Education Minister Sonia Parag has clarified that no official permission was granted for the construction of a prefabricated school on Farnum Ground in Subryanville. Speaking at a multi-sectoral consultation on school bullying, Parag emphasized that neither her current role as Education Minister nor her previous position as Local Government Minister authorized the project. The issue arose after veteran educator Bonita Bone-Harris raised concerns about the takeover of a section of Farnum Ground by the new owner of Mae’s School, which erected the prefab structure following a fire that destroyed its original building earlier this year. Bone-Harris criticized the authorities for disregarding residents’ concerns, labeling the approach as ‘bullyism’ and citing violations of building codes. Despite acknowledging the lack of permission, the Mayor and City Council allowed the structure to remain operational until early next year. Community representatives, including lawyers, have repeatedly written to various authorities highlighting legal infractions but have yet to pursue court action. The school owner has indicated plans to construct a new building and restore Farnum Ground. Meanwhile, the forum addressed broader issues of bullying, with Bone-Harris urging attention to bullying in homes and schools, including by teachers. The event concluded with plans to establish a multi-sectoral task force, an online reporting platform, and the use of the Human Services’ anti-bullying policy. Home Affairs Minister Oneidge Walrond encouraged the use of the Guyana Police Force’s Cyber Crime Unit to combat cyberbullying.
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Deputy Premier Evelyn Promotes Nevis Agri-Expo 2026 and Culturama 52 During Official Visit to Anguilla
During an official visit to Anguilla from November 14 to 16, 2025, Deputy Premier of Nevis and Minister of Agriculture, the Honourable Eric Evelyn, actively promoted two of Nevis’ flagship events: Agri-Expo 2026 and Culturama 52. The visit was part of his participation in Hook and Harvest, a prominent farm-to-table and wellness initiative. Agri-Expo 2026, celebrating its 30th anniversary, is scheduled for March 26–27, 2026, while Culturama 52 will take place from July 23 to August 4, 2026. Evelyn extended invitations to Anguillans and regional residents during a live radio interview on Klass FM, emphasizing the cultural and agricultural significance of these events. Throughout his three-day engagement, Evelyn attended a wellness seminar, joined a diabetes awareness walk, and participated in a 10-course tasting experience at the National Green Space, which highlighted local farmers and chefs. A key highlight of the visit was the donation of 130 fruit plants by the Nevis Ministry of Agriculture, aimed at supporting Caribbean sustainability initiatives. Evelyn underscored Nevis’ commitment to food security and agricultural expansion, stating, ‘We are focused heavily on food security and planting more to increase local food production.’ The donated saplings included sugar apple, cherry, Taiwanese sugar apple, soursop, custard apple, and passion fruit. Evelyn also expressed gratitude to Dr. Carissa Webster-Lake, the event organizer, for fostering a meaningful partnership. Additionally, he paid courtesy calls to Anguilla’s Premier Honourable Cora Richardson Hodge, Minister Honourable Kyle Hodge, and Parliamentary Secretary Honourable Cordell Richardson.
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Eastern Caribbean authorities unite to strengthen anti-gang cooperation
In a landmark initiative to bolster regional security, judicial and law enforcement authorities from across the Eastern Caribbean recently gathered in Saint Lucia for a high-level seminar titled ‘Gangs of the Eastern Caribbean and Their Involvement in International Drug Trafficking.’ Hosted by the French Embassy to Barbados and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) from November 13 to 14, 2025, the event aimed to enhance cooperation and develop strategies to dismantle organized gangs and their role in international drug trafficking. Over 120 distinguished participants, including Attorneys General, judges, magistrates, senior police and gendarmerie officers, intelligence officials, and correctional representatives from 11 Caribbean countries and territories, as well as mainland France and Croatia, attended the seminar. Attendees engaged in comprehensive discussions on legal frameworks and practices, striving to establish a unified, coordinated regional approach to combat increasingly sophisticated transnational criminal networks. In a pre-recorded message, French Minister for Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot emphasized the critical importance of the gathering, reaffirming France’s unwavering commitment to eradicating organized crime and drug trafficking. The seminar is a cornerstone of France’s strategic plan, ‘Drug Trafficking: Eradicating the Problem at its Roots.’ Barrot highlighted the partnership as a testament to shared determination and mutual trust in this collective fight. The French Embassy underscored that the event marked a significant milestone in advancing regional security cooperation and reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening partnerships with Eastern Caribbean states.
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Team Antigua and Barbuda Earns Multiple Silver Medals at Taste of the Caribbean 2025
Antigua and Barbuda’s culinary prowess was on full display at the prestigious Taste of the Caribbean 2025 competition, where the national team secured multiple silver medals and a Bronze Overall Team Award. Competing against elite teams from across the region, including Aruba, Barbados, Belize, and Puerto Rico, the team showcased the rich culinary heritage and innovative spirit of the twin-island nation. The competition, held on November 19, 2025, highlighted the exceptional talent of Antigua and Barbuda’s chefs and bartenders. Senior Chef Eustace Cabral earned a silver medal for his dish featuring pan-roasted beef, sous vide shrimp, and a sorrel, hibiscus, and watermelon reduction, which celebrated local flavors with modern techniques. Pastry Chef Arielle Mills impressed with her tropical dessert trio, “Tropical Daisy,” blending soursop, passion fruit, and lime into a harmonious creation. Bartender Auslando Davis wowed judges with his inventive cocktails, including a nostalgic take on Cocoa Tea and a Soursop Martini with a crème brûlée top. Junior Chef Azarie Crump also shone with a dish of caramelized breadfruit and herb-stuffed pork roulade. The team’s success was guided by Team Manager Chef Olvanah Richardson, Junior Chef Mentor Jean Pierre Tuitt, and Logistics Manager Jesse Thomas. Their achievements were made possible through the support of sponsors like the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority and Blue Waters Resort & Spa, underscoring the nation’s commitment to culinary excellence.
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Antigua and Barbuda Co-Chairs Key UNFCCC Response Measures Negotiations Following COP
Antigua and Barbuda has reaffirmed its leadership in global climate diplomacy as Ambassador Diann Black-Layne, Director of the Department of Environment, co-chaired a pivotal meeting of the UNFCCC’s Response Measures forum. This session, held shortly after COP30 in Brazil, marked a significant step in addressing the impacts of climate mitigation policies on economies, workforces, and communities, particularly in developing nations. Ambassador Black-Layne, elected by the COP Plenary, collaborated with Ms. Veronica Bagi, a UNFCCC Climate Policy Officer, to guide complex negotiations. Their efforts underscored the collective strength of the Antiguan and Barbudan delegation, with notable contributions from Gita Gardner, Arry Simon, and Ambassador Ruleta Camacho-Thomas. A key focus for Antigua and Barbuda is ensuring a just transition for workers and industries as the world shifts toward renewable energy to meet the 1.5°C temperature goal. While a broader framework decision was adopted, unresolved issues will be escalated to the COP President for further consultation. The Ministry praised Ambassador Black-Layne and the delegation for their steadfast advocacy on behalf of Small Island Developing States (SIDS), reinforcing the nation’s commitment to equitable and responsible global climate policy.
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Controversial Trinidad Politician Jack Warner Earns PhD at 82
In a remarkable academic achievement, Jack Warner, the polarizing former politician from Trinidad and Tobago, has earned his PhD at the age of 82. Warner, a figure often embroiled in controversy due to his past involvement in corruption allegations and his role in international football governance, completed his doctoral studies at the University of the West Indies. His thesis focused on governance and leadership, topics that have been central to his tumultuous career. Despite his checkered history, Warner’s academic accomplishment has sparked mixed reactions, with some applauding his perseverance and others questioning the timing and motivations behind his pursuit of higher education. This milestone adds a new chapter to Warner’s complex legacy, blending his political and academic endeavors.
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Paaws Antigua Empties Shelter for First Time in 30 Years as Last Dog Moves to Foster Care
After months of uncertainty following its August announcement of facility closure, Paaws Antigua has achieved a significant milestone. The charity recently confirmed that its final four dogs—Shirley, Spot, Gabby, and Shelly-Ann—have all been placed in foster homes, marking an emotional turning point for the organization and its supporters. While three of the dogs are now settling into their new environments, Shelly-Ann remains in need of a semi-permanent home and is currently boarding at Pet Style and Resort as efforts to secure a long-term placement continue. Photos shared by Paaws captured Spot’s nervous departure from the kennel he had known his entire life, highlighting the challenges of this transition. The organization emphasized that the dogs will need time to adjust to their new surroundings and expressed hope that at least two of them become “foster fails,” where temporary caregivers decide to adopt them permanently. Reflecting on the past months, Paaws described the journey as “incredibly tense—and heart-wrenching” but expressed relief at nearing the summit of what once seemed like an insurmountable challenge. Updates on the dogs’ progress will be shared as they acclimate to their new homes.
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Firearm, suspected marijuana found
In a significant law enforcement operation, authorities in Guyana uncovered a cache of illegal items during a raid at a residence in Cromarty Farm, Corentyne, East Berbice. The Guyana Police Force reported the discovery of a .32 caliber firearm, ammunition, and suspected marijuana on Tuesday, November 18, 2025. The search, conducted by senior officers, led to the arrest of two individuals: a 43-year-old farmer and his 55-year-old partner, who works part-time. The firearm and one round of ammunition were found concealed under a mattress in a bedroom. Additionally, two more rounds of ammunition and small transparent Ziplock bags containing eight grams of leaves, seeds, and stems believed to be cannabis were discovered in another part of the house. Ballistic experts are set to examine the firearm to confirm its specifications. This operation highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat illegal activities in the region.
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Dominica celebrates World Fisheries Day 2025 this week
The Fisheries Department under the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy has unveiled its comprehensive plans for World Fisheries Day 2025, observed globally on November 21. This year’s theme, “Small-Scale Fisheries: Building Blue Economies,” highlights the pivotal role of coastal communities and the urgent need for sustainable marine resource management. Honorable Jullan Defoe, Minister for Fisheries and the Blue Economy, will deliver the keynote address, broadcast live on Dominica Broadcasting Station (DBS). The event, scheduled for November 21 at the Roseau Fisheries Complex, will commence at 9:30 AM and feature a recognition ceremony, panel discussions, and award presentations for competitions such as the poster contest and biggest catch contest. The proceedings will be streamed live via Government Information Services (GIS) and Emo News, ensuring nationwide participation. A significant highlight of the ceremony will be the handover of fishing equipment and safety gear to local fisher groups by the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), as part of the BIOSPACE Project supported by the European Union. The panel discussion, moderated by Chief Fisheries Officer Mr. Derrick Theophille, will include experts Mr. Norman Norris, Mr. Harold Guiste, and Mr. Simon Walsh, addressing critical topics such as marine protected areas, small-scale fisheries, and coral conservation. Preceding the main event, students from Massacre, Roseau, and Goodwill Primary Schools will attend an educational Marine Awareness Session in Soufriere on November 19, where they will explore the Soufriere-Scott’s Head Marine Reserve (SSMR) and visit the Coral Rescue Centre. The Fisheries Division encourages public participation in the celebrations, urging citizens to support local fisheries and contribute to marine conservation efforts.
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Reflecting on passage of PISLM CSIDS Bill 2025
On November 4, 2025, Grenada’s Parliament made a historic move by enacting the Partnership Initiative for Sustainable Land Management (PISLM) Bill for Caribbean Small Island Developing States (CSIDS). This legislation formalizes two critical agreements: the Agreement Establishing PISLM and the Headquarters Agreement between PISLM and the Government of Grenada. With this, Grenada becomes the official host of PISLM, an intergovernmental organization tasked with advancing the Caribbean’s commitments under the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and related global frameworks on sustainable land and soil management. This decision places Grenada at the forefront of regional efforts to protect and sustainably manage its most vital natural resources. The bill arrives at a crucial time, as land degradation in Grenada and across the Caribbean accelerates due to deforestation, poor agricultural practices, overgrazing, and sand mining, exacerbated by extreme climate events. These practices undermine the land’s ability to provide essential ecosystem services, threatening food and water security, biodiversity, and community welfare. The legislation establishes a robust framework to combat land degradation, enhance climate resilience, and promote sustainable livelihoods, particularly in rural areas. It also aligns with Grenada’s National Sustainable Development Plan and Vision 75, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to environmental stewardship. Hosting PISLM’s headquarters offers Grenada significant advantages, including enhanced capacity in sustainable land management, opportunities for scientific research, and knowledge sharing. This positions Grenada as a regional leader in evidence-based environmental policies. The progress of PISLM, under the leadership of Dr. Ronen Francis and the Regional Council, marks a transformative step toward resilient development and underscores the importance of sustainable land management in achieving long-term environmental and socio-economic goals.