On Tuesday, November 11, the Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA) orchestrated a large-scale emergency response drill at the George F. L. Charles Airport. The exercise simulated an aircraft crash to rigorously assess the airport’s emergency preparedness and inter-agency coordination capabilities. This biennial drill, conducted in alignment with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards, involved over 100 participants, including emergency responders, volunteers, and aviation stakeholders. The scenario depicted a mock aircraft accident near the runway’s northern end, with simulated passengers and crew requiring immediate rescue and medical attention. SLASPA officials emphasized that the drill aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the airport’s emergency response plan, particularly in communication, command, and coordination among various agencies. Exercise Director Aubert Regis highlighted the simulation as a crucial test of operational readiness, stating, ‘This exercise allowed us to activate the emergency response plan and assess how efficiently our agencies would perform in a real-life situation. Our goal is not only to test our response capacity but also to enhance collaboration and overall performance.’ Acting Airport Manager Alexandria Alexander underscored the drill’s proactive nature, noting its role in ensuring swift and effective responses during actual emergencies. ‘This exercise provided a valuable opportunity for all response agencies to evaluate their performance, improve coordination, and ensure that in the event of a real aircraft incident, the response will be efficient and effective,’ she said. The simulation also tested the capabilities of the airport’s Emergency Operations Centre, which coordinates recovery and restoration efforts post-incident. Participating agencies included the National Emergency Management Organisation, the Ministry of Health, Aerodrome Rescue and Fire Fighting Services, the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, Ports Police, Owen King European Union Hospital, the Saint Lucia Red Cross, airline representatives, and airport personnel. Chief Evaluator Andrew George praised the high level of coordination observed during the drill, stating, ‘We assessed everything from scene management to communication and response timelines. The coordination among agencies was very positive and aligned with international emergency standards.’ A formal debriefing session is expected to follow, during which lessons learned and areas for improvement will be reviewed. SLASPA expressed gratitude to all participants and the public for their cooperation during the exercise.
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Gov’t, investor sign deal for US$100m redevelopment of Palm Island
The government of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has finalized a landmark $100 million agreement with a UK-based investor for the comprehensive redevelopment of Palm Island, a private resort island severely impacted by Hurricane Beryl in July 2024. Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves announced the partnership with Palm Island Resorts Ltd. during a signing ceremony in Kingstown, emphasizing the project’s potential to transform the island’s tourism and economic landscape. The investment will span 20 to 30 months, focusing on rebuilding and expanding the Palm Island Resorts and Spa, as well as the Anchorage Yacht Club on Union Island. The redevelopment will feature 34 freestanding bungalows, 31 private villas, and a range of luxury amenities, including restaurants, swimming pools, a spa, and aquatic activity centers. The Anchorage Resort will be upgraded to a four-star bohemian luxury property, complete with a kite surfing school. The project is expected to generate over 200 full-time jobs and significantly boost the local economy by sourcing agricultural products, seafood, and other inputs from Vincentian businesses. Additionally, the government has granted duty-free concessions on construction materials and equipment, along with a 15-year tax holiday under the Hotel Aids Act. Prime Minister Gonsalves highlighted the project’s role in revitalizing the Southern Grenadines and enhancing the country’s tourism appeal. Investor Zachary Bayman praised the resilience of the Vincentian people and expressed commitment to preserving Palm Island’s legacy while delivering lasting benefits to the region.
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MS13 Gang Member Arrested at Western Border
In a significant law enforcement breakthrough, Julio César Murillo Mena, a high-profile member of the notorious Mara Salvatrucha (MS13) gang, was apprehended at the Guatemalan Migration Institute in Melchor de Mencos, Petén. The arrest was the result of a meticulously coordinated operation involving INTERPOL and Belizean immigration authorities. Murillo Mena, a Salvadoran national, is wanted in his home country for grave offenses, including homicide and illegal possession of firearms, which carry prison sentences ranging from 4 to 15 years. MS13, a transnational criminal organization with roots in the aftermath of El Salvador’s civil war, has gained infamy for its violent activities, including extortion, drug trafficking, human smuggling, and contract killings. The gang’s origins are deeply tied to the recruitment of child soldiers during the conflict, which displaced nearly one million Salvadorans and left the nation in turmoil. This arrest underscores the ongoing international efforts to combat organized crime and dismantle violent networks.
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NWC says reports of sewage overflow near Coronation Market are incorrect
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The National Water Commission (NWC) has firmly dismissed recent media allegations of sewage overflows near Coronation Market, labeling the reports as inaccurate. In an official statement, the NWC revealed that its technical teams conducted comprehensive inspections at key locations mentioned in the reports, including Rose Lane, Spanish Town Road, and Upper Oxford Street. The investigations concluded that the observed overflow was caused by blocked drainage infrastructure, which is unrelated to the NWC’s sewage network. The commission clarified that the affected drains primarily carry grey water, which can stagnate when flow is obstructed. These drains, the NWC emphasized, are not under its operational jurisdiction. Additionally, the NWC reassured the public that its sewage infrastructure remains fully operational, with no issues reported in its conveyance pipelines or nearby pumping station following Hurricane Melissa. The commission confirmed that all wastewater systems in the area are functioning as intended.
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Gov’t ramps up post-hurricane response with islandwide house-to-house assessments
The Jamaican Government has escalated its post-disaster response initiatives following the widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. The Ministry of Labour and Social Security is now conducting comprehensive house-to-house assessments across the island to ensure affected citizens can access critical government benefits in the coming weeks. Minister Pearnel Charles Jr. emphasized the importance of these evaluations during a recent tour of St Ann, where relief supplies, including care packages, were distributed to complement on-site damage assessments. Charles urged residents to cooperate with social workers and volunteers, encouraging them to provide accurate information about their circumstances and those of their neighbors. He highlighted that while every parish was impacted by the Category 5 hurricane, western Jamaica bore the brunt of the destruction. Social workers were deployed immediately after the storm’s passage on October 28, initially focusing on accessible areas before intensifying efforts in the hardest-hit western regions. Charles reiterated the government’s commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that vulnerable groups such as people with disabilities, senior citizens, PATH beneficiaries, and pensioners receive the support they need. Parish offices remain open for citizens seeking assistance or reporting losses. During the tour, which included stops in Norwood, Cave Valley, and Sturge Town, the ministry’s team engaged directly with residents, providing essential relief items like food packages, mattresses, and hygiene kits. Charles praised local Members of Parliament, Zavia Mayne and Krystal Lee, for their support in navigating the affected constituencies and showcasing the extent of the devastation.
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Miss Jamaica Universe to remain in ICU, says family
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Dr. Gabrielle Henry, Jamaica’s representative at the 2025 Miss Universe pageant, continues to receive intensive care following a tragic accident during the evening gown preliminary competition. A week after her fall from the stage, medical professionals have confirmed that she will remain in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for at least seven more days, under close observation and specialized treatment. Her sister, Dr. Phylicia Henry-Samuels, who is currently in Thailand with their mother, Maureen Henry, provided updates on Gabrielle’s condition. ‘Gabby isn’t doing as well as we had hoped, but the hospital is providing the necessary care,’ Dr. Henry-Samuels stated. The Miss Universe Jamaica Organisation has expressed profound concern and urged both local and international communities to offer their prayers and support. In a heartfelt statement, the organisation called for compassion and sensitivity, requesting the public to refrain from sharing negative comments or misinformation that could exacerbate the family’s distress. ‘Our primary focus is on Gabrielle’s recovery and the well-being of her loved ones,’ the statement emphasized. Dr. Henry sustained a severe head injury during the incident, which led to her withdrawal from the competition and immediate medical attention.
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Aiesha’s Jamaica Strong surpasses one million views
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the wake of the catastrophic Hurricane Melissa, Jamaican singer Aiesha channeled the collective pain and resilience of her nation into a powerful anthem titled ‘Jamaica Strong.’ Produced by Jjwizzle, the song has rapidly gained traction, amassing over one million combined views on Facebook and Instagram since its release.
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Ultimate Care Centre begins recovery with crucial mattress donation
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact, the Ultimate Care Centre in Westgreen, Montego Bay, has received a significant boost in its recovery efforts thanks to a generous donation of mattresses. The joint initiative by DunnCox Attorneys-at-Law and the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce has provided critical support to the facility, which suffered severe damage during the storm. The donation aims to replace mattresses lost in the flooding, offering much-needed relief to the centre’s residents and staff. Managing Director Sandy Frazer-Jackson expressed profound gratitude, emphasizing the importance of the contribution in accelerating their recovery process. The flooding, caused by the overflow of the Montego, Barnett, and Pye Rivers, left the lower level of the facility uninhabitable, displacing several residents. Frazer-Jackson highlighted the heroic efforts of four staff members who ensured the safe evacuation of residents to the upper level during the crisis. The donors, Jonathan Morgan of DunnCox and Jason Russell of the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce, underscored their commitment to corporate social responsibility and community support. Morgan described the donation as a modest but essential step in the broader recovery effort, with plans to distribute additional mattresses to affected households in the Catherine Hall and West Green communities. Russell reiterated the Chamber’s dedication to aiding vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly, and outlined ongoing plans to expand relief efforts in the coming weeks. The collaboration reflects a shared vision of rebuilding Jamaica stronger than before, with a focus on long-term support for affected communities.
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Labour ministry to launch disaster self-reporting form
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a proactive move to enhance disaster response, Jamaica’s Ministry of Labour and Social Security has unveiled a digital self-reporting form for households affected by Hurricane Melissa. The initiative, announced by Portfolio Minister Pearnel Charles Jr., aims to bridge gaps in damage assessments by allowing residents to electronically report losses or damages via the ministry’s official website at https://www.mlss.gov.jm/. This tool is particularly designed for individuals who were not reached by on-ground assessment teams.
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Four in hospital after bear attack on Canada school children
A grizzly bear attack in the remote Bella Coola region of British Columbia, Canada, has left four people hospitalized, two of whom are in critical condition. The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon during a school group outing on a local trail, according to the Provincial Health Services Authority. Emergency paramedics provided immediate medical care to the victims, transporting them to a nearby hospital. While two individuals sustained critical injuries, two others were reported to be in serious condition. Seven additional members of the group received on-site treatment but did not require hospitalization. The ages of the hospitalized victims have not been disclosed, respecting the families’ requests for privacy. The Nuxalk First Nation, whose community was directly affected by the attack, issued a warning about an “aggressive bear in the area” via a Facebook post. Acwsalcta, the local school, announced its closure on Friday due to the incident, commending the staff for their bravery during the ordeal. Veronica Schooner, whose son was part of the group but escaped unharmed, recounted the terrifying moment when the bear narrowly missed her son while pursuing another individual. As of late Thursday, the bear remained at large, prompting the Nuxalk Nation to advise residents to stay indoors. The BC Conservation Officer Service, now leading the investigation, has yet to provide updates on whether the bear has been located.