity.
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CDB on a mission to promote inclusivity
The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has pledged unwavering support for the 2025 Caribbean Disability Conference, reinforcing its dedication to fostering equitable access to quality education for individuals with disabilities. Themed ‘Breaking Barriers: Advancing Inclusive Education for All Abilities,’ the conference aims to drive sustainable development and social transformation across the region. Dr. Isaac Solomon, CDB’s Vice-President of Operations, emphasized the bank’s steadfast commitment to inclusivity during his address at the second annual conference. He asserted that the CDB is determined to leverage its influence to create more inclusive societies and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities. Dr. Solomon highlighted the importance of collaboration and genuine inclusion, stating that progress hinges on building a Caribbean society where individuals with disabilities are fully integrated and empowered. Reflecting on the momentum from the inaugural conference in Grenada and the recent Global Disability Summit in Berlin, he underscored the significance of these events in advancing equity. However, Dr. Solomon acknowledged the persistent challenges faced by persons with disabilities in the region, including social barriers, legislative gaps, and limited access to digital technologies. He pointed to the CDB’s investments in education, training, and capacity building as evidence of its long-term commitment to inclusive development. Dr. Solomon also praised Caribbean governments for their legislative and policy efforts to create an enabling environment for persons with disabilities. Meanwhile, Barbados’ Minister of Educational Transformation, Chad Blackman, emphasized the importance of quality education for all, noting Barbados’ ambitious goal to develop the world’s leading educational system within seven years. He highlighted the government’s investments in teacher resources and innovative teaching methods, including the introduction of chess in schools to enhance critical thinking skills.