The Barbados Consumer Empowerment Network (BCEN) has called on CARICOM governments to establish a regional utility regulator to address persistent disparities in the price and quality of essential services across the Caribbean. Speaking after her participation in a global conference on competition and consumer protection, BCEN Chair Maureen Holder emphasized the need for a multilateral regulator to standardize oversight of critical services such as energy, telecommunications, and water. Holder suggested that the CARICOM Competition Commission (CCC) could be repositioned to fulfill this role, though it currently lacks the necessary framework. She argued that a unified regulatory body would ensure fairness and stability in markets, particularly in small island nations where limited competition often leaves consumers with few choices and high costs. Holder highlighted BCEN’s growing influence in international and regional policymaking, noting its contributions to discussions on competition, fair markets, and consumer protection. She recently represented Barbados at the 9th United Nations Conference on Competition and Consumer Protection in Geneva, where she engaged with global leaders to address challenges facing consumers in small developing economies. The conference, organized by UNCTAD, serves as a platform for reviewing international best practices and coordinating global approaches to consumer protection. Holder stressed that small states like Barbados must actively participate in such forums to ensure their concerns are acknowledged and addressed at the highest levels.
分类： society
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No Motive Yet for Murder of Marty Thorne
In a shocking turn of events, 25-year-old Gian Eldred Waight, a construction worker from Bullet Tree Falls Village in Belize’s Cayo District, has been formally arrested and charged with the murder of Marty Ann Thorne, the owner of Rawspa. The brutal stabbing occurred on November 10th, sending shockwaves through the local community.
According to Assistant Superintendent of Police Stacy Smith, Waight was identified as a person of interest early in the investigation but fled the country. Through collaboration with Interpol counterparts in Guatemala, Waight was apprehended while attempting to board a flight from Guatemala City to El Salvador. He was subsequently handed over to Belizean authorities and charged with the crime.
Despite Waight’s familiarity with the victim, police have yet to establish a clear motive for the murder. The case has drawn significant attention, with many awaiting further developments as the investigation continues. Authorities remain committed to uncovering the truth behind this tragic incident.
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Man Charged With Teen’s Attempted Murder
A shocking stabbing incident in Dangriga Town has led to the arrest of two men, with one now facing charges of attempted murder. The victim, 18-year-old Gevin Armstrong, was attacked at the Island Breeze Bar and Grill on Wednesday night. According to reports, an unidentified individual approached Armstrong and inflicted a severe injury. Police were alerted to the scene but discovered that Armstrong had already been rushed to the Southern Regional Hospital. Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Stacy Smith confirmed that one suspect has been formally charged with attempted murder and is set to appear before the Dangriga Magistrate Court. Authorities have reported that Armstrong is currently in stable condition, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the grim circumstances. The incident has sparked concern in the community, with many calling for increased safety measures in public spaces.
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Property owners to face fines for overgrown bush
Property owners in Barbados who fail to maintain their lots by clearing overgrown vegetation could soon face significant fines under a new enforcement initiative launched by the Ministry of Environment. The program, which began on November 1, is being enforced through the Health Services Act and aims to address the issue of neglected properties. According to project leader Ronald Chapman, property owners who do not comply with the regulations will receive a 21-day notice to clean their lots. If they fail to do so within this period, they will be charged an administrative fee of $300. Additionally, if the lot remains uncleaned after the fine is issued, the Ministry of Environment will step in to clean the property, and the owner will be billed for the service. The cost of cleaning will vary depending on factors such as the size of the lot, the type of vegetation, and the presence of accumulated refuse. Chapman emphasized that the program is designed to encourage property owners to take responsibility for their land. He also noted that residents who face difficulties in clearing their lots or paying the fees can seek assistance from the relief board at the Ministry of Housing and Lands. The enforcement process has been delayed to allow for the necessary administrative machinery to be put in place, but fines are expected to be issued by the end of the month. The initiative is part of a broader effort to improve public health and environmental standards in the country.
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Bottle receptacle programme at Christmas at the Point
In a groundbreaking move to promote environmental sustainability, the Rotary Club of Grenada has joined forces with EcoDive to introduce a unique bottle-shaped wire-frame recycling bin at Quarantine Point Recreational Park. This initiative, part of the upcoming Christmas at the Point 2025 festivities, is spearheaded by Rotarian Christine Finney and implemented through the Grenada Green Group (G3).
The recycling receptacle, valued at EC$900 and fully sponsored by EcoDive, will be prominently displayed during the 26-night celebration from November 30, 2025, to January 4, 2026. Its design aims to encourage park visitors to responsibly dispose of plastic waste, highlighting the impact of plastics on Grenada’s marine and coastal ecosystems. This marks the second such installation by EcoDive, following the success of a similar bin near Umbrella’s Beach Bar earlier this year.
Christine Finney, a long-time Rotarian and the driving force behind the project, emphasized the importance of protecting Grenada’s natural spaces. ‘Our marine and coastal environments are vital to our way of life,’ she said. ‘This initiative not only promotes responsible waste disposal but also raises awareness about the environmental challenges we face.’
The Christmas at the Point event is already a model of sustainability, featuring 100% biodegradable packaging, energy-efficient LED lighting displays, and low-waste family activities such as s’mores stations and craft corners. Additionally, Six Senses La Sagesse will host educational workshops on soap-making from recycled cooking oil and paper recycling.
Julia Lawrence, President of the Rotary Club of Grenada, praised the collaboration with EcoDive and G3. ‘From its inception, Christmas at the Point has aimed to be joyful, inclusive, and environmentally conscious,’ she said. ‘This partnership exemplifies the leadership and commitment to sustainability that Rotary values.’
For more details, visit @rotarygrenada or @ecodivegrenada on Instagram and Facebook, or check the full schedule of events at https://christmas.gd/.
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Belize City Woman Stabbed in Domestic Dispute
A violent domestic dispute in Belize City has left a woman hospitalized with multiple stab wounds. The incident occurred early Monday morning on Gibnot Street, prompting an immediate police response. According to Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Stacy Smith, officers were alerted around 5 a.m. about an ongoing altercation at a residence. Upon arrival, a male occupant informed the police that his common-law wife was in a room within the house. Officers discovered the woman suffering from severe knife injuries and in a semi-conscious state. She was promptly transported to the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital, where she is now reported to be in stable condition. Police have detained a male individual in connection with the incident, and investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the attack.
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Dominica Police Force honors 37 officers, wrapping Police Week 2025
In a prestigious ceremony held at the State House Conference Center on Sunday night, the Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (CDPF) celebrated the exceptional contributions of 37 police officers. The event, which concluded Police Week 2025 under the theme “Serving with Pride Protecting with Purpose,” highlighted the dedication and professionalism of the force. Finance Minister Dr. Irving McIntyre, representing Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, emphasized the noble yet demanding nature of policing in a democracy. He praised the officers for their vigilance, fairness, and moral character, noting the importance of remaining calm under pressure and upholding the rule of law. Dr. McIntyre congratulated the awardees, stating that their recognition was not only a testament to individual excellence but also a symbol of responsibility and leadership. Among the honorees were Sergeant Garvin James, recognized as Investigator of the Year, and Constable Emran Joseph, awarded Outstanding Officer of the Year in the Special Branch. The ceremony underscored the critical role of conduct, character, and consistency in effective policing.
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Principal Coy Accused of Sexually Assaulting Teacher
In a shocking development, Macario Coy, a 39-year-old school principal in Punta Gorda and former UDP senator, has been arrested and charged with sexual assault. The incident came to light after a 36-year-old teacher reported that Coy had inappropriately touched her at her residence on November 4, 2025. The victim promptly reported the assault, leading to an investigation initiated by the Punta Gorda Police on November 7. Coy, accompanied by his attorney, surrendered to the authorities on November 21. He was formally charged, taken to court, and granted bail set at $3,000. Coy is expected to appear in court again on January 20, 2026, as the legal proceedings continue. This case has drawn significant attention due to Coy’s prominent position in both education and politics.
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Less Than $1,000 Stolen in Dangriga Treasury Burglary
In a recent incident at the Dangriga Treasury Building, burglars made off with a safe containing less than $1,000. According to ASP Stacy Smith, the treasury does not typically store large sums of money in the building, which limited the thieves’ haul. The burglary occurred between the late hours of Thursday, November 20, and the early morning of Friday, November 21, 2025. Police were alerted to the crime at approximately 8:00 AM on Friday, after a staff member discovered the break-in at 7:45 AM. Scenes of Crime personnel were called to the site, where they collected several items of evidential value. These items are now being analyzed by the National Forensic Science Services Laboratory to aid the ongoing investigation. In light of the incident, police have reminded the public to remain vigilant, especially during this peak period for property crimes, and to take necessary precautions to safeguard their belongings.
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Police Charge 24-Year-Old for PG Shooting, Motive Established
In a significant development in the Punta Gorda shooting case, Belize police have formally charged 24-year-old Derry Bennett with two counts of attempted murder. The incident, which occurred on November 17, 2025, left 25-year-old Kelly Stevens and 41-year-old Ashton Martin injured after a gunman opened fire at an establishment on George Price Street. According to Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Stacy Smith, the attack is suspected to be drug-related. Bennett, initially detained under a false name, was later released due to insufficient evidence. However, continued investigations led to his re-arrest in Camalota Village. Police also recovered a nine-millimeter pistol, ammunition, and approximately 60 grams of crack cocaine during a subsequent operation aimed at curbing drug trafficking in the area. The firearm has been sent for forensic analysis to confirm its involvement in the shooting.