Antigua’s primary airport has been in a state of disarray since 2019, following a breakdown in relations within the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority (ABAA) and the abrupt departure of three successive CEOs. Attempts to fill the leadership void with accounting-trained personnel and other mismatched candidates proved futile, leaving the position vacant and the aviation hub in chaos. Over the past five years, seasoned aviators have witnessed a stark decline in standards, marked by the abandonment of rules, regulations, and transparency—the foundational pillars of aviation. Personal opinions have overshadowed International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) guidelines, and deteriorating relationships with stakeholders have replaced civility with disrespect in airport operations. The government, in a desperate bid to restore order, has struggled to find competent management, often appointing junior, unqualified officers to roles beyond their expertise. Regional efforts have also failed, exacerbating the chaos in this rule-oriented industry. The loss of Category 1 classification for Antigua and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), coupled with the looming ICAO Audit in 2026, has forced the government to seek international assistance. An Antiguan-owned company based in Atlanta, renowned in the global aviation sector, has been engaged for a 90-day contract. Its president, a respected figure with extensive experience in the Caribbean and Latin America, has taken on the role of Interim CEO. However, given the magnitude of the crisis, 90 days is widely regarded as insufficient to address the deep-rooted issues. The government’s approach, driven by sovereignty rather than integrity, has raised questions about the feasibility of this short-term solution. The interim CEO, known for his patriotism, faces an uphill battle against time, further complicated by the government’s lack of respect for both his capabilities and the ABAA. The challenges at V.C. Bird International Airport (VCBIA) cannot be resolved in such a limited timeframe, underscoring the need for a more sustainable and strategic approach.
分类： society
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Prime Minister Meets National Culinary Team Ahead of Taste of the Caribbean
In a gesture of national pride and encouragement, Prime Minister Gaston Browne of Antigua and Barbuda met with the country’s National Culinary Team ahead of their participation in the prestigious Taste of the Caribbean competition. The event, set to take place from June 16 to 18 in Barbados, will bring together the region’s finest culinary talents. During the courtesy visit, described as both inspiring and honorable, Prime Minister Browne lauded the team’s dedication and urged them to showcase Antigua and Barbuda’s excellence and creativity on the regional stage. The team, organized under the Antigua and Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association (ABHTA), aims to highlight the nation’s hospitality and culinary prowess. The ABHTA expressed deep appreciation for the Prime Minister’s motivational words, emphasizing that his support has bolstered the team’s determination to secure top honors and bring pride to their homeland.
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Colonial City streets to remain open during December holidays
Santo Domingo’s Colonial City will remain fully accessible throughout the December holiday season, as announced by the Ministry of Tourism. Restoration and construction projects, temporarily paused to accommodate the festive period, will resume in January. This strategic decision aims to enhance the visitor experience and support local businesses during the peak tourism season. Tourism Minister David Collado emphasized that the move is designed to maximize economic activity, benefiting merchants and business owners in the area. Engineer Amin Abel Santos, overseeing the restoration efforts, revealed that 70% of the heritage streets have already been completed. Teams are also working diligently to repair sections damaged by recent storms, ensuring all areas are operational by Christmas. Beyond road improvements, the Colonial City is undergoing extensive revitalization, with over 28 projects in progress. These include the restoration of the Ruins of San Francisco, upgrades to the Mercado Modelo, and the rehabilitation of more than 150 homes. Additionally, five new electric buses will soon connect key cultural and tourist hubs, enhancing accessibility to the historic center while alleviating traffic congestion.
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Taiwan Provides Annual Funding to Support Education Development in St. Kitts and Nevis
In a significant move to bolster educational development in St. Kitts and Nevis, Taiwan has provided its annual funding under the Bilateral Human Resource Development Cooperation Project. The formal handover ceremony took place on November 12, 2025, with Ambassador Edward Lin-Wen Tao and Third Secretary Ms. Kate Wei representing Taiwan. They met with Hon. Konris G. M. Maynard, Minister of Education, and Permanent Secretary Ms. Lisa Pistana to finalize the agreement. Minister Maynard expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) for its consistent and impactful support. The funding will be utilized to provide scholarships for over a hundred underprivileged students and to reward exceptional teachers across the Federation. Ambassador Tao reiterated Taiwan’s unwavering dedication to fostering educational collaboration, emphasizing the importance of education in shaping the future of St. Kitts and Nevis. He expressed optimism that the beneficiaries will excel in their studies and contribute meaningfully to their nation’s progress.
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New Instructor Ginger Yu Takes the Helm to Continue Mandarin Education in Nevis
The Nevis Island Administration (NIA) has officially welcomed Ginger Yu as the new Mandarin instructor, marking a significant step in the ongoing collaboration between Nevis and Taiwan. This initiative is part of the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF) Overseas Mandarin Teaching Project, aimed at promoting Mandarin education globally. During a recent meeting with Honourable Troy Liburd, Minister of Education, Miss Yu outlined her ambitious plans to enhance and expand the Mandarin program across schools in Nevis. Minister Liburd expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, highlighting the cultural and educational benefits it brings to Nevisian students. He also extended his gratitude to the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the Taiwan ICDF for their unwavering support. The introductory meeting was attended by key education officials, including Permanent Secretary Zahnela Claxton and Principal Assistant Secretary Jamir Claxton, along with representatives from the Taiwanese Embassy. Further discussions with education officers and school leaders are scheduled before the official launch of the Mandarin program for the 2025–2026 academic year. The program builds on the success of previous instructor Chen Chi, under whose guidance Nevisian students have excelled in Mandarin proficiency tests. The Ministry of Education is optimistic that Miss Yu’s leadership will further strengthen the program, offering students more opportunities to achieve fluency in Mandarin and fostering deeper cultural connections.
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NIA Rolls Out Vehicle Disposal Amnesty to Tackle Derelict Cars
The Nevis Island Administration (NIA), through its Ministry of Health and in partnership with the Nevis Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA), has introduced a Vehicle Disposal Amnesty Programme aimed at addressing the issue of derelict vehicles across the island. The initiative, announced by Minister of Health Senator Jahnel Nisbett during the November 06 Nevis Island Assembly session, is part of a broader scrap metal management project led by the NSWMA. The amnesty, which runs from November 10, 2025, to January 31, 2026, allows vehicle owners to dispose of abandoned, unlicensed, or non-roadworthy vehicles without penalties. Eligible vehicles must be delivered to the landfill for processing, with specific components such as tires, engine oil, and catalytic converters removed beforehand. The NSWMA has provided a contact number for arrangements, and no disposal fees will be charged. The programme also calls on mechanic shops and garages to identify and dispose of qualifying vehicles. Senator Nisbett emphasized the initiative’s role in promoting recycling, waste reduction, and environmental sustainability, urging residents to participate in keeping Nevis clean and safe.
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Column: Voorrang aan het leven
In Suriname, most primary schools offer some form of physical education, typically limited to a few sports such as basketball, volleyball, and football. Occasionally, running is included as part of athletics. However, swimming, once a part of the curriculum, has been removed for unclear reasons, leaving a significant gap in children’s education. While some parents can afford private swimming lessons for their children, many cannot, depriving a large number of students of this essential skill. Reintroducing swimming into the school curriculum would ensure equal developmental opportunities for all children. Swimming is not only a lifelong physical activity but also a critical safety skill. Given the allure of water and the risk of drowning, it is imperative that every child learns to swim, regardless of their family’s financial situation. The Suriname Swimming Federation should launch a nationwide awareness campaign to emphasize the importance of making swimming education accessible to all. Teaching children to swim at a young age can reduce drowning incidents and promote healthier lifestyles. Swimming offers unique benefits, such as reduced joint strain and therapeutic effects, making it an ideal exercise for people of all ages. Unlike other sports, swimming can be practiced throughout one’s life, providing long-term health benefits. While there are pros and cons to every initiative, making swimming accessible to all children can significantly improve quality of life and prioritize safety.
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Banco Popular showcases “Our First Settlers” in London to promote Dominican cultural heritage
London – In a significant cultural event, Banco Popular Dominicano, in collaboration with the Taíno Cultural Center Casa del Cordón and the García Arévalo Foundation, unveiled the book ‘Our First Settlers’ at the Dominican Embassy in London. This presentation was a highlight of the XI Dominican Week in the United Kingdom, celebrating the island’s rich ancestral heritage. The book delves into the historical and symbolic depth of the Taíno Cultural Center’s permanent exhibition, offering a profound insight into the Dominican Republic’s indigenous roots. Ambassador Rosa Hernández de Grullón hosted the event, lauding the initiative for its role in promoting Dominican identity on the global stage. José Mármol, Executive Vice President of Corporate Communications, Reputation, and Responsible Banking at Banco Popular, underscored the book’s significance in ‘rescuing the essence of our origins’ and reaffirming the bank’s dedication to culture, education, and sustainable development. Renowned archaeologist and museographer Carlos León Amores emphasized the book’s educational and heritage value, stating it would be a vital resource for understanding and disseminating Taíno culture. Following its debut in Madrid during Dominican Week in Spain, the London event marked the second stop on the book’s international tour.
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Family of Irish woman killed on George Washington Avenue demands justice
The tragic death of Claire Paula Cullen, a 40-year-old Irish woman, has sent shockwaves through her family and the community. Cullen was fatally struck by a vehicle on George Washington Avenue in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, on the morning of November 10, 2025. The incident occurred as she was crossing the avenue, en route to attend her brother’s wedding to Erika Peña, which was scheduled for the same day. Instead of a joyous celebration, the day turned into a heart-wrenching tragedy. The driver, identified as Héctor Julio Taveras Báez, fled the scene immediately after the collision, leaving Cullen fatally injured. Her family has since expressed frustration over the lack of progress in the investigation, noting that her personal belongings have yet to be returned by authorities. As they prepare to repatriate her body to Ireland for burial, the family is demanding justice and accountability, emphasizing that Cullen’s young son has been left orphaned by this devastating event. They are urging Dominican officials to ensure that the case is thoroughly investigated and that the perpetrator is held responsible.
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Budna Case Before DPP; It Exposes Gaps in Law Enforcement
The Joseph Budna abduction case, which began with a Facebook Live broadcast on August 22, 2025, has escalated into an international scandal, revealing significant flaws in law enforcement. Budna, known for his outspoken social media presence, went live from Orange Walk Town, directly in front of the police station, before being abducted by three men and forced into a sky-blue SUV. Witnesses reported the incident occurred just steps away from the station. The following day, photos emerged from Guatemala showing Budna in custody, raising questions about how he was transported across the border so swiftly. In a leaked audio clip, Budna claimed that masked men, allegedly police officers, assaulted him, taped his mouth, and transported him to Arenal Village. Three weeks later, no suspects have been arrested, and the investigation has been plagued by missing surveillance footage, incomplete reports, and growing public outrage. Prime Minister Briceño criticized the initial police report as ‘unsatisfactory,’ leading to Commissioner Rosado being placed on leave amid suspicions of police involvement. The case file has now been handed to Director of Public Prosecutions Cheryl-Lynn Vidal, who described it as ‘less than nothing,’ indicating significant deficiencies. The DPP’s office is currently reviewing the file, but no arrests are imminent, leaving the public with more questions than answers.