The Barbados Water Authority (BWA) is confronting a significant financial challenge, with over $100 million in unpaid bills, primarily owed by residential customers. Acting CEO Christopher Mapp revealed that the authority is intensifying collection efforts to recover at least 40% of the outstanding debt. This follows years of leniency during the COVID-19 pandemic, when disconnections were suspended to ensure access to water as a basic necessity. Mapp noted that the majority of delinquent accounts originated in 2020, when many customers stopped paying their bills, taking the service for granted. Despite resuming disconnections in 2023, many households have not reconnected their water, indicating ongoing financial hardship. Mapp likened the authority’s receivables to a loan portfolio, acknowledging that a portion of the debt may never be recovered. Residential customers account for 60% of both total billing and delinquent accounts, with hotels showing greater responsiveness to payment demands. Acting Finance Director Kent D’Hayle estimated that only $40 million of the debt is realistically collectible, though the BWA will continue pursuing all arrears. The authority is offering flexible repayment plans, often extending up to three years or longer for those in financial distress. Mapp emphasized the social responsibility of providing water while balancing the need for revenue, but acknowledged that disconnections are no longer as effective a deterrent, as many residents turn to alternative water sources instead of settling their bills.
分类： society
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BWA insists St Lucy and St Peter water safe to drink, despite discolouration
Christopher Mapp, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Barbados Water Authority (BWA), has publicly defended the safety of the water supplied to residents in St Lucy and St Peter, despite its brown discoloration. Speaking at a press conference on Saturday, Mapp emphasized that the water is potable and meets all health and safety standards, even stating he would personally drink it. The discoloration, caused by sediment, has raised public concerns, but Mapp assured that extensive testing confirms the water’s safety. To address customer dissatisfaction, the government has approved a $32 rebate for affected households, with many receiving their water entirely free of cost. Since April, the BWA has rebated over $1 million to customers in the region. The authority is also investing heavily in infrastructure upgrades, including a $20 million mains replacement project expected to be completed by early 2026. Jatobi Greaves, a water quality technologist, highlighted that monthly testing in collaboration with government agencies ensures compliance with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. The BWA is also working on a desalination plant at Hope Plantation, set to boost water supply next year. Despite challenges, Mapp remains committed to restoring public trust and improving service reliability across Barbados.
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‘Lace Doctor’ Fined $20,000 for Grievous Harm at Sunrise Fete
A three-year-old assault case linked to a violent altercation at the Sunrise Breakfast Fete in Willikies has reached its conclusion, with Annalee Jeffrey, also known as the “Lace Doctor,” pleading guilty to grievous bodily harm. The verdict was delivered by Justice Stanley John in the High Court on October 16, 2025. Jeffrey, a 29-year-old Jamaican national at the time of the 2022 incident, was ordered to pay her victim $20,000 in four monthly installments of $5,000, starting October 31, 2025, with full payment due by January 31, 2026. Failure to comply will result in a one-year prison sentence. Additionally, Jeffrey was placed under a two-year bond, with a breach potentially adding another year to her incarceration. The assault occurred when Jeffrey attacked a woman she suspected of being involved with her husband. The altercation took place at a food booth where the victim was working alongside Jeffrey’s husband. During the struggle, a pot of boiling goat water spilled, causing burns to both women. The case highlights the severe consequences of violent confrontations and the legal repercussions faced by perpetrators.
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Missing Bendals Woman Found Safe
The Bendals community breathed a collective sigh of relief as 28-year-old Merlissa Jhero, who had been missing for nearly three weeks, was confirmed safe and in good health. Jhero was last seen on October 14, sparking widespread concern and prompting extensive search efforts led by both the community and local authorities. On Saturday, a family member shared the welcome news on social media, stating, ‘Merlissa Jhero has reached out confirming she is safe… We are very grateful that she is safe.’ The family also took the opportunity to encourage others to communicate their whereabouts to loved ones if they ever need time away, emphasizing the importance of sparing relatives from unnecessary worry and stress. While police are expected to conduct routine follow-up inquiries, the focus for now remains on the joy and gratitude felt by the community. Residents expressed their relief, simply thankful that Jhero has been found unharmed.
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Traditioneel miniatuurhuis wordt ontmoetingsplek bij SAO
The Foundation for Labor Mobilization and Development (SAO) has inaugurated a cultural-historical meeting space on its premises in Geyersvlijt, Suriname. The centerpiece of this new community hub is a miniature wooden house, ‘SAO Oso Tori Oso,’ crafted by students from the Construction and Mechanical Woodworking Vocational School. The house, previously managed by the cultural organization NAKS, was officially dedicated during a festive ceremony. This initiative is part of a newly designed plaza intended to serve as a central gathering spot for local residents, students, and visitors. The space showcases traditional Surinamese artifacts (fosten sani), offering a glimpse into the nation’s cultural heritage. The project was realized in collaboration with the foundation Under the Blue Surface and funded with support from the Netherlands. Deputy Minister Raj Jadnananding (Health, Welfare, and Labor) and SAO Director Joyce Lapar presided over the opening ceremony, as reported by the Suriname Communication Service. During the event, ten senior residents were honored for their contributions to the community, receiving gift packages and snacks courtesy of the Lions Club Parwani. ‘This building is a piece of our history,’ remarked one of the honorees. The SAO, which will celebrate its 45th anniversary in 2026, provides vocational training for youth, adults, and seniors. Lapar emphasized that the new meeting space aims to foster community connections and spark interest in educational opportunities. The venue can accommodate gatherings of up to thirty people and will host workshops and themed events, including a Mental Health Day on October 22. ‘With knowledge, you build not just a house but also yourself,’ Lapar stated, urging the public to take advantage of SAO’s retraining and upskilling programs.
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Matthew: Derelict Properties Are ‘Havens for Criminals and Rodents’
In a passionate address during Thursday’s parliamentary debate on the Tax Administration and Procedure (Amendment) Bill 2025, St. John’s Rural South MP Daryll Matthew highlighted the urgent need to tackle abandoned and decaying buildings across the island. Describing these structures as ‘havens for criminals and rodents,’ Matthew emphasized their detrimental impact on public health and community safety. He revealed that a recent survey in the Lower Ottos area of his constituency identified 151 abandoned properties, many of which are overrun with vegetation, vermin, and criminal activity. ‘These properties have become havens for criminals and hotels for rodents,’ Matthew stated. ‘We have an opportunity to turn what is now decay into development — to turn a nuisance into something nice.’ The MP argued that the new legislation provides the government with the necessary tools to address derelict properties, which have long been eyesores and public health hazards. He proposed that properties acquired through the process could be converted into green spaces, playgrounds, or housing lots, particularly for residents living near the abandoned sites. Matthew also suggested the introduction of an escrow system to protect the proceeds of property sales in cases where an owner or heir later reappears, and recommended waiving stamp duty for buyers who purchase derelict lots through public auction to encourage redevelopment. ‘This is a chance to improve the quality of life for everyone,’ Matthew concluded. ‘We have been elected to solve problems, not allow them to rot in our neighborhoods.’ The Tax Administration and Procedure (Amendment) Bill 2025 passed later that day with the government’s majority support, marking a significant step toward community revitalization and public safety.
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President roept op tot nationale verbondenheid bij Diváliviering in Saramacca
On Friday, President Jennifer Simons inaugurated the Diváli celebrations in the Saramacca district by lighting a symbolic dia at the district commissioner’s office in Groningen. The ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including Parliamentary Chairman Ashwin Adhin, Minister Lalinie Gopal, District Commissioner Aniel Ramautar, Assembly Member Jayant Lalbiharie (NDP), and Indian Ambassador Subhash Gupta. Diváli, the Festival of Lights, is globally recognized as a celebration of light triumphing over darkness. In her address, President Simons urged society to translate this symbolism into social unity. ‘Although Suriname observes multiple light festivals, there is one source: divine light. Let us be a light for one another. Our nation needs direction, connection, and inner strength,’ she emphasized. The dia was jointly lit by President Simons, Chairman Adhin, and Commissioner Ramautar. Speakers unanimously highlighted the importance of reflection, love, and community spirit during times of societal challenges. Commissioner Ramautar described the flame as ‘a symbol of hope and collective willpower,’ while Ambassador Gupta called for spiritual purification and the renewal of moral values. The National Diváli Manifestation will take place tonight at Independence Square.
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Traffic management for the Oistins We Gatherin’ jump
The National Cultural Foundation, in partnership with ‘We Gathering’ Christ Church, is set to host a vibrant Nighttime Concert and Street Party along Oistins Main Road in Christ Church on Saturday, October 18. To accommodate the event, significant traffic adjustments will be implemented starting at 5:40 pm and lasting until the event concludes. Key road closures will be in effect from 5:40 pm to 10:30 pm, specifically on Oistins Main Road from its intersection with Oistins Hill to the junctions of Keizer Hill and Thornbury Hill. Exemptions will be granted to Transport Board Buses, Public Service Vehicles, and individuals conducting business at the fish market, though exiting vehicles must turn right onto Oistins Road. Motorists traveling east along Oistins from Maxwell Road are required to turn left at Oistins Hill, right onto Church Hill, and proceed to Thornbury Road. Those heading west along Keizer Hill must turn right at Thornbury Hill and Oistins Road, then left onto Church Hill, continuing to Canevale Road. Parking restrictions will be enforced on Oistins Road, Oistins Hill, Church Hill Road, and Thornbury Road, with exceptions only for passenger pick-up or drop-off. Violations of these rules may result in a $500 BDS fine or up to three months of imprisonment. Emergency vehicles and those operated by the Barbados Police Service, Barbados Defence Force, and Barbados Fire Service are exempt. Police officers will be stationed to manage traffic, and the Barbados Police Service has expressed gratitude for the public’s cooperation and understanding, apologizing for any inconvenience caused.
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Domestic Violence in Belize: Recognising the Red Flags Before It’s Too Late
Domestic violence remains a pressing issue in Belize, with alarming statistics revealing 1,453 reported cases as of August 2025. Among these, over 1,000 involved intimate partner violence, with 1,089 victims identified as women. Young adults aged 25 to 29 were the most affected, highlighting the vulnerability of this demographic to abusive relationships. Sheena Gentle, First Vice President of Haven House, a prominent organization dedicated to supporting survivors and advocating for systemic change, is urging individuals to recognize the early signs of abuse. Haven House has been actively working to improve the handling of domestic violence cases in courts, enhance survivor support, and ensure perpetrator accountability. Gentle outlined five critical red flags indicative of abusive relationships. The first is excessive control, where a partner monitors your movements and demands constant updates. The second is isolation, where a partner criticizes or severs your connections with family and friends. Jealousy and possessiveness, the third sign, involve frequent accusations and overreactions to harmless interactions. Emotional manipulation, including gaslighting, is the fourth red flag, where a partner undermines your confidence by distorting your thoughts and feelings. The final sign is love bombing, where a partner overwhelms you with affection initially, only to later withdraw it and exert pressure. Gentle emphasized that these are just a few of the many warning signs in unhealthy relationships. She advised individuals to trust their instincts and seek support if something feels off. For those in need of assistance, resources are available through Haven House, the National Women’s Commission, and the Gender-Based Violence Unit.
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Box for a bed
For months, a 63-year-old man in downtown Kingston called a cardboard box his home. Shielded only by a discarded plastic mattress wrap, he endured the elements, with Kingston Harbour serving as his makeshift bathroom. Dependent on sporadic meals from charitable organizations, he lived in absolute poverty, uncertain of his next meal. His life took a dramatic turn in 2003 when he found refuge at The Lord’s Place, a sanctuary run by the Missionaries of the Poor. Today, he has a stable job in landscaping, a roof over his head, and the ability to assist others experiencing homelessness.