标签： Dominica

A catastrophic fire erupted in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district on Wednesday, claiming the lives of at least 13 individuals and injuring dozens more. The blaze, which engulfed multiple high-rise apartment buildings at Wang Fuk Court, a public housing estate with nearly 2,000 units, marks the city’s deadliest fire incident in nearly 30 years. The fire began around 3 p.m. local time, trapping numerous residents inside the burning structures. Over 700 firefighters were dispatched to the scene, battling intense flames and thick smoke that consumed seven of the estate’s eight towers. Tragically, 37-year-old firefighter Ho Wai-ho lost his life during the rescue operation, while several others sustained injuries. Authorities confirmed that at least 30 people were injured, with two in critical condition. Emergency services worked tirelessly to evacuate residents, many of whom are elderly, as the fire rapidly spread, fueled by bamboo scaffolding surrounding the buildings. This incident has reignited concerns over the safety of such construction practices, particularly in older housing estates. Officials have warned that the death toll may rise as rescue efforts continue.

In the wake of a recent robbery at St. Benedict’s Roman Catholic Church in La Romaine, Trinidad, a local priest has pointed to the erosion of familial values as a key driver behind the island’s escalating crime rates. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of November 24, saw five masked intruders target 69-year-old Father Derek Anton and a 22-year-old security guard. The assailants ransacked the church’s administration building, restrained Fr. Anton, and stole his cellphone, wallet, and a portion of the previous day’s collections before fleeing the scene. Law enforcement later discovered a breach in the property’s wire fence and recovered an envelope containing cash.

Fr. Jayson Grell, a resident priest in San Fernando, spoke to Trinidad and Tobago Newsday, linking the attack to broader societal issues. He emphasized the breakdown of family structures as a root cause of rising violence, including home invasions and kidnappings, not only in Trinidad and Tobago but across the Caribbean and globally. Grell called for a return to gospel principles and urged parents to take a more active role in raising their children. He also questioned the impact of technology on family life and critical thinking, advocating for collective societal introspection to rebuild moral values.

The Archdiocese of Port of Spain confirmed the incident and stated that an investigation is underway, led by PC Mahadeo of the San Fernando Police Station. No arrests have been made yet. This robbery is the latest in a series of crimes targeting clergy members in Trinidad and Tobago, underscoring the urgent need for societal reform.

In a continued effort to cultivate a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals impacted by dementia, PHARCS, in partnership with community advocate Tina Alexander, is organizing its third Dementia-Friendly Gathering. Scheduled for Thursday, November 28, 2025, at the PHARCS Morne Daniel center, the event aims to provide a safe and engaging space for senior citizens, including those living with dementia. The gathering will feature a variety of activities designed to foster social interaction, physical engagement, and emotional well-being. Highlights include gentle physical exercises, craft projects, singing, familiar prayers, domino games, dancing, and a guest speaker. Attendees will also have the option to purchase a hot meal, with transportation available for an additional fee. Marie-Therese Junkerre, founder and CEO of PHARCS, emphasized the positive reception of previous events, stating, ‘These gatherings showcase the transformative power of creating spaces where seniors feel included, respected, and loved.’ PHARCS remains committed to advocating for a national dementia strategy and strengthening community partnerships to enhance the quality of life for Dominica’s elderly population. Community members, caregivers, and families of older individuals are encouraged to register early to secure their participation.

The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) Academy for Law is set to host its 8th Biennial Conference from November 26 to 28, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Trinidad. Marking the CCJ’s 20th anniversary, the event, themed ‘The CCJ at 20: Reflections on Caribbean Jurisprudence,’ will convene a diverse group of stakeholders, including judicial officers, legal practitioners, academics, policymakers, and regional partners, to reflect on the Court’s two-decade legacy and its future trajectory. The conference will feature an Opening Ceremony with addresses by Senator John Jeremie, SC, Attorney General of Trinidad and Tobago, CCJ President Justice Winston Anderson, and Deputy Chair of the CCJ Academy for Law, Justice Chantal Ononaiwu. Representatives from CARICOM, the European Union, the Inter-American Development Bank, and the Caribbean Development Bank will also contribute. The three-day program will delve into critical legal topics such as constitutional law, criminal justice reform, environmental justice, and the role of technology in law. Notable sessions include discussions on the CCJ’s Original Jurisdiction and its impact on the CARICOM Single Market and Economy. Former CCJ President Sir Dennis Byron and Dr. Kenny Anthony, former Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, will also deliver key presentations. The event underscores the Academy’s mission to advance legal education and foster a resilient regional justice sector, supported by partners including LexisNexis, the Caribbean Development Bank, and the European Union.

The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (CDPF) has launched an investigation following the discovery of a deceased male near the premises of Dominica Electricity Services (DOMLEC) on Tuesday morning. Initial reports suggest that the individual, whose identity remains undisclosed, was likely homeless. Authorities have yet to release comprehensive details regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident. Dominica News Online (DNO), a reliable local news outlet, has confirmed the ongoing investigation and pledged to provide further updates as more information becomes available. The discovery has sparked concerns within the community, highlighting the pressing issue of homelessness and public safety in the region.