Barbados is embarking on a significant initiative to rename several public spaces in honor of distinguished citizens who have made enduring contributions to the nation’s progress. This move underscores the government’s commitment to celebrating individuals who have shaped the country’s development through their service, leadership, and dedication.
标签: Barbados
巴巴多斯
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BCC, NUPW settle dispute after conciliation talks
The longstanding dispute between the Barbados Community College (BCC) and the National Union of Public Workers (NUPW) has been successfully resolved following a series of conciliatory talks facilitated by the Labour Department. The conflict arose when the College appointed an individual to a vacant position, sparking industrial action by over 50 staff members at the Eyrie campus, who demanded the appointment be revoked. Despite three unsuccessful rounds of negotiations, the intervention of the Chief Labour Officer, Allison Elcock, proved pivotal in mediating the dispute. Principal Annette Alleyne announced that both parties reached an agreement in principle during the mediation sessions. Alleyne emphasized the importance of mature discussions, which allowed both sides to understand each other’s perspectives. She also highlighted the College’s commitment to reviewing its processes and strengthening its social partnerships with stakeholders. Alleyne expressed gratitude to the Labour Department and the NUPW for their open and constructive dialogue, stating that the resolution underscores their shared dedication to fostering a positive and supportive working environment. The agreement is anticipated to improve relations between the College and the union and restore stability to the campus after weeks of tension.
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Perreira calls for early preparation ahead of WI tour to New Zealand
The West Indies cricket team is gearing up for a challenging Test series against New Zealand next month, following a disappointing 2-0 defeat to India. With little time to regroup, the Men in Maroon are under pressure to deliver a strong performance. Legendary commentator Joseph Reds Perreira has emphasized the critical need for thorough preparation to adapt to New Zealand’s unique playing conditions. Perreira, a seasoned observer of West Indies cricket, expressed concerns about the lack of information regarding the Test squad’s current training regimen. He stressed the importance of acclimatizing players to New Zealand’s green pitches and swinging balls, suggesting that a contingent of players should be sent ahead for at least a week of practice. Perreira also highlighted the need for immediate planning to avoid the short preparation time that hampered the team’s performance in India. Regarding the squad composition, he advocated for the inclusion of Jason Holder and Jomel Warrican, despite the latter’s limited success as a spinner in New Zealand. Additionally, Perreira raised concerns about the fitness and availability of key fast bowlers Shamar Joseph and Alzzari Joseph, whose participation remains uncertain. As the West Indies prepare for this crucial series, the focus is on strategic planning and player readiness to overcome the formidable challenge posed by New Zealand.
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Odwin into final stage of LPGA qualifying
Emily Odwin, a trailblazing golfer from Barbados, continues to etch her name in the annals of her nation’s sporting history. Having already made waves as the first Barbadian to qualify for a major championship at the 2025 US Women’s Open, Odwin has now secured her spot in the final stage of the LPGA Q School. This prestigious pathway offers the opportunity to earn membership on the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) and Epson Tour. Her journey through the qualifying rounds has been nothing short of remarkable. After a challenging opening round of plus-2 74 at the Plantation Golf and Country Club in Venice, Florida, Odwin showcased her resilience with a stellar minus-3 69 on the second day. She maintained her momentum with a minus-1 71 in the penultimate round and concluded with a strong minus-2 70 on Sunday, finishing four below par at 284 over 72 holes. This performance has earned her a place in the Final Qualifying Stage, set to begin on December 4 in Mobile, Alabama. Odwin’s golfing journey began at the age of 11, representing Barbados in regional and international events. In 2021, she became the first Caribbean golfer to qualify for both the USGA Girls Junior and the USGA Women’s Amateur Golf Championships. A student-athlete at Southern Methodist University, Odwin has a decorated history, including victories at the Royal Westmoreland Ladies Open, the Caribbean Amateur Junior Championships, and the HJGT Tournament of Champions in 2019. Out of the 196 players who began this qualifying journey, only the top 45, including Odwin, have advanced to the final stage. Notable players such as Maria Fassi, Jennifer Song, Sarah Kemp, and Latanna Stone missed the cut. With the deadline for declaring professional status set for November 14, Odwin’s focus remains on securing her LPGA tour card and continuing to inspire future generations of Barbadian golfers.
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SMS dominates Southern Zone Cross Country Championships
St Michael School showcased an exceptional all-round performance to emerge as the undisputed champion at the Southern Zone Cross Country Championships held on Tuesday at Princess Margaret Secondary School in Six Roads, St Philip. The event, part of the Barbados Secondary Schools Athletics Championship (BSSAC), saw St Michael School dominate across multiple age categories, solidifying their reputation as a powerhouse in school athletics.
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Hosein wants top order batsmen to come good in decisive ODI
West Indies spinner Akeal Hosein has emphasized the critical need for the team’s top-order batsmen to deliver in the third and decisive One Day International (ODI) against Bangladesh on Thursday. The regional side narrowly clinched victory in the second ODI on Tuesday, relying on a Super Over to secure a one-run win and level the three-match series at 1-1. However, the Windies’ batting collapses in both matches have raised concerns. In the first ODI, chasing 208, they crumbled from 79 for one to 133 all out, losing by 74 runs. Similarly, in the second ODI, they slumped from 82 for two to 133 for seven before a late resurgence led by Shai Hope’s unbeaten half-century, Justin Greaves’ 26, and Hosein’s 16 forced a Super Over. Hosein, who joined the squad as a replacement for the injured Jediah Blades, stressed that the team cannot continue to depend on the lower order for runs. He highlighted the challenges of facing skilled spinners with a worn ball and urged the top half to exhibit better batsmanship. Hosein acknowledged the team’s resilience in the Super Over but warned against complacency, emphasizing the importance of execution in the decisive match. He also praised the team’s spin-heavy strategy, noting that bowling 50 consecutive overs of spin against Bangladesh was a historic first for the West Indies in ODIs. Hosein expressed confidence in the team’s ability to learn from past mistakes and secure a series victory.
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Lighting up Bim: Three decades of partnership, pride
As November descends, Barbados transforms into a luminous spectacle of ultramarine and gold, a tradition now celebrating its 30th anniversary. This radiant event, deeply rooted in national pride, continues to flourish thanks to the enduring partnership between the government and Sagicor Life Inc. This year, the insurance giant contributed $30,000 to the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment to support the Independence Lighting Ceremony, a symbolic gesture of their three-decade-long collaboration. Minister Charles Griffith, speaking at the official handover, emphasized the significance of this partnership, noting its role in unifying the nation and celebrating its youth. He expressed gratitude to corporate Barbados for their unwavering support, highlighting the initiative’s impact across all 11 parishes. Tracey Knight-Lloyd, Vice President of Customer Experience at Sagicor, echoed this sentiment, describing the event as a testament to the company’s core values. She emphasized that the true essence of Barbados lies not in its electric lights but in its people, urging citizens to reignite their national pride. This year’s theme, ‘Celebrating Our Communities: Re-engaging, Reigniting, and Reimagining,’ serves as a call to action for all Barbadians to reconnect with their heritage and community spirit.
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St Lucy’s long fight for clear water
For over a decade, the residents of St Lucy, Barbados, have endured a persistent and distressing issue: discolored, unsightly water flowing from their taps. What was once a basic necessity—clean, clear water—has become a distant memory, replaced by a rusty, foul-smelling liquid that stains laundry, damages appliances, and raises health concerns. Despite paying their water bills, the community is forced to rely on bottled water and makeshift storage solutions, as the tap water remains unusable for drinking, cooking, or even washing.
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Govt pushes new measures to support mothers returning to work
The Barbadian government is set to implement groundbreaking workplace policies designed to facilitate the smooth reintegration of mothers into the workforce following maternity leave. Labour Minister Colin Jordan announced the initiative during his address at the second annual Workplace Wellness in Action Forum, held at the BWU’s Solidarity House. He emphasized that the recently enacted Family Leave Act represents a significant departure from traditional maternity leave frameworks, adopting a more holistic approach to parenting and workforce sustainability.
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‘Yes and no’: Senators back free movement, warn of pressure on jobs and services
Barbados’ involvement in the newly implemented CARICOM free movement initiative has sparked cautious support in the Senate, with opposition and independent senators voicing concerns over potential economic and social repercussions. The Caribbean Community (Free Movement of Nationals) Bill, which took effect on October 1 across Barbados, Belize, Dominica, and St Vincent and the Grenadines, has been met with both optimism and apprehension. While the policy aims to enhance regional integration, critics warn it could strain public resources, inflate living costs, and disadvantage local workers if not carefully managed. Senator Andre Worrell, representing the opposition, highlighted the risk of employers exploiting cheaper foreign labor, potentially undermining Barbadian workers and depressing wages. He cited instances where construction sites predominantly employ non-Barbadians, leaving young locals disillusioned and marginalized. Independent Senator Kevin Boyce echoed these concerns, emphasizing the inevitable fiscal and social costs of integration, including increased pressure on healthcare, education, and housing resources. Both senators acknowledged the policy’s potential benefits but urged policymakers to implement robust safeguards to mitigate its negative impacts.
