KINGSTON, Jamaica — With Tropical Storm Melissa poised to bring severe weather conditions, the Construction Industry Council (CIC) has issued an urgent call to its member organizations to prioritize the safety of workers, worksites, and assets. The Council is also advising the public to exercise heightened caution around construction zones, particularly avoiding unsecured or partially completed sites during and after the storm.
分类： society
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Benjamin Announces 1,500 Street Lights Nationwide
In a significant move to bolster community safety, Sir Steadroy “Cutie” Benjamin, Attorney General and Minister of National Security, has unveiled plans to install additional street lights and ramp up police patrols across All Saints West. The announcement was made during a town hall meeting in Seaview Farm on Thursday evening, hosted by MP Hon. Anthony Smith Jr. Benjamin emphasized that the initiative responds to persistent appeals from residents and their parliamentary representative, particularly in areas like Bellevue Estate. ‘Anthony Smith has been advocating for improved lighting in Bellevue,’ Benjamin stated. ‘We are committed to installing 1,500 new lights, and I’m certain Smith will ensure his community receives its fair share.’ The initiative is part of a broader government strategy to enhance public safety through better visibility and stronger community engagement. Benjamin also pledged increased police presence in the area, urging residents to collaborate through neighborhood watch programs. ‘We’re going to fight to get more light in the area,’ he said. ‘Please organize your neighborhood watchers and ensure mutual vigilance.’ The event also featured updates from Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph on key government projects, including the planned All Saints Polyclinic and ongoing infrastructure upgrades in the constituency.
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AG Says Antigua and Barbuda Safest in the Region
Antigua and Barbuda continues to hold its position as the safest country in the Caribbean region, according to Attorney General and Minister of National Security, Sir Steadroy “Cutie” Benjamin. Speaking at a town hall meeting in Seaview Farm on Thursday evening, Benjamin highlighted the nation’s remarkably low crime rate, attributing this achievement to robust policing efforts and strong community partnerships. The event, organized for All Saints West MP Hon. Anthony Smith Jr., drew a significant audience eager to hear updates on public safety and government initiatives. Benjamin emphasized the importance of community vigilance, urging residents to form neighborhood watch groups, remain alert, and report any suspicious activities. He also revealed plans to enhance security measures, including increased police patrols and the installation of additional streetlights in areas like Bellevue Estate to improve visibility and deter crime. The Attorney General commended MP Smith for his dedication to community development and his advocacy for youth, noting his collaborative efforts with national security officials. The town hall also featured presentations from senior Cabinet members, including Prime Minister Gaston Browne and Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph, who provided updates on ongoing government projects in the constituency.
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Parental consent and parental detachment
The reluctance of Caribbean parents to engage in discussions about sex education with their children has emerged as a significant cultural issue, according to recent studies and surveys. In the Bahamas, where a well-established sex education program exists in public schools, a staggering 77% of women reported learning about sex from school, while only 5% cited their parents as a source of information. This trend highlights a concerning detachment among parents, who often defer to formal education systems. A similar survey conducted among older teens in Grenada revealed slightly more parental involvement, but still, fewer than half learned about sexuality through school instruction. Alarmingly, over a quarter of these teens turned to social media platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and ChatGPT for information, raising concerns about the reliability and appropriateness of such sources. Religious institutions, despite their influence in the region, were notably absent as a source of guidance. Adolescents consistently express a preference for learning about sex from their parents, particularly their mothers. However, cultural stigmas surrounding the topic have led to widespread avoidance and ignorance, leaving young people vulnerable. The Age of Civil Responsibility (ACR) Bill has been proposed as a potential catalyst for change, encouraging parents to shift from detachment to active engagement. Advocates argue that both school programs and parental involvement are essential for comprehensive sex education. The Grenada Planned Parenthood Association (GPPA) and Advocates for Safe Parenthood: Improving Reproductive Equity (ASPIRE) are calling for urgent action to address this crisis. They emphasize the need for collaborative efforts to equip parents with the tools and confidence to discuss sex with their children, aiming to increase parental engagement from below 6% to over 60% within the next year.
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171 matters heard since re-introduction of night court, says Blackmoore
In a recent press conference, National Security Minister Rayburn Blackmoore provided an update on the reintroduction of night courts, which resumed operations on September 8, 2025. The initiative, which operates from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM, has already processed 171 cases, with 26 successfully resolved. Blackmoore expressed his gratitude to all parties involved, including magistrates, court staff, and law enforcement, for their collaborative efforts in ensuring the smooth functioning of the night courts. He personally visited the night court on three occasions and was impressed by the professionalism of lawyers representing their clients. Blackmoore emphasized the importance of ongoing consultations with the Bar Association and other stakeholders to further refine the process. He highlighted the need for improved case management and scheduling, particularly for vulnerable individuals such as elderly clients. The minister also advocated for ‘strata hearings,’ where parties can mutually agree on hearing times. Overall, Blackmoore underscored the night court’s role in enhancing access to justice and the efficient resolution of disputes, ultimately benefiting the state.
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Senator Dwayne George Installs Traffic Mirror to Improve Road Safety in St. Mary’s South
In a proactive move to bolster road safety, Senator Dwayne George has installed a traffic mirror at a bustling junction in St. Mary’s South. This strategic placement aims to enhance visibility for drivers navigating the area, thereby mitigating the risk of accidents. The initiative underscores George’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding the well-being of his constituents. Speaking on the project, George emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in fostering a safer community. “This endeavor is a testament to our commitment to ensuring that both motorists and pedestrians can traverse our roads with heightened confidence and caution,” he stated. The senator also hinted at plans to implement similar safety measures across other parts of the constituency, further promoting secure and accessible roadways. George urged drivers to remain alert and considerate, reinforcing the notion that community safety is a shared endeavor.
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Duguid: Government ‘doing its best’ to clean up country
Dr. William Duguid, Minister of Planning and Development and Senior Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, has openly acknowledged that while the government is not flawless, it remains steadfast in its efforts to enhance the island’s cleanliness and address pressing issues such as abandoned vehicles and neglected properties. Speaking at the Ideas Forum — Christ Church Edition, held as part of the parish’s We Gatherin’ celebrations, Dr. Duguid emphasized the administration’s measurable progress in improving sanitation and infrastructure.
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5 creative industries subsector associations officially launched
The Grenada Office of Creative Affairs (GOCA) has unveiled five new nonprofit associations dedicated to advancing the island’s creative industries. These associations, officially introduced at a press conference on October 22, 2025, aim to represent creative practitioners, drive sector development, and advocate for the growth of Grenada’s cultural and creative economy. The initiative stems from recommendations made at Unleash, Grenada’s national cultural and creative industries conference held in May 2023. Orlando Romain, Advisor for the Creative Economy, highlighted the extensive groundwork undertaken by GOCA over the past two years, including stakeholder consultations, legal guidance, and governance training for the associations’ boards of directors. The five associations—Innovative Multimedia Association of Grenada (IMAGND) Inc., Grenada Association of Dance, Event Planning, Promotion, Infrastructure, Coordination and Theatre (DEPICT) Inc., Grenada Association of Visual Arts and Craft (GAVAC) Inc., Grenada Gastronomy and Culinary Arts (GGCAA) Inc., and Grenada Association of Musicians, Performers and Producers (AMPP Grenada) Inc.—are member-run and independently governed. Leaders of these associations expressed gratitude for GOCA’s support and pledged to champion the interests of their creative communities. Anthony Johnson, President of GGCAA Inc., emphasized the association’s mission to elevate Grenadian cuisine through improved quality, training, and consistency. Sen. the Hon. Adrian Thomas, Minister for Tourism, Creative Economy and Culture, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering creative excellence, urging practitioners to actively engage with their respective associations. For further details, inquiries can be directed to [email protected].
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Plunge beneath the waves for Christ Church We Gatherin’ celebration
Nearly 100 enthusiastic students from four primary schools in Christ Church were treated to an extraordinary underwater experience aboard the Atlantis Submarine on Thursday. This unique excursion, part of the parish’s We Gatherin’ initiative, aimed to foster a deeper appreciation for ocean conservation among the young participants. The children, hailing from Milton Lynch, Christ Church Girls’, St Lawrence Primary, and St Bartholomew Primary, were given a rare glimpse of the island’s vibrant marine ecosystem. A total of 96 students participated in the event, which combined education with adventure. Parish committee member Coreen Kennedy-Taitt emphasized the initiative’s goal of inspiring environmental awareness. She encouraged the children to care for the ocean, avoid littering, and actively protect marine life. Roseanne Myers, General Manager of Atlantis Submarines, highlighted the project’s broader mission to give back to the community. She explained that the tour was designed to bring environmental education to life, emphasizing the impact of human actions on marine ecosystems. Myers was impressed by the students’ existing knowledge of marine conservation, noting their awareness of issues like plastic pollution and its effects on turtles. As the children returned from their submarine journey, their laughter and excitement underscored the success of the initiative. The students not only gained unforgettable memories of their deep-sea adventure but also left with a renewed commitment to safeguarding the island’s marine treasures.
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The country celebrates Joune ‘Chapo Pay’ today
Dominica is embracing its cultural heritage today with the celebration of ‘Joune Chapo Pay Day,’ a special event included in the nation’s 2025 Independence calendar. This unique day encourages citizens to don the traditional ‘Chapo Pay,’ a handmade straw hat adorned with madras or other decorative elements, symbolizing Dominican identity and pride. The event coincides with the Creole festival, further enriching the cultural experience for locals and visitors alike. Earlson Matthew, the Chief Cultural Officer, emphasized the importance of this tradition, stating, ‘We want people to immerse themselves in Dominican culture and celebrate our heritage.’ The ‘Chapo Pay’ is a versatile accessory worn by men, women, and children, reflecting the island’s vibrant traditions. This year’s Independence theme, ’47 Years of Progress and Purpose,’ underscores the nation’s journey since gaining independence in 1978. The festivities aim to foster unity and pride among Dominicans while showcasing the island’s rich cultural tapestry.