标签： Barbados

The Barbados Consumer Empowerment Network (BCEN) has called on CARICOM governments to establish a regional utility regulator to address persistent disparities in the price and quality of essential services across the Caribbean. Speaking after her participation in a global conference on competition and consumer protection, BCEN Chair Maureen Holder emphasized the need for a multilateral regulator to standardize oversight of critical services such as energy, telecommunications, and water. Holder suggested that the CARICOM Competition Commission (CCC) could be repositioned to fulfill this role, though it currently lacks the necessary framework. She argued that a unified regulatory body would ensure fairness and stability in markets, particularly in small island nations where limited competition often leaves consumers with few choices and high costs. Holder highlighted BCEN’s growing influence in international and regional policymaking, noting its contributions to discussions on competition, fair markets, and consumer protection. She recently represented Barbados at the 9th United Nations Conference on Competition and Consumer Protection in Geneva, where she engaged with global leaders to address challenges facing consumers in small developing economies. The conference, organized by UNCTAD, serves as a platform for reviewing international best practices and coordinating global approaches to consumer protection. Holder stressed that small states like Barbados must actively participate in such forums to ensure their concerns are acknowledged and addressed at the highest levels.

Property owners in Barbados who fail to maintain their lots by clearing overgrown vegetation could soon face significant fines under a new enforcement initiative launched by the Ministry of Environment. The program, which began on November 1, is being enforced through the Health Services Act and aims to address the issue of neglected properties. According to project leader Ronald Chapman, property owners who do not comply with the regulations will receive a 21-day notice to clean their lots. If they fail to do so within this period, they will be charged an administrative fee of $300. Additionally, if the lot remains uncleaned after the fine is issued, the Ministry of Environment will step in to clean the property, and the owner will be billed for the service. The cost of cleaning will vary depending on factors such as the size of the lot, the type of vegetation, and the presence of accumulated refuse. Chapman emphasized that the program is designed to encourage property owners to take responsibility for their land. He also noted that residents who face difficulties in clearing their lots or paying the fees can seek assistance from the relief board at the Ministry of Housing and Lands. The enforcement process has been delayed to allow for the necessary administrative machinery to be put in place, but fines are expected to be issued by the end of the month. The initiative is part of a broader effort to improve public health and environmental standards in the country.

The streets of Bridgetown came alive with vibrant energy on Saturday night as Courts celebrated its 60th anniversary with a spectacular Lighted Parade. Children’s eyes gleamed with excitement, and families braved the light drizzle to witness the dazzling procession. The event, a heartfelt gesture of gratitude from the brand to the public, transformed Broad Street into a canvas of light, color, and festive cheer. The night sky lit up with a stunning fireworks display, leaving onlookers in awe as they struggled to choose between the mesmerizing show above and the illuminated floats below. Each float told a unique story, with Barbadian culture taking center stage through the ‘I’m a Bajan’ float, where dancers in sailor-inspired costumes performed traditional Landship maneuvers. Disney-themed floats, including ‘The Little Mermaid’ and ‘Frozen,’ captivated the youngest spectators, who waved enthusiastically as their favorite characters passed by. The parade also embraced the Christmas spirit, with the ‘Star of Bethlehem’ float depicting the three wise men and angels. However, the loudest cheers erupted for the float featuring Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and their cheerful elves, embodying the magic of the holiday season. One attendee shared with Barbados TODAY, ‘This parade was a wonderful idea. It’s a perfect family outing and brings life back to Bridgetown. Unlike the Courts drive-in concert, this allows city residents, many of whom are Courts customers, to walk from home and enjoy the event.’ She added, ‘As a consumer, we truly appreciate it. It would be fantastic if the National Cultural Foundation hosted a concert in Bridgetown during December to attract more people and revitalize the city.’

Flow employees recently demonstrated their commitment to community service during the company’s annual Mission Week, dedicating their time and resources to support some of the island’s most vulnerable and underserved groups. This year’s initiative focused on digital inclusion and community engagement, with Flow partnering with Erdiston Special School, a public institution catering to children aged five to 12 with learning disabilities such as Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, and other developmental challenges.

As part of its efforts to bridge the digital divide, Flow donated 10 laptops and laptop sleeves to the school. The donation aims to enhance the school’s learning programs and provide students with practical tools to engage with digital resources. Toni Yarde, Senior Manager of Corporate Communications at Flow, emphasized the company’s dedication to digital inclusivity, stating, ‘Giving back is a core part of who we are at Flow. When we empower these children with the tools they need to learn, we are helping to change lives.’

Beyond the technological contribution, Flow volunteers spent an afternoon revitalizing the school environment. They painted the car park learning area, refreshed alphabet and number games, and interacted directly with students and teachers. This hands-on approach complemented the technology donation, creating a more interactive and accessible learning experience for the children.

Donna Holder, Principal of Erdiston Special School, expressed her gratitude, saying, ‘These devices and the refreshed learning spaces will make an immediate difference in how our students interact, grow, and experience success each day. Partnerships like this remind our children that they are seen, valued, and supported.’

Flow’s Mission Week also extended to addressing broader community needs. In collaboration with the Rotaract Club of Barbados, Flow organized the Cans of Care food drive to assist families facing food insecurity. Employees filled collection barrels and boxes at Flow’s corporate offices, demonstrating their commitment to supporting vulnerable households across the island. Christina Ruck, President of the Rotaract Club of Barbados, praised Flow’s contribution, stating, ‘Their team showed remarkable compassion and unity, helping us extend relief to families who need it most.’

Mission Week is an annual initiative through which Flow employees volunteer their time, expertise, and energy to support community programs focused on learning, environmental sustainability, access, and disaster relief.

Peter Macfarren Rouse, a resident of No. 26, Grazettes New Road, St Michael, Barbados, who was featured in a “Wanted Man” bulletin issued on November 21, 2025, in relation to serious criminal allegations, has voluntarily surrendered to authorities. Rouse presented himself at the Black Rock Police Station on Saturday, accompanied by his legal counsel. According to the Barbados Police Service, he is currently cooperating with ongoing investigations. The police have expressed their gratitude to the public for their assistance in this case, which has now led to Rouse’s apprehension. Further details regarding the charges and the progress of the investigation are expected to be released in due course.