分类: society

  • Woburn Clarkes Court Bay MPA stakeholder consultations

    Woburn Clarkes Court Bay MPA stakeholder consultations

    The Grenada Sustainable Development Trust Fund (GSDTF), in collaboration with the Caribbean Biodiversity Fund and Global Affairs Canada, is set to organize a series of stakeholder consultations from October 21 to 23, 2025. These meetings will focus on the Enhanced Management and Monitoring of the Woburn Clarkes Court Bay Marine Protected Area (WCCBMPA), a critical initiative aimed at bolstering marine conservation in Grenada. The consultations will engage local communities, business leaders, and fishermen from Woburn, St. George, fostering a collaborative approach to sustainable marine resource management. This project is part of the broader Caribbean Organisations for a Resilient Environment (CORE) initiative, which seeks to enhance climate resilience among vulnerable groups across eight Caribbean nations, including Belize, Dominica, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Suriname. The consultations will address key issues such as enforcement, zoning, and ecological monitoring, while promoting gender-responsive and climate-resilient conservation strategies. The GSDTF encourages all stakeholders to participate in these pivotal discussions, emphasizing the importance of collective action in safeguarding Grenada’s marine biodiversity.

  • Fire Service responds to 86 emergencies last weekend

    Fire Service responds to 86 emergencies last weekend

    The Saint Lucia Fire Service (SLFS) experienced an exceptionally active weekend from October 10 to October 13, 2025, responding to a total of 86 emergency calls, as confirmed by SLFS representative Cheria St. Rose. The majority of these calls—84 in total—were ambulance responses, with only two incidents involving fires. Medical emergencies dominated the ambulance calls, with 50 cases reported island-wide. Additionally, the SLFS addressed five assault-related injuries, eight motor vehicle collisions, ten trauma incidents such as falls and cuts, and 11 non-emergency cases. On October 11, the Babonneau Fire Station was particularly busy, handling two consecutive road accidents in Union, Gros Islet. The first collision involved a motorcycle, a minibus, and an SUV, resulting in abrasions to a male motorcyclist. While emergency teams were managing this scene, a second accident occurred just 50 feet away when a truck was forced off the road by a white Mitsubishi van, injuring a male passenger. Both individuals were treated on-site and transported to the Owen King European Union (OKEU) Hospital. Later that evening, another severe motorcycle accident took place on the Millennium Highway involving a white minibus, leaving the motorcyclist with head, jaw, and arm injuries. He was rushed to OKEU Hospital in serious condition. On October 12, a BMW X3 veered off the road in Soufrière, injuring the female driver, who was taken to Soufrière Hospital in stable condition. That same night, a Toyota Rush carrying five passengers crashed into a ditch south of the Ti Rocher Micoud junction. One passenger was unresponsive, while another left the scene privately. The remaining passengers were treated and transported to St Jude Hospital. The SLFS also dealt with two fire incidents: a bush fire in Cas En Bas, Gros Islet, and a pole fire in La Pointe, Micoud. The SLFS has urged motorists to drive cautiously, especially in high-risk areas, and to report emergencies promptly.

  • San Ignacio Police Seize High-Powered Weapon, Ammunition

    San Ignacio Police Seize High-Powered Weapon, Ammunition

    In a significant operation on October 17, 2025, the San Ignacio Police conducted a search at a residence on Maya Street, leading to the seizure of a high-powered firearm and a substantial cache of ammunition. The raid resulted in the detention of three individuals who failed to produce a valid firearm license. Among the confiscated items were a GIVATI-brand 9mm rifle-type firearm (serial number GFX0006), two magazines, a drum magazine, 195 rounds of 9mm ammunition, and 20 rounds of .223 ammunition. These were concealed in a bucket within a room of the property. The suspects were transported to the San Ignacio Police Station and are awaiting formal charges related to the possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. The police have indicated that their investigation is still ongoing.

  • Karim Warner Challenges Sentence for Gunfire Incident

    Karim Warner Challenges Sentence for Gunfire Incident

    Police Constable Karim Warner is challenging his one-year prison sentence after being convicted of unlawfully discharging a firearm during a heated confrontation in Willikies last December. The incident occurred near the Emerald Cove Resort, where Warner was involved in a dispute over a rental vehicle he owned. According to court testimonies, Warner allegedly blocked the renters’ Toyota Mark X with his Lexus and demanded they exit the vehicle. When a female passenger suggested resolving the matter at a police station, Warner reportedly drew his firearm and fired multiple shots, striking the car’s rear panel, trunk, and a front tire. The passenger testified that she was so terrified during the incident that she lost control of her bladder. Warner denied the prosecution’s claims, stating he only fired a few shots in self-defense to protect his property. However, Senior Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel dismissed his defense, ruling that firing twelve bullets was a “grossly disproportionate” use of force. Warner, who wept as the verdict was read, has now taken his case to the Court of Appeal. His attorney, Andrew Okola, filed the appeal shortly after the October 1 conviction. The case continues to draw attention as it highlights issues of property disputes and the appropriate use of force by law enforcement officers.

  • Antigua and Barbuda Celebrates Tourism Week 2025 Under the Theme: “Our People, Our Culture, Our Environment in Full Thrive, Tourism Week 2025.

    Antigua and Barbuda Celebrates Tourism Week 2025 Under the Theme: “Our People, Our Culture, Our Environment in Full Thrive, Tourism Week 2025.

    The Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment has unveiled the eagerly awaited Tourism Week 2025, set to take place from November 22 to 29. This year’s theme, “Our People, Our Culture, Our Environment in Full Thrive,” highlights the integral role of Antigua and Barbuda’s citizens, cultural heritage, and natural beauty in fostering a sustainable and prosperous tourism industry. The event marks the official commencement of the Winter Tourism Season, serving as a platform for reflection, celebration, and renewed dedication to the nation’s leading economic sector.

  • Chief Justice, Attorney General to new attorneys: Use your legal judgement, not AI

    Chief Justice, Attorney General to new attorneys: Use your legal judgement, not AI

    In a significant ceremony held at the Number 1 Supreme Court on Friday morning, 34 newly admitted attorneys-at-law were formally welcomed to the legal profession. However, the occasion was marked by stern cautions from Barbados’ Attorney General Dale Marshall and Chief Justice Leslie Haynes, who emphasized the limitations of artificial intelligence (AI) in legal practice. Both leaders, addressing the gathering during a special sitting of the bench, underscored that AI should serve merely as an auxiliary tool rather than a substitute for the critical thinking, factual analysis, and application of established case law that are fundamental to legal advocacy. They urged the newly minted lawyers to exercise their own professional judgment and not to anchor their clients’ defense strategies solely on AI-generated insights. The event, captured in a photograph by Emmanuel Joseph, highlighted the ongoing debate surrounding the integration of technology into traditional legal frameworks and the importance of maintaining human oversight in the justice system.

  • Four BDF Officers Commissioned in Guyana After Completing Military Training

    Four BDF Officers Commissioned in Guyana After Completing Military Training

    In a significant milestone for military collaboration in the region, four officers from the Belize Defence Force (BDF) have successfully completed the rigorous Standard Officer Course 56 (SOC 56) in Guyana. The graduation ceremony, held on October 15, 2025, at Base Camp Ayanganna in Georgetown, marked the culmination of two years of intensive military and academic training. The event saw 31 newly commissioned officers from various forces, including the Guyana Defence Force, the Guyana Police Force, and regional partners like the BDF, receive their badges of rank. Among the graduates, Second Lieutenant Claudio Bolon distinguished himself by securing two prestigious awards: Best International Student and the Commandant, Guyana National Reserve Prize. His fellow BDF graduates—Second Lieutenant Sair Rodriquez, Second Lieutenant Lindon Bolon, and Second Lieutenant Jordi Osorio—also celebrated their achievements. This accomplishment underscores the strengthening ties between Belize and Guyana in defense and security cooperation, while also highlighting the exceptional caliber of BDF personnel on the international stage.

  • Man Fined $5,000 for Possessing Jaguar Teeth

    Man Fined $5,000 for Possessing Jaguar Teeth

    In a landmark case highlighting Belize’s commitment to wildlife conservation, Jordan David Woods of Stann Creek has been fined $5,000 for the unlawful possession of two jaguar teeth. The verdict was delivered on October 15th by the Stann Creek District Court, marking a significant enforcement of Section 19 of the Forest Act, Chapter 213 of the Laws of Belize. Woods was also ordered to pay $5 in court costs, with a one-year deadline to settle the fine. Failure to comply by October 15, 2026, will result in a six-month prison sentence. Jaguars, revered as Belize’s national symbol of strength and beauty, are fully protected under the law. Possessing any part of these majestic creatures, including skins, claws, or teeth, without proper authorization is strictly prohibited. The Forest Department lauded the conviction as a pivotal victory in the fight against wildlife crimes. ‘This ruling sends a clear message,’ the Department stated. ‘Belize’s environmental laws are designed to safeguard our wildlife, and violators will face severe consequences.’ The Department also encouraged the public to report illegal wildlife activities or human-wildlife conflicts through the Wildlife Hotline at 610-1524.

  • Minister Fernandez Gifts U.S. Travel Group Head in Appreciation of Timely Donation to Cedar Grove Primary School

    Minister Fernandez Gifts U.S. Travel Group Head in Appreciation of Timely Donation to Cedar Grove Primary School

    In a heartwarming display of community spirit, Brian Emmanuel Sims, CEO of Got Stamps? Travel LLC, has been recognized for his philanthropic efforts during a recent visit to Antigua and Barbuda. The Hon. H. Charles Fernandez, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation, and Investment, expressed profound gratitude for Sims’ timely donation of cash, sporting equipment, and school supplies to Cedar Grove Primary School. The gesture came at a pivotal moment for the school, which had recently faced challenges due to vandalism. During a courtesy visit, Minister Fernandez presented Sims with a handcrafted Wari board, a traditional game symbolizing friendship, strategy, and community resilience. Fernandez praised Sims for his commitment to giving back while on vacation, highlighting the personal significance of the school to the CEO. Sims, whose travel company promotes Antigua and Barbuda as a premier destination, shared that the trip deepened his connection to the island. “Antigua has exceeded all our expectations. It only felt right to give back to a place we’ve grown to love,” he remarked. Got Stamps? Travel LLC, based in the U.S., is known for its unique blend of leisure, culture, and philanthropy, ensuring travelers leave destinations better than they found them. The donation not only provided material support but also uplifted the school community during a difficult time. Minister Fernandez emphasized the cultural significance of the Wari board, describing it as a piece of Antigua’s heritage and a symbol of the island’s enduring spirit.

  • Divali sweets

    Divali sweets

    As Hindus in Trinidad and Tobago and around the globe celebrate the vibrant festival of Divali on Monday, the fasting period concludes with a grand celebration marked by an array of delectable foods and sweets. In Trinidad and Tobago, a nation known for its cultural diversity, people from all backgrounds come together to partake in each other’s religious festivities, often preparing special treats to share and enjoy. This year, renowned culinary expert Wendy Rahamut shares her favorite traditional sweets to make the celebration even more memorable. Among the highlights are deep-fried Indian cookies infused with cardamom and cinnamon, known as Shakkar Para, and the creamy, indulgent Barfi. For those with a sweet tooth, Gulab Jamoon, a rich and syrupy dessert, is also a must-try. Each recipe is meticulously detailed, from the preparation of the dough to the final presentation, ensuring that these treats are not only delicious but also a true reflection of the festival’s spirit. These sweets, deeply rooted in tradition, offer a taste of cultural heritage and bring families and communities closer during this joyous occasion.