On October 5, Guyana marked a historic moment as seven aircraft from the Guyana Defence Force soared over the newly commissioned Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge in Demerara. This monumental infrastructure project, valued at US$262 million, replaces the aging Demerara Harbour Bridge, which served the nation for 47 years. Named in honor of former president and current Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, the bridge stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication to Guyana’s progress. At the commissioning ceremony, President Dr. Irfaan Ali emphasized the bridge’s significance, stating, ‘Great men deserve recognition, visionaries deserve legacies, and Guyana never forgets its giants.’ The Bharrat Jagdeo Demerara River Bridge is now Guyana’s largest and most advanced infrastructure project. Spanning 2.6 kilometers, the 50-meter high-span cable-stayed bridge features four lanes, a dedicated cycle/pedestrian lane, and connects Nandy Park on the East Bank of Demerara to La Grange on the West Bank. Designed for a 100-year lifespan and constructed by China Railway Construction (International) Limited with Politecnica as consultants, the bridge operates toll-free, 24/7, with a maximum speed limit of 80 km/h. President Ali highlighted the bridge’s transformative potential, calling it a ‘catalyst’ for modernization, industrialization, and economic growth. ‘It will open new corridors of development, pulling jobs, investments, and opportunities into flourishing communities,’ he declared. The bridge symbolizes Guyana’s readiness to embrace a future of progress and prosperity.
标签： Saint Lucia
圣卢西亚
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Former WI U19 player Tarrique Edward looks to kick on in senior cricket
Transitioning from junior to senior ranks in sports is often a challenging journey, and Tarrique Edward, a former youth cricket standout, is determined to prove his mettle in senior competition. At just 21 years old, Edward is focused on making a strong comeback after an injury-riddled 2024 season. His goal is to showcase his all-round abilities and cement his place in the cricketing world.
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CWI president reflects on Bernard Julien’s life
The cricketing world is in mourning following the passing of Bernard Julien, the celebrated Trinidadian cricketer, on October 5. Dr. Kishore Shallow, President of Cricket West Indies (CWI), paid heartfelt tribute to Julien in an official statement, honoring his legacy both on and off the field. Shallow described Julien as a ‘quiet legend’ of the 1975 World Cup, whose contributions brought immense joy to the West Indies and left an indelible mark on the sport. Julien’s career spanned 24 Test matches, during which he scored 866 runs and took 50 wickets, showcasing his versatility as a left-arm swing bowler and a composed batsman. His calm demeanor and thoughtful approach to the game earned him widespread admiration. Shallow emphasized the need to reflect on Julien’s era, urging the cricketing community to embrace inclusivity and recognize the shared history of the sport. He extended heartfelt condolences to Julien’s family, expressing hope that the late cricketer knew how deeply he was valued and loved by the cricketing family he helped shape.
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China creates ‘bone glue’ that will mend breaks in minutes
Chinese researchers have unveiled a groundbreaking innovation in medical science—a ‘bone glue’ capable of mending fractures in as little as three minutes. This revolutionary product, named Bone-02, promises to transform the treatment of bone injuries, which affect millions globally each year. According to a Lancet study, approximately 178 million fractures occur annually worldwide, with 18.3 million cases reported in the United States alone. Traditional fracture treatments often involve invasive procedures, such as the use of plates, rods, and screws, which can require additional surgeries for removal, prolonging patient discomfort and recovery time. Bone-02, inspired by the adhesive properties of oysters, offers a non-invasive alternative. It is injected directly into the fracture site, bonding bone fragments swiftly and effectively. The glue is particularly beneficial for treating smaller or awkwardly located fractures, where traditional methods may be unsuitable. Additionally, it minimizes the risk of infection and rejection, addressing significant challenges in fracture management. This innovation marks a significant leap forward in medical technology, potentially rendering complex treatments obsolete and improving patient outcomes globally.
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Attenborough and Prince William lead tributes to Dr Jane Goodall
The world is mourning the loss of Dame Jane Goodall, the renowned primatologist and environmentalist, who passed away at the age of 91. Tributes from prominent figures, including Sir David Attenborough and Prince William, have highlighted her groundbreaking contributions to science and conservation. Sir David, a close friend of Dr. Goodall, described her as a ‘tireless advocate’ for chimpanzees and a ‘great champion of environmental protection.’ Prince William praised her ‘boundless curiosity, compassion, and pioneering spirit,’ which he said transformed humanity’s understanding of the natural world. Dr. Goodall died of natural causes while on a speaking tour in California, according to the Jane Goodall Institute. Her discoveries revolutionized scientific understanding of chimpanzees, and her advocacy for environmental protection left an indelible mark on global conservation efforts. Sir David emphasized her unique ability to form deep bonds with chimpanzees in the wild, a feat that reshaped scientific methodologies. Prince William, in a heartfelt post on X, stated that the world had lost ‘an extraordinary voice’ and credited her for inspiring countless individuals, including himself, to protect the planet. Other notable figures, including former U.S. President Barack Obama and actor Leonardo DiCaprio, also paid tribute. Obama highlighted her role in paving the way for women in science, while DiCaprio called her ‘a true hero for the planet.’ The United Nations expressed its sorrow, acknowledging her tireless work for the planet and its inhabitants, leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.
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US government shutdown after lack of funding plan
The United States government entered a shutdown on Wednesday, October 1, following a failure by Senate Democrats and Republicans to reach an agreement on a short-term funding plan. The shutdown commenced at 4:01 GMT, coinciding with the start of the new fiscal year, as the previous year’s funding expired. Despite Republican control of both chambers of Congress, they were unable to secure consensus to pass a bill that would fund government operations until November 21. Democrats withheld their support, demanding that Republicans reverse recent Medicaid cuts enacted under Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill in July. While Democrats proposed alternative solutions, these were rejected, leaving Congress in a stalemate.
As a result of the shutdown, federal agencies are required to furlough non-essential employees, who will not receive pay during the shutdown. However, most furloughed workers are expected to receive back pay once the government resumes operations, thanks to a 2019 law. Contract workers, such as cleaning staff, are not covered by this law and will only be paid if their contracting firms have allocated funds for such scenarios. Each agency has already submitted staffing plans in anticipation of the shutdown.
The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates that approximately 750,000 federal employees could be furloughed daily, resulting in a daily wage loss of around $400 million. Unlike previous shutdowns, the White House has instructed agencies to prepare for large-scale layoffs, as indicated in a September 24 memo from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). This unprecedented move raises concerns about the long-term impact on federal employment and government operations.
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Neil Peter Fatally Shot in Morne Serpent
Neil Peter, a 35-year-old resident of Morne Serpent, tragically lost his life in a fatal shooting incident on October 5 in the Gros Islet community. Authorities were alerted to the scene at approximately 8:10 a.m. following reports of gunfire. Responding officers from the Gros Islet Police Station and the Major Crimes Unit discovered Peter’s body with multiple gunshot wounds. A medical practitioner at the scene confirmed his death. Peter was well-known in the area for his dedication to beekeeping, a passion he had cultivated over the past several years. The local community has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of a man who contributed positively to their environment. Investigators are urging anyone with information related to the incident to contact the Gros Islet Police Station at 456-3830 or the Major Crimes Unit at 456-3756.
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OPINION: What cannabis legislation can teach us about foreign direct investment (Part 1)
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has long been a contentious issue in Saint Lucia, with local populations expressing concerns over its impact on displacement, environmental neglect, and unequal treatment of local versus foreign investors. Critics argue that foreign investors often receive prime land, extensive tax exemptions, and the ability to repatriate profits, while local industries and workers are left with minimal benefits. This has fueled skepticism about the ‘trickle-down’ economic model, where the promised benefits of development rarely reach the grassroots level.
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Facts over fear: A look at the real numbers with my Bajan family
As Barbados steps into a new chapter of its history, concerns about the influx of skilled professionals from other CARICOM nations have been met with official data that tells a story of balance, leadership, and sustainable growth. Julian Rogers MBE, a veteran Caribbean broadcaster, addresses these concerns by presenting findings from the Barbados Accreditation Council, which highlight the country’s role as a regional leader in facilitating skilled movement. Between 2016 and 2024, Barbados issued 2,869 Skills Certificates to both Barbadians and other CARICOM nationals, while verifying only 877 certificates for professionals coming to work in the country. This ratio of three incoming professionals for every ten outgoing ones underscores Barbados’ high standards and its contribution to regional capacity building. The data also reveals that the number of skilled nationals entering Barbados averages just 97 per year, a manageable and sustainable figure that dispels fears of overwhelming the job market or social services. Furthermore, Barbadians have actively utilized the CARICOM Skilled Nationals programme to pursue opportunities abroad, with 582 certificates issued to Barbadians between 2016 and 2019 alone. Rogers emphasizes that the system fosters a multi-directional exchange of talent, promoting regional integration and growth. As Barbados navigates this new era, the facts point to a balanced and promising reality, encouraging confidence over anxiety and a clear understanding of the country’s leadership role in the Caribbean community.
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Sargassum clears, but fishermen recall harsh impacts
For decades, the seasonal arrival of sargassum seaweed has been a familiar yet unwelcome sight for residents along the east and south coasts of Saint Lucia. Known for blanketing beaches, harming marine ecosystems, and emitting a foul odour, the seaweed has long been a nuisance. However, 2025 marked a troubling shift in this pattern. For the first time, large quantities of sargassum invaded the north and west coasts, affecting regions such as Castries, Dennery, Choiseul, and Soufrière. This unprecedented spread has raised alarms among locals and experts alike.
Saphira Hunt, Caribbean programme officer at Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, attributed this phenomenon to climate change. Warmer ocean temperatures and altered wind patterns have pushed the seaweed further than ever before, exposing previously unaffected coastlines. While the brown tide has since receded, its impact lingers, particularly among fishermen. Hurby Gilbert, a local fisherman, described the challenges of navigating through towering piles of seaweed, which not only hindered daily operations but also left boats stained and foul-smelling.
The decay of sargassum poses additional problems. Veteran fisherman Kurby Fontenelle noted that the seaweed quickly rots upon reaching shore, releasing noxious gases that pollute the air and disrupt daily life. Equipment damage is another significant concern. Sadam Gedeon, a fisherman with 15 years of experience, explained how seaweed clogs boat impellers, leading to costly repairs. Residents also voiced frustration over the lack of government support, with many calling for better facilities and assistance for fishermen.
The crisis extends beyond Saint Lucia. In May 2025, over 38 million metric tons of sargassum drifted across the Caribbean, the largest recorded mass to date. While sargassum serves as a habitat for marine life in open waters, its accumulation onshore threatens coral reefs, seagrass beds, and human health. Governments and scientists are exploring solutions, including satellite monitoring systems like the Sargassum Watch System and Mexico’s LANOT platform. Onshore, initiatives to repurpose seaweed into fertiliser, building materials, or biofuel are underway, though challenges such as high salt and heavy metal content persist.
Regional cooperation is seen as crucial to addressing the crisis. Countries like Mexico and the Dominican Republic are advocating for joint action. For now, Saint Lucia’s beaches are clear, but fishermen warn that the sargassum will return. They urge stronger support to safeguard their livelihoods, emphasizing that the crisis is far from over.