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  • New Zealand seize control after West Indies’ batting collapse

    New Zealand seize control after West Indies’ batting collapse

    New Zealand’s bowling attack, spearheaded by Jacob Duffy’s impressive five-wicket haul, dismantled the West Indies batting lineup on day two of the opening Test at Basin Reserve on Tuesday. The visitors collapsed to a meager 167 all out in response to New Zealand’s first innings total of 231, handing the hosts a commanding position with a 96-run overall lead.

    Despite resilient half-centuries from opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul (52) and Shai Hope (56), the West Indies innings unraveled dramatically after Hope’s dismissal. The Caribbean side lost their last seven wickets for just 61 runs in a display of clinical bowling from the Black Caps.

    Duffy emerged as the destruction chief with remarkable figures of 5-34, supported by Matt Henry’s 3-43 and contributions from debutant Zak Foulkes (2-32). The pace trio exploited the conditions effectively, with Henry triggering the collapse by removing captain Roston Chase and Justin Greaves for ducks in quick succession.

    New Zealand’s openers Devon Conway (15*) and Tom Latham (14*) navigated a potentially tricky 30-minute period before stumps with minimal discomfort, reaching 32 without loss against sometimes wayward West Indies bowling.

    The match situation positions New Zealand favorably to push for victory as the pitch continues to offer assistance to the bowlers, while the West Indies face an uphill battle to salvage the contest.

  • Students urged to reject stereotypes during disability rights session

    Students urged to reject stereotypes during disability rights session

    In a powerful address at Washington Archibald High School’s final assembly of 2025, renowned disability rights advocate Kerryann Ifill delivered a transformative message challenging students to reconsider their perceptions of persons with disabilities. The December 1st session, coordinated by the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Ageing, and Disabilities, coincided with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities observed annually on December 3rd.

    Ms. Ifill, a Barbadian disability consultant who lost her sight at age five, shared her remarkable journey of overcoming societal barriers to achieve academic and political excellence. Having graduated from the University of the West Indies, served as President of the Barbados Senate, and contributed to rewriting her nation’s constitution, she embodied the message that disability does not define capability.

    “People with disabilities are simply people,” Ifill asserted during her presentation. “They possess the same needs, interests, desires, and opportunities as anyone else—when given the chance.” She detailed her accomplishments as a teacher, conference speaker, and legislator, emphasizing that blindness never prevented her from achieving these milestones.

    The disability consultant provided practical guidance on appropriate interaction with individuals experiencing various disabilities, including vision, hearing, and speech impairments, plus those with physical, neurological, or psychosocial disabilities. She specifically encouraged rejecting stereotypes and avoiding discriminatory behaviors.

    Illustrating her point with a personal anecdote, Ifill described independently operating a sophisticated coffeemaker at her hotel, demonstrating the competence and self-reliance many disabled individuals develop. Her philosophy of perseverance resonated throughout the assembly: “When I am told I can’t, I prove people wrong and show them that I can.”

    Ifill concluded with a sobering statistic that captured the audience’s attention: approximately 15 percent of those present would experience disability during their lifetime. This reality, she emphasized, makes inclusive attitudes and accessibility concerns relevant to everyone.

    The presentation represented part of ongoing efforts by St. Kitts and Nevis to promote disability awareness and foster more inclusive communities through educational initiatives.

  • Caribbean Airlines flight restructuring eliminates Dominica – Puerto Rico route from T&T

    Caribbean Airlines flight restructuring eliminates Dominica – Puerto Rico route from T&T

    In a decisive move to bolster operational efficiency and financial sustainability, Caribbean Airlines has unveiled a major restructuring of its flight network. The state-owned carrier confirmed it will terminate services on four specific routes connecting Trinidad with Dominica and Puerto Rico, effective January 10, 2026.

    The routes slated for discontinuation are BW 292 (Trinidad – Barbados – Tortola – Puerto Rico), BW 293 (the return flight), BW 296 (Trinidad – Dominica – Puerto Rico), and BW 297 (its return leg). This initiative is a core component of the airline’s broader Network Optimization Programme, designed to enhance schedule reliability and sharpen its competitive edge in a challenging aviation market.

    Concurrently, the airline announced a strategic reorganization of its Barbados hub operations, scheduled for February 2026. This will involve the reallocation of aircraft and crew currently based in Barbados, with Trinidad becoming the primary operational center. The airline has committed to directly contacting all affected passengers with existing bookings for travel after the cutoff date to arrange full refunds or alternative solutions.

    Acting Chief Executive Officer Nirmala Ramai emphasized that these difficult decisions are foundational to the carrier’s long-term strategy. ‘These changes form a critical part of our plan to deliver reliable service while managing our resources responsibly,’ Ramai stated. ‘Our customers remain our priority, and these adjustments ensure we continue to provide strong regional connectivity, supported by a sustainable and competitive operational model.’ The restructuring reflects the airline’s focus on consolidating its network around the most viable and profitable corridors, ensuring its continued service to the Caribbean community.

  • Simons: Alleen onafhankelijke rechter kan oordeel vellen over Nederlandse AOW-uitkering

    Simons: Alleen onafhankelijke rechter kan oordeel vellen over Nederlandse AOW-uitkering

    Surinamese President Jennifer Simons has declared that only an independent judicial authority can resolve the longstanding controversy surrounding the Dutch General Old Age Pensions Act (AOW) and its exclusion of Surinamese citizens. During a Wednesday press conference, Simons characterized the Netherlands’ one-time €5,000 payment to Dutch residents as a “legal omission” requiring reassessment.

    The President emphasized that Suriname cannot demand equivalent payments for its citizens, stating that solely judicial proceedings can determine appropriate resolution. This response came following inquiries from Dennis Belfor, who is challenging the matter both politically and legally within Dutch systems.

    This complex legal dispute traces back to the 1956 legislation that originally granted AOW rights throughout the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The Dutch government subsequently issued a unilateral memorandum that effectively excluded Surinamese individuals—both in Suriname and the Netherlands—from receiving full or partial pension benefits.

    In 2023, the Netherlands offered a compensatory gesture: a single €5,000 payment to elderly Surinamese individuals who chose to retain Dutch citizenship before independence and relocated to the Netherlands. However, strict eligibility criteria have rendered many claimants ineligible. Requirements include residence in the Netherlands by November 25, 1975, being at least eighteen years old at time of relocation, and having lived in the Netherlands for minimum 25 years by July 1, 2024.

    These conditions have created what is now termed the “AOW gap,” disproportionately affecting those who were part of the Dutch Kingdom before independence as outlined in the original 1956 law. President Simons and many others contend that the Netherlands committed a judicial error that has systematically excluded thousands of pre-independence Dutch nationals from rightful pension benefits.

    Simons directly addressed Belfor during the conference: “Only legal proceedings can resolve this. If we were part of the Kingdom initially, we must pursue legal channels. However, the Dutch system has not ruled in your favor to date.”

  • Police detain Tommy Descartes on Election day amid vote buying allegations

    Police detain Tommy Descartes on Election day amid vote buying allegations

    In a dramatic development during Saint Lucia’s general elections, law enforcement officials confirmed the detention of United Workers Party (UWP) candidate Tommy Descartes on December 1. The incident occurred in the Castries South constituency following reports of alleged electoral misconduct.

    Police authorities disclosed that during their intervention, officers discovered approximately $30,000 in cash on Descartes’ person. The candidate was subsequently taken into custody for questioning regarding potential vote-buying activities. Despite the serious nature of the allegations, Descartes was released the same day pending further investigation, with authorities remaining tight-lipped about potential charges.

    The detained politician vehemently denied the accusations in a social media address delivered on December 3. Through an emotionally charged video published on his official Facebook platform, Descartes characterized the incident as a politically motivated fabrication orchestrated by opposing forces.

    “This constitutes nothing more than fabricated information,” Descartes asserted. “These tactics represent the Labour Party’s established methodology to undermine credible opposition candidates and create distrust toward the United Workers Party. If this episode signals what we should anticipate in the coming five years, our nation must prepare for extensive political persecution and intimidation campaigns.”

    The National Elections Commission has not issued an official statement regarding the incident, while international election observers continue monitoring the electoral process for irregularities. This development occurs amidst heightened political tensions in the Caribbean nation, where allegations of electoral misconduct have historically surfaced during closely contested elections.

  • Leo, Edward to lead Saint Lucia in U23 cricket against Dominica

    Leo, Edward to lead Saint Lucia in U23 cricket against Dominica

    Saint Lucia’s Under-23 men’s cricket team is poised for an intense bilateral showdown against Dominica, commencing Thursday, December 4th at Benjamin’s Park in Portsmouth. The touring squad will be captained by dual leadership: Windward Islands Volcanoes senior wicketkeeper Noelle Leo will command the one-day team, while former West Indies Under-19 allrounder Tarrique Edward takes charge of the three-day unit.

    The upcoming series features a competitive format of three 50-over matches followed by a three-day fixture, marking the second edition of this emerging regional rivalry. Saint Lucia enters as defending champions, having dominated the inaugural 2024 series with a 2-1 victory in the limited-overs contests and a comprehensive win in the three-day match.

    Team selection reflects Saint Lucia’s developing cricket pipeline, featuring numerous current and alumni members of the Saint Lucia Cricket High Performance Centre. The squad blends experience with emerging talent, including returning players Bolton Sayers, Windward Islands senior pacer Keon Gaston, Royce Paul, Lee John, Isiah Jones, Shawnil Edward, Jayden Elibox and Kensley Paul.

    New additions strengthening the roster include talented batsman Theo Edward, wicketkeeper Jonathan Daniel, Aaron Joseph, wily spinner Cody Lesmond, Kevin Gassie and Kethan Charlemagne. The team departed Saint Lucia on Wednesday, December 3rd under the guidance of head coach John Eugene, with former Windward Islands spinner Larry Edward serving as team manager.

    Match Schedule:
    – December 4: 50-over Match 1
    – December 5: 50-over Match 2
    – December 7: 50-over Match 3
    – December 9-11: 3-day Match

  • Four Antigua Resorts Nominated for USA TODAY’s Best All-Inclusive Caribbean Award

    Four Antigua Resorts Nominated for USA TODAY’s Best All-Inclusive Caribbean Award

    Antigua’s tourism sector receives significant recognition as four of its premier resorts secure nominations for the coveted USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards 2025. The distinguished properties—Royalton Antigua, Hermitage Bay, Galley Bay Resort and Spa, and Curtain Bluff—have all been shortlisted in the highly competitive ‘Best All-Inclusive Caribbean Resort’ category, reinforcing the island’s status as an elite Caribbean getaway destination.

    This annual awards program, administered by USA TODAY, celebrates exemplary achievements within the hospitality industry, with recipients determined exclusively through democratic public voting. The selection process underscores consumer preferences and satisfaction levels, making the nominations particularly meaningful for both the resorts and the destination as a whole.

    Antiguan tourism authorities have enthusiastically endorsed these nominations, interpreting them as validation of the island’s commitment to delivering superior service standards and exceptional accommodation experiences. The recognition serves as a powerful endorsement of Antigua’s competitive positioning within the luxury travel market.

    The voting window remains open until December 29, 2025, providing an opportunity for both local supporters and international visitors to participate in determining the ultimate winners. The 10Best awards platform encompasses comprehensive travel categories, evaluating everything from hotel excellence to destination attractions and unique experiential offerings across the global tourism landscape.

  • PHOTOS: Roadworks Underway in Willikies

    PHOTOS: Roadworks Underway in Willikies

    Transportation authorities in Willikies have issued a formal advisory to motorists as significant road infrastructure upgrades progress throughout the region. Construction crews are currently executing comprehensive improvements to the area’s roadway network, requiring temporary traffic modifications and reduced speed limits in active work zones.

    The ongoing enhancement initiative, part of a broader infrastructure development plan, aims to substantially improve road quality, safety standards, and transportation efficiency for residents and commercial vehicles alike. While specific completion timelines remain undisclosed, officials confirm the project has entered its most intensive phase of implementation.

    Commuters traversing the Willikies area are strongly encouraged to allocate additional travel time and maintain heightened awareness of changing traffic patterns. Alternative routes are recommended where feasible to minimize congestion delays. The transportation department emphasizes that all temporary inconveniences will yield long-term benefits through enhanced road safety and improved driving conditions upon project completion.

    Regular updates regarding traffic flow adjustments will be communicated through official government channels and local media outlets to keep the public informed of progress and any schedule modifications.

  • Dodging Dutch Disease: Targeting services in Guyana

    Dodging Dutch Disease: Targeting services in Guyana

    Guyana’s economic landscape has undergone a seismic transformation since its inaugural oil production in 2019, achieving a world-leading 43.6% real GDP expansion in 2024. While petroleum exports now dominate, constituting 88% of total domestic exports, traditional sectors including gold, rice, and bauxite continue to contribute significantly to non-oil export revenues.

    This unprecedented growth positions the South American nation among the globe’s most rapidly expanding economies. However, this petroleum-driven prosperity introduces complex challenges, notably the looming threat of ‘Dutch disease’—an economic phenomenon where resource wealth undermines competitiveness in non-extractive sectors. As a Small Island Developing State (SIDS), Guyana additionally confronts inherent vulnerabilities including commodity price volatility, constrained market scale, and rent-seeking behaviors.

    A pivotal 2023 World Trade Organization and World Bank collaborative study highlights services as accounting for half of global employment and two-thirds of worldwide GDP, surpassing combined agricultural and industrial outputs. In Guyana, both merchandise and services trade maintained positive correlation with GDP from 2005 to 2022. Notably, engineering and logistics services, predominantly oil-industry adjacent, expanded nearly fourteen-fold between 2005 and 2021.

    Paradoxically, Guyana sustains a substantial services trade deficit, exceeding US$4.4 billion in 2023, reflecting heavy dependence on imported high-value services for petroleum operations. Foreign direct investment patterns exacerbate this imbalance, with capital-intensive oil projects potentially crowding out domestic investment and creating limited local value addition.

    Economic diversification through services sector development emerges as the strategic imperative. High-productivity domains such as information and communication technology (ICT), professional services, and scientific technical services remain underdeveloped despite governmental initiatives including tuition-free education from nursery through university levels.

    Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) represent crucial agents for transformative growth, capable of driving innovation in tourism, digital services, and green finance. Policy recommendations include establishing specialized export development funds, providing low-interest financing, and creating incentives for high-value-added foreign direct investment that strengthens domestic enterprise capabilities.

    Institutional integrity enhancements through digital transparency portals and anti-corruption reforms are essential for equitable resource wealth distribution. Regionally, Guyana’s participation in multiple trade agreements—including accords with the European Union, Canada, Brazil, China, and Venezuela—provides frameworks for services trade expansion.

    The impending implementation of CARICOM’s free movement protocol offers professional mobility opportunities, though Guyana has requested a five-to-seven year adaptation period before full implementation. Tourism innovation presents particular promise, with proposals including transforming the decommissioned Demerara Harbour Bridge into a heritage attraction powered by renewable energy, simultaneously preserving history and advancing eco-tourism.

    Guyana stands at a critical economic juncture, where strategic investments in human capital, institutional governance, and entrepreneurial development could transform temporary resource wealth into sustainable, diversified prosperity for future generations.

  • Celia Roberts-Morgan named Coordinator for CHOGM 2026

    Celia Roberts-Morgan named Coordinator for CHOGM 2026

    The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has announced the strategic appointment of distinguished business consultant Celia Roberts-Morgan as Coordinator of the National Task Force for the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM). This significant appointment positions Roberts-Morgan at the helm of the CHOGM Secretariat, headquartered within the Ministry of Trade on Friar’s Hill Road.

    In her pivotal role, Roberts-Morgan will exercise executive oversight of multiple specialized sub-committees tasked with the comprehensive planning and execution of all summit-related events. Her extensive portfolio includes direct support for the committee organizing the prestigious CHOGM Business Forum, alongside other major ancillary gatherings such as the People’s Forum, the Women’s Forum, and the Youth Forum.

    The official announcement was made public on Tuesday during a Task Force assembly held at the American University of Antigua, where chairs of the various sub-committees presented detailed progress reports on the ongoing preparations.

    Roberts-Morgan brings a formidable portfolio of expertise to this high-stakes position. With over twenty years of dedicated experience in organizational effectiveness and public-sector transformation throughout the Caribbean region, she is a recognized authority in her field. She serves as the founder and principal consultant at Roberts & Associates, a firm renowned for advising national governments, leading financial institutions, and major hospitality enterprises on critical matters of governance, policy reform, and enhancing institutional performance.

    Expressing her commitment to the role, Roberts-Morgan stated she was ‘deeply honoured’ by the confidence bestowed upon her. She described the appointment as ‘a profound responsibility and a significant moment for our nation as we prepare to welcome the Commonwealth family,’ further pledging to ‘serve with integrity and dedication.’ She also emphasized her anticipation for collaborating with ‘national, regional, and international partners to ensure CHOGM 2026 reflects the very best of who we are.’

    The appointment has garnered strong endorsements from senior government officials, including Foreign Affairs Minister E.P. Chet Greene, Task Force Head Ambassador Dr. Clarence Pilgrim, and High Commissioner to the UK Karen-Mae Hill, who collectively extended their congratulations and wishes for her success in steering the nation towards a landmark event.