The Kalinago Council has issued a stark warning regarding the severe environmental degradation caused by construction activities linked to the International Airport Project near the Concord River. In a formal statement to the media, the Council highlighted the contamination of the river with murky wastewater, a vital water source for the Kalinago Territory’s residents. This pollution not only threatens the health and hygiene of the community but also undermines their dignity and way of life. Additionally, the destruction of surrounding forested areas has destabilized the river’s ecosystem, posing long-term risks to both the Kalinago people and Dominica’s broader environment. The Council urgently called on the Minister of Environment and relevant government agencies to intervene, advocating for the use of alternative construction sites to protect the river’s integrity and the well-being of the community. The statement concluded with a plea for immediate action to prevent further harm.
分类： society
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Non-lethal options to firearms should be considered- Jagdeo
In a significant move to address public safety concerns, Guyana’s Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has proposed a shift toward non-lethal weapons as an alternative to firearms. Speaking on Thursday, Jagdeo emphasized the need for the government and citizens to consider issuing permits for non-lethal weapons instead of traditional firearms. He questioned whether a more liberal approach to licensing non-lethal tools could meet the demand for personal protection without the risks associated with lethal arms. Jagdeo highlighted the overwhelming number of firearm licence requests received during community visits, with an estimated 50,000 applications currently pending. He suggested implementing stricter criteria for firearm licences to ensure responsible ownership. Additionally, Jagdeo stressed the importance of eliminating corruption in the licensing process, particularly the perception that bribes can secure permits. He called for a collective societal effort to address these issues, stating that the government is committed to resolving the matter decisively.
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Prisoner escapes Nassau Street Court
NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Authorities in Nassau are on high alert following the escape of a male prisoner from the Nassau Street Court Complex on October 2, 2025. The incident occurred at approximately 3:30 p.m. when D’Angelo Culmer, a detainee whose custody details remain undisclosed, fled from lawful custody. Culmer was last seen wearing a blue T-shirt and light blue jeans. He is described as having a light brown complexion, with distinctive tattoos including lips on his neck and the name ‘Tiffany’ on his right chest. The circumstances surrounding his escape are under rigorous investigation as law enforcement intensifies efforts to locate him. Police are urging the public to come forward with any information that could aid in his apprehension. Individuals with relevant details are encouraged to contact emergency services at 911 or 919, their nearest police station, or the Criminal Investigation Department at 502-9991. Anonymous tips can also be submitted via CRIME STOPPERS at 328-TIPS (8477).
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Grammar School student picked to represent Dominica at regional tourism youth event
Tzaddi Trocard, a student at Dominica Grammar School, has earned the honor of representing Dominica at the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) Tourism Youth Congress. The event, set to take place on October 2, 2025, in Barbados, is a key component of the State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC), the Caribbean’s foremost forum for discussing tourism advancements and challenges. Trocard secured this prestigious opportunity by winning the local Tourism Youth Congress in May, which coincided with Tourism Awareness Month. At the regional congress, he will present his ideas on “Connecting the Caribbean with Sustainable Transport.” Trocard will be accompanied by his coach and chaperone, Mrs. Dorcus Francis-Simon, an educator at Dominica Grammar School. Expressing his enthusiasm, Trocard remarked, “It is a privilege to represent my school and my country on such a big stage. I want to share ideas that can help us build a more connected and sustainable Caribbean, and I hope to make Dominica proud.” The CTO Tourism Youth Congress provides a platform for secondary school students across the Caribbean to present innovative solutions to critical tourism-related issues, fostering sustainability and resilience in the industry. The competition underscores the vital role of youth in tourism development, aiming to nurture leadership, public speaking, and advocacy skills among young participants.
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Statue at Local Church Sparks Debate Among Religious Leaders
A towering statue recently unveiled by Glorious Hope Ministries has ignited a heated debate within Antigua’s religious community. The installation, inspired by the biblical book of Daniel, was intended to raise awareness about the return of Christ, according to Elder Claude Weaver, the church’s leader. However, the project has drawn sharp criticism from other religious figures, including Bishop Charlesworth Brown of the Christian Council, who argues that the statue has caused division rather than fostering unity. Brown contends that the Christian message is better conveyed through faith and teaching rather than expensive monuments. He also suggested that the funds used for the statue could have been better allocated to support needy families. The statue, prominently located along All Saints Road, has become a focal point of controversy, with its symbolism and necessity continuing to be debated. Despite the criticism, the statue remains in place, serving as a testament to the ongoing tensions within the community.
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Lyford Cay Foundations Award 41 New Scholarships to Bahamian Students
NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The Lyford Cay Foundations have unveiled their latest initiative to empower Bahamian talent by awarding 41 scholarships to exceptional students. These scholars will embark on academic journeys at prestigious universities and colleges across the United States, Canada, England, and Europe. This announcement brings the total number of scholarships for 2025 to 94, reinforcing the Foundations’ commitment to higher education and national progress. The 2025 cohort showcases the diversity of Bahamian society, with 51% of recipients being women, 44% representing first-generation college students, and 32% originating from the Family Islands. Additionally, 27% of the awardees are products of the nation’s public school system. The scholars will pursue a wide array of disciplines, including actuarial science, aviation maintenance, mechanical engineering, documentary film, dispute resolution, environmental management, clinical social work, and culinary management. Their academic pursuits span diploma programs, associate degrees, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral studies. Dr. Nicola Virgill-Rolle, Executive Director of the Foundations, highlighted the significance of this initiative, stating, “The determination and achievements of these students underscore the immense talent within The Bahamas.” Basil P. Goulandris, Chairman of Lyford Cay Foundation Inc., emphasized the transformative impact of the scholarships, noting, “By investing over $1.2 million in their education, we are investing in the future of our country.” Mary Filippelli-Hall, Chairman of The Canadian Lyford Cay Foundation, praised the resilience and ambition of the scholars, adding, “These students reflect the incredible promise and potential across our islands.” Since the 1980s, the Lyford Cay Foundations have supported Bahamian students through partial scholarships for undergraduate, graduate, and vocational studies abroad, focusing on fields that drive national development. The program remains highly competitive, attracting hundreds of applicants annually. The 2025 scholars will join a growing alumni network of Bahamians making significant contributions to industries and communities both locally and globally.
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Excessive Heat to Continue in Antigua and Barbuda Until Sunday
The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service has issued an excessive heat warning, alerting residents to prepare for extreme temperatures that could feel as high as 43°C (109°F). The warning, effective daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. until Sunday, highlights the combination of light winds and high humidity, which will create perilously hot conditions, especially during early afternoons. The heat index, a measure of perceived temperature factoring in humidity and air temperature, is expected to peak at 43°C, surpassing the threshold of 41°C (106°F) that triggers such warnings. This threshold is typically activated when temperatures remain elevated for two or more consecutive days with wind speeds below 18 km/h (11 mph). The elderly, young children, individuals with chronic illnesses, and those engaged in outdoor activities are at the highest risk of heat-related health issues, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and potentially fatal heat stroke. Symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headache, rapid heartbeat, extreme thirst, or confusion should prompt immediate action, including moving to a cooler environment, staying hydrated, and seeking medical assistance if necessary. Authorities are urging residents to take preventive measures, such as staying hydrated, avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours, and checking on vulnerable family members, friends, and neighbors. Additionally, individuals on medication are advised to consult their healthcare providers about potential heat-related risks. The extreme weather conditions underscore the importance of community vigilance and preparedness to mitigate the adverse effects of the ongoing heatwave.
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Barbuda under high surf warning as dangerous swells approach
A high surf warning has been declared for Barbuda, with the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service forecasting perilous marine conditions extending through the weekend. The alert, effective from Friday night until Monday afternoon, anticipates swells generating waves exceeding 10 feet (3 meters) and seas reaching up to 11 feet (3.4 meters). Neighboring regions, including Anguilla and the British Virgin Islands, are also under similar warnings, with hazardous conditions expected to persist from Friday into Monday. Authorities have escalated the threat level to high, citing life-threatening rip currents, coastal flooding, beach erosion, reef damage, and dangerous navigation in harbors. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to avoid entering the water in affected areas, steer clear of reefs and coastal structures, and only swim at sheltered beaches under lifeguard supervision. The public is encouraged to stay updated via antiguamet.com and the official channels of the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service.
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Former president Ian Jackson weighs in as Dominica Calypso Association grapples with leadership controversy
The Dominica Calypso Association (DCA) is embroiled in a significant leadership crisis, with former president Ian Jackson shedding light on the controversies surrounding the organization’s executive leadership. The dispute centers on allegations of constitutional violations, particularly concerning term limits for executive members. According to the DCA’s constitution, executive members are restricted to two consecutive terms, followed by a mandatory one-year hiatus before re-election. However, several outgoing executive members, including President Davidson “Observer” Victor, Treasurer Narin Murphy, and Secretary Daryl Bobb, have reportedly exceeded this limit, prompting a group of petitioners to challenge their legitimacy. Jackson acknowledged the validity of these claims, stating, “The petitioners are right in making that claim, although the practice has not always followed the constitution, but it should stand.” Beyond term limits, the executive has faced criticism over financial management, with some members questioning the appropriateness of stipends averaging $4,000 and the Association’s efforts to promote calypso both locally and internationally. The situation reached a boiling point during a chaotic meeting on September 27, 2025, which lacked a quorum and was chaired by a petitioner, Emmanuel “Haxey” Salamat, rather than a neutral party. This led to the resignation of eight out of nine executive members, with only Curtis Johan Lloyd (Joey Lloyd) remaining as caretaker to oversee fresh elections scheduled for October 11, 2025. However, petitioners have contested Lloyd’s authority, arguing that only a steering committee, not an individual, should manage the election process. Jackson confirmed that discussions are ongoing to resolve the crisis, including a potential review of the constitution by legal counsel and the formation of a steering committee. The outgoing executive emphasized their commitment to accountability and transparency, stating, “This transition represents a moment of renewal for the Association, reinforcing our commitment to service to the calypso community and people of Dominica.” The outcome of these efforts is expected to be clarified at the upcoming meeting on October 11.
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Burnett Says Illegal Guns Enter Antigua Through Ports, Stolen From Licensed Owners
Retired Assistant Commissioner of Police Nuffield Burnett has revealed that illegal firearms plaguing Antigua and Barbuda primarily originate from two sources: smuggling through the nation’s ports and theft from licensed gun owners. Speaking at a United Progressive Party town hall, Burnett highlighted the role of corruption and negligence in facilitating the influx of weapons. He emphasized that firearms are often smuggled through seaports and airports, with insiders sometimes orchestrating the illegal entries. “They’re coming into our seaports and our airports,” Burnett stated. “A lot of it happens because of unethical workings of some people — simple as that.” He criticized law enforcement for focusing on weapon seizures rather than targeting the individuals behind the smuggling operations. “What are you seizing it for? We want to catch the people who are bringing it,” he asserted. Burnett also pointed out that licensed gun owners contribute to the problem when their firearms are stolen during home invasions or misused. Many such incidents go unreported due to fear of backlash, he explained. This diversion of legally owned guns into criminal hands has exacerbated violent crime in the region. Burnett’s remarks come amid growing public concern over rising gun violence and calls for enhanced port security and stricter firearm regulations. The situation underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address the dual challenges of smuggling and firearm mismanagement.