In a devastating turn of events, two men lost their lives in separate motorcycle accidents on Saturday, November 3, 2025, in the Cayo District and along the Hummingbird Highway. The incidents have raised concerns about road safety in the region.
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CARILEC to host Annual Occupational Health and Safety Symposium in Grenada
The Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation (CARILEC) has announced that its annual Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Symposium will take place at the Radisson Grenada Beach Resort from November 5 to 7, 2025. This prestigious event will convene safety professionals and disaster coordinators from electric utilities across the region to address emerging risks and innovative strategies in occupational health and safety, particularly within the energy sector. The 2025 symposium, themed “The Changing Landscape of Occupational Health and Safety,” will focus on two critical areas: Climate Change and Workforce Resilience, and Energy-Based Safety (EBS): A New Paradigm in Hazard Recognition. Attendees will explore the effects of climate change on workforce productivity and well-being, while also discussing practical approaches to developing climate-resilient safety systems. The EBS segment will emphasize identifying and mitigating high-energy hazards to prevent serious incidents. Dr. Cletus Bertin, CARILEC Executive Director, highlighted the symposium’s significance, stating, “As the energy sector navigates complex challenges like climate change and digital transformation, this event equips professionals to redefine safety culture and safeguard their most valuable asset: their people.” The symposium will feature panel discussions and interactive workshops, providing a platform for participants to exchange best practices and explore cutting-edge advancements in safety management. For further details, including the full agenda, visit www.carilec.org or email [email protected].
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OP-ED: Global green shipping plan left floating
The United Nations’ International Maritime Organization (IMO) Net-Zero Framework (NZF), designed to combat climate change through green shipping, faces significant hurdles due to economic and political resistance. Approved for circulation in April 2025, the framework aimed to establish global standards for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the shipping sector. However, its adoption was delayed in October 2025 due to opposition from key players, including the United States and Saudi Arabia. The U.S. labeled the initiative a ‘Global Green New Scam Tax,’ fearing increased shipping costs and economic repercussions. Saudi Arabia, a major petroleum exporter, proposed a one-year delay in voting, further stalling progress. The framework’s core elements—a global fuel standard and an economic measure—aim to reduce emissions through a carbon credit trading system. Ships exceeding emission limits would pay penalties, while low-emission vessels would earn credits. Despite its potential to drive sustainable shipping, concerns over rising consumer prices and the economic impact on oil-dependent nations have fueled resistance. Caribbean states, vulnerable to climate change but reliant on imports, abstained from voting, highlighting the complex balance between environmental and economic priorities. Economists emphasize the need to address both transition costs and the urgent realities of climate change. The pause in the NZF’s adoption underscores the challenges of aligning global climate efforts with diverse national interests. Moving forward, IMO members must work collaboratively to address concerns and advance a viable plan for reducing shipping emissions.
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Celebrating Grenadian greatness: King’s New Year’s Honours
Grenada’s Governor-General, Dame Cécile La Grenade, alongside the nation’s government, has proudly announced the recognition of several distinguished citizens in the 2025 King’s New Year’s Honours. These individuals have been celebrated for their exceptional contributions across various sectors, including public service, culture, education, sports, and community development. Their achievements have not only enriched Grenada’s national identity but also strengthened its communities. Among the honorees, Ruth Elizabeth Rouse was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her extensive public service and diplomatic career, which included roles as High Commissioner to the UK and Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organisation. Keith Emmanuel Richard Williams received the Member of the British Empire (MBE) for his three decades of dedication to Grenadian culture, education, and sports. Other notable recipients include Annie Lauretta Rush-Bain, recognized for her community service and leadership in local organizations, and Lyneth Ann Edwards, posthumously awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for her lifelong contributions to art and culture. These honours underscore Grenada’s commitment to excellence and national pride, inspiring future generations to serve their country and humanity with distinction.
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Murder in Corozal, Drug Related
Authorities in Corozal are probing a fatal shooting that occurred on Friday night, which is believed to be linked to drug-related activities. The victim, identified as Arnaldo Vellos, was gunned down near his residence in the Finca Solana area on October 31. Despite being rushed to the hospital for emergency treatment, Vellos succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter. Assistant Commissioner of Police Hilberto Romero, Head of the National Crime Investigation Branch, confirmed that the incident appears to be drug-related. According to Romero, the suspects, all residents of Corozal, are known to law enforcement. A manhunt has been launched to apprehend three individuals suspected of involvement in the murder. The investigation is still active as police work to uncover further details surrounding the case.
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Krijgsraad wil Rodney Cairo horen in strafzaak tegen Veira
In a significant development in the criminal case against Danielle Veira, former head of the Directorate of National Security (DNV), the President of the Military Court, Cynthia Valstein-Montnor, announced on Monday that she intends to hear Rodney Cairo, the aggrieved party in the case, at the next hearing. This decision follows the receipt of new information that necessitates Cairo’s testimony. The Military Court aims to expedite the witness examination to conclude the case before the year’s end. Initially, the prosecution’s closing argument by military auditor Romeo Rampersad was scheduled for Monday, but he requested a brief postponement due to the case’s complexity. This request was granted, and the prosecution will now present its closing argument on November 18. Veira is accused of ordering the abduction of military officer Cairo in April 2020. Veira claims that Cairo had been a ‘person of interest’ for years due to actions and statements that allegedly threatened national security. She denies any involvement in the abduction, stating, ‘I did not send anyone to Mr. Cairo. What happened in his home was a crime, and I was unaware of it, including the use of weapons; otherwise, I would have signed off on it. I only understood later what had occurred and that Cairo had been restrained.’ In an interview with DTV-Express, Cairo stated, ‘The only solution should be that one of us is removed, for Veira has started a war and must face the consequences.’ Veira’s defense team, comprising Derrick Veira and John Kraag, represented by Cedric Meijnaar, argues that Cairo’s statements could be interpreted as threats and believes he should be ‘thoroughly questioned.’
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Addressing trauma in the education system
The catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica on October 28, 2025, has left an indelible mark on the nation’s education system and the mental well-being of its citizens. With sustained winds of 298 km/h (185 mph), the hurricane surpassed the intensity of Hurricane Katrina, causing widespread destruction and claiming 28 lives, with many still missing. The aftermath has forced numerous schools to remain closed for the remainder of the academic year, exacerbating an already fragile education system. Prior to the disaster, Jamaica’s schools were grappling with underfunding, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of focus on mental health. The hurricane has further exposed these vulnerabilities, leaving students and teachers to face collective trauma. Many schools in South Western Jamaica, including parishes like Westmoreland and St. Elizabeth, remain without electricity and internet, rendering virtual learning impossible. The loss of essential school supplies and educational gadgets, such as laptops and tablets, has disproportionately affected students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. To mitigate the disruption, experts are advocating for an abridged curriculum that prioritizes essential learning outcomes while addressing the psychosocial needs of students and teachers. Mental health support, including art therapy, drama, and counseling, is crucial to help individuals cope with the trauma. The World Bank has warned that the long-term consequences of school closures will be felt for decades, emphasizing the need for immediate action to rebuild and strengthen Jamaica’s education system.
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LIVE: National Day Observance Ceremony 2025
In a groundbreaking development, a new AI technology has emerged, promising to redefine the way we interact with digital platforms. This innovative system, showcased in a recent demonstration, leverages advanced algorithms to enhance user experience and streamline digital processes. The technology, which has been in development for several years, is now ready for public release, marking a significant milestone in the field of artificial intelligence. Experts believe that this breakthrough will not only improve efficiency but also open up new possibilities for digital innovation. The demonstration, which included a series of interactive features, highlighted the system’s ability to adapt to user needs in real-time, offering a glimpse into the future of digital interaction. As the technology becomes more widely available, it is expected to have a profound impact on various industries, from e-commerce to social media, and beyond.
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Saint Lucia to establish Maritime Authority amid wide sector reforms
Saint Lucia is poised to establish a National Maritime Authority, a significant step aimed at separating regulatory oversight from port operations and modernizing the nation’s maritime governance framework. The announcement was made during a Maritime Symposium hosted by the Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA), where officials unveiled a series of reforms designed to enhance safety, professional standards, and international compliance. Lorraine Matthew, Permanent Secretary of the Department of Infrastructure, Ports and Transport, emphasized that the reform, led by a Cabinet-appointed committee chaired by her office, will eliminate conflicts of interest and ensure a modernized transport governance structure. The symposium served as a critical platform for dialogue, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss emerging opportunities and strategies to advance the maritime industry. Among the initiatives highlighted was the National Demarcation Programme, which aims to improve safety and spatial management along Saint Lucia’s coastline. Matthew noted that all equipment has been procured, technical training finalized, and contractor selection is underway, with Rodney Bay chosen as the first site due to its high marine activity density. Additional reforms include licensing and certification upgrades, streamlined vessel concessions, and enhanced safety and environmental measures. Internationally, Saint Lucia reaffirmed its support for the High Seas Treaty, a vital tool for global cooperation in biodiversity conservation. Domestically, the country is modernizing its maritime legislative framework through measures such as finalizing the Open Ship Registry Framework and enacting the Marine Pollution Bill. These reforms collectively strengthen Saint Lucia’s compliance with international conventions and reinforce its position as a responsible maritime sector.
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Commonwealth Secretary-General and Secretariat Team Arrive in Antigua and Barbuda
The Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt. Hon. Shirley Botchwey, along with senior officials from the Commonwealth Secretariat, has arrived in Antigua and Barbuda to kickstart preparations for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026. The delegation was warmly welcomed at the V.C. Bird International Airport by His Excellency Dr. Clarence Pilgrim, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Mrs. Ann-Marie Layne, Director General of Foreign Affairs, representing Prime Minister Hon. Gaston Browne and Foreign Minister Hon. E.P. Chet Greene. Her Excellency Karen-Mae Hill, High Commissioner of Antigua and Barbuda to the United Kingdom, also extended a warm greeting to the visiting team. This visit marks the beginning of a week-long series of official engagements, including the launch of CHOGM 2026 and meetings with the CHOGM 2026 Task Force to assess progress. Secretary-General Botchwey expressed her enthusiasm, stating, ‘Antigua and Barbuda embodies the warmth, resilience, and partnership that define the Commonwealth. I look forward to collaborating with leaders, youth, and communities to ensure CHOGM 2026 delivers real impact and shared prosperity across our 56 member states.’ The visit coincides with Antigua and Barbuda’s Independence Anniversary, highlighting the enduring partnership between the Commonwealth and its member states. Dr. Pilgrim emphasized the significance of hosting such a prestigious event, while Mrs. Layne reaffirmed the government’s commitment to making CHOGM 2026 historic and impactful. High Commissioner Hill echoed these sentiments, underscoring the nation’s readiness to lead and collaborate on global issues.