标签： Antigua and Barbuda

The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) Water Business Unit has announced a temporary halt in operations at the Delaps Water Treatment Facility following reports of water discolouration and odour issues. The interruption, which began on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, was initiated as a precautionary measure to allow for a thorough investigation and the implementation of corrective actions. The facility has since reviewed and adjusted its treatment processes to ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards before resuming water distribution. The health and safety of customers remain the top priority for APUA. During the ongoing work at Delaps, affected communities will receive water from alternative sources, which may lead to extended intervals between scheduled servicing days as the system balances demand. Customers experiencing persistent issues with water quality or service interruptions are urged to contact the 24/7 Customer Service Centre at 211 for immediate assistance. APUA has expressed its sincere apologies for the inconvenience caused and thanked the public for their patience, understanding, and cooperation as efforts continue to restore full operations at the Delaps facility.

The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service has issued a High Surf Advisory for Antigua and Barbuda, the British Virgin Islands, and Anguilla, cautioning residents and visitors about perilous surf conditions expected to last through Thursday. The advisory highlights that moderate long-period swells are producing waves ranging from 6 to 10 feet along northern and north-facing coastlines. These conditions are anticipated to result in life-threatening rip currents, coastal flooding, and significant beach erosion. Authorities are strongly advising the public to avoid northern beaches and to swim only in areas monitored by lifeguards or on sheltered southern beaches. Additionally, the Met Service has warned against venturing onto rocks and jetties due to the hazardous surf. For ongoing updates, the public is encouraged to monitor official channels and follow relevant hashtags such as #HighSurfAdvisory, #AntiguaBarbuda, #MarineAdvisory, and #StaySafe.

In a stirring address at the 2025 CIBC Grade Six National Assessment Awards Ceremony, Education Minister Daryll Matthew reiterated his ministry’s dedication to fostering an inclusive education system that supports students from early childhood through university. Matthew emphasized the importance of ensuring that “every story has the chance to reach a successful chapter,” a vision aimed at empowering students to achieve their dreams. The ceremony, held under the patronage of Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, celebrated the nation’s top 100 primary school achievers, with gold and silver awards, cash prizes, and certificates presented by CIBC Caribbean. Matthew urged the young scholars to approach their secondary education with confidence and determination, reminding them that their journey is ongoing. “Your story has not ended,” he said. “It is still being written, and only you can decide how it ends.” Drawing inspiration from Matthew 5:16, he encouraged students to “shine brightly, beautifully, and boldly,” assuring them of the nation’s unwavering support. The minister also highlighted the critical role of the private sector in education, praising CIBC Caribbean for its sponsorship of the event. “When corporate citizens invest in education, they invest in the very soul of the nation,” he remarked. Concluding his speech, Matthew expressed optimism and national pride, urging the awardees to “go out and shine” as Antigua and Barbuda watches, cheers, and believes in their potential.

The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda is facing mounting criticism over allegations of systemic bias and unfair treatment within its ranks. A recent letter to the editor, penned by a concerned 17-year-old, highlights the growing discontent among citizens and officers alike. The letter points to a troubling pattern of selective recognition, where individuals in higher positions are celebrated for achievements that others, often of lower rank, have already accomplished without acknowledgment. For instance, the writer’s neighbor, who diligently balanced her online degree studies with her duties in the justice system, received no recognition for her efforts. In contrast, higher-ranking officers are now being publicly praised for similar accomplishments. This disparity raises serious questions about fairness, justice, and equality within the force. The writer argues that such practices undermine the core values of integrity and meritocracy that the police force claims to uphold. They call for a system where recognition is based on genuine contribution and hard work, rather than hierarchy or status. The letter concludes with a plea for reform, emphasizing that both the public and dedicated officers deserve a justice system they can trust. This issue has sparked a broader conversation about accountability and transparency in law enforcement, as citizens demand better treatment for those who serve with humility and dedication.

Lyndon Gardiner, the visionary founder and chairman of interCaribbean Airways, has been awarded an honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD) by The University of the West Indies (UWI) Cave Hill Campus. This prestigious accolade celebrates his exceptional contributions to Caribbean aviation and regional development over the past three decades. Under Gardiner’s leadership, interCaribbean Airways has grown into the largest privately owned airline in the region, now connecting 27 destinations across 17 countries. In his acceptance speech, Dr. Gardiner reflected on his journey, stating, ‘It began with a simple dream of flying – to connect our Caribbean islands and make travel accessible to all our people.’ UWI highlighted his remarkable resilience during the 2020 pandemic, when interCaribbean expanded into seven new markets while other airlines scaled back operations. Beyond aviation, Gardiner’s philanthropic efforts, including a scholarship fund for aviation students and support for medical and youth initiatives, were also commended. Trevor Sadler, CEO of interCaribbean, praised Gardiner as ‘a symbol of Caribbean determination and innovation,’ emphasizing his role in enhancing regional connectivity. Dr. Gardiner was one of 11 distinguished honorees recognized during UWI’s 2025 graduation ceremonies across its campuses.