分类： society

Barbados is bracing for potential shortages of okra, beans, and sorrel this Christmas due to the rapid spread of the Indian cotton jassid, a highly destructive pest confirmed by the Ministry of Agriculture. The pest, first detected in Spring Hall, St Lucy, in March 2024, has been causing significant crop damage, raising concerns about price hikes and supply disruptions during the holiday season. Senior Agricultural Officer Bret Taylor described the situation as escalating, warning that without swift intervention, the pest could further devastate local produce. The tiny green insect feeds on the undersides of leaves, sucking plant sap and injecting toxins that cause crinkling, curling, and bronzing of foliage, leading to reduced yields. The pest’s impact is particularly challenging for okra, which is harvested frequently, limiting the use of harsh chemical controls. Taylor emphasized the importance of early detection and management to avoid reliance on chemicals. The Indian cotton jassid, previously known to attack cotton, has expanded its host range to include okra, sorrel, and beans, and has no natural enemies in Barbados, allowing it to spread unchecked. The ministry is monitoring the emergence of biological control agents, which have helped manage the pest in other Caribbean regions. Taylor highlighted the economic implications, as okra and beans are staple crops, and sorrel is in high demand during Christmas. He urged farmers and importers to follow proper procedures to prevent the introduction of invasive species and called for vigilance in reporting unusual pest activity. Barbados has recorded about 30 invasive species over the past 25 years, with the croton scale being one of the most damaging, affecting a wide range of crops. Taylor stressed the importance of adhering to import regulations to safeguard national food security.

The distinction between aloneness and loneliness is profound, yet often misunderstood. While loneliness is characterized by a sense of disconnection and emotional distress, aloneness offers a unique opportunity for self-discovery and empowerment. This concept is beautifully encapsulated in the biblical verse, “Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me” (John 16:32). Aloneness is not a void but a space where autonomy flourishes, allowing individuals to take control of their time and lives. It is a chance to design one’s existence free from external pressures, fostering creativity, reflection, and spiritual growth. For the author, solitude has been a lifelong practice, beginning in their teenage years and continuing through university, career, and retirement. Their daily routine—waking at 2 a.m. for three hours of focused work followed by naps—has led to remarkable productivity and personal fulfillment. The key lies in perception: viewing aloneness as a gift rather than a punishment transforms it into fertile ground for healing, joy, and growth. While human connection remains essential, aloneness allows individuals to cultivate their inner selves, enabling them to engage with others from a place of wholeness rather than need. Ultimately, aloneness is a gift of freedom, offering the power to shape one’s time and life, while loneliness is merely a lack of perspective. The choice between the two lies within us.

The Pine community in St Michael, Barbados, is reeling from a series of violent incidents that have left residents fearful and frustrated. On Thursday night, 21-year-old Chrishon Gooding was fatally shot while sitting on a step at the corner of Stafford Hill. Less than 24 hours later, another violent episode unfolded when a young man was stabbed on Glendale Close. The victim, whose identity remains unknown, was rushed to Queen Elizabeth Hospital by ambulance. Police investigations into both incidents are ongoing.

Trade unions rely heavily on the dedication of volunteers who contribute their time, skills, and expertise without financial compensation. These individuals are driven by a commitment to advancing the collective interests of workers, focusing on advocacy, member support, and recruitment. Guided by the core values of mutuality and reciprocity, they strive to foster positive changes in workplaces and communities. Their involvement not only benefits the union but also provides personal growth opportunities, such as skill development, confidence building, and networking. However, the integrity of the union depends on volunteers who are genuinely committed to the cause, rather than those seeking personal gain. Volunteers often serve as shop stewards, representing members within workplaces, and are elected or appointed through democratic processes. Leadership roles are similarly filled by individuals chosen by the membership, who operate under the union’s constitution and regulations. While volunteers are not financially compensated, they may receive reasonable out-of-pocket expenses or stipends. It is crucial to distinguish between volunteers and paid staff, ensuring that volunteers complement rather than replace salaried employees, especially during industrial disputes. Training and resources should be provided to support volunteers, and their needs must be considered in the union’s annual budget. The tireless efforts of these unsung heroes are invaluable, as they work behind the scenes to create a more just and equitable society.

In a compelling call to action, the Commonwealth Disabled People’s Forum (CDPF) has urged governments across the 56-nation Commonwealth to place disability inclusion and accessibility at the forefront of their agenda during the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Antigua in 2026. This appeal comes as advocates highlight the persistent inequalities faced by over 430 million disabled individuals within the Commonwealth, a group of predominantly former British colonies. Richard Rieser, General Secretary of the CDPF, emphasized the need for full implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which 55 of the 56 Commonwealth nations, including Barbados, have ratified. While Barbados has made strides with its new Persons with Disabilities Act, many Caribbean nations and other regions within the Commonwealth still lack robust frameworks for disability rights. Rieser stressed the urgency of adopting a Disability Inclusion Action Plan at the 2026 summit, ensuring disability becomes a clear priority in the Commonwealth’s agenda. Currently, disability issues are notably absent from the Commonwealth’s five-year plan. The Antigua summit will mark the 20th anniversary of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, yet millions of disabled individuals continue to face barriers to equal access in education, health, employment, and housing. Rieser called on governments to revisit their commitments and collaborate across the Commonwealth to turn these promises into reality. He also highlighted the importance of public awareness and education to shift societal perceptions of disability, urging employers to recognize the value of hiring disabled individuals. Kerry-Ann Ifill, CDPF Vice-Chair, underscored the need for genuine leadership from Commonwealth governments, recalling the exclusion faced by disabled participants at the 2022 CHOGM in Rwanda. She emphasized that inclusion is a right, not charity, and called for systemic accessibility in schools, workplaces, transportation, and government buildings. Rieser also praised initiatives like the regional youth leadership training in Barbados, which empowered young advocates to push for disability inclusion in their respective countries. He criticized the Commonwealth’s tokenistic approach to disability issues, urging fair and equitable treatment for all.