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  • Ministry Of Health Concludes Cervical Cancer Awareness Month With Church Service And Call To Empower Survivors

    Ministry Of Health Concludes Cervical Cancer Awareness Month With Church Service And Call To Empower Survivors

    The Ministry of Health, Wellness, Environment, and Civil Service Affairs has formally concluded Cervical Cancer Awareness Month with a spiritually significant ceremony at All Saints Pentecostal Kingdom Life Centre on February 1st. The event symbolized a unified national pledge toward enhancing prevention mechanisms, promoting early detection protocols, and fundamentally empowering those who have overcome the disease.

    Distinguished attendees included prominent faith leaders, healthcare experts, cervical cancer survivors, and key partners. The gathering featured Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph, Permanent Secretary Stacey Gregg-Paige, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Kamaria DeCastro, Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr. Teri-Ann Joseph, and Dr. Cherrie Tulloch, who leads the Cervical Cancer Elimination Task Force alongside her specialized team and additional senior technical personnel.

    In his keynote address, Minister Joseph expounded on the month’s thematic focus—”Empower the Survivors”—stressing that true empowerment must evolve from mere awareness into tangible national responsibility and decisive action. “Our assembly in this sacred space marks not just the conclusion of an awareness month, but a reaffirmation of our collective dedication to dignity, prevention, compassion, and the preservation of life,” he declared.

    Minister Joseph drew parallels to a biblical account from the Gospel of John, citing the transformation of the woman of Samaria following her encounter with Jesus. He emphasized how she transitioned from personal survival to public service, illustrating a powerful metaphor for patient advocacy. “Rather than retreating into silence, she returned to her community with a message of hope. This embodies the transformation from survival to purposeful service, from personal experience to influential leadership.”

    The Minister articulated that this narrative aligns with the Ministry’s public health strategy, positioning survivors as essential collaborators in prevention, education, and systemic transformation. “Survivors are not passive recipients of care; they are active partners whose voices diminish stigma, whose narratives enhance awareness, whose visibility promotes screening, and whose leadership safeguards future generations,” he affirmed.

    He further elaborated that empowering survivors constitutes a strategic imperative that reinforces prevention infrastructures, facilitates early detection, and cultivates trust in healthcare services. The Ministry recommitted to expanding access to HPV vaccination, enhancing screening and diagnostic capabilities, ensuring equitable treatment options, delivering comprehensive survivor support, and upholding dignity throughout healthcare experiences.

    “No woman should endure a preventable disease, no family should suffer loss due to delayed detection, and no survivor should navigate post-treatment life without adequate support,” Minister Joseph asserted.

    In closing, he issued a compelling appeal for collaborative engagement across religious institutions, communities, and the nation to eliminate cervical cancer as a public health threat and to recognize survivors as indispensable partners in forging a healthier future. The Ministry continues to urge women and girls to utilize screening services and HPV vaccinations available at public health clinics nationwide, reinforcing the national strategy toward cervical cancer elimination.

  • Nine calypsonians advance to 2026 grand finals

    Nine calypsonians advance to 2026 grand finals

    A dynamic ensemble of nine calypsonians has officially clinched their positions in the highly anticipated Calypso Finals, setting the scene for a spectacular musical confrontation on February 14th at Windsor Park Sports Stadium. The selection process culminated during intense quarterfinal bouts held on Saturday, January 31st at the same venue, where performers competed for judicial approval and a coveted spot in the championship round.

    The elite roster of artists advancing to compete for the monarch title includes Abiyah, Nacheal, Karessa, Jaydee, Daddy Chess, Tasha P, Redz, The Bobb, and Checker. This diverse group of musical talents will face the formidable challenge of dethroning the reigning calypso sovereign, Joy Stoute, in what promises to be a memorable Valentine’s Day extravaganza.

    Adding strategic depth to the competition framework, event organizers have designated three reserve performers: De Web, Calpha P, and Observer. These designated substitutes stand ready to seamlessly enter the competition should any primary finalist encounter unforeseen circumstances preventing their participation.

    The upcoming finals represent not merely a competition but a celebration of cultural expression through calypso music, combining artistic excellence with competitive spirit. This event continues the rich tradition of calypso championships that serve as both entertainment and social commentary within the community.

  • LETTER: Treatment of my mother—an older woman with medical conditions—at the St. John’s Police Station

    LETTER: Treatment of my mother—an older woman with medical conditions—at the St. John’s Police Station

    A disturbing account of alleged police misconduct and medical neglect has emerged from St. John’s, Antigua, where an elderly woman with chronic health conditions was reportedly detained without explanation or access to vital medication. The incident, described by her daughter in a public statement, raises urgent questions about police accountability and human rights protections.

    The situation began when the daughter received an abrupt call from Officer Quinland stating her mother was ‘locked up’ and would remain detained until Monday without specification of charges. When questioned about the legal grounds for detention, the officer reportedly refused to provide any explanation while offering limited visiting hours later that afternoon.

    Upon arriving at St. John’s Police Station seeking clarification, the daughter encountered further hostility. After explaining she couldn’t speak loudly due to a recent tooth extraction, an officer responded with aggression, accusing her of attempting to intimidate staff and outright refusing assistance.

    According to the victim’s testimony, she was approached in town by a plainclothes officer who instructed her to come to the station. When she questioned why she was being held without committing any offense, an officer declared her ‘out of order’ and threatened remand. The situation escalated when another officer allegedly shouted ‘Lock them up!’ after the woman suggested he shouldn’t let power go to his head.

    The detainee reported particularly aggressive behavior from a female Dominican officer, potentially motivated by a previous dispute with the victim’s friend. Most critically, the medically vulnerable woman was held for hours in unsanitary conditions without access to daily essential medication, potentially endangering her health.

    Despite eventually being released, no officer including the arresting personnel could provide a legal justification for the detention. One officer admitted to ‘only following instructions’ without knowledge of any alleged offense. When family members expressed concerns about medical risks, officers responded dismissively that ‘she shouldn’t do things to get locked up.’

    This case highlights concerning patterns of authority abuse within law enforcement and underscores the urgent need for systemic reform, transparency mechanisms, and accountability measures to prevent such incidents from recurring.

  • U.S. announces tariffs against countries supplying oil to Cuba, island’s gov’t responds

    U.S. announces tariffs against countries supplying oil to Cuba, island’s gov’t responds

    In a significant escalation of bilateral tensions, U.S. President Donald Trump issued an executive order on January 29, 2026, declaring a national emergency and identifying Cuba as an “unusual and extraordinary threat” to American national security. The presidential directive accused Havana of aligning with hostile nations and terrorist organizations including Russia, China, Iran, Hamas, and Hezbollah, alleging actions detrimental to U.S. interests.

    The declaration serves as legal foundation for implementing trade tariffs effective January 30, 2026, targeting any foreign government supplying petroleum products to Cuba either directly or indirectly. President Trump asserted that “the tariff system is necessary and appropriate to address the national emergency declared in this order.”

    Cuba’s Revolutionary Government responded with forceful condemnation, characterizing the measures as an unjustified aggression designed to impose a total fuel blockade. Official statements denounced the executive order as violating international law and undermining regional stability, particularly the Proclamation of Latin America and the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace.

    Havana dismissed U.S. security concerns as fabricated narratives, stating: “The President himself and his government are aware that no one, or very few, can believe such mendacious arguments.” Cuban authorities framed the action as continuation of six-decade efforts to undermine Cuba’s sovereign political process, emphasizing their commitment to peaceful international relations.

    The Caribbean nation affirmed its resilience against economic coercion, stating imperialist actions would not break the people’s determination. The government concluded its response with a defiant declaration: “We will face this new attack with firmness, equanimity, and the certainty that reason is absolutely on our side. The decision is one: Homeland or Death, We Shall Overcome!”

  • Paus Leo dringt aan op oprechte dialoog tussen VS en Cuba

    Paus Leo dringt aan op oprechte dialoog tussen VS en Cuba

    Pope Leo XIV has expressed profound concern regarding the deteriorating relations between the United States and Cuba, calling for genuine diplomatic engagement to prevent further humanitarian consequences. The pontiff’s remarks came during his weekly Angelus prayer at St. Peter’s Square, where he endorsed the Cuban bishops’ appeal for constructive dialogue between the nations.

    The Vatican’s intervention follows President Donald Trump’s recent announcement of impending import tariffs on countries supplying oil to Cuba. This economic measure represents Washington’s latest effort to intensify pressure on the Cuban regime, particularly following the January ousting of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, Cuba’s principal regional ally.

    President Trump justified the tariff threat as essential to “protect U.S. national security and foreign policy interests against the malicious actions and policies of the Cuban regime.” The president previously predicted Cuba’s imminent collapse, noting that Venezuela—historically the island’s primary oil supplier—had ceased both petroleum exports and financial support to Havana.

    Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez characterized the U.S. measures as constituting an “international emergency,” describing them as an “unusual and extraordinary threat” to Cuba’s stability. Meanwhile, aboard Air Force One en route to Florida, President Trump reiterated his call for negotiations with Cuba, asserting that “it doesn’t have to be a humanitarian crisis.”

    The geopolitical tension marks a significant reversal from the brief period of détente experienced during the Obama administration, returning to the historically strained relations that have characterized most of the six-decade-long standoff between the two nations.

  • BLP unveils new initiative to improve City housing

    BLP unveils new initiative to improve City housing

    Barbados has unveiled a comprehensive urban regeneration initiative designed to dramatically improve living conditions for Bridgetown residents through strategic infilling and housing development programs. The ambitious plan, announced during the Barbados Labour Party’s manifesto launch at Golden Square Freedom Park, targets the relocation of citizens from substandard accommodations while optimizing the use of vacant urban plots.

    Michael Lashley, BLP candidate for the City, articulated a resident-centered approach to urban development, emphasizing the government’s commitment to addressing Bridgetown’s housing challenges. “I recognize the quality of the housing stock, the fact that people are living in dilapidated conditions,” Lashley stated, acknowledging the urgent need for intervention.

    The program identifies four critical housing categories requiring tailored policy solutions: squatters, renters, individuals without title deeds, and those facing imminent eviction. “We have too many people living at the whims and fancies of landlords,” Lashley noted. “There are people living in rooms. That is not the Barbados we want.”

    Key components of the initiative include the construction of 84 housing units at Mason Hall Street specifically earmarked for city residents. The program also prioritizes title transfer reforms, with a vesting bill currently before Parliament to simplify property ownership processes for urban dwellers.

    Financial mechanisms supporting the transformation include significant contributions from development projects. The Exim Bank has committed $7 million to a fund dedicated to enhancing social and physical infrastructure, while developers of the Hyatt project have pledged an additional $2 million toward urban improvement efforts.

    Beyond physical infrastructure, the initiative encompasses employment generation programs targeting youth empowerment through improved lighting, sanitation, garbage collection, and drainage systems. Lashley specifically highlighted plans to create meaningful opportunities for young men and women, rejecting negative characterizations of urban communities.

    “The government has committed itself to building community projects so young men and women can showcase their skills, attend lessons and engage in positive programs,” Lashley affirmed, challenging the stigmatization of urban areas.

    The comprehensive approach leverages amendments to the Town and Country Planning Act (2019), which mandates developer contributions to an Urban Transformation Fund, ensuring sustained investment in Bridgetown’s revitalization.

  • Fransen met zoekactie bezig na bootongeluk Marowijnerivier

    Fransen met zoekactie bezig na bootongeluk Marowijnerivier

    A large-scale search and rescue operation continues along the Marowijne River near Grand-Santi following Sunday’s tragic boat capsizing that left four educators missing. The incident occurred when the vessel experienced engine failure and began taking on water before ultimately sinking.

    According to Mayor Félix Dada, the mechanical failure caused gradual flooding of the craft, leading to its submersion. Seven individuals, including the captain, were aboard at the time of the accident. These survivors were successfully rescued and have received medical treatment at Grand-Santi’s health and prevention center.

    The search efforts, involving approximately forty personnel from multiple emergency services, were temporarily suspended at nightfall Saturday but resumed at first light Sunday. The operation employs both helicopter surveillance and watercraft in a comprehensive effort to locate the missing teachers.

    The French Guiana prefecture has deployed specialized divers from the gendarmerie, fire department, and French armed forces. Regional military command has been notified of the developing situation, though specific details remain limited.

    Psychological support services have been provided to family members and other directly affected individuals since Saturday evening as the search continues without resolution.

  • Mottley outlines cash credits, tax measures to ease household costs

    Mottley outlines cash credits, tax measures to ease household costs

    Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s Barbados Labour Party has unveiled an innovative economic relief strategy focused on direct cash transfers and tax credits rather than sweeping VAT reductions. The policy framework, presented during the party’s manifesto launch at Golden Square, represents a deliberate departure from conventional tax-cutting approaches favored by opposition parties.

    The governing party’s plan introduces multiple targeted interventions: low-income households earning below $2,080 monthly will receive increased reverse tax credits of $1,700 annually, up from the previous $1,300. A newly created $750 credit will support middle-income earners making between $2,080 and $2,900 monthly—a demographic previously excluded from such benefits.

    For pensioners, the administration proposes dramatically increasing the tax-free allowance from $50,000 to $75,000. Additionally, all pensioners, welfare recipients, and special needs grant beneficiaries will receive direct cash payments of $1,200 annually, addressable through flexible distribution schedules.

    The government’s approach specifically counters opposition proposals to reduce VAT from 17.5% to 15%. Prime Minister Mottley characterized such blanket reductions as fiscally irresponsible, arguing that merchants might not pass savings to consumers while simultaneously creating budget shortfalls. Economic experts including Central Bank Governor Dr. Kevin Greenidge and Professor Troy Lorde have endorsed targeted approaches, warning that broad VAT cuts could undermine Barbados’ hard-won fiscal stability.

    The relief measures, costed at approximately $142 million for pensioner benefits alone, form part of a comprehensive economic strategy building on policies implemented since 2018. The government emphasizes that these initiatives represent measurable, accountable commitments rather than theoretical economic adjustments.

  • Bill, Hillary Clinton to testify in US House Epstein probe

    Bill, Hillary Clinton to testify in US House Epstein probe

    WASHINGTON—Former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton will provide testimony before a congressional committee investigating the handling of investigations into Jeffrey Epstein, according to a spokesperson for the former first couple. This development comes as House Republicans had been preparing contempt resolutions against the Clintons for initially refusing to comply with subpoenas.

    The bipartisan House investigation examines how authorities previously handled cases involving the convicted sex offender, whose extensive connections with global business and political figures have created ongoing political ramifications. The Clintons had previously challenged the validity of the subpoenas, arguing they lacked clear legislative purpose, and instead submitted sworn written statements regarding their limited associations with Epstein.

    Angel Urena, spokesperson for Bill Clinton, stated on social media platform X: ‘The former President and former Secretary of State will be there. They look forward to setting a precedent that applies to everyone.’

    The Epstein case continues to generate significant political tensions in Washington, with Democrats alleging the investigation is being weaponized to target political opponents of former President Donald Trump—who himself had documented associations with Epstein but has not been called to testify. Trump had previously attempted to block the disclosure of investigative files related to Epstein for several months.

    In their submitted statements, Bill Clinton acknowledged using Epstein’s aircraft for Clinton Foundation humanitarian missions during the early 2000s but denied visiting Epstein’s private island. Hillary Clinton stated she had no meaningful interactions with Epstein and never traveled on his aircraft or to his properties.

    The resolution of this testimony dispute prevents a potential Democratic Party rift that might have emerged during contempt proceedings, as some Democrats believe no one should be immune from scrutiny regarding Epstein’s crimes, while others viewed the Republican effort as primarily partisan.

    The Justice Department recently released what it described as the final batch of documents related to the Epstein investigation, though the political implications continue to reverberate through Washington.

  • US wants St Lucia to ban nationals from studying medicine in Cuba, says PM

    US wants St Lucia to ban nationals from studying medicine in Cuba, says PM

    CASTRIES, St. Lucia – Prime Minister Phillip J. Pierre has revealed that the United States government has formally requested that St. Lucia cease sending its nationals to Cuba for medical training, creating a significant diplomatic and public health challenge for the Caribbean nation. The announcement was made during the second World Congress on Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities held in St. Lucia over the weekend.

    Prime Minister Pierre characterized the US directive as a ‘major problem,’ emphasizing that a substantial portion of the country’s medical professionals received their education in Cuba. ‘Many of our doctors got trained in Cuba and now the great United States has said we can’t do that any longer,’ Pierre stated, adding that the policy also affects Cuban medical personnel working in St. Lucia.

    The Prime Minister identified geopolitical pressures from Washington as the primary driver behind this unprecedented policy shift, which he warned would exacerbate strains on the nation’s healthcare infrastructure. Pierre appealed to the diaspora and local innovation initiatives to help mitigate the impact of these developing challenges.

    This diplomatic development follows recent statements from the US Embassy in Barbados, which has intensified its criticism of Cuba’s medical missions program. US officials have condemned what they characterize as a system of ‘coercion and abuse,’ alleging that Cuban medical workers face withheld wages, confiscated passports, forced family separation, and excessive working hours under dangerous conditions.

    Washington has further escalated its rhetoric, describing the program as ‘forced labor’ that treats medical professionals ‘as commodities rather than human beings.’ The US government has committed to exposing what it terms injustices within Cuba’s medical export scheme and called for its termination.

    Despite these challenges, Congress Chair Sir Cato Laurencin, a US-based orthopedic surgeon and academic, suggested that St. Lucia possesses alternative options to address its medical training needs, though specific alternatives were not detailed in the proceedings.