Carib Scope

标签： Barbados

巴巴多斯

  • BHTA chair warns next government on legislative reform

    BHTA chair warns next government on legislative reform

    With Barbados’ February 11 general election approaching, tourism industry leader Javon Griffith has presented an urgent reform agenda for the incoming administration, simultaneously warning that geopolitical tensions originating from the United States threaten the island’s most critical tourism market.

    Griffith, Chairman of the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA), identified two legislative priorities requiring immediate attention. First, he demanded the formal integration of residential tourism companies—specifically car rental firms—under the Tourism Act, arguing their economic significance has surpassed their current regulatory classification under the Ministry of Transport and Works.

    “Bringing car rental firms under the Tourism Act would formally recognize them as integral components of the tourism ecosystem, alongside hotels and restaurants, reflecting their substantial contribution to the industry,” Griffith stated. He emphasized that administrative oversight should transfer to the Ministry of Tourism to align regulatory framework with economic reality.

    Second, the BHTA chairman called for urgent reform of duty-free concessions for hospitality businesses approaching the expiration of their statutory 15-year benefits window. Griffith advocated for either expanding existing concessions or completely redesigning the legislative framework through new parliamentary legislation to ensure continuity for affected establishments.

    These demands emerge against a backdrop of growing industry anxiety over external geopolitical factors. Recent disruptions to Caribbean airspace during US military operations against Venezuelan leadership resulted in significant flight cancellations and delays at Grantley Adams International Airport, stranding passengers and highlighting the vulnerability of Barbados’ tourism sector to international political developments.

    Griffith expressed particular concern about US foreign policy directions, noting that the United States has recently surpassed Britain as Barbados’ primary source market. “The US market is pivotal to our continued growth,” he stressed. “It’s the fastest-growing market currently, and we cannot afford regression after the substantial efforts invested by Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.”

    The BHTA maintains weekly coordination with tourism authorities to strategize for upcoming 2025/26 winter and summer seasons, with additional collaboration planned with the National Cultural Foundation to leverage events like the Crop Over Festival as summer tourism drivers. Griffith emphasized that these critical discussions will continue with whatever government emerges from the upcoming election.

  • Grief grips St Philip as two die in separate road crashes

    Grief grips St Philip as two die in separate road crashes

    Barbados was struck by a devastating sequence of events on Sunday afternoon as two separate fatal road collisions occurred within a mere thirty-minute span, sending waves of grief through the communities of St Philip and Christ Church.

    The first tragedy unfolded at approximately 3:45 p.m. along Crane Road, St Philip. Roland Arthur, a 30-year-old man described by loved ones as possessing immense promise, was riding his bicycle in the direction of Rices when he collided with a van. Despite emergency response efforts, Arthur sustained catastrophic injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Preliminary police reports indicate both vehicles were traveling in the same direction prior to the impact. Investigations into the precise circumstances remain active.

    Merely minutes earlier, at around 3:18 p.m., a second fatal incident had occurred at the junction of Searles Road and Leadvale in Christ Church. This collision involved a motorcycle and a van. The motorcyclist, identified as 54-year-old Edzii Edinboro of Bottom Bay, St Philip, was urgently transported to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. He subsequently succumbed to his injuries, marking the island’s second road fatality in under an hour.

    The human toll of these events was poignantly articulated by Clifton “Frankie” Franklyn, who served as a father figure to Roland Arthur. Overcome with emotion outside his Crane home, Franklyn memorialized Arthur as ‘the son I never had,’ highlighting his recent employment at the airport and his aspirations to pursue basketball abroad. ‘He was a very bright boy, very good with his hands… All people through here can tell that he was nothing but good,’ Franklyn recounted, detailing the profound personal loss he feels. He recalled his last interaction with Arthur just a day prior to the accident, a moment now overshadowed by tragedy. Arthur, who leaves behind no children, is remembered as a respectful and quietly ambitious individual whose potential was tragically cut short.

  • St Peter: Jordan cites progress amid water, waste woes

    St Peter: Jordan cites progress amid water, waste woes

    As Barbados enters a period of intense electoral campaigning, incumbent St Peter representative Colin Jordan has declared his candidacy with robust confidence, citing a portfolio of tangible accomplishments both within his constituency and at the national level. The Barbados Labour Party (BLP) stalwart articulated his re-election platform during an address at Coleridge and Parry School’s annual speech day, framing his bid as a continuation of proven leadership and measurable progress. Jordan’s campaign narrative is fundamentally anchored in extensive infrastructure enhancements, enumerating a comprehensive list of roadways that have undergone significant upgrades, including Station Hill, Clarke’s Gap, Chapel Street, Garden Alley, Black Bess, and Skeetes Road. While acknowledging that certain projects remain ongoing, the MP emphasized the transformative impact of these developments. Beyond transportation networks, his report to constituents highlighted critical advancements in environmental initiatives and the resolution of protracted land tenure disputes in areas like Maynards. Utility modernization formed another pillar of his report, with the installation of new water pipelines in the Boscobel area cited as a key achievement. Economic revitalization, particularly through tourism, featured prominently in Jordan’s remarks. He pointed to the successful refurbishment and reopening of a local jetty, now in its second full operational season, and heralded the commencement of new construction at Penry and anticipated development work by Sandals at Heywoods as catalysts for local economic activity. Bridging his national ministerial role with local impact, Jordan connected broad policy reforms—including the introduction of paternity leave, extended maternity leave, and the establishment of a national minimum wage—to their direct benefits for St Peter families and workers. He framed the upcoming election as a referendum on this seven-and-a-half-year partnership, asking constituents to judge his performance on this track record. However, the dialogue also surfaced persistent constituent concerns, particularly regarding intermittent water supply and unreliable garbage collection services. In response, Jordan provided detailed explanations for water discoloration issues in Boscobel and Six Men’s, attributing them to ongoing pipe replacement projects in northern St Lucy and St Peter. He outlined broader challenges within the water infrastructure system, including pressures on the Allendale well and reservoirs, but assured residents that work at the Hope site in St Lucy is expected to deliver relief in the near future. On waste management, the MP acknowledged collection delays, citing high demand, vehicle availability constraints, and access difficulties in smaller communities like Mount Brevitor, but expressed confidence that imminent solutions are being finalized. St Peter remains a historically significant BLP stronghold, previously represented by the late Prime Minister Owen Arthur.

  • Dems’ Greaves steps up ‘grassroots’ campaign in St James South

    Dems’ Greaves steps up ‘grassroots’ campaign in St James South

    In the politically volatile constituency of St James South, Democratic Labour Party candidate Pedro Greaves is executing an aggressive grassroots campaign strategy ahead of Barbados’ forthcoming general election. The sports administrator and finance manager has intensified his door-to-door outreach following official ratification at the party’s annual conference in August 2025, though he emphasizes community engagement began as early as March of that year.

    Greaves’ campaign leverages substantial pre-existing relationships with local organizations, including the Haynesville Community Youth Group, Melbourne Youth Cricketers teams, St James Stilettos netball team, and cricket programs at West Terrace Primary School and Good Shepherd Primary School. His most visible initiative—a debushing program—employs residents to clear overgrown areas, addressing both environmental aesthetics and public safety concerns, particularly in communities with significant elderly populations.

    The candidate reports overwhelming voter engagement, having personally contacted nearly 6,000 constituents. Residents consistently raise pressing national issues including crime escalation, gun violence, cost-of-living pressures, underemployment, and inadequate public transportation—specifically citing the absence of bus service in West Terrace.

    As one of the DLP’s younger candidates, Greaves acknowledges mentorship from party leader Ralph Thorne, emphasizing “true representation” as the campaign’s cornerstone. His policy priorities mirror constituent concerns: intensified law enforcement against crime, economic measures to reduce living costs, preservation of public transportation, and comprehensive education reform.

    The campaign received a significant endorsement from former area MP Donville Inniss, who dismissed claims of DLP unpreparedness while defending the party’s low-profile strategy: “If you need posters for constituents to recognize you, you’ve been a successful failure as an MP.” Inniss characterized Greaves as an energetic, committed candidate who understands community needs, urging voters to assess both government performance and opposition alternatives amid concerns about voter apathy.

    St James South represents a critical bellwether constituency, having alternated between Democratic Labour Party and Barbados Labour Party representation consistently since its establishment in the 1980s. The current election pits Greaves against incumbent Sandra Husbands of the BLP, a strategic communications specialist and community advocate, in what remains one of Barbados’ most politically competitive districts.

  • Preliminary voters’ list released as election preparations accelerate

    Preliminary voters’ list released as election preparations accelerate

    The Electoral and Boundaries Commission (EBC) of Barbados has formally initiated the electoral verification phase by releasing the preliminary voters’ register this Monday. This procedural milestone enables citizens to authenticate their registration details as the nation progresses toward its February 11 general election, subsequent to Parliament’s dissolution on the same day.

    EBC Chairman Ramon Alleyne confirmed the establishment of 30 constituency-specific revising centers to manage the claims and objections process. These facilities, operational from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., will remain accessible until the deadline for submission of registration transfers on January 26, with objections accepted through January 28. The commission will finalize the electoral roll on February 7 following comprehensive review of all submissions.

    Voter accessibility has been enhanced through multiple channels: physical verification at revising centers, the Public Library at Independence Square, the Electoral Office at Warrens Towers II, or digital submission via the EBC’s online portal. Concurrently, the commission has publicly announced the appointment of returning officers and election clerks across all constituencies, alongside the designation of Ramon Gibson as Deputy Supervisor of Elections, effective immediately.

    The compressed electoral timeline necessitates accelerated preparations by both election authorities and political entities, with Nomination Day scheduled for January 27. This publication marks the commencement of the formal electoral sequence, ensuring procedural transparency and regulatory compliance in the democratic process.

  • Coleridge & Parry intensifies efforts to tackle falling grades

    Coleridge & Parry intensifies efforts to tackle falling grades

    In response to declining academic performance in core subjects, Coleridge & Parry School has launched a comprehensive intervention strategy aimed at addressing nationwide trends of underperformance in mathematics and languages. Principal June Moe announced the new measures during Tuesday’s Speech Day and Prize-Giving Ceremony, outlining a multi-faceted approach to personalized learning support.

    The school has developed a specialized program to identify students struggling with numeracy and provide them with intensive, small-group instruction and one-to-one teacher interactions. Additionally, the initiative incorporates peer-assisted learning, enabling high-achieving students to mentor their classmates through structured support systems.

    Teaching methodology will undergo significant transformation toward practical, real-world applications. Educators will employ manipulatives and consumer mathematics examples drawn from daily life experiences to make abstract concepts more tangible. School-Based Assessments will be introduced earlier in the curriculum to strengthen foundational skills.

    Principal Moe identified several contributing factors to the academic decline, including oversized classes and the increasing prevalence of neurodivergent students with diverse learning needs. She noted challenges in obtaining formal diagnoses, explaining that the school relies heavily on parental disclosure of existing conditions.

    The performance analysis revealed particular concerns in English B (literature) and foreign languages, where writing proficiency lags behind verbal competence. While students demonstrate comfort speaking Spanish and French, significant deficiencies persist in written expression and basic reading comprehension.

    Despite these challenges, the school celebrated notable improvements in several subjects including biology, food nutrition and health, principles of business, and visual arts. The ceremony also recognized outstanding academic achievements, with Talesa Boyce receiving the Principal’s Award for Best All-Round Student and Best CXC Examination Performance, while Kianna Clarke and Roshon Codrington shared honors for Leadership.

    Featured speaker Javon Griffith, Chairman of the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association, emphasized student accountability in academic success, stating: ‘Excellence is not a single achievement; it is a habit.’ His address underscored the long-term importance of developmental habits formed during school years.

  • Atherley rules himself out of February 11 election

    Atherley rules himself out of February 11 election

    In a significant political development, former opposition leader Bishop Joe Atherley has officially declared he will not stand as a candidate in Barbados’ upcoming general election, while simultaneously reaffirming his unwavering dedication to the nation’s political landscape. The announcement, made exclusively to Barbados TODAY on Monday, clarifies that while Atherley is stepping back from electoral contention, he remains deeply invested in serving Barbadian interests through alternative political channels.

    Atherley, who previously secured the St Michael West constituency for the Barbados Labour Party in 2018 before establishing the People’s Party for Democracy and Development (PdP) as the sole opposition voice, emphasized that his commitment transcends party affiliations. “My first suit is not a party label,” he stated metaphorically. “My first suit is the blue, yellow, gold—the Barbados colors representing the interests of its people.”

    The former parliamentarian articulated that his decision stems from a principled approach to public service, guided by his Christian values and ministerial profession. He expressed willingness to contribute to national interests wherever possible, provided such engagement aligns with his ethical framework.

    This development coincides with the formation of a new coalition—the People’s Coalition for Progress—comprising the United Progressive Party, New National Party, and Conservative Barbados Leadership Party. Notably, Atherley confirmed that neither he nor the PdP are participating in this alliance, distinguishing the current political realignment from the previous Allied Party for Progress coalition formed during the January 2022 elections.

    Atherley’s withdrawal marks a pivotal moment in Barbados’ opposition landscape, potentially reshaping electoral dynamics while underscoring his continued role as an independent political voice dedicated to national rather than partisan interests.

  • Atherley rules himself out of February 11 election

    Atherley rules himself out of February 11 election

    In a significant political development, former opposition leader Bishop Joe Atherley has officially declared he will not stand as a candidate in Barbados’ upcoming general election, despite reaffirming his enduring dedication to the nation’s political landscape. The announcement came during an exclusive interview with Barbados TODAY on Monday.

    Atherley, who previously secured the St Michael West constituency for the Barbados Labour Party in 2018 before establishing the People’s Party for Democracy and Development (PdP) as the sole opposition voice, emphasized that his withdrawal from candidacy does not signal retirement from public service. ‘I remain deeply engaged in the political process and maintain my commitment to advancing the interests of Barbadian citizens,’ he stated.

    The former parliamentarian articulated a philosophy of principle-driven service over partisan allegiance, noting: ‘My primary allegiance lies with the national colors of Barbados—blue, yellow, and gold—rather than any party label. I operate based on Christian principles and ministerial profession, remaining available to serve the people in whatever capacity circumstances permit.’

    This declaration coincides with the formation of the People’s Coalition for Progress, an alliance comprising the United Progressive Party, New National Party, and Conservative Barbados Leadership Party. Notably, Atherley clarified that neither he nor the PdP are participating in this coalition effort, distinguishing the current political landscape from the previous Allied Party for Progress arrangement during the January 2022 elections.

    Atherley’s decision creates strategic implications for Barbados’ opposition framework as the nation approaches its electoral process, with his continued involvement expected to take forms beyond conventional candidacy.

  • BADMC to review yam prices by April

    BADMC to review yam prices by April

    Barbados faces a significant setback in its campaign against soaring food prices following a major agricultural theft that forced authorities to delay a crucial price reduction initiative. The Barbados Agricultural Development and Marketing Corporation (BADMC) has revealed that the theft of approximately 10,000 pounds of yams from its St. John farmland has compromised plans to make the staple food more affordable for consumers.

    Dr. Claire Durant, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of BADMC, confirmed that the stolen produce, valued at nearly $70,000, was specifically cultivated as part of a strategic intervention to combat escalating market prices. Current retail rates for yams have reached concerning levels of $6-7 per pound, creating financial strain for many Barbadian households.

    The corporation had targeted a ambitious price reduction to approximately $2.50 per pound by 2026 through increased domestic production. However, the substantial theft has necessitated a recalibration of this timeline, with consumers now unlikely to see meaningful price relief before the conclusion of the year’s first quarter.

    This incident forms part of a disturbing pattern of praedial larceny across the island. Recent statistics indicate approximately 50,000 pounds of yams were stolen during the Christmas and New Year period alone, including a separate 20,000-pound theft from veteran farmer Richard Armstrong’s private holdings in St. John.

    Dr. Durant emphasized the disproportionate impact on smaller agricultural operators, noting that while the BADMC can absorb such losses, individual farmers face potentially catastrophic consequences from similar thefts.

    In response to the escalating crisis, the corporation has implemented enhanced security measures including increased police patrols and community vigilance initiatives. The BADMC has also introduced a numbered receipt book system to improve supply chain transparency, enabling better verification of produce legitimacy throughout the distribution network.

    Agriculture Minister Indar Weir has issued stern warnings to both vendors and consumers, emphasizing that stolen produce inevitably enters commercial channels and urging heightened due diligence across the sector. Meanwhile, the vending community, represented by the Barbados Association of Retailers, Vendors, and Entrepreneurs (BARVEN), has rejected suggestions of widespread complicity, maintaining that most vendors operate through legal sourcing channels.

  • New coalition pushes for reform, fairer representation, voter re-engagement

    New coalition pushes for reform, fairer representation, voter re-engagement

    A significant political realignment has emerged in Barbados as three emerging parties—the United Progressive Party (UPP), New National Party (NNP), and Conservative Barbados Leadership Party (CBLP)—have consolidated into the People’s Coalition for Progress (PCP) just weeks before the nation’s general election. This alliance positions itself as a viable alternative to Barbados’ established political duopoly.

    At the coalition’s inaugural press conference in Bridgetown, UPP leader Lynette Eastmond criticized Prime Minister Mia Mottley’s announcement of a snap election, contending the abbreviated timeline disadvantages voters rather than political organizations. “Calling a snap election with minimal notice undermines democratic participation,” Eastmond asserted. “This approach disadvantages Barbadian citizens who deserve adequate time to evaluate their voting options rather than defaulting to established parties or abstaining entirely.”

    Eastmond highlighted concerning voter apathy patterns, particularly in urban constituencies, attributing this trend to systemic neglect. She advocated for transitioning from Barbados’ current two-party framework toward multiparty parliamentary representation, citing nations with proportional representation systems that achieve superior Human Development Index rankings.

    The coalition leaders presented comprehensive reform proposals including constitutional amendments to implement fixed election dates, proportional representation instead of first-past-the-post voting, and reduction of parliamentary seats from 30 to better reflect Barbados’ population size. “Maintaining 30 parliamentary seats for 300,000 citizens represents excessive bureaucratic burden,” Eastmond contended.

    NNP leader Kemar Stuart raised concerns about electoral list integrity, revealing his own registration challenges despite being a parliamentary candidate. Regarding economic policy, Stuart warned about potential oil supply disruptions stemming from geopolitical tensions and suggested another International Monetary Fund arrangement might follow the election.

    CBLP leader Corey Beckles characterized the coalition as injecting renewed energy into Barbadian politics, emphasizing that “fresh parliamentary voices are essential after years of unfulfilled promises.”

    The PCP confirmed its candidates will contest individually like other parties, with elected members determining prime ministerial leadership. While the complete candidate roster remains forthcoming, the coalition pledged imminent publication of its full slate.