分类： society

Barbados remains on high alert following unprecedented rainfall on Sunday, which triggered widespread flooding across the island. Over nine inches (228.6 mm) of rain fell within a 24-hour period, submerging communities in multiple parishes, overwhelming emergency services, and tragically claiming the life of one man swept away by floodwaters. The Barbados Meteorological Services has warned that the unstable weather conditions are likely to continue into the early part of the week, with sporadic moderate to heavy showers potentially prompting flash flood alerts at short notice. Deputy Director Brian Murray explained that a combination of weather systems, including a surface to low-level trough enhanced by a favorable upper-level environment, created ideal conditions for prolonged heavy rains. The northern parishes were particularly affected during the morning and early afternoon, leading to the issuance of a flash flood warning for the region. However, as the day progressed, the entire island experienced severe flooding, with roads submerged, drainage systems overwhelmed, and emergency services stretched to their limits. While some relief is expected by the end of the week, with improved weather conditions forecasted from Friday, the island continues to grapple with the aftermath of this devastating event.

The tight-knit community of Lucas Street in St Philip is in mourning following the tragic death of 29-year-old Rajani Obrien Parris, described by neighbors as a kind and selfless individual. Parris was struck and killed by a vehicle on Foursquare Road last Tuesday night around 11:20 PM, succumbing to his injuries at the scene. Known for his unwavering generosity, Parris was remembered by a neighbor as someone who would always lend a helping hand, regardless of his own struggles. ‘Rajani was a sweet boy,’ the neighbor shared, standing near his family home. ‘He would do anything for you. It’s heartbreaking that he had to go like this.’ At the family residence, Parris’ sister Rachaela Barton and mother Suzette Barton-Greenidge expressed their profound grief, recalling him as a loving and compassionate soul. His mother revealed that Parris had no children or long-term partner and had recently stopped working, dividing his time between their home and his brother’s residence. The community continues to grapple with the loss of a young man whose kindness left a lasting impact on those who knew him.

A 35-year-old man from Drax Hall, St. George, has been granted bail after being charged with sending an obscene electronic communication in violation of the Computer Misuse Act. Paul Kian Kemar Dear appeared before Magistrate Alison Burke in the District ‘A’ Traffic Court, where he pleaded not guilty to the charge. The allegations state that between October 13 and November 7, Dear used a computer to transmit an indecent or obscene message, with the intent or recklessness to cause annoyance, distress, or anxiety to the recipient. Magistrate Burke, with no objections, released Dear on $4,000 bail. The case has been adjourned until March 6, and Dear is being represented by attorney Shamar Bovell. This incident highlights the legal consequences of misuse of electronic communications and the importance of adhering to digital conduct laws.

Seven individuals, comprising five teenagers and two men in their 20s, have been remanded to Dodds Prison for 28 days after Magistrate Alison Burke denied their bail application on Monday. The decision followed strong objections from the prosecution, led by Court Prosecutor Station Sergeant St Clair Phillips, who highlighted the severity of the charges and the potential risks of releasing the accused. The defendants include Dakai Ladavid Rasheed Cadogan, 17, Jamalee Dedarkus Jadan Joseph, 16, Corey David Allain, 18, Xavier Zaire Leon Stoute, 19, Dario Kareem Cherubin Lorde, 26, and Donnico Romario Herbert, 22. All are residents of St Michael, Barbados. They appeared in the District ‘A’ Traffic Court, facing charges of causing serious bodily harm to I-Rone Harris with intent to maim, disfigure, or disable him on October 30. Additionally, they are accused of using unlawful violence in a manner that would cause a reasonable person to fear for their safety. Another case involves Asron Carlisle Junior King, 17, who is jointly charged with Stoute, Cadogan, and Joseph for unlawfully wounding Steven Cadogan with intent on October 3. Phillips emphasized the gravity of the crimes, noting that Harris remains hospitalized, has lost vision in his left eye, and has undergone multiple surgeries. A firearm was allegedly used in the assault, and two other suspects remain at large. Phillips also cited concerns that the accused could interfere with the investigation if released. In the wounding case, a knife was allegedly used. Magistrate Burke, agreeing with the prosecution’s arguments, remanded the defendants to prison until December 15, stating that the court cannot condone such behavior. All accused, who were unrepresented, denied involvement in the offenses during their bail application.

Government schools and nurseries in Barbados reopened today, but the Ministry of Educational Transformation has advised parents to carefully assess the safety of sending their children to school due to ongoing flood risks in certain areas. The decision to resume classes on Tuesday was made after further consultations with the Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS). However, the Ministry acknowledged that some communities remain vulnerable following severe flooding on Sunday and may experience additional rainfall. In a statement released Monday evening, the Ministry emphasized, ‘We remain aware that some areas of Barbados may face further rain, and certain regions are still more susceptible due to recent flooding. We urge parents and guardians to use their discretion in determining whether it is safe or practical for their children to attend school under these conditions.’ Parents are encouraged to maintain communication with schools to inform principals and teachers of any difficulties, ensuring that students can keep up with their studies if they are unable to attend. The Ministry expressed its eagerness to welcome students and teachers back to the classroom and extended wishes for a swift recovery to those most affected by the weekend’s adverse weather. Schools had dismissed students early on Monday after the BMS elevated a flood watch to a flood warning.

The future of Barbados’ Transport Board has reignited public debate, raising critical questions about the kind of society the nation aspires to build. A proposal currently under consideration suggests the complete divestment of the Transport Board, severing all workers and offering them the opportunity to purchase buses at discounted rates. A newly established Mass Transit Authority would oversee regulation, with the government providing limited subsidies for electric bus charging and battery replacement.

On the surface, this plan appears innovative, aiming to reduce government expenditure while empowering workers through ownership. It could be viewed as a progressive step toward modernizing a system plagued by inefficiencies for decades. However, such a significant shift warrants a thorough examination of its implications.

For years, the Barbados Economic Recovery and Transformation (BERT) program has scrutinized state-owned enterprises (SOEs). Prior to 2018, SOEs received transfers equivalent to nearly 8% of GDP, placing a substantial strain on public finances. Consequently, the government has faced persistent pressure to cut subsidies, enhance management, and, where feasible, transition entities toward cost recovery or privatization.

The Transport Board, long criticized for its financial losses and inadequate fleet, has been a major fiscal concern. Yet, it is more than just a government-owned business. For countless Barbadians, it is a lifeline—ensuring children reach school, workers arrive on time, and the elderly remain connected. Public transport is not a luxury but a fundamental public good that sustains the economy and fosters social inclusion.

Thus, the proposed divestment cannot be evaluated solely in financial terms. While reform is undeniably necessary, the privatization of public transport under current economic conditions carries significant risks.

This proposal is part of a broader trend. The government’s plan to lease Grantley Adams International Airport for 25 to 30 years exemplifies its shift toward public-private partnerships. Over 50 SOEs are under review for reform, signaling a transformative redefinition of the government’s role.

Potential benefits of the Transport Board’s divestment include increased efficiency and reduced political interference. Reduced subsidies could free up resources for essential sectors like healthcare, education, and housing. However, the risks are equally, if not more, substantial.

First, financial risk poses a significant challenge. Electric buses are costly assets, and even the government has struggled with these expenses. Can former Transport Board workers, now entrepreneurs, manage such risks? Who will address breakdowns or cash flow issues?

Second, fairness and access are at stake. While some routes are profitable, many are not. Rural and low-income communities rely heavily on the Transport Board, as private operators often avoid unprofitable routes. If the system is fragmented into profit-driven owner-operators, how can Barbadians ensure reliable and affordable service? A regulator could help, but only if it wields real authority.

Public transport is integral to daily life, and Barbadians deserve transparency and accountability. What standards will operators meet? What rights will workers and passengers have? Major decisions must not be concealed in technical documents, only to surface amid controversy.

Reform is undeniably necessary, but it must be grounded in clear policy, public consultation, and a commitment to serving all Barbadians—not just profitable routes or vocal interests.

Barbados’ education authorities faced renewed criticism this week as flood warnings forced an early closure of schools across the island. The Ministry of Educational Transformation mandated that all schools dismiss students at 1 p.m. on Monday following a flood warning issued by the Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS). However, parent advocate Paula-Anne Moore argued that the decision came too late, given the severe flooding experienced the previous day and the dire weather forecast for Monday. Moore emphasized that earlier action could have mitigated risks for students, particularly those reliant on public transport. The island had been under a flood watch since Sunday, when torrential rains caused widespread damage, including waterlogged communities and damaged roads. The BMS upgraded the watch to a flood warning at 9:38 a.m. on Monday, predicting ‘heavy to intense showers’ and potential rainfall exceeding nine inches in some areas. Moore criticized the ministry for its delayed communication, stating that proactive decisions are crucial in such situations. She also questioned whether a national protocol exists to guide school closures during extreme weather events. The ministry has promised further updates on school reopenings based on BMS guidance, while urging the public to remain vigilant amid ongoing unstable weather conditions.