Plans are in the works for an extensive upgrade to the Public Service Vehicle (PSV) Terminal at Cheapside in the City, and when the work is done, the facility will be called the Seaview Terminal.

Chairman of the Transport Authority Marie Theodore, board members, and Director Ruth Holder met with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport and Works Santia Bradshaw, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry Dr Romel Springer, and top MTW officials to review preliminary plans for the new terminal.

Communications and Public Affairs Officer of The Barbados Police Service (TBPS) Inspector Rodney Inniss and other members of the BPS also got a first-hand look at the plans and had the opportunity to advise on security regarding the proposed terminal. Acting Chief Technical Officer Jason Bowen laid out the drawings to the Deputy Prime Minister and the team, showcasing the terminal building which will host a concourse for commuters to be accommodated, offices, a police outpost, shops, and bathroom facilities.

“The upgrade of the facility at Cheapside will enable commuters to benefit from sheltered accommodations and bathroom facilities while they wait to board public service vehicles,” Bradshaw said.

“It will also improve the facilities generally in the public transportation sector.”

The terminal will include an area for passengers to disembark, as well as loading bays for passengers to board PSVs. An area will be reserved for vendors adjacent to the terminal.

Minister Bradshaw pointed out that discussions had been ongoing for several years regarding the upgrade to the facility at the PSV terminal at Cheapside, but no commitment had been previously made concerning financing.

“We are now in a position to press ahead with the revised designs and costings with a view to starting the construction of the new facility in the upcoming financial year,” she said.

The last upgrade to a terminal was in 2018 when the current headquarters of the Transport Authority was officially opened at the Constitution River. (PR)

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by Shamar Blunte

The Barbados Medicinal Cannabis Licensing Authority (BMCLA) has formally granted the University of the West Indies (UWI) its first research and development licence to turn marijuana into new products.

In a brief ceremony on Friday at the UWI at Cave Hill, representatives from the drug industry, the authority, and the university joined together to mark the beginning of research opportunities now available here for medical cannabis development.

“This research and development licence will allow the university to conduct experiments and testing as it relates to every form and derivative of cannabis, including live plants, fresh dried material, seeds, oils, wax, you name it,” said Shanika Roberts-Odle, the BMCLA’s acting chief executive officer. “The University of the West Indies can go ahead to [engage in] research and development on [those] particular aspects. With that licence also comes a complimentary import and export licence that allows and facilitates them to get in-depth with what they are doing.”

Pharmacologist Dr Damian Cohall, the deputy dean of UWI’s medical sciences faculty, has been an advocate for medicinal cannabis and other herbs for the treatment of communicable and non-communicable diseases. With the licence, the UWI gains access to the lucrative and innovative medicinal cannabis industry, which is rapidly expanding globally, he declared.

“The newly issued cannabis research and development licence provides an excellent opportunity for the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill to have better alignment with a growing and transformative industry in Barbados, wider Caribbean and globally,” said Dr Cohall, an expert on the science behind the Caribbean’s medicinal herbs.

“The current scope of this licence allows the UWI to pursue drug discovery and other important pharmacological research on cannabinoid compounds, inclusive of the phytocannabinoids, synthetic cannabinoids, endocannabinoids, and other related phytochemicals from the cannabis plant.

“These research opportunities are endless within our current research facilities which include over 2 000 square feet of generalised bench research area, a cell culture laboratory and animal testing facilities. So we are primed for drug discovery,” he added.

While declaring that the occasion was a cause for celebration, Dr Cohall stressed that in its future research plans, the university had a right to conduct its work in a socially responsible way.

“The university is the first entity to receive a cannabis research and development licence in Barbados and will therefore have first-mover advantage in the medicinal cannabis industry, which thrives on science and innovation,” he told the gathering. “As we welcome this development and the ascribed benefits, we remain sober of the social inequities surrounding the use of cannabis and will take an inclusive and socially accountable approach in our research endeavours.”

Among early medicinal cannabis projects the Faculty of Medical Sciences has identified is research on the cardiometabolic syndrome – a cluster of metabolic risk factors that increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke, according to the UWI. Researchers also plan to investigate how cannabis-based products can affect diseases of the central nervous system, like epilepsy.

The university is banking on research leading to groundbreaking treatments for chronic non-communicable diseases and neurodegenerative conditions that are at epidemic proportions throughout the Caribbean, according to Dr Cohall.

“The benefits are endless as these medicinal interventions can create wealth and health opportunities impacting the quality of life of Barbadians who can benefit directly and indirectly via an upward trend in the country’s gross domestic product,” he added.

Joining in the celebration of the BMCLA partnership, Professor Clive Landis, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the Cave Hill Campus, said: “Research and development is at the heart of the UWI. Our ranking as a top-tier university, according to Times Higher Education, is driven largely by our strong published academic research. A recent focus under the new Cave Hill strategy is to translate this research excellence into tangible value for society and value for the university itself through entrepreneurial activity. We have encapsulated the campus strategy under the theme, Creating Value From Our Ideas.”

The principal said getting the cannabis research and development licence from the BMCLA “fits perfectly” with that strategy “since cannabis research is an applied research field, with medical benefits accruing to society and entrepreneurial opportunities to the university”.
shamarblunt@barbadostoday.bb

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Despite rapidly growing interest in the medical cannabis industry, the head of the industry’s regulator has identified banking obstacles at the top of several challenges hampering investment.

Shanika Roberts-Odle, the acting chief executive officer (CEO) of the Barbados Medicinal Cannabis Licensing Authority (BMCLA), made the revelation on Friday as the agency granted the University of the West Indies the first research and development licence.

“We have an issue as it relates to banking. That is the absolute reality but we are not the only persons who [have] ever had that problem. California, for many years, was a cash-only business with large warehouses [filled with] cash,” she said.

“What I will say to you, is that it is not an issue I am unwilling to continue to attempt to bridge the gap [on]. I know that the [permanent secretary] and the minister are with me on that in terms of bridging the gap of comfortability for our banks, and for their US correspondent partners, and how do we move forward.”

“We are also looking at alternatives,” the acting CEO added.

“When you don’t have horse, sometimes you have to ride cow.”

US banks – with whom most domestic banks do business – are unable to take funds from cannabis businesses, which risks prosecution for “aiding and abetting” and money laundering, US federal crimes. Cannabis possession and selling are still federal felonies, despite the legalisation of recreational cannabis in 24 states, while another seven states have decriminalised its use.

Roberts-Odle said new investors expressing interest in the industry regularly, adding that the BMCLA has ensured that at least 30 per cent of all licences are locally held.

She disclosed that 77 per cent of the licences are locally owned, with 15 per cent being a mixture of Barbadian and CARICOM nationals and a combination of domestic and overseas players making up the remaining eight per cent of licences.

The acting CEO added: “One of the positions we had put forward is that at least 30 per cent of every licence must be owned by a Barbadian, except in two cases – research and development, and laboratory, because . . . those are extremely capital-intensive areas.”

Identifying insurance as another long-time obstacle to the industry’s development, Roberts-Odle nevertheless indicated that local insurer Gallagher Barbados had recently come on board.

“ [We] want to thank our good partners, Gallagher Barbados, who have advised us that they are willing to insure [the] medicinal cannabis industry. I want to ask our other insurance partners in Barbados to come on board. We’ve had conversations with them, [and] I’m sure we will continue to have conversations with them,” she said.

The BMCLA head also pushed back against claims that small businesses were being shut out of the sector because of the high cost of licences.

Acknowledging that licence fees would be prohibitive to some entrepreneurs, she maintained that the medical cannabis industry requires significant investment to pass all necessary regulations.

Roberts-Odle explained: “From various ends, the medicinal cannabis space is a space that is capital intensive, there is actually no way around it. The licences could be $100 and it is still going to be a difficult matter because you have to grow to a standard and you have to be able to test. Doctors who are going to prescribe medicinal cannabis need for their patients to know what is in that medicinal cannabis.

“And so, while there are persons who have absolute skill at growing, sometimes that is limited to a recreational format because you have to be able to go through particular processes as it relates to cultivation on a medical basis.”

But the regulatory agency’s head said the government would soon announce “something that would be able to allow some persons to get involved, and to be able to get involved in a meaningful way”, though she did not elaborate.

“There are still also ways that people can get involved,” she noted, adding that some entrepreneurs have formed cooperatives and are “seeking investments through that cooperative”.
(SB)

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Approximately 60 senior male students at the Princess Margaret Secondary School engaged in a motivational session organised by the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) on Friday.

DLP leader Dr Ronnie Yearwood and former attorney general Adriel Brathwaite were joined by fellow lawyer Stefan Newton, who is a 2019 Chevening Scholar, and Barry Griffin, vice president of the Bahamian Senate, in the pep rally at the Six Roads, St Philip school.

They encouraged the boys to value themselves and know their worth as they shared their personal experiences, emphasising their humble beginnings and challenges on their paths to success.

Brathwaite urged the Princess Margaret boys to recognise their potential and focus on uplifting the image of their school. He stressed the importance of avoiding distractions, practising discipline, and excelling in their school work. He also encouraged the students to share any challenges they might be facing with a confidant, challenging stereotypes about men expressing their feelings.

Griffin prompted the students to envision their future and develop a plan to achieve their goals. Despite acknowledging the inevitable hardships, he emphasised the importance of determination and hard work in attaining desired results.

Newton shared his struggle with dyslexia in school and highlighted the role of a support system in overcoming obstacles. He urged the students to keep up with technological advancements and consider pursuing science and technology studies

In an interactive session, Dr Yearwood shared his childhood story of growing up without basic amenities like indoor plumbing, electricity, internet, television, or a computer. Despite facing negativity and doubt from his village due to his single-parent upbringing, he emphasised the importance of not letting others diminish one’s value. He advised the students to focus on their growth, develop their talents, and recognise their worth.

Following the talks, students engaged in a question-and-answer session with the speakers. Student Leonardo Hackim, recognised for noble characteristics and dedication to school work, received a token of appreciation — a new laptop — from the speakers. The school’s guidance counsellor selected him for the gift, citing attributes reminiscent of National Hero Errol Barrow, whom the DLP planned to honour this weekend on Sunday, Errol Barrow Day.

The DLP team also visited The Alexandra School in Speightstown, where they conducted a motivational session with senior-year girls. Former Bahamian Attorney General Allyson Maynard Gibson was the guest speaker.
(SZB)

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‘M 50’, the iconic registration for the personal car of every Prime Minister of Barbados since Errol Barrow, is on the plates of an electric upgrade of the PM’s Mercedes Benz M-Class midsize luxury SUV, the government announced Friday, as several state vehicles are to switch to either EV or hybrid drivetrains.

Minister of Home Affairs and Information Wilfred Abrahams said the decision to defer the replacement was taken until a suitable vehicle could be found.

“As we speak now, there’s a new M 50 on the road,” Abrahams told reporters during the year’s first post-Cabinet press conference. The new vehicle was “a replacement of a fair swap”, he said.

“The upgraded vehicle [is] pretty much the same version of the vehicle and [an] electric format, as was there before,” he said. “The Prime Minister was adamant that she was not changing her car until she can get an electric vehicle or suitable electric vehicle.”

Referring to the government’s policy to phase out fossil fuels by 2030, the home affairs minister said the government was “toeing the line with respect to that policy and we’re trying to phase out the use of the fossil fuel vehicles”.

He acknowledged that that upgrade has “not been easy”, adding: “The types of vehicles that we have had access to in our market have been very restrictive. I’ve spoken to some of the car dealers who have indicated that people keep, for example, asking ‘When are you bringing electric trucks?’. They are more interested in electric SUVs.”

Despite a growing public appetite for electric and hybrid cars, the government could not find the eco-friendly vehicles it wanted on the domestic market, the home affairs minister declared.

The government’s policy is to replace vehicles within its fleet with electric vehicles, and starting this year will proceed from the prime minister to judges, senior officials and other ministerial vehicles, Abrahams said.

“The replacement is [for] a maximum five-year [period],” he said. “Vehicles are replaced at least once every five years. The prime minister’s vehicle is over seven years old. So for two years, she has delayed until she could toe the line with respect to the policy of the government.

“So when you see a new ‘M 50’ on the road, it has nothing mysterious. It was well overdue for a change. The prime minister took a decision not to change until she can get a suitable vehicle that was electric in keeping with the government’s policy.”
(RG)

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On Wednesday, January 17, the Judiciary of Barbados received the deeply wounding news of the passing of Justice of Appeal Jefferson O’Brien Cumberbatch. We were aware that he was battling a severe illness, but we continued to hope for an uneventful recovery and his return to his family and his judicial colleagues. It was not to be.

The news caused deep consternation among his colleagues. He was the first sitting judge to die whilst in office. That troubling reality ushered in deep introspection amongst many of us.

“Jeff,” as he was so affectionately known, had joined the local Court of Appeal in 2020. He was amongst the first batch of judges interviewed and recommended for appointment by the newly created Judicial Appointments Committee. His selection was an inspiring and daring choice. Whilst there could have been no reservations concerning his legal scholarship, there was the reality that he had spent significant time teaching at his alma mater, the University of the West Indies at Cave Hill Campus in the Faculty of Law. He joined the faculty in 1980, and in 1983, he was appointed Lecturer in law.

There was a view expressed that his experience did not embrace the rough and tumble of litigation practice. He was to prove these doubters wholly mistaken. On the Bench, as in the lecture room, he brought his considerable intellectual gifts to bear in analyzing facts and applying them through his refined mind to the law. He authored all the unfair dismissal decisions which came before the Court of Appeal. His writing was clear, and his choice of language felicitous. He expounded on the guiding principles with ease and acuity. Whenever he felt he could not support his colleagues, he did not shy away from dissenting, a tribute to his robustness and independence of spirit. Yet, given his innate charm and congeniality, one never sensed that his dissents were other than honestly held views.

He has left us with a huge void in the Court of Appeal. In our quiet moments of banter, it was a joy to experience this master of the King’s English as he displayed unrivaled dexterity in the subtleties of the English language, much to our amusement. He was warm, kind-spirited, unpretentious, and exceptionally collegial. He was always keen and ready to offer assistance to fellow judges whenever needed. He was unfailingly polite, kind and sensitive to staff. Elegance and refinement in manners were his hallmark.

In his many years as a teacher, many sat at his feet in contract law. The constant refrain one encounters when inquiring of his pedagogy is ‘he was simply one of the best teachers I had at Cave Hill.’ He was known to be a dapper dresser, well-buffed and devastatingly effective in the lecture room. He was also notoriously stingy in his marking. You had to earn your As and B+s. He has left a huge imprint on generations of students, many of whom have attained high office. He had, by dint of hard work and discipline, earned the warm regard of his charges.

Whilst at Cave Hill, Jeff progressed in 1993 to Senior Lecturer, a position he held until his elevation to the Court of Appeal. He was also Deputy Dean and Head of Teaching between 1994 to 1996 and Deputy Dean from 1996 to 2005 and from 2013 to 2017.

Beyond the academic halls, Jeff’s talents were sought and utilized to the benefit of his country and the wider region in the following public assignments:

1. Initially, he was Deputy Chairman of the Anti-Money Laundering Authority. He later became Chairman from 2000 to 2018.
2. He was the Deputy Chair of the Consumer Claims Tribunal and subsequently Chairman from 2009 to 2018.
3. Member of the Regional Judicial Legal Services Commission from 2009 to 2013.
4. Chairman of the Fair-Trading Commission from July 2015 to June 2018.
5. Member of the Law Reform Commission from inception to present.

Apart from his legal teaching and writing, Jeff also wrote a weekly column in the Sunday Advocate styled “Musings.” His scholarship, deep commitment to public service, his truncated journey in the Court of Appeal, and charm and wit will all be sorely missed. His has been a life shortened too early. There was so much more on offer. Sincerest condolences are extended to his wife, Marcia, his children, his family and extended family and friends.

Rest in peace, brother “Jeff.”

Sir Patterson Cheltenham K.A. — Chief Justice of Barbados

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By Rawle Toney

Barbados should establish a robust breeding programme for Blackbelly Sheep before entering into further exporting agreements, according to the President of the Barbados Sheep Farmers.

Rommel Parris said such a programme would serve as a proactive measure to mitigate potential losses.

Speaking at a youth seminar on sheep nutrition, hosted by the Barbados Sheep and Goat Farmers Association, held at the headquarters of the Barbados Agricultural Society (BAS), Parris expressed his concerns regarding the lack of a comprehensive breeding strategy before the export deal with Guyana was finalised in 2022.

Last March, Barbados TODAY reported that Consultant for the Black Belly Sheep Expansion Project, Dr Leroy McClean, defended the Government’s decision to send a portion of the sheep population to Guyana.

In August 2022, Guyana received the first batch of 132 sheep from Barbados, comprising 112 ewes and 20 rams, according to an agreement to send more than 1 000 sheep to that country.

This collaboration between the two governments aimed to establish a regional brand of sheep, reducing the dependency on imported lamb and mutton products from New Zealand and Australia.

Acknowledging that the total number of Blackbelly Sheep on the island is currently unknown, Parris announced plans to initiate a sheep registration programme to create a comprehensive census of the sheep population.

He stressed the urgency of understanding and safeguarding the existing sheep population to prevent depletion through excessive exports.

Parris firmly stated, “If you export everything, you’re going to end up with nothing. We’re trying to see if we can save what we have right now.”

The youth seminar on sheep nutrition was conceived from an observation made during previous AgroFest events, where it became evident that the younger population lacked awareness about Barbados Blackbelly Sheep and its significance.

Parris explained that the seminar aimed to highlight various commodities under the Barbados Agricultural Society, starting with sheep, and subsequently covering dairy and beef in future sessions.

Guyana’s President, Irfaan Ali, at the launch of the programme, said the Blackbelly Sheep project would cost the Government of Guyana an estimated US$3 million to support the breed, primarily raised for meat and other high-demand by-products.

President Ali highlighted Guyana’s suitability for such initiatives, citing abundant land and a favourable climate as key factors for increasing Blackbelly Sheep production.

He further asserted that these initiatives would contribute to sustainable production and target a 25 per cent reduction in the Caribbean’s food importation bill by 2025.

(RT)

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The public is advised that the Barbados Drug Service (BDS) is piloting a new Pharmacy Management System at the David Thompson Health and Social Services Complex, Glebe Land, St John, this month.

As a result, persons are likely to experience a temporary increase in wait times for pharmaceutical services over the next three weeks. When fully implemented, the new system is expected to result in an improvement in patient records management, treatment, and pharmaceutical health care and safety.

Management of the BDS regrets any inconvenience this temporary disruption may cause and encourages members of the public to arrange their business accordingly.
(MHW)

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President of the Barbados Cancer Society (BCS), Professor David Rosin, has urged the public to participate in its annual raffle “to save lives”, and also issued another call for more men to be tested.

Professor Rosin made the appeal during Thursday’s announcement of the BCS’ raffle winners at the organisation’s headquarters in Henry’s Lane, St Michael.

“The funds from the raffle assist cancer patients with their diagnostic tests, medicines, basic domestic and personal care items, travel for special medical attention, and all those are included, as well as sending people to QEH (Queen Elizabeth Hospital) by our bus. So, all these things are done for patients with cancer and to make their cancer journey a lot easier.

“When you buy a ticket, you assist with saving lives, you help them to cope with their challenges, and you provide a caring environment, and we thank you again on their behalf for your support and participation in all our programmes,” he said.

Professor Rossin explained that funds, from the raffle which took place from April to December last year, are essential to assist cancer patients and to maintain the broad scope of programmes and activities of the Barbados Cancer Society.

“The society offers low-cost screening services, pap smears, BSA tests, prostate tests, STI testing for lobotomy surfaces as well as breast screening. Our clinics are open daily . . . to ensure our accessibility to follow through on your annual checkups. When you support the raffle, you help us to keep prices affordable,” he said.

Speaking to those gathered, he added: “I see the majority of people here are men. . . . You men are usually wimps, you’re the worst at coming forward to be screened. I think it’s something to do with coming from the Ice Age when men would like to think they were tough and they didn’t like to show any weakness. Women are so much better at going forward in the colon cancer trial – well more than half were female. Whereas, in the prostate cancer trial, it took much longer to do it because men didn’t come forward. So, men, you must come forward.”

Professor Rosin thanked the donors of prizes which were handed over to eight winners.

The 2023 raffle grand prize winning ticket was purchased by Allan Marshall, who walked away with $25 000.

The second prize, a Solar Dynamics 50-gallon water heater was won by Tiffany Corbin, and the third prize, a trip for two donated by Caribbean Airlines, was won by Shanice Skinner.
(BT)

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Term two started with a boost for the Hilda Skeene Primary School’s special unit as it received educational materials which will allow teachers to create lessons and activities to appeal to the students’ various learning styles.

The materials were not those associated with lessons of bygone days; instead, they included small karaoke machines, toys, puzzles, play mats, books, all very colourful but necessary to tap into the students’ various learning styles as well as help them develop their fine motor skills.

Principal Wayne Bryan expressed the school’s gratitude, noting that grants don’t stretch far enough, but the teaching and learning aids were necessary to help the children access the curriculum.

Special Needs teacher in charge of the unit, Sophia Douglin, also thanked the bank for the gifts which included two filing cabinets and a printer. She had earlier pointed out that in addition to the nine students who are assigned to the classroom, the unit also catered to several children who were pupils of other classes but were struggling with numeracy or literacy.  Speaking on the bank’s behalf, Rosalind Waterman said they were so delighted to have the opportunity to help the unit that three of the bank’s departments came together to execute the project under the Adopt-a-Cause programme, which encourages departments and business units to donate money and time toward an outreach activity.

Waterman added that they found out about the school’s needs in November and though it was the busy shopping period, they were eager to source the materials in time for the start of the school term. She explained that to ensure that the unit could also receive the printer, they partnered with PBS which was represented at the presentation by Brian Lashley.
(PR)

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Government is taking significant steps to address housing challenges and provide enhanced social assistance for individuals and families in need of rent aid.

Recent data indicates a gradual decrease in applications for rent assistance, a trend attributed to the country’s recovery from COVID-19 and the resumption of normal economic activities.

Minister of  People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, Kirk Humphrey says in 2021, the welfare department received 1 250 new applications for rent assistance.  The number dropped to 1 143 in 2022, and further to 1 009 in 2023. Despite this decline, the number of people requiring assistance remains a concern, particularly among mothers with children facing eviction.

“… but again, 1 000 persons is still too high, which happened I think as a consequence of COVID. I would like to urge … whether it is from family members or landlords; steady your hand, if you can.

“Work with government in those circumstances to see how best we can help persons before they actually end up on the street.  [Let us] ensure that we are not in a situation where these things that are avoidable, become unavoidable and we have to respond instead of doing it in a way that is preventative,” he urged.

Humphrey noted that, between 2010 and 2018, there was a noticeable change in the government’s approach to rent aid. Previously, rents were paid promptly by the welfare department, but delays post-2010 led to a significant distrust in the government’s ability to make timely payments. This situation prompted the government to reassess its strategy and make adjustments to regain public trust.

“We would have run a couple of ads, inviting persons to come in and rent to the welfare department or to the government to allow us to house some of these persons who would have been displaced as a result of the climate crisis or a result of a family situation or, just because of the economic realities of the day.

“The initial response was not as appealing or as exciting as I would have liked. And we’ve made some adjustments to what we are prepared to offer the public,” he said.

Key changes include removing the $800 cap on welfare rent aid, with the Ministry now offering negotiable rents based on property evaluations. Another major change is the inclusion of utilities in the rent paid by the government.

“We have already been offering $1 500 and $2 000 rents and these are negotiable, based on when we send the officers what they find. So if the conditions merit higher rent, then we will negotiate. We are saying as well that your rent must include utilities so that when [we] pay, we pay the rent as well as utilities [as] part of that.

“[Also] Government is now prepared to pay the person three months’ rent upfront.  It could be first, last and deposit for three months … however you choose to have it … but three months.  [This is] to give [landlords] the assurance that you will have the comfort of knowing even if there are some delays. You already have three months’ rent payments in your hand,” the minister added.

He revealed the Ministry of Housing will soon launch an ad campaign, inviting Barbadians with suitable rental properties to consider renting to the government. In addition to highlighting the benefits of this arrangement, it will lay out information regarding the upfront payments, the inclusion of utilities in the rent and also, a commitment to ensure tenants respect property rules and maintain the condition of the rented units.

“ … and that facility is available now. We will be running the ad from next week but that facility is available now. We are willing to receive persons now and if they qualify, to offer three months’ rent.

“These are all the things we are trying to make accommodation available so we can ensure that we can offer better social assistance to the persons who are most in need …,” Humphrey said.

(RG)

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Jeff Cumberbatch had an outstanding career as an academic lawyer.  He lectured and tutored hundreds of students from the Commonwealth Caribbean who went on to distinguish themselves as lawyers in their respective country.

Jeff was particularly proud of the contribution that he had made towards the development and careers of a large number of Commonwealth Caribbean legal practitioners. Because of the respect and high regard in which he was held, Jeff was sought after by several countries in CARICOM to assist them in the modernisation of various aspects of their laws.

In 2019, he made a seamless transition from the teaching of Law to its practical application.  He brought to his judicial career, immense research capabilities, a simple but incisive writing style and a humility that endeared him to all with whom he interacted.

Since 2019, Jeff Cumberbatch was a most valuable member of the Law Reform Commission.  We all looked forward to his attendance at meetings.  His commitment to law reform was total and I know that all of the members of the Commission will miss his contributions to our discussions.

On behalf of the members and staff of the Law Reform Commission, I extend our sincerest condolences to Jeff’s wife, Marcia, and his family.

David A.C. Simmons K.A., B.C.H.

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The Barbados Revenue Authority has completed the issuance of tax refunds for 2022 Reverse Tax Credits and 2022 Personal Income Tax.

The Authority’s Headquarter Services leader, Carolyn Williams-Gayle noted that Personal Income Tax (PIT) refunds and Reverse Tax Credit (RTC) payments were issued to over 44,000 taxpayers in December.

“In total, $42.2 million was paid to taxpayers, $21.5 in Personal Income Tax refunds and $20.7 in Reverse Tax Credits. The vast majority of those payments were deposited directly to taxpayers’ accounts at their selected financial institutions, while eight per cent of those payments were issued as cheques. This is significant headway in the thrust to transition from issuing payments via cheques to direct deposits.”

She also indicated that a number of deposits have been returned to the Authority from local financial institutions as a result of account information errors, amounting to just over two per cent of the total refunds and attributable to situations where incorrect details were entered.

“Some of the files sent back to us were because some taxpayers had selected the wrong credit union from the list; entered information for bank accounts that had been closed; entered card numbers instead of account numbers; included branch and transit codes with the account numbers; incorrect addresses; names spelt differently from what is on record at the financial institutions; messages typed in the account number field – these kinds of errors have resulted in further delays of payments as they now have to be reprocessed and reissued,” explained Williams-Gayle.

She urged taxpayers to take some time to review their TAMIS information and ensure that the details are up-to-date and accurate so the Authority can reissue those deposits.

“This will assist in ensuring that the refund process, from filing to payments received, is as efficient as possible. For those persons who did not receive their refund or tax credit payments as anticipated in December, please update your bank details in TAMIS by February 28, 2024 so we can reissue the deposits to the financial institutions. We are imploring taxpayers, particularly as the next tax filing season approaches, to take special care and check that their personal and baking details are current and accurate,” Williams-Gayle stressed.

The Senior Manager reported that additional refunds and tax credit payments are being processed for those persons who filed their returns after December 22, 2023, and after the Authority’s announcement that refunds were being paid for the 2022 income year. Those persons number 914 to date.

She highlighted that as the Authority continued on its journey to expand digital service delivery, there was also a marked reduction in the number of refund cheques issued which has significantly reduced processing timelines and reminded taxpayers to keep their personal banking and TAMIS details secure.

(PR)

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After suffering substantial damage with the passage of Tropical Storm Bret last June, the Animal Flower Cave is “back up and running” as it enjoys a busy winter tourist season, its owner said Thursday.

The ocean cave on the island’s northern tip, with its natural limestone floor, sea anemones and rock pools, was abuzz with visitors taking in the cave’s sights and its restaurant fare when a Barbados TODAY team visited the famed Connell Town, St Lucy attraction.

Owner Manuel Ward, who was seen being busily interacting with visitors, said the season has been a good and steady one so far.

“It has been a good winter, I can’t complain,” he told Barbados TODAY.

“We had a very busy [period] between Christmas and New Year’s [Day], which is the busiest time of the year, except for Easter. Things [have] slowed down a little again, but it’s not bad, it’s doing well. Luckily the sea has been keeping fairly quiet, so I’ve been able to open the cave a lot.”

Ward said several visitors were coming in from the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, and even South America.

“Most of our guests that come into Barbados are from the UK anyway. So yeah, I’ve seen a lot, and quite a few Canadians and Americans. Also, I’m seeing a few coming up from down in South America – some Brazilians and stuff. Sunday, we have the [Mount Gay Round Barbados] regatta around the island, so that is a very busy day for us because all of the boats come up right across here, so a lot of people come up to watch them,” he said.

When asked about the work done to repair the damage caused by Tropical Storm Bret, which caused considerable damage to the roof of the cliff-side restaurant, Ward said the work was done quickly.

“I got everything [I needed]. Luckily, the insurance company helped me out so I am very pleased that they helped me,” he said.

Ward gave this outlook for the year ahead:  “Last summer was not bad, so I am hoping that this summer is just as good as last summer.” (SB)

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The National Petroleum Corporation (NPC) has advised that road excavation works on Coleridge Street, St. Michael, which were scheduled for tomorrow, Sunday, January 21, will now take place on Monday, January 22, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.

This will result in road closures in the surrounding areas of High Street, Lucas Street, and James Street, during the period.

Traffic will be diverted via Victoria Street onto Bolton Lane, and motorists are advised to take an alternative route, if possible.

NPC thanks members of the public for their cooperation as it continues to upgrade the network, as part of the National Mains Replacement project.

(PR)

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A small craft advisory is in effect for Barbados.

A small craft advisory is issued when sustained winds of 20 to 25 knots and/or sea swells of 2.5 to 3.0 metres (eight to 10 feet) and/or reduced visibility (less than 10 kilometres but greater than five kilometres) are affecting or forecast to affect the marine area within the next 48 hours.

Hazard Info

The combination of a strong Atlantic high-pressure system and a low-pressure system in the northern Atlantic is forecast to tighten the pressure gradient over the next few days.

Model guidance suggests sustained surface wind speeds from 20 to 25 knots are possible from Monday with winds speeds expected to increase after that.

Additionally, swell heights above 3.0 metres in open water are possible from Wednesday, and may result in the issuance of a small craft warning and high surf advisory.

Key Messages:

Small craft operators should be prepared for the following possibilities in the open water:

• Possible tumbling and rolling of unsecured objects.
• Large open water swells can be hazardous to some vessels.
• Operation of smaller vessels can be difficult at times due to large swells.

This alert message is valid from 6 p.m. Saturday and will be updated at noon on Sunday or
sooner if conditions warrant.

(PR)

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The National Union of Public Workers (NUPW) President, Kimberley Agard, has come out in support of residents who have asked insurance companies to rethink and put the brakes on the planned increase in insurance premiums.

Recently the General Insurance Association announced that insurance premiums are set to rise very soon, but Agard said this news has not been an easy pill to swallow by most Barbadians. 

In a statement Agard said the Insurance Association has tried to justify the need for the increase by giving figures of increased claims and repairs.

But the NUPW President said she has asked them to share “the figures and profits from those plenty other insured persons who have never claimed whether for car, house or medical.

“There are just over 140,000 cars registered to use our roads, which means they are all insured, and it’s a small percentage of those that are the issue. People may get involved in fender benders and out of fear for the hammer being brought down on them by their insurance company, opt to drive the vehicle with the damage or fix it out of pocket.”

While noting that she supports the call for persons to be more careful on our roads in an effort to kept vehicular accidents and near misses to a low and for homeowners to secure and take necessary

precautions to prevent burglary or damage to property and for persons to live healthier lifestyles to reduce NCDs, Agard said her concern for citizens of Barbados is the effect the increase in premiums will have on them, especially those who are already challenged in making ends meet.

“Many persons are required by contract to have house insurance once they have a mortgage, persons are required to insure their vehicles and I’m sure that an increase in insurance will force persons to be delinquent and we may then see an increase in persons driving without insurance and plenty more uninsured houses,” Agard said.

“Some medical insurance clients by way of letter were already notified that their premiums will increase from February 1st, 2024. Those persons under that coverage who have recognized the need for medical insurance to ensure access to decent health services are being forced to pay under one package $20 more to as high as roughly $60 in others, including retirees.

“I know in any business the bottom line and profit margin are always to the fore and I am sure this instance is no different but a deeper inspection should be done and greater consideration be given to the socio economic impact that the increase in insurance rates at this time will have. Rates that have risen maybe at least three times in the not too distant past,” she added

The consumers sadly don’t benefit from the vast profit that the insurance industry makes, but regrettably are expected to share in the losses, Agard said.

(PR)

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Barbadians of all walks of life commemorate today, January 21, in profound reflection on the legacy of the island’s Father of Independence and National Hero, the Rt Excellent Errol Walton Barrow.

Amidst celebrations, President of the Democratic Labour Party (DLP), Dr Ronnie Yearwood has suggested Barrow’s influence extends beyond the party he founded, and is deeply ingrained into the national consciousness of Barbados and the wider Caribbean.

Yearwood’s comments come in the face of protest during the annual Errol Walton Barrow Memorial Lecture and Awards Ceremony at the Party’s George Street Headquarters; the highlight of which was the unveiling of a plaque to rename the 42-year-old auditorium after the Rt Excellent Errol Walton Barrow, despite reported opposition by the son of the island’s first premier.

Yearwood acknowledged that while the DLP cherishes Barrow’s memory and heritage, he was a figure of national and Caribbean-wide significance. 

“Errol Barrow and his memory and heritage of who he is, does not belong to the Democratic Labour Party alone anymore. He belongs to the entire country and dare I say because of his stature as a Caribbean statesman, he belongs to the entire Caribbean.  

“In many ways, that is what happens when you become a leader of the nature of Errol Barrow, you transcend into that place that few leaders will go, where their legacy and their heritage can be claimed by every single citizen and individual,” he noted.

Reflecting on personal memories within the party, the DLP President said many had memories of Barrow as a paternal figure who nurtured and guided them. 

“Every person I meet has their own Errol Barrow story. They remember Errol as their father, who took them to school in the car, gave them breakfast, talked to them, consoled them, and mentored them because he was Father to us. 

“And for that, we thank God for loaning him to us, and we thank the Democratic Labour Party for being the institution that he stood for and he created to give the best to Barbados and not only to the best of Barbados but the best to the Caribbean and to the world,” Yearwood said.

The event also focused on honouring the role of women in nation-building and politics. The Pride of Barbados Awards were presented, with honorees including Attorney at Law Tricia Watson, Sharon Bellamy-Thompson, and Marcia Patterson.  These awards acknowledged the critical contributions of women in various fields, from legal expertise to community service and philanthropy.

Meanwhile, party stalwarts, Irene Sandiford-Garner, and Undene Whittaker received the party’s Mirror Image Award, and the Gertrude Eastmond Award, respectively.

(RG)

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The Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) has issued a small craft advisory due to above-normal swell heights.

A small craft advisory is issued when sustained winds of 20 to 25 knots and/or sea swells of 2.5 to 3.0 metres (eight to 10 feet) and/or reduced visibility (less than 10 kilometres but greater than five kilometres) are affecting or forecast to affect the marine area within the next 36 hours.

Hazard Info

A strong Atlantic high-pressure system in combination with a low-pressure system in the North Atlantic is expected to generate winds of 20 to 25 knots (35 to 45 km/h) with higher gusts over the next few days.

This increase in wind speeds will result in a deterioration of sea conditions with swells of 2.0m to 3.0m in open water expected in the marine area from Monday. Therefore, a small craft advisory is in effect for above-normal sea swells.

Sea conditions are expected to remain agitated throughout the week as model guidance indicates a further deterioration in sea conditions with swells of 3.0m or greater possible in the marine area from Thursday.

Winds are expected to increase during this time, therefore this advisory may upgraded to a small craft warning and high surf advisory in a few days.

Key Messages:

• Possible tumbling and rolling of unsecured objects.
• Large open water swells can be hazardous to some vessels.
• Operation of smaller vessels can be difficult at times due to large swells

(BMS)

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Barbadian and Chinese culture melded together during the 10th Annual Fish and Dragon Festival at the Garfield Sobers Complex Saturday evening.

The family-oriented event was coordinated by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Barbados and the Central Bank of Barbados. With the return to live performances since the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a large audience, filling the floor area and spilling over into the stands.

Event producer Adisa ‘AJA’ Andwele was initially concerned about a potential decrease in interest due to the absence of a troupe from China. However, he was pleasantly surprised by the turnout, stating, “I was really shocked at the amount of people that came.” 

He was particularly impressed with the diverse demographic in attendance, emphasizing that the event is inclusive for everyone, describing it as a “street fair in the gym.” 

Andwele acknowledged the acrobatic feats of the visiting troupe are typically a highlight of the event and assured that efforts would be made to ensure their inclusion in the next edition.

This year the expo featured an increase in booths. Among the exhibitors were the Chinese Embassy who provided information about scholarship opportunities and Going Places Travel who advertised their packages to Beijing, Shanghai and Xi’an . Representatives of the Chinese Enterprise Association of Barbados were on hand marketing the range of services they provide. Some of the brave even tried acupuncture, which was available at another booth. The Chinese food on sale was another drawing card.

The marriage of talent was evident with stilt men and Chinese dragons moving in cohesion as they enchanted both adults and children alike. With a promise of good luck if they touched the dragon, many clamored for the opportunity. One of the popular attractions, especially for the children, was the ring toss where they excitedly competed to win Chinese themed toys. Attendees enjoyed table tennis and road tennis exhibitions and were able to get pointers from some of the island’s best, including Mark Dowell.

The festival highlighted the cultural richness of the Chinese, introducing new instruments like the Erhu played by Zhou Yuhan. The Taiji Wushu Association captured attention with a martial arts display, and the Chinese Medical Team in Barbados presented their talent through a dance accompanied by a flutist. Members of the Confucius Institute, including dancer Jessica Chow and younger vocalists, added to the diversity of the event.

Christ Church Foundation School Steel Orchestra entertained the audience with a mix of soca hits, including a medley of Edwin Yearwood tunes. For their excellent showmanship they were rewarded with calls for an encore, and they responded with RPB’s Something’s Happening.  Dancin’ Africa was a kaleidoscope of colour performing to Lil Rick’s Iz a Bajan.

The local contingent featured the Black Banana band led by Lowrey Worrell with backing vocals by Shekara Straker and Jeliah Boyce. Saxophonist Jelani Belgrave was a welcome addition to this session. The band provided accompaniment for Reniece Bonnett who opened with Rihanna’s Diamonds before launching into her own Crop Over offerings Property and Show Me Love. RPB had everyone rocking with Hallelujah and Ragga Ragga.

Closing this segment was Edwin Yearwood who had the crowd in the palm of his hands with his string of hits. He created hysteria when he invited some of his young fans on stage.

(STT)

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