St Ann’s East MP Dr Nyan Gadsby-Dolly has publicly criticized Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar for what she described as a violent threat directed at Diego Martin North/East MP Colm Imbert during a House of Representatives session on November 21. Gadsby-Dolly, a former education minister, called for an immediate apology from the Prime Minister, emphasizing the inappropriateness of such behavior from a national leader. In a video from the session, Persad-Bissessar is heard saying, ‘Don’t point at me,’ followed by a comment that was obscured by loud reactions from government MPs. Gadsby-Dolly expressed her disappointment in a Facebook post, stating that the Prime Minister’s conduct was embarrassing and set a poor example for young women and aspiring female politicians. She accused Persad-Bissessar of threatening to ‘cuff down’ Imbert, a statement made in full view of the Parliament. Gadsby-Dolly stressed that this incident transcends party politics and warned that such language sows seeds of violence. She questioned how the Prime Minister could advocate for non-violence among students while engaging in such behavior. The PNM’s Women’s League echoed these concerns, urging Persad-Bissessar to reflect on the impact of her words and the example they set for the nation. This incident follows a previous controversy involving then-energy minister Stuart Young, who apologized for disparaging remarks made about Persad-Bissessar and other UNC MPs during a House meeting last October.
博客
-
Regional development banks launch debt-for-resilience initiative at COP30
In a landmark move to enhance disaster resilience and alleviate debt burdens, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), CAF – Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean, and the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) have unveiled the Caribbean Multi-Guarantor Debt-for-Resilience Joint Initiative. Announced during COP30, this regional program aims to leverage guarantees from multilateral development banks (MDBs) and private sector partners to create fiscal space for Caribbean nations, enabling investments in resilience measures without escalating debt levels. The initiative focuses on three core objectives: scaling up debt-for-resilience swaps, strengthening coordination among MDBs, governments, and private sector partners, and improving transparency and monitoring standards to attract further investment. A dedicated facility under a Framework Agreement will be established to coordinate guarantors in debt-for-resilience swap transactions, ensuring alignment with national development priorities and sovereign debt management strategies. The initiative also plans to develop common principles for guarantee terms, shared taxonomies, and key performance indicators (KPIs) for resilience investments, aligned with global benchmarks. By simplifying multi-guarantor debt swaps, the program aims to attract new guarantors, reduce costs, and accelerate execution. Each transaction will include a regional public-goods component to bolster collective resilience across the Caribbean. The IDB, CAF, and CDB, with their extensive experience in sustainable development and regional integration, are well-positioned to drive this transformative initiative.
-
Israel kills at least 28 Palestinians in wave of Gaza ‘ceasefire’ attacks
In a significant escalation of violence, at least 28 Palestinians have been killed in a series of Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip, according to medical sources cited by Al Jazeera. This marks one of the most severe breaches of the US-brokered ceasefire that took effect last month. The Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza reported that 77 others were wounded in the bombardment, with the toll expected to rise. The strikes targeted key areas, including southern Gaza’s al-Mawasi region, a junction in eastern Gaza City’s Shujayea district, and a building in the Zeitoun neighborhood, where an entire family was among the victims. Al Jazeera’s Hani Mahmoud described the attacks as intensifying panic across Gaza, where daily horrors persist despite the ceasefire. Israel justified the strikes as a response to alleged fire on its troops in Khan Younis, a claim Hamas dismissed as a pretext for further violence. The Palestinian group accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of seeking to resume a ‘genocide’ against Palestinians. Meanwhile, tensions flared in Lebanon following Israeli bombings of a Palestinian refugee camp, killing over a dozen people. The violence coincides with the UN Security Council’s recent resolution endorsing a US-backed peace plan for Gaza, which Hamas and other Palestinian factions have rejected, calling it a threat to Palestinian self-determination. Critics argue that Israel’s repeated violations of the ceasefire—totaling at least 393 incidents since October 10—undermine international efforts for peace. Khaled Elgindy of the Quincy Institute warned that without US enforcement, the ceasefire risks becoming a facade for continued war.
-
Kalia Wyllie awarded BOSVG Netball Scholarship
Kalia Wyllie, a standout graduate of St. Vincent Girls’ High School, has been named the 2025 recipient of the BOSVG Netball Scholarship. Wyllie, who captained her school’s championship team during the 2024 Schools’ Netball Tournament, has consistently demonstrated exceptional talent and leadership in the sport. Her achievements were further recognized at the school’s 2025 graduation ceremony, where she was honored as the Most Outstanding Netballer. Additionally, she was awarded the title of Most Promising Player at the conclusion of the 2025 BOSVG National Netball Tournament and was selected to represent St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the 2025 Windward Island School Games. Beyond her athletic prowess, Wyllie’s academic excellence was highlighted by her outstanding performance in the CSEC examinations, showcasing her dedication and discipline. The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Netball Association (SVGNA) expressed confidence in her ability to excel both academically and in netball. Patricia John, Marketing and Communications Manager at BOSVG, presented Wyllie with a cheque for EC$4,000 to support her college journey, emphasizing the bank’s commitment to empowering talented young women. Natasha Baptiste, President of the SVG Netball Association, praised the bank’s partnership, noting its dual focus on sporting excellence and academic advancement. Wyllie’s achievements serve as an inspiration, and she is poised to make the most of this significant opportunity.
-
The changing outlook of contemporary trade unions
Modern trade unions appear to have lost much of their former vigor, a stark contrast to their dynamic presence in previous decades. This decline can be attributed to a confluence of factors, with ineffective leadership emerging as a central issue. The current state of trade unions suggests a movement in crisis, struggling to adapt to contemporary challenges. Historically, trade unions thrived under strong, visionary leaders who commanded respect from members, employers, and political figures alike. While not all current leaders are ineffective, many have been criticized for their silence on critical issues affecting workers and society at large. Traditionally, unions played a crucial role as societal watchdogs, overseeing social, economic, and political policy changes. However, their vigilance and passion seem to have waned over time. The reasons for this shift remain debated. Some attribute it to a lack of enthusiasm among leaders, while others point to a disengaged membership that fails to hold leadership accountable. Critics argue that many union leaders have failed to evolve, clinging to outdated strategies and parochial concerns. This resistance to change has created tension between older leaders and younger workers, who bring fresh perspectives but often feel marginalized. The generational divide poses a significant challenge, with younger members advocating for succession planning and modernization, while entrenched leaders resist relinquishing control. Bridging this gap is essential for the survival of the labor movement. Additionally, trade unions must address their public image, often marred by perceptions of bureaucracy and self-interest, which hinder efforts to attract new members and gain public support. Dennis De Peiza, a Labour & Employee Relations Consultant at Regional Management Services Inc., highlights the urgent need for unions to adapt and rebuild their relevance in today’s rapidly changing world.
-
Drag Racing Community Mourns Jerome Marsh After Fatal Parham Crash
The drag racing community is mourning the loss of Jerome Marsh, a passionate enthusiast who tragically lost his life in a devastating two-vehicle collision in Parham on Friday night. According to police reports, Marsh was behind the wheel of a yellow Toyota Vitz when it collided with a Toyota Noah van. Emergency responders utilized specialized equipment, commonly referred to as the ‘jaws of life,’ to extricate Marsh from the wreckage. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after the incident. Marsh’s 14-year-old son, who was a passenger in the vehicle, sustained injuries and remains hospitalized. The driver and a passenger of the Toyota Noah were also injured and are currently receiving medical care at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre. Authorities have confirmed that investigations into the crash are ongoing, with further details expected to be released in due course.
-
Medicinal Cannabis Authority Establishes Committee to Address Substance Misuse in Schools
The Antigua and Barbuda Medicinal Cannabis Authority (MCA) has taken decisive action to address the growing issue of substance misuse among students by establishing a specialized committee. This initiative underscores the MCA’s dual commitment to fostering a regulated medicinal cannabis industry while safeguarding public health. During its statutory meeting on November 20, 2025, the MCA Board expressed grave concerns over increasing reports of substance abuse in schools and resolved to tackle the issue head-on.
-
Wales storm into semis with dominant 5–2 victory
In a thrilling night of football at the Gall Hill Playing Field in St. John, Weymouth Wales delivered a dominant performance to secure a 5–2 victory over Notre Dame, booking their place in the semi-finals of the Prime Minister’s Cup. The Carrington Village side showcased their superiority from the outset, with defender Andre Applewhaite leading the charge. Applewhaite, named Flow Man of the Match, scored twice in the 45+2 and 90+3 minutes, while also contributing defensively. Wales’ early dominance was evident with goals from Nicoli Brathwaite (4th minute), Romario Harewood (12th), and Ackeel Applewhaite (21st), establishing a commanding 3-0 lead. Notre Dame briefly rallied with two quick goals from Carl Joseph’s spectacular free kick and Antone Greaves’ composed finish, but Wales quickly regained control to seal their progression. In the night’s second match, Paradise FC edged past Ellerton in a tense encounter that went into extra time. After a goalless 90 minutes, the decisive moment came in the 113th minute when Ellerton captain Shakille Belle inadvertently scored an own goal, sending Paradise into jubilation. Despite Ellerton’s resilient defense and goalkeeper Kerry Holder’s heroics, Paradise’s attacking trio of Khimani Cox, Tyrel Rayside-Demedonca, and Mikalai Dziazhko kept the pressure on. Substitute Kishmar Ramsey’s free kick delivery led to the unfortunate deflection off Belle, ending Ellerton’s hopes and securing Paradise’s spot in the semi-finals.
-
Neighbourhood firm champions sporting ambitions at Welches Primary
Students at Welches Primary School were encouraged to embrace the transformative power of sports as local firm Equip4you announced its sponsorship of the school’s cricket, netball, and football teams. The event, which brought together young athletes of the Welches Wolves, featured inspiring remarks from Stephen Leslie, Marketing Director of the Barbados Cricket Association. Leslie emphasized that sports are not merely recreational activities but pathways to discipline, personal growth, and global opportunities. He urged students to seize the moment, stating, ‘Sports will provide you with opportunities that you would never have thought about in your journey.’ Leslie also praised Principal Julia Broomes, teacher Jason Parris, and Equip4you Director Sam Johnson for their dedication to nurturing young talent. Drawing from his extensive experience, Leslie highlighted how sports can forge connections and open doors beyond Barbados. He shared anecdotes from his travels across the Caribbean and a memorable experience in Jamaica, where he witnessed Olympic champion Usain Bolt and other athletes secure scholarships through their performances. Leslie encouraged students to envision a future beyond academics, citing global icons like Rihanna and cricket legends Virat Kohli and Chris Gayle as examples of Barbadian success. He also stressed the growing opportunities for both genders in sports, emphasizing the importance of building a strong personal legacy. Sam Johnson expressed pride in Equip4you’s partnership with Welches Primary, describing it as a meaningful and flourishing relationship. Shakira Doughlin, Regional WM manager at Lyfstyl Caribbean, shared her own journey in athletics, urging students to embrace the personal growth and global exposure that sports offer. Justin Parris, Barbados Under-15 captain and Welches alumnus, encouraged young athletes to stay determined and learn from their mistakes, highlighting the lifelong bonds and lessons that sports create.
-
Seamoss Storefront and Interpretative Centre opens in Bequia
In a landmark move for sustainable economic development, the Seamoss Association of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has unveiled the region’s first dedicated Seamoss Storefront and Interpretative Centre in Bequia. Funded by the Government of Canada through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), the centre represents a significant stride in empowering local communities and preserving cultural heritage. Shavorn Stephens, the association’s founder, hailed the opening as a historic milestone, emphasizing its role as a symbol of economic empowerment, cultural pride, and resilience within the sea moss community. The facility offers local producers a specialized retail space to showcase a diverse range of products, from raw and dried sea moss to innovative value-added items like teas, gels, and skincare products. Additionally, the centre features an interpretative section that educates visitors on the history, cultivation practices, nutritional benefits, and cultural significance of sea moss, while paying tribute to the pioneering contributions of women like Ann Bernard Harvey. Jessica Mackie, representing the Government of Canada, underscored Canada’s commitment to supporting sustainable, community-driven initiatives, while Chief Fisheries Officer Jennifer Howard-Cruickshank praised the project for its role in advancing the blue economy. The centre is poised to enhance local income opportunities, promote food security, and position St. Vincent and the Grenadines as a leader in sustainable marine resource development.