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  • Repatriation operations Meeting with Haiti: Migration officials assure that the human rights of immigrants are respected

    Repatriation operations Meeting with Haiti: Migration officials assure that the human rights of immigrants are respected

    In a significant diplomatic engagement, Vice Admiral Luis Rafael Lee Ballester, Director General of Migration (DGM), convened high-level discussions with consular officials from the Haitian Embassy. The meeting, attended by intelligence and migration control directors, focused on operational protocols governing migrant interdiction and detention center management.

    Minister Counselor Ralph Giraldo Raphael led the Haitian delegation during talks that centered on the strict application of General Migration Law 285-04 and its implementing regulations. Vice Admiral Lee Ballester provided comprehensive assurances that all migration operations are conducted within this legal framework, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to procedural compliance.

    The migration authority chief reiterated that DGM personnel, along with supporting military and police forces, consistently prioritize the protection of human rights for immigrants in irregular status. He further expressed the DGM’s readiness to maintain ongoing dialogue and bilateral cooperation with Haitian authorities on matters within the institution’s jurisdiction.

    Addressing the broader regional context, officials highlighted the Dominican Republic’s critical role in ensuring effective and transparent immigration controls aligned with national, bilateral, and international agreements. This discussion occurred against the backdrop of projected record deportation numbers for 2025, following directives from the National Security Council.

    Operational details revealed that repatriation processes continue through established border crossings at Dajabón, Elías Piña, Jimaní, and Pedernales during regular operating hours. These procedures involve coordinated efforts between DGM Migration Control personnel, Dominican armed forces, and state security agencies to ensure orderly transfers to Haitian authorities.

    The Haitian delegation included Dr. Hipólito Dolis from Legal and Immigration Affairs, Consul General Stephen Junior Cherefant based in Santiago de los Caballeros, Consul Fito Zephieren, and Vice Consul Marie Danielle Lundi. The DGM was represented by General Pilot Juan Carlos Vicente Pérez and Colonel Manuel de Jesús Carrasco Guerrero.

  • Early voting begins for sick and shut-ins, special services

    Early voting begins for sick and shut-ins, special services

    Saint Lucia implemented comprehensive early voting measures on Friday to guarantee democratic participation for all eligible citizens ahead of Monday’s general election. Electoral Department teams initiated special mobile voting services at major healthcare facilities including OKEU Hospital, Tapion Hospital, and St. Jude Hospital, alongside registered elderly care homes. The operation commenced at 6:30 a.m. and continued through 6:00 p.m., extending voting accessibility to bedridden patients and guardians of children in pediatric wards.

    Election officials specified that qualification for this special voting process required individuals to be both mentally competent and confined to bed since before December 1. The Electoral Department attributed the successful implementation to extensive preliminary preparations and collaborative efforts with facility administrators, reporting minimal operational challenges.

    Concurrently, members of essential services including police, fire, and correctional officers commenced their voting process on Friday morning. Designated polling stations were established at strategic locations: Gros Islet Fire Station in the North, Police Training School in Castries, Vieux Fort Divisional Headquarters, and Soufriere Fire Station.

    Voting patterns varied across locations, with Soufriere experiencing initially sluggish turnout that gradually intensified toward midday. Despite most officers maintaining discretion regarding their electoral choices, external observations confirmed the process remained orderly throughout. All participants from both voting groups were mandated to present valid identification documents such as passports, National IDs, or driver’s licenses to exercise their franchise.

  • UDP Convention Nears as Three-Way Battle for Chairman Overshadows Leadership Endorsement

    UDP Convention Nears as Three-Way Battle for Chairman Overshadows Leadership Endorsement

    As the United Democratic Party approaches its pivotal national convention this Sunday, an intense three-way competition for the chairmanship has unexpectedly become the central focus, diverting attention from what was meant to be a ceremonial endorsement of pre-determined leadership positions.

    Acting Chairman Alberto August confirmed the uncontested nature of several key leadership roles, with Tracy Panton set to be formally endorsed as party leader, alongside Hugo Patt as first deputy leader and Miguel Guerra as second deputy leader. These appointments were previously settled through internal party negotiations.

    The convention proceedings will commence with delegate registration at 9 a.m., followed by the formal program at 10 a.m. August emphasized the initial requirement to establish a quorum before proceeding with voting procedures and ceremonial activities.

    However, the political drama unfolds in the contested chairmanship race featuring Roosevelt Blades, Sheena Pitts, and John Saldivar. This triangular contest has revealed significant factional divisions within the party structure. Pitts enjoys the support of incoming leader Tracy Panton, while Blades carries the endorsement of Lee Mark Chang, a prominent financier from Mesopotamia. Despite previous controversies, Saldivar maintains strong backing from the northern caucus and Deputy Leader Patt.

    The convention will also feature guest speaker Lady Kathy Esquivel, who accepted the party’s invitation to address attendees. The event’s underlying tension stems from the chairmanship battle potentially exposing internal fractures despite the party’s public commitment to unity.

  • LIVE: Official Launch of Dominica Carnival 2026

    LIVE: Official Launch of Dominica Carnival 2026

    A groundbreaking shift is underway in meteorological science as artificial intelligence demonstrates unprecedented capabilities in weather prediction. Google’s DeepMind has unveiled GraphCast, an advanced AI model that is setting new benchmarks for forecasting accuracy and efficiency across global weather patterns.

    This revolutionary technology represents a paradigm shift from conventional numerical weather prediction (NWP) methods that have dominated the field for decades. Unlike traditional systems that rely on complex physics-based computations, GraphCast utilizes machine learning to analyze vast historical weather datasets, identifying patterns and relationships that enable remarkably precise forecasts.

    The AI system has demonstrated superior performance in predicting severe weather events days in advance, including the precise tracking of hurricane paths and the intensity of atmospheric rivers. Meteorological agencies worldwide are taking notice of GraphCast’s ability to provide high-resolution, medium-range forecasts with significantly reduced computational requirements compared to established systems.

    Researchers emphasize that AI doesn’t replace traditional forecasting but complements it, creating a powerful synergy between physics-based modeling and data-driven machine learning approaches. The integration of AI technology allows meteorologists to process enormous datasets more efficiently, potentially providing earlier warnings for extreme weather events that threaten communities globally.

    This technological advancement comes at a critical juncture as climate change increases the frequency and intensity of extreme weather phenomena. The enhanced predictive capabilities offered by AI systems like GraphCast could prove instrumental in improving disaster preparedness and response strategies worldwide, potentially saving lives and reducing economic impacts of severe weather events.

    The rapid development of AI weather models signals a new era in meteorological science, where machine learning algorithms work alongside human expertise to create more reliable, detailed, and accessible weather forecasts for professionals and the public alike.

  • TAMCC auto maintenance students in training programme in China

    TAMCC auto maintenance students in training programme in China

    A delegation of seven automotive maintenance students from T A Marryshow Community College (TAMCC) has embarked on an international educational journey to Ningbo, China, marking a significant milestone in technical training collaboration between Grenada and China. The group, consisting of five male and two female students, departed on November 25, 2025, accompanied by Clement Commodore, Chair of the Mechanical Department (SAAT), and Norella De Gale-Philip, Co-Director of the Confucius Institute.

    The intensive training program, hosted at Yinzhou Vocational School from November 27 to December 7, 2025, represents the China Zhejiang (Ningbo)–Grenada Auto Maintenance Faculty Training initiative organized through Ningbo University of Technology. This bilateral educational partnership aims to enhance technical capabilities and knowledge exchange in automotive maintenance disciplines.

    This international program signifies a strategic investment in human resource development, providing Grenadian students with exposure to advanced automotive technologies and methodologies. The collaboration between TAMCC and Ningbo University of Technology establishes a framework for sustained technical education exchange, potentially creating pathways for future specialized training programs and faculty development initiatives.

    The initiative demonstrates the growing importance of international technical education partnerships in addressing skill development needs within specialized industries. By leveraging China’s expertise in vocational training and technological education, Grenadian participants are positioned to acquire contemporary automotive maintenance competencies that could significantly impact the local automotive industry’s technical standards and service quality.

  • Godwin Friday beëindigt tijdperk-Gonsalves

    Godwin Friday beëindigt tijdperk-Gonsalves

    In a landmark political transition, St. Vincent & the Grenadines has elected Godwin Friday as its new Prime Minister, marking the end of Ralph Gonsalves’ nearly quarter-century leadership. Friday’s New Democratic Party (NDP) secured a parliamentary majority, unseating the long-ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) in what represents one of the most significant power shifts in Caribbean politics.

    The electoral outcome signals a decisive public mandate for change after 25 years of continuous governance under Gonsalves. Friday, who has led a moderate yet determined opposition, campaigned on promises of improved governance, economic revitalization, and enhanced governmental transparency.

    In his victory address, Friday proclaimed “a new day for St. Vincent & the Grenadines” and expressed gratitude to citizens for their trust. The incoming leader emphasized his commitment to national unity and progressive reform.

    Outgoing Prime Minister Gonsalves has conceded defeat and extended congratulations to his successor, pledging cooperation to ensure an orderly transition of power. This gesture underscores the democratic maturity of the Eastern Caribbean nation.

    Friday is expected to assemble his cabinet in the coming days and initiate consultations with key stakeholders to establish governance priorities for his administration’s critical first 100 days. The political transformation in St. Vincent & the Grenadines represents both a domestic turning point and a notable development within the broader Caribbean political landscape.

  • Minister of Agriculture, Land, Fisheries and the Blue Economy, Hon. Anthony Smith Jr., Moves Swiftly to Address Agriculture Workers’ Concerns

    Minister of Agriculture, Land, Fisheries and the Blue Economy, Hon. Anthony Smith Jr., Moves Swiftly to Address Agriculture Workers’ Concerns

    ST. JOHN’S, ANTIGUA – In a decisive response to recent agricultural worker demonstrations, Minister of Agriculture, Land, Fisheries and the Blue Economy Anthony Smith Jr. has initiated urgent measures to address longstanding grievances within the sector. The Ministry’s rapid reaction follows Thursday’s organized labor actions that brought attention to systemic challenges facing agricultural workers.

    Contrary to circulating reports, Minister Smith did not disregard protesting staff members but instead immediately engaged with union representatives and senior officials upon learning of the situation. The Minister convened emergency meetings to accelerate resolution of ongoing concerns that had prompted the workforce action.

    Earlier on November 27, Minister Smith conducted comprehensive inspections at multiple agricultural facilities including the national abattoir, tractor division, and Greencastle operations. These first-hand assessments revealed that while compensation matters require extended budgetary consideration, numerous health, safety, and operational deficiencies could be remedied promptly.

    The Ministry has developed concrete plans featuring enhanced transportation systems and infrastructure modernization across all agricultural stations. Minister Smith characterized these improvements as both critically urgent and fundamentally necessary for workforce welfare.

    ‘Our dedicated staff rightfully expect safe, functional, and respectful working conditions, and our government is unequivocally committed to delivering these essentials,’ Minister Smith declared. ‘I treat every worker’s concerns with utmost seriousness, particularly those involving health and safety protocols. Our immediate response demonstrates our dedication to rapid action, transparent dialogue, and prioritizing staff welfare.’

    The Ministry has committed to maintaining open channels with both employees and union representatives to ensure collaborative problem-solving and timely implementation of solutions. A follow-up meeting will shortly be scheduled to provide workers with detailed timelines for improvement initiatives.

    The Ministry expressed gratitude for employees’ continued service and assured that substantive measures are already in motion to resolve persistent institutional concerns.

  • BEL Applies to Increase Rates to Cover Estimated $108M in Energy Costs

    BEL Applies to Increase Rates to Cover Estimated $108M in Energy Costs

    Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) has formally submitted an application to the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) requesting authorization to implement an average electricity price increase of 5.55 cents per kilowatt-hour, effective January 1, 2026.

    The utility company cites substantial financial pressures as the primary driver behind this proposed adjustment. BEL seeks to recover approximately BZ$87.5 million in accumulated energy expenditures incurred between July 2023 and October 2025. Additionally, the company anticipates requiring another BZ$20.9 million to cover projected costs through June 2026, bringing the total sought recovery to approximately BZ$108.4 million.

    Multiple factors contribute to these financial challenges, according to BEL’s filing. Seasonal demand surges during dry periods have necessitated increased reliance on higher-cost gas turbine generation. The company has also incurred expenses for temporary generation solutions and more expensive electricity imports from Mexico to meet national demand.

    Despite the proposed rate increase, BEL emphasizes that Belize’s electricity prices would remain among the most competitive in the region. The company asserts that even with this adjustment, Belize would maintain lower rates than most Caribbean and Central American nations.

    The Public Utilities Commission will now conduct a comprehensive review of BEL’s application, examining the justification for the requested increase and its potential impact on consumers. The regulatory body will evaluate the company’s cost recovery claims before rendering a final decision on the proposed rate adjustment.

  • High Turnout as Southern, Eastern Emergency Workers Cast Ballots

    High Turnout as Southern, Eastern Emergency Workers Cast Ballots

    Vieux Fort, Saint Lucia – A significant demonstration of civic participation unfolded Friday morning as special service personnel across southern Saint Lucia participated in early voting ahead of Monday’s general elections. Beginning promptly at 6 a.m., the Vieux Fort Police Divisional Headquarters operated two dedicated polling stations to accommodate police officers, port authorities, firefighters, and other first-response professionals.

    Despite the early hour, electoral officials reported steadily increasing traffic throughout the morning, with lines growing substantially by mid-morning. One anonymous police officer expressed surprise at the robust turnout, noting to St. Lucia Times: “The numbers are remarkably high based on my observations. Considering the early hour, we already have substantial participation, and I anticipate these numbers will continue to climb throughout the day.”

    The voting process, while orderly, presented some logistical challenges. The same officer revealed a nearly three-hour wait time, having entered the polling station shortly after 6 a.m. and exiting at 8:53 a.m. This extended processing time highlighted the constraints of operating only two polling stations for multiple constituencies, including Vieux Fort South, Vieux Fort North, Micoud South, Micoud North, Dennery South, and Laborie.

    Electoral staff addressed these concerns, explaining that Monday’s general election would feature significantly expanded polling capabilities. An election clerk stationed at the divisional headquarters clarified: “For the general elections, we will establish considerably more polling stations. While we’re experiencing some backup in lines today, Monday’s infrastructure will ensure smoother movement and substantially reduced waiting times, even with high voter turnout.”

    Personnel scheduled for duty on election day cast their ballots at the adjacent Vieux Fort Primary School, part of coordinated efforts to ensure all special service workers can exercise their democratic rights while maintaining essential services. The broader electorate is scheduled to participate in the electoral process on Monday, December 1, when the nation will select its next government.

  • The UWI Global Campus Antigua and Barbuda Celebrates Largest-Ever Cohort of Honour Roll Awardees

    The UWI Global Campus Antigua and Barbuda Celebrates Largest-Ever Cohort of Honour Roll Awardees

    ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA – The University of the West Indies (UWI) Global Campus marked a significant academic milestone during its third annual Honour Roll Ceremony on November 6, 2025. The event, attended by prominent figures including Senator Michael Joseph, celebrated unprecedented scholarly achievement across both undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

    This year’s ceremony established new institutional benchmarks with 83 students securing places on the prestigious Honour Roll – the largest cohort recognized since the ceremony’s inception. Demonstrating remarkable academic consistency, 35 exceptional students achieved this distinction in both Semester I and Semester II of the 2024-2025 academic year, representing 42% of all honourees.

    In a historic expansion of recognition criteria, postgraduate students received formal acknowledgement for the first time, highlighting their capacity to maintain academic excellence while navigating professional responsibilities and personal commitments. Campus leadership specifically praised these students for their multidimensional excellence.

    University officials commended all honourees for exemplifying resilience, intellectual discipline, and an unwavering commitment to educational excellence that defines the ideal UWI student. The ceremony also paid tribute to the families and support networks whose encouragement proved instrumental to student success.

    The proceedings concluded with a forward-looking perspective, emphasizing that academic achievement represents an ongoing journey rather than a final destination. Campus leadership extended congratulations to all recipients and expressed strong confidence in their future contributions to society and continued pursuit of excellence.