Barbados is on the brink of a public health crisis from rising levels of violent crime, according to a criminologist who is calling for stronger partnerships between police and citizens to address the problem.

In a report entitled Organised Crime and Its Implications for Barbados, Kirk Alleyne who is also criminal psychologist emphasised the crucial role that civilians play in crime-solving. He urged The Barbados Police Service to prioritise strengthening its relationship with the public as it establishes a new Serious Organised Crime Unit.

“It is imperative that citizens be made aware that the country is on the precipice of a public health crisis and the need for their cooperation,” Alleyne wrote in the report. “All efforts should be made to improve the trust and confidence that citizens have in the police.”

Alleyne outlined a multi-pronged approach for tackling crime and violence, with police-citizen cooperation at its core. 

“The citizen-police relation is one of the most important measures to stemming the rate of violent crimes and ensuring that persons do not operate with impunity,” he said.

The report recommended several initiatives to enhance trust and collaboration, including community outreach programmes, public awareness campaigns about organised crime dangers, and support for witnesses to improve public confidence. Alleyne also called for partnerships with schools, community centres and religious institutions to provide alternative pathways for at-risk youth.

While commending the government’s plans for the anti-gang unit, Alleyne suggested additional strategies such as intelligence-led policing, multi-agency cooperation, disrupting criminal financial networks and implementing monitoring systems.

The report calls for partnerships with schools, community centres and religious institutions to help at-risk youth.

He stressed the importance of international collaboration, saying: “Strengthened partnerships with international agencies and neighbouring countries to combat cross-border organised criminal activities” were crucial.

The report also highlighted the need for legislative reforms and policy measures to address socioeconomic factors contributing to youth involvement in organised crime, such as unemployment and lack of educational opportunities.

Alleyne urged the police to “embark upon trust building activities, whereby they operate with transparency, professionalism and accountability”. He added: “The collaborative relationship between citizens and police is crucial to ensuring a safe and stable community.”

The criminologist emphasised that all strategies should be continually evaluated and adapted based on data-driven insights to ensure their effectiveness in reducing firearm violence and dismantling organised crime networks.

Alleyne’s proposal for enhanced intelligence-led policing involves “gathering actionable intelligence on organised crime networks operating within Barbados” and “utilising advanced technology and data analytics to monitor and track criminal activities”. This would encompass efforts to combat firearms trafficking, money laundering and drug trafficking.

The criminologist also emphasised the importance of financial regulations in combating organised crime. He called for the enforcement of “stringent regulations on money laundering and ensure compliance with international standards to cut off funding sources for criminal organisations”.

Kirk Alleyne calls for The Barbados Police Service to strengthen its relationship with the public.

In addition to these measures, Alleyne suggested that The Barbados Police Service should launch public awareness campaigns to “educate the public about the dangers of organised crime and firearm violence and promote a culture of non-violence, discouraging the youth from joining gangs”.

The report underscores the vital role of community participation in crime prevention and detection. Alleyne noted that “citizens serve as eyes and ears for the police and the police operate as agents of protection and service for citizens”. He encouraged citizens to report suspicious activities, highlighting the importance of public cooperation in maintaining community safety.

Alleyne’s recommendations extend beyond policing strategies to address underlying social issues. He advised the police service to advocate for policy reforms that tackle socioeconomic factors contributing to youth involvement in crime, such as unemployment and limited educational opportunities.

As Barbados grapples with rising crime, Alleyne’s report provides a roadmap for potential solutions. The effectiveness of these strategies, he notes, will depend on continuous monitoring, evaluation and adaptation based on real-world outcomes. 

sheriabrathwaite@barbadostoday.bb

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Respected sports journalist and broadcaster Samuel “Sam” Wilkinson was remembered as an extraordinary father and pillar of the community when he was laid to rest on Wednesday.

Known to generations of listeners as Seven-Up Sam presenting morning five-minute sports commentaries for both CBC and Starcom Network, Wilkinson died after a brief illness at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital on June 25, aged 82.

During a funeral service at the Christ Church Parish Church, several tributes attested to his good character, passion for sports and love for family and God. He was remembered as a loyal member of Central Cricket Club and Combermere School alumnus.

Daughter Samantha Wilkinson said her dad was a stickler for journalism, an incredible storyteller and a fun person to be around, adding that he had a warmth about him that gravitated people towards him.

She said: “Daddy was truly a larger-than-life person. He was always full of energy, always eager and excited to engage with people wherever he met them.”

She recalled looking forward to fun-filled Sunday afternoons during the Goodland Gardens Crew limes – as the weekly family gathering was dubbed – which allowed for the opportunity to destress and catch up with relatives.

Speaking about the many feats her dad accomplished and his devotion to his family and God, Samantha Wilkinson described her dad as an extraordinary man.

“In life, we get the chance to meet one or two extraordinary people and we are so blessed, so grateful, that God gave us a super extraordinary person to be our dad,” she said.

Her brother Barry Wilkinson, an accomplished sports broadcaster, said his father was his best friend, mentor and voice coach as he helped him develop his commentary skills.

Almost to the end, his father would give him advice or share his thoughts with him about the radio programmes he hosted.

“The Monday before he died, he called me back to his bed and said, [Barry], take your time when doing commentary. I listened to you last night, you are talking too fast; you are getting carried away with this . . . swipe out T20 cricket,” he said.

Barry also recalled he got into sports commentary in the mid-90s when his father had to travel overseas. He was worried about who would fill in for him for the Sam On Sports radio programme.

Sam, he said, asked him to write a sports report and to deliver it on air and since then he fell in love with commentary.

Describing his dad as a smart dresser, Barry recalled a light family moment involving Sam attending a virtual diocese meeting during the heightened period of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Daddy was dressed in a three-piece suit down to shining shoes to go to a Zoom meeting sitting down,” he said.

During his address, long-time friend Very Reverend Dr Jeffrey Gibson noted that even though he had a passion for sports, especially cricket, Wilkinson remained steadfast in his loyalty to God and demonstrated it throughout his life.

“Loyalty to God was celebrated Sunday by Sunday once Sam was on the island,” he said. “Loyalty to God was also expressed through his association with the wider Anglican family, he was an Anglican true and true and we may say of the traditional vintage.”

He encouraged the packed church to find inspiration from Wilkinson’s faith and loyalty to God amid their grief.

Wilkinson was interred in the Christ Church Parish Cemetery.

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Tension emerged in the Senate on Wednesday as the two opposition members staged a walkout during debate on the Notaries Public Bill, citing inadequate notice and lack of information.

The development unfolded after heated exchanges between government and opposition senators over the bill, which was eventually passed. The law is intended to expand and simplify notarisation services and was supported in the lower House of Assembly by Leader of the Opposition Ralph Thorne.

Opposition Senator Tricia Watson led the charge, accusing the government of failing to provide proper notice or sufficient details about the bill and other items on the day’s agenda.

“Three days ago, two days ago, I asked formally to be advised what we would be debating today. I’m yet to receive a response,” Watson told Senate President Reginald Farley.

She criticised the government’s handling of the legislative process, noting the bill had been on the order paper for over 109 days before being suddenly prioritised.

“We are here to do serious business,” Senator Watson declared. “We are being asked to do this work and this is the crux of it Mr President, no explanatory notes, not to the Notaries [Bill], not to the other ones. Government must do better.”

The government defended its actions, with Senator Lisa Cummins, leader of government business in the upper chamber, saying the bill was meant to “simplify, for the benefit of the public of Barbados, the ease of notarisation”.

Opposition Senator Tricia Watson.

Senator Cummins explained the proposed legislation would expand the number of individuals designated as notaries public, addressing longstanding concerns about scarcity and inaccessibility of notarisation services.

The current Notaries Public Act of 2017 restricts notarisation abilities to high-ranking officials such as the solicitor general and various permanent secretaries. The new bill proposes extending this capacity to attorneys with over 10 years of practice and suitable members of the public, subject to training.

As tensions escalated, Senator Cummins accused Senator Watson of misleading the chamber, insisting that notice for the Senate sitting and all agenda items had been sent out “some time ago”.

But Senator Watson vehemently denied this claim, leading to a heated back-and-forth that underscored the discord between government and opposition.

The debate touched on broader issues of procedural discipline and respect within the Senate, as Senator Watson called for an end to “indiscipline and indifference” in parliamentary operations.

“What I’m asking for is civility, and we’re talking about that in our country today and in the highest forum,” she urged. “I want us to do differently, to do better . . . consultation, speaking to each other about the legislation not just what is going to come, but about the actual legislative notification, discussion, description, explanation is mandatory.”

Senator Elizabeth Thompson, deputy president of the Senate rebuffed the criticisms, asserting that the government had  operated with a clear agenda and ample preparation time.

“If the honourable senator is unwilling or unable to prepare or just wants to grandstand, that is a matter for her,” said Senator Thompson.

Leader of Government Business Senator Lisa Cummins.

Senator Watson criticised the lack of explanatory notes and detailed information accompanying the bill. 

“We do not know what it will cost us to implement the new regime for notaries public. We do not know the cost,” she emphasised.

The escalating tensions culminated in Senator Watson announcing the opposition’s decision to withhold support for the bill, as she and Senator Ryan Walters walked out of the chamber.

Independent Senator Andrew Mallalieu endorsed the bill but echoed calls for improved processes. “In supporting this bill which I understand from the people I consulted with is an excellent bill . . . I simply ask that in order for me to be the best senator and to serve this country as best as I can following the standing orders, having adequate notice, having some explanations would be very helpful.”  

(RG)

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The dramatic turn of events on Wednesday as opposition lawmakers walked out on debate of the Notaries Public Bill, prompted sharp criticism from the Deputy President of the Senate.

Senator Elizabeth Thompson, representing the government, accused the opposition of failing in their duty and refusing to “do the people’s business”. The incident occurred as the upper house debated the bill, with Thompson alleging that the opposition had withheld support for the legislation.

She challenged claims made by Opposition Senator Watson, who had suggested the government’s approach was “new, novel, offensive to good practice” and an attempt to frustrate the opposition.

“When one listens to the Honourable Senator [Watson], one would get the impression that the present government or administration has adopted an approach that is new, novel, offensive to good practice, an attempt to frustrate the opposition, poor practice in relation to delivering on a parliamentary and legislative agenda,” Senator Thompson said. She argued that, on the contrary, the government was “highly busy” in bringing agenda items to Parliament.

The deputy president acknowledged the challenges faced by opposition parties, including limited resources and access to information. However, she contrasted the current opposition’s approach with that of her own party, the Barbados Labour Party (BLP), during its time out of office.

“What we did as an opposition BLP was that you always have friends in the civil service. You always know technical people. You always know experts and specialists,” Thompson explained. She described weekly parliamentary group meetings and proactive engagement with policy issues.

Senator Thompson reserved her harshest criticism for the Democratic Labour Party (DLP), describing it as “fractured” and unable to meet to formulate policy positions or respond effectively to the government’s agenda.

“The Democratic Labour Party is now fractured,” she stated. “They cannot and are unable to meet to come up with policy positions, to respond to the government, to look at the government’s agenda. And that is the problem. What we are seeing is the decay in the Democratic Labour Party and the inability to face and do the work of the people of this country and of the government.”

The senator also refuted claims about insufficient time to review the legislation, asserting that the opposition had “90 days to read the 29 pages comprising this legislation”. She expressed disappointment in what she characterised as a lack of preparation by an opposition member, particularly given their legal background and leadership role.

“An attorney at law, the leader of government business in the Honourable Senate, a member of an opposition party which has been under extreme stress and should be in a position to demonstrate growing readiness to serve the public, has today instead opted for a smoke and mirrors campaign instead of dealing with the work of the public,” Senator Thompson said.

Emphasising the seriousness of the government’s agenda, the deputy president called for more substantive engagement from the opposition. “This government is a serious government doing serious business, and therefore one has to hear speeches that have value and substance for the public and do not just constitute smoke mirrors and sound bites,” she concluded.

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Parliament has passed new legislation to modernise and expand the country’s notary public system, a move hailed as a significant step towards easing the way business is done in Barbados.

In a significant update to the nation’s legal infrastructure, the Notary Public Bill potentially streamlines processes for both local and international transactions requiring notarisation to address long-standing inefficiencies.

The Notary Public Bill, which cleared the Senate on Wednesday and heads to the President for signature, broadens the pool of eligible notaries and streamlines the notarisation process.

Senator Gregory Nicholls, speaking in support of the bill, highlighted the challenges faced under the previous system, where notarial services were limited to a small number of public officers at the registrar level.

“Very frequently, we would come across clients who would require documents to be notarised,” the government lawmaker told the Upper Chamber. He explained that registrars, burdened with multiple responsibilities, often struggled to provide timely notarial services. “The registrars have to deal with their day-to-day business of running the administration of the courts, sit as judicial officers, and deal with the public on simple matters,” he said.

The new legislation expands eligibility for notary public appointments to include attorneys and chartered accountants in good standing. This expansion is expected to alleviate bottlenecks and improve public access to notarial services, particularly for urgent overseas transactions.

Senator Nicholls emphasised that the reform includes regulatory provisions to prevent potential abuses. “The government will always have the ability to rein in any conduct associated with the discharge of the service,” he declared.

The bill sets regulated fees for notarial services, including $50 for issuing a notarial certificate and $10 for certifying exhibits. It also mandates an electronic register of notaries to the public to ensure ongoing compliance and accountability.

“The integrity of the system is maintained, and not people taking advantage of the situation, making a one-off application, and then discharging the services without being able to give confidence to the registrar that you are providing the services in the manner required by the law,” Senator Nicholls said.

Responding to criticism from Opposition Senator Tricia Watson about the bill’s rapid progression through Parliament, Senator Nicholls dismissed the claims as “flatulence of the highest order”. He insisted the legislation had been on the order paper for a considerable time and should not be controversial.

Senator Nicholls underscored the importance of the reform for Barbados’ business environment. “This legislation is one of those bills that will come to our Parliament, not sexy in any way, but necessarily important,” he said, arguing that the changes would facilitate business operations and enhance the efficiency of the legal system.

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The Barbados Private Sector Association (BPSA) will render crucial aid to those neighbouring Caribbean islands decimated by the passage of Hurricane Beryl.

Chairman of the BPSA Trisha Tannis said in a statement that corporate Barbados must play its part in the relief efforts.

“We are also very conscious of the devastation to our neighbouring islands. The call for help to assist with the basic human needs of our neighbours must be answered,” Tannis asserted.

“The Barbados Chamber of Commerce (BCCI) and other member associations of the BPSA will play a part to assist, working in association with the CDEMA, the official disaster management agencies in the affected islands and the Caribbean Private Sector Association (CPSO) to provide the opportunity for all interested persons to also answer the call to help those impacted,” she disclosed.

The association noted especially, the adverse impact particularly to the local fishing industry and livelihoods.

“Together we pray for a speedy resurgence of the industry and that once again our resilience will be demonstrated for all to see. We encourage all to be generous and thank all for their contributions,” the private sector leader said.

She also gave special thanks to those local companies which have agreed to support the relief efforts by offering discounts to corporate entities buying items from the applicable needs list of relief items for donation. She identified the applicable emergency items as food including non-perishables such as powdered milk, mixed vegetables, sardines, tuna, canned meats and produce.

Dr Tannis announced that items are to be dropped off at the collection point, the Goddard Warehouse . .  However, she explained that some retailers will facilitate the drop off of items to the collection point.

“While all help is appreciated, the required and urgent need is for those applicable items. So please be so guided accordingly. We thank you for rising to the occasion. We also sincerely thank all those companies and persons who have already made direct contributions and those persons involved in the collection and transportation of items,” the private sector head highlighted.

She said the private sector will continue to work with the Government of Barbados and all stakeholders in recovery efforts both in Barbados and in the Caribbean.

Among the other items required are flavoured water, juices, preferably commercial-size, shelter. dignity kits, 1,000 cots, 20,000 tarpaulins of varying sizes, 10,000 blankets, 10,000 hygiene kits, 10,000 collapsible water containers of 5-10g and 100 X 3,000g plus, 25 chainsaws, 50 flood lights, 2,500 solar lights and generators.

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The financial landscape in Barbados is set to benefit from a new entrant with the recent introduction of the African Import & Export Bank, which may be followed by other retail banks from the African continent. With the passage of the Bill in Parliament to launch the Blue Green Bank, (BGB), another financial institution is poised to occupy the development financing space.

Based on the Green Climate Fund’s synopsis of the BGB, the Bank’s purpose and mission is to reduce the cost of financing for projects that strengthen climate resilience and respond to climate change impacts. This aligns with the broader goal of making green and climate-resilient investments more accessible and affordable for small businesses.

The funding and capitalisation of the Bank includes USD$30 million each from the governments of Guyana and Bahamas, as well as USD$15 million from the Resilience and Sustainability Trust (RST) of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This substantial capitalisation will provide the necessary resources to fund the Bank’s operations and lending activities.

The BGB was developed in collaboration with the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and the IMF’s RST. This partnership with major global financial institutions lends credibility and additional funding sources to the Bank’s initiatives.

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has agreed to provide USD$5 million in technical assistance to help conceptualise and bring the BGB project to fruition. This support can benefit small businesses by improving their capacity to access and utilise the Bank’s offerings.

The BGB is envisioned as an institution that can serve the broader Caribbean region, not just Barbados. This regional focus allows the Bank to leverage resources and expertise to support small businesses across multiple countries facing similar climate challenges.

The BGB will work in collaboration with other financiers to lower the cost of funding climate-resilient and green projects. This collaborative approach can further enhance the support for the region’s private sector.

The issue of small business financing is a perennial one with data showing conclusively that this is the number one impediment to SME growth and transformation. A vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem is one that includes a myriad of financing solutions for the sector – debt, equity, grants and development financing. Since the closure of the Barbados Development Bank three decades ago, there has not been any development financing instruments to fill the gap. The BGB portends to do this.

Small businesses can expect a number of benefits from the BGB including but not limited to:

1. Financing for Climate-Resilient Projects: The primary purpose of the BGB is to fund climate-resilient projects, which aligns with the critical climate challenges facing Barbados. This includes investments in green energy technologies, low-emission technologies and renewable energy projects.
2. Flexible Financing Options: The BGB will offer a range of financing products, including grants and loans, to support different types of climate-related projects. This flexibility allows the bank to cater to the diverse needs and capabilities of small firms.
3. Lowered Financing Costs: The BGB is specifically focused on lowering the financing costs of green and climate-resilient projects. This makes these types of investments more accessible and affordable for small businesses which often face higher barriers to accessing capital.
4. Targeted Support for Key Sectors: There are several sectors that the BGB will target for financing, including electric vehicle conversion for public service vehicles, agricultural businesses like aquaponics and greenhouses, and climate-resilient housing and infrastructure.
5. Partnerships with Other Institutions: The BGB will work alongside other agencies and financial institutions to provide specialised financing instruments. This collaborative approach can further enhance the support available to small businesses and drive innovation in the climate finance space.

There has been much debate at the national level about the migration to green technology without the concomitant discussion on how this investment will be financed. The BGB is being positioned to address this financing gap. As noted by one minister of government, the Bank represents a paradigm shift in how Barbados approaches development, integrating climate resilience and sustainability into the core of the economic framework. This aligns with the Bank’s broader mission to support the country’s sustainable development and climate resilience.

Proponents of the Bank argue that there is an inextricable link between climate and development, noting that climate change impacts every aspect of life and there is need for development strategies to reflect this reality, which the BGB aims to address. Further there are comprehensive financial and policy measures, including significant tax incentives, which will accompany the launch of the BGB. These measures are designed to create an ecosystem for sustainable development, where the Bank is just one part of a broader effort to support sustainable industries and a resilient future for Barbados.

The funding proposal for the BGB identifies sustainability and scalability as key tenets for the Bank’s success. The BGB aims to attract more concessional or philanthropic providers of capital, expanding the goals of climate action in Barbados without the need for further injections of money by the Government and GCF. This will create long-term sustainability and scalability in the banking sector, with the potential to scale beyond Barbados into the broader Caribbean region over time.

Overall, the BGB represents a comprehensive and innovative approach to unlocking green investments for small businesses in Barbados. By providing flexible financing, lowering costs, and targeting key sectors, the Bank aims to enable small firms to transition to more sustainable and climate-resilient operations, contributing to the country’s broader sustainability goals.

The Small Business Association of Barbados (www.sba.bb) is the non-profit representative body for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

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The world of motorsport has long been dominated by drivers from the United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy. But now, a new star from an unexpected corner of the globe is looking to bring more heat to Formula 1.

Zane Maloney, the first Barbadian ever to compete in Formula 2, is not just racing for personal glory, but carrying the hopes and dreams of a small nation.

Driving for Rodin Motorsport, the 21-year-old’s journey is a testament to determination, bravery, and the relentless pursuit of passion.

Sport has always played a major role in Maloney’s life. Though he was “good” in school, he knew in the end, it “was all sports for me.”

“I used to play cricket and football all the time at St Michael’s [Secondary School] in Barbados,” he told reporters. “I was the captain in football and vice captain in cricket. Anything to do with sports I feel I have a good feeling with it. If I wasn’t racing I would probably be doing UFC, I wouldn’t live as long, but I would probably have a good time.”

He does, however, seem to have longevity where motorsports is concerned though. The F2 Championship is a fiercely competitive arena and the final step before entering Formula 1. The cars in this series do not benefit from the advanced performance or handling technologies of F1 machines. Unlike F1, the teams are given identical cars. This means the drivers’ talents shine through even more.

Maloney’s talent shines brightly. He has been battle-tested and proven worthy, racing his way through the ranks, earning the 2019 British F4 Championship as a rookie and finishing runner-up in the 2022 FIA Formula 3 Championship, missing out by the narrowest of margins.

Now competing in F2 for his second season with Rodin Motorsport as a Sauber Academy driver, he has the added responsibility of being a reserve driver for Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber. The Barbadian kicked off the season in impressive form, claiming two wins in Sakhir.

In a sport where national representation is often limited to industry giants, his presence on the F2 grid is groundbreaking. Every time Maloney takes to the track, he creates history.

Talking about the support he receives back home, he jokes that the time difference (Barbados is currently five hours behind the UK) can prove tricky for fellow Barbadians to watch him in action in real time.

“Unfortunately they have to wake up at 3:00 a.m. each time, so maybe I’ll try to change the time difference for y’all,” he laughs.

On a serious note, he says, the support from his place of birth has been most welcome. Maloney is currently sponsored by Bushy Park Barbados, Rock Hard Cement, MJet FBO, and Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), which designed his helmet.

“[Both] Rock Hard Cement and Bushy Park Barbados have been with me throughout my whole career,” he says. “They’ve always supported me and they’re the reason why I’m here.”

He adds that more recently the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc [BTMI] has been onboarded, and as well as designing his helmet, have also created a billboard adorned with his face, which is currently situated at the island’s only airport and on the highway too.

“That is pretty cool,” Maloney says. “I’ve had lots of support from Barbados.

“Of course the hope is to have a Formula One driver from Barbados. I’ll always represent the Barbados flag as I should and I’ll be pushing to get to that dream, so thanks for the support.

After the recent British Grand Prix, Maloney, affectionately dubbed ‘The Boy from Barbados’, is third in the standings. Given his exceptional performance in F2, where he has already showcased his talent with multiple podium finishes, the transition to F1 seems inevitable. His progression represents more than just a career move; it symbolises the potential of the Caribbean region to produce world-class talent in diverse fields.

The term ‘The Boy from Barbados,’ summarises his identity and journey, making him a standout figure in the racing community. His mature approach to racing, combined with a fearless attitude, makes every race an exciting spectacle no matter where he qualifies.

As the Formula 1 circus moves to new venues, all eyes will be on Maloney to see how his career progresses. Each race brings him one step closer to the ultimate dream of competing in F1. With his talent, determination, and the support of fans from Barbados and around the world, Zane Maloney is poised to become a global ambassador for the region – and he’s ready to do just that.

Maloney’s journey from the beaches of Barbados to the high-speed circuits of F1 is nothing short of inspirational. His story is a powerful reminder that with passion, perseverance, and a bit of bravery, anything is possible.

As he continues to race towards his dreams, Maloney carries with him the hopes of a small island and the pride of an entire region.

(The Voice Online)

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Earlier this year, Barbados was one of three nations awarded technical training courses in sailing, as part of Steering the Course, World Sailing’s global women’s sailing festival. That promised Technical Course came to fruition this past week.

Facilitated by British Paralympic sailor Hannah Stodel, with support from Cat Duncan and World Sailing, the Level 1 course catered entirely to female coaches and potential coaches.

Stodel has represented Great Britain at three Summer Paralympics and, with her colleagues John Robertson and Stephen Thomas, has won multiple medals in the Mixed Sonar class at the Disabled Sailing World Championships, including gold in 2005 and 2006.

After seven days of intense instruction, including theory and hands-on learning in the water, the nine female coaches under the auspices of the Barbados Sailing Association (BSA) are now much better equipped to grow the sport.

In addition to the classroom and water sessions, the coaches also engaged in a beach cleanup exercise. Upon conclusion of the week-long training, each participant was awarded with a coaching certificate.

“It was a truly epic seven day World Sailing Technical Coaching Course hosted by the Barbados Sailing Association,” Stodel enthused. “I am so grateful to get the opportunity to lead these courses, and to meet incredible women like this. Time to head home for the next adventure!”

In addition to the coaching course, the BSA also launched its 2024 summer camps, where future sailors are being introduced to water safety and the rudiments of sailing. After just one dahy of instruction, a half-dozen kids were already on the water in their dinghies.

And on the international scene, whereas Barbados is not in sailing at Paris 2024, Joseph Whelan is certainly hoping to become an Olympian some day. He is representing Barbados in Lake Garda, Italy this week, at the Trentino 2024 Youth Sailing World Championships. He was able to take in three days of training before the main event.

(TF)

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Swimming will be the second discipline in which Barbados will be competing at the Games of the XXXIII Olympiad, with Jack Kirby contesting the heats of the men’s 100m freestyle at 5:00 a.m. Caribbean time on 30 July. He will be preceded by Matthew Wright in the triathlon, three hours prior.

As the countdown continues for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, France, President of the Barbados Aquatic Sports Association (BASA), Robert Armstrong has expressed the organisation’s pride and excitement to be part of yet another Games.

Kirby, it was revealed recently, has been chosen by the Barbados Olympic Association (BOA) to carry the Barbados flag at the Opening Ceremony on 26 July. And Barbados will once again feature in swimming on the global stage.

“This sets an example and aspiration for all upcoming swimmers and those yet to start aquatics to see Barbadians making it to this level,” Armstrong commented.

During an exclusive interview with Barbados TODAY, Armstrong explained that BASA lays a solid foundation for all national swimmers at the National Aquatic Centre in Wildey.

Through initiatives such as the National Sports Council (NSC) Learn to Swim programme, Armstrong stated that local swimmers get to own their skills and graduate to join and swim for a club at the age group level and also compete during meets organised by BASA.

It is through this type of foundation and participation at regional and international competitions such as the Goodwill Swim Meet, CARIFTA, CCCAN (the Central American and Caribbean and Swimming Federation), Commonwealth Games, and World Championships, that Kirby and other national swimmers in recent years, namely Alex Sobers and Danielle Titus, were selected to represent Barbados at the Olympics.

“Yearly, World Aquatics hosts World Championships, for which Jack would have been a participant multiple times,” Armstrong explained. “Swimmers would periodically be allowed based on their FINA points and times to be part of these major Games. Those are the platforms which give them even more exposure and experience performing and competing at the highest level,” he noted.

President Armstrong pointed out that BASA continues to ensure its swimmers are given as many opportunities as possible to compete locally against their peers, while inviting regional and international clubs to visit Barbados to compete.

“Along with ensuring our age group swimmers are not left out from the opportunities available to compete regionally and internationally, as a federation, we want to boost the number of persons learning aquatics at the grassroots level and thus provide opportunities for talent identification.

“We continue to organise and execute Primary and Secondary Inter-School Swim Competitions as an avenue for swimmers not in the club environment to be exposed to competition coming out of the NSC Schools Learn to Swim programme.

“As a federation, we intend to promote Jack’s selection to the team and his participation at the Games on our platforms, to inspire young people to one day attain such an achievement,” Armstrong shared.

The dream of representing the nation at the highest level of the sport, according to Armstrong, is a tangible ideal for young Barbadian swimmers. He also thanked the BOA for their continued support both financially and along the Olympic qualification journey.

“Regular participation at the Games speaks to opportunities available for those who desire to achieve it,” he mused. “It shows that the goal of being an Olympian is not far removed from the average boy or girl, and they too can achieve it.

“As President, I firmly believe that out of quantity will come the quality of emerging aquatic athletes. This must be married with enhancing our technical training of coaches from the learn-to-swim stage to the competitive level.

“Further, we must develop pathways for aquatic athletes to continue their sporting career by securing scholarship opportunities and continuing to compete at the collegiate level so we can have a larger stock of senior (18 and over) athletes,” Armstrong emphasised.”

Among the recent and current collegiate student-athletes from Barbados in swimming are Amelia Mayers, Danielle Treasure, Jake Chee-A-Tow, Danielle Titus, Nkosi Dunwoody, Keilani Talma, Kai Trotman, and Adara Stoddard, to name a few.

Kirby, of course, also passed through the college ranks. Turning 24 two days before the Opening Ceremony, he is one of only two men from Barbados to have completed the 100 free in under 50 seconds. With the right support, the hope is that he can go even faster.

“We must look at funding to help keep swimmers in the sport as a swimmer post-collegiate level,” Armstrong added. “The BOA as a stakeholder has been a great aid in providing funding for different levels of athletes.”

Post Olympics, BASA has a 47-member national team heading to Saint Lucia to compete at the Goodwill Swim Meet, 15-19 August. A smaller team will also be travelling to Puerto Rico to compete at the PanAm Age Group Championships in San Juan, Puerto Rico, 22-25 August 2024.

Locally, the Aquatic Centre will host the Bridging the Gap Open International competition from 29 October to 2 November. In November the Primary and Secondary School Swim Meets will also be held. BASA Short Course Nationals will take place during the first week of December as well, followed by participation in the World Aquatics Short Course Championships in Budapest.

(AS)

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West Indies suffered a humiliating innings and 114-run defeat by England in the first Test at Lord’s last week, with the hosts wrapping up victory before lunch on the third day as they went 1-0 up in a three-match encounter.

But the difference between the two teams is about far more than on-field performances.

England are one of international cricket’s ‘Big Three’ financial powerhouse nations, together with India and Australia, while the West Indies are one of the economically poorer members of the Test-match elite.

The gulf between England and the West Indies is also reflected in their respective fixture lists, with Tests still largely a matter of bilateral arrangements between competing teams — the International Cricket Council merely specifies a minimum of two matches for a series.

Thursday’s second Test at Trent Bridge will be England’s seventh of 17 fixtures in the format this year, whereas the West Indies will be playing their third of nine in 2024.

“It’s a challenge. I mean, we’re longing for more Test cricket,” West Indies captain Brathwaite told a pre-match press conference at Trent Bridge on Wednesday.

“I think the more you play it, the faster you will learn. If it’s drawn over a long period of time, playing two Tests here, two Tests there, you will take longer to learn. We need more Tests.”

The 31-year-old added: “All I can do is keep preaching for it. I don’t know how hard it is to put on a Test series for the West Indies but all I can do is keep asking. I just hope the powers that be that may control the schedule pertaining to white ball and T20 tournaments, can fit in five or six more Test matches for us per year.”

A more immediate issue for the West Indies if they are to be competitive in this series is how to ensure an improved showing by their batsmen.

At Lord’s they were bowled out for just 121 and 136, with experienced opener Brathwaite managing just 10 runs in total during what was his 90th Test.

“It’s pretty simple what we’ve got to do — we’ve got to bat a lot better,” said Brathwaite, who made a Test hundred in England, at Headingley, seven years ago.

“We’ve got to find a way. We’ve just got to put runs on the board. I know what I have to do and it’s obviously important to lead this team and lead the batting.

“We’ve just got to keep learning.”

(AFP)

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The Congress of Trade Unions and Staff Associations of Barbados (CTUSAB) has criticised the establishment of a Serious Organised Crime Unit within The Barbados Police Service, arguing it is unnecessary given existing departments tasked with fighting crime.

At a virtual press conference on Wednesday, CTUSAB General Secretary Dennis De Peiza questioned the rationale behind creating the new unit when the police service is already short-staffed.

“I don’t think we need to reinvent the wheel. We need to consolidate what we have and try to move as swiftly as possible because we waited until the horse bolted and [are] now trying to pull it back,” De Peiza said.

He pointed out that gun violence has been a serious issue for over a decade, with the island recording 27 homicides so far this year, most of them gun-related.

De Peiza argued that the Criminal Investigation Department, Special Branch and Special Services Unit should be capable of addressing gang-related crime.

“I think you need to have, if anything, to further empower by way of resources, the police service to be able to effectively do the job it has to do,” he said.

The union leader criticised authorities for not doing enough to crack down on crime in recent years.

“Somewhere along the line, the ball is being dropped,” he said, urging stronger action to secure borders and track the source of illegal firearms.

“Get the guns, find who has them, who’s bringing them, get them off the street and put those people where they belong,” De Peiza said. “Otherwise, this epidemic as we have referred to the public health issue, is going to broaden itself and create a society for us that might become under siege.”

He also expressed concern about Barbados adopting North American cultural influences, such as attitudes towards smoking, corporal punishment and toy guns, warning of serious implications for children’s socialisation.

CTUSAB President Abdon DaSilva called for more research into gun crime and gangs in Barbados, suggesting the country could learn from other Caribbean territories facing similar challenges.

Both union leaders stressed that gun violence and youth deviance should be treated as a societal and public health issue rather than a political one. They advocated for early intervention to address deviant behaviour in children and evidence-based strategies to combat crime.

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The Muslim community is urging a united approach to address the troubling surge in violent crime that has claimed 27 lives this year, nearly double the number for the whole of last year.

Aakil Bhula, public relations officer of the Muslim Association of Barbados, told Barbados TODAY: “It’s about everybody getting together, understanding our roles and responsibilities, and trying to understand what the root causes are. I think that is where we need to go.”

Bhula emphasised the need for a comprehensive strategy, rejecting the notion of focusing on a single initiative.

“Everything goes hand-in-hand. You can’t focus on one and not the other. So, that is why it is important for all stakeholders, whether you are family, schools, whether it is public sector, private sector, no matter what, everybody has a role to play,” he said.

The Muslim community spokesman plans to echo a message of dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution during Friday prayers, particularly targeting young people.

“We, as citizens of Barbados, especially young people, you don’t just resort to violence, fighting, swearing, hitting each other, as the first approach. It’s all about taking a step back, and talking it out amongst ourselves,” Bhula said.

He highlighted religious teachings that promote peaceful solutions, such as “swallowing your anger” and employing techniques to manage anger constructively.

Bhula noted that praying for the nation and addressing special issues is a regular part of Muslim practice, particularly during Friday prayers.

“As Muslims, we pray five times a day, and after prayer, we always pray for everyone, and that includes our island, and that includes the suffering, wherever they are; that includes for health and wellness, for safety . . . so that’s part and parcel of our religion anyways,” the Muslim Association official said.

The Muslim community’s call for unity comes in the wake of a national address by Prime Minister Mia Mottley, who urged Barbadians to pause for five minutes on Saturday at midday in a symbolic gesture of national unity and peace-making.

In her Monday evening broadcast, Mottley asked residents to STEP up – whether they “see, touch, engage or participate” – in a united effort to restore peace to Barbados.

“I ask now every Barbadian, each of us, to pause for five minutes this Saturday at midday, for silent reflection wherever we are, whatever we are doing, other than of course the essential services,” she said.

Acknowledging the timing coincides with Crop Over festivities, including Kiddies Kadooment, Mottley emphasised the importance of the gesture: “It is important that we pause and reflect for five minutes, even in Kiddies Kadooment at midday, to send a signal that the majority of us want to build the common peace.”

The prime minister also called for religious services across the island to offer prayers for those affected by violence and for the strengthening of resolve among citizens. She suggested radio and television stations play appropriate music for reflection during the five-minute pause.

Mottley stressed that authorities will not surrender to “a handful of individuals who seek to cause panic in the country”.

Bhula expressed support for the prime minister’s message: “The prime minister’s message was very profound, and I think that’s what we need to listen to, reflect on and follow.”

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The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) appeared on Thursday to be embroiled in a dispute over its investigative priorities, with Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne accusing the government of sidelining a crucial inquiry into the controversial HOPE housing project.

Thorne told reporters at a news conference of frustration with the government’s decision to prioritise an old Barbados Water Authority matter over the housing issue in the committee, despite previous commitments from the prime minister.

“I promised this country that the Public Accounts Committee under my chairmanship would pursue investigations that the people of Barbados feel are due for investigation. I promised this country that we would look at the question of housing,” Thorne said.

He recalled the prime minister’s pledge to prioritise an investigation into housing and the government-owned HOPE company established to address housing issues. But Thorne said that during a recent PAC meeting, government lawmakers voted to focus on the BWA instead.

“I am unhappy to report to you that the government members of that committee felt that the matter should go to a vote. They felt that we should not give the highest priority to housing but that we should go back to a Barbados Water Authority matter that was started when Bishop Joseph Atherley was opposition leader, I think, in 2019,” Thorne told journalists.

The opposition leader argued that the public is more interested in an investigation into housing than an old BWA issue. He also questioned the government’s reluctance to investigate the HOPE project, which he described as a “failed initiative”.

Thorne raised concerns about the government’s recent land allocation decisions, particularly the vesting of lands of the former St Bartholomew’s Girls School at Pilgrim Place, Christ Church. He expressed regret that “the government was now taking up precious lands and vesting them in a private company”.

The opposition leader called for an investigation into the $60 million allocated to HOPE and its operations. “The people of Barbados want an investigation into that $60 million. The people of Barbados want an investigation into the manner in which HOPE and the housing people have been functioning in relation to hard-earned taxpayers’ monies,” he said.

Thorne also highlighted the limitations of the PAC’s current structure, which gives significant power to the general membership dominated by government MPs. He advocated for legislative changes to empower the chairman, typically from the opposition, to set the agenda.

“If everything comes to a vote, we cannot win. We cannot win on partisan lines. So the power that we thought we had as chairman, apparently, we don’t have,” Thorne lamented.

The opposition leader issued a call to action for Barbadians, emphasising the importance of public scrutiny. “I want the people to know what has happened. The people must know. And real political power lies with the people. And let the people start sharpening their pens. If this government believes that it can suppress a legitimate exercise of inquiry, let the people start sharpening their pens soon,” he declared.

The controversy has brought renewed attention to the HOPE project and its role in the government’s housing strategy.

According to its website, H.O.P.E. Barbados, or Home Ownership Providing Energy Inc., is a wholly government-owned entity offering “attractive, open-plan, hurricane-resilient two- and three-bedroom homes at prices significantly below similar offers currently on the market”.

The opposition leader contested the nature of HOPE’s operations: “I insist that HOPE is a private company. They call it a public-private sector partnership. It is a private company. It is run by private individuals. It behaves like a private company.”

Thorne raised concerns about the project’s financial management, alleging that “Its salaries are set up to $30 000 a month. It is set within that private company. It has a relationship with the Cabinet, in which the Cabinet picked up $60 million and gave it to them.”

Thorne’s criticism extended to what he perceives as the marginalisation of the National Housing Corporation. “I complained during the budget debate that it seemed as if the government was marginalizing the National Housing Corporation, which had served this country for close to 70 years,” he said.

The opposition’s push for a housing investigation comes against the backdrop of broader concerns about government spending and accountability. Thorne emphasised the PAC’s role in ensuring the prudent use of public funds: “The purpose is to ensure that the government spends the money of the people prudently. And we are frustrated in our effort to ensure that those funds were spent prudently.”

The dispute over the PAC’s investigative priorities has also highlighted the committee’s structural limitations. Thorne explained that legislative changes in 2003 altered the balance of power within the committee. “Previously, the PAC functioned according to the standing orders of the parliament, but that piece of legislation has given a lot of power to the general membership,” he said.

This shift has resulted in what Thorne describes as an “overwhelming majority” of government members on the committee, potentially hampering the opposition’s ability to set the investigative agenda.

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Minister of Youth Charles Griffith has rebuffed criticism from the Barbados Youth Development Council (BYDC) regarding the government’s support for youth and community programmes.

Responding to comments made by BYDC president Caleb Brathwaite, Griffith told Barbados TODAY that his ministry has been actively engaged in community outreach. “Over 170 blocks have been visited thus far by the said block committee, providing opportunities for those youngsters,” he said.

“I was shocked recently when I saw the head of the Barbados Youth Development Council indicating that more should be done by the government to assist people in terms of community and program,” he said. “A simple check here at the ministry would have revealed the same project and the block committee that I spoke about.”

Griffith acknowledged that the ministry might need to improve its communication strategy. “Maybe we need to promote a little more of what we’re doing at the ministry so that John Public is fully aware of the programmes that are available,” he conceded.

The minister’s comments come in the wake of Brathwaite’s criticism of successive governments for failing to implement a national youth policy. The BYDC president had linked this inaction to rising violence among young people, stating: “You have violence among young people, but there’s in fact no national youth policy.”

Addressing these concerns, Griffith gave an assurance that progress was being made on the national youth policy. “The youth policy is coming. It was completed by those who were tasked with completing the youth policy. It will be implemented soon,” he said. He added that certain aspects of the policy were already being put into practice, despite the lack of public announcements.

He dismissed suggestions of animosity between his ministry and the BYDC, attributing any misunderstandings to communication gaps. “It’s just a matter of communication, simply that,” he said.

The minister for youth highlighted recent initiatives, including the reintroduction of the National Youth Awards after a 12-year hiatus. “We’re doing every single thing… to amplify the work that our young people are doing. And where possible, we’re putting programmes in place to assist with that,” he said.

He also pointed to efforts to expand community sports programmes. “We have started a community sports programme to expand the delivery of sports at the community level,” he explained. This includes training for football coaches, with plans to extend support to other sports disciplines.

Griffith insisted the ministry is committed to providing opportunities for all young people, including those on the margins of society. “There’s a basket of deliverables for everyone, for those in mainstream society, for those who are on the block that we’re trying to reintegrate back into mainstream society,” he said.

The minister urged young people to engage with the ministry’s programmes: “For those who are on the blocks, I’m saying to call the ministry and ask for information. The information is out there, 170 blocks, and we’re expanding.”

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The Democratic Labour Party (DLP) has rolled out its plans for a new commission on crime as Barbados grapples with a surge in slayings. With the number of homicides reaching 28 for the year, DLP political leader Ralph Thorne has positioned crime as a key political issue.

The 12-member commission will be chaired by former party president Verla DePieza, an attorney-at-law, Thorne told a press conference on Thursday. The panel aims to engage ordinary citizens to understand the causes, effects and potential solutions to crime.

“On the last occasion, we announced that we would establish a commission on crime. And I’m happy to say that we have made much progress with that,” Thorne said. “It’s a commission, I think, of 12 persons. Including the church. It will be chaired by our eminent attorney-at-law, Verla DePieza.”

The DLP’s crime commission plans to engage with communities across Barbados. Thorne explained: “We will go around this country. Since we concede that we don’t have the answers, we don’t have all of the answers. And the important people to speak to are not prime ministers and attorneys general. It is important to speak to the ordinary citizens of this country. Who is feeling the effects of crime? Who is hearing the gunshots? Whose children are dying from the gunshots?”

The commission will address three broad questions: the causes of crime, its effects on the community, and potential solutions. Thorne also outlined previous suggestions made to the government, including joint police and Barbados Defence Force patrols, socioeconomic responses, and legislative measures.

Thorne firmly rejected the notion that crime is not a political issue, calling it “false”. 

He argued: “Crime, as we know, disrupts a society and destabilises the state, and the state is managed by the government. The government is a political entity, and the government functions as a political entity, broadly speaking, through two bodies. The parliament passes laws to control and prevent crime. The cabinet comes up with policies in relation to crime. And that is political activity.”

The opposition leader emphasised the government’s responsibility to address crime through legislation and policy implementation. He drew a distinction between blaming the government and asking it to accept responsibility:  “I don’t think anybody is blaming the government for every incident of criminal activity, criminal wrongdoing, violence, or murder. Nobody’s blaming the government. There is a difference between blaming a government and asking a government to accept responsibility.”

Thorne criticised a recent announcement by Prime Minister Mia Mottley regarding a new organised crime unit within the police service to deal with gang violence. He argued that this move overstepped legal boundaries.

“The prime minister has gone beyond her legal bounds,” said the senior counsel. “That is a matter for the Commissioner of Police to deal with. The prime minister does not have that power. Under Section 8 of the
Police Act, the Commissioner of Police is responsible for the superintendence and administration of the police force.”

He criticised the government for failing to provide the necessary infrastructure in the courts. “They’ve been boasting about how they increased the number of judges. They increased the number of judges and have failed to provide the infrastructure in the courts that has allowed cases to move at a quicker pace. In other words, the transcription staff and the clerical staff haven’t increased.”

Thorne emphasised the opposition’s commitment to addressing crime and engaging with the public, while also criticising the government’s cultural response to the issue: “We don’t have all of the solutions. We don’t have them all, but we want to engage with them. This government comes and engages with the people when the crisis reaches its highest point.”

The opposition leader was particularly critical of the government’s approach to addressing the issue: “The government has a moral, legal, and political obligation to deal with the question of crime through the Parliament, the passage of laws, the cabinet, and the implementation of policy.”

One of the key solutions proposed by Thorne is the implementation of anti-gang legislation, similar to measures taken in other Caribbean nations: “If they want leadership on the issue of anti-gang legislation, the other countries have done it. We’ve had an attorney general plodding along for the last six years and have not talked about passing anti-gang legislation. It is known in this country that a lot of the crime is localised within gang activity. The logical thing to do is what Jamaica did, what Trinidad did—anti-gang legislation.”

The opposition leader also took aim at what he described as the government’s inadequate cultural response to crime, particularly criticising the promotion of revelry: “This government has promoted revelry at the expense of the rights, interests, and welfare of young children in this country. They’ve gone as far as the young children.”

He cited a specific incident to illustrate his point: “They opened the National Botanical Gardens, and the Barbados Labour Party sponsored an event a few months ago, and there was a DJ standing over a 13-year-old girl who was lying on the stage and gyrating. Now they want a five-minute prayer. It’s a good thing. But everybody at this table is praying every day.”

The DLP crime commission aims to take a grassroots approach to understanding and addressing crime in Barbados. “We will be going into the communities of Barbados,” said the DLP leader. “Into the school halls and church halls, and we will be asking people to literally come and give evidence. What do you know about crime? How is crime affecting you?”

This approach, according to Thorne, contrasts with the government’s method of engaging with the public which he said “engages with the people when the crisis reaches its highest point”.

(RG)

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Barbados Workers Union general secretary Toni Moore has called on employers and workers to take an active role in combating crime and violence across the nation.

In a press statement released on Thursday, Moore emphasised that workplaces are not immune to the impact of crime and violence plaguing Barbados. “As it relates to workplaces, we cannot think that crime and violence is something that is out there. Victims and perpetrators are our work colleagues, their children, relatives, friends, and it impacts on all of us in one form or the other,” she said.

Moore highlighted the far-reaching consequences of these issues on the work environment: “It impacts on our productivity, our mental wellness and overall on the work environment. The attitudes and behaviour in the home are often brought into the workplace and vice versa.”

The BWU leader urged both employers and employees to take action. “We must all take a stand. We must all step up, employers and workers alike. We must commit to fostering a culture of transparency and understanding as we work to reduce the anxiety that is plaguing our nation,” Moore said.

She called on employers to engage with their staff “openly and respectfully”, while also urging workers to address interpersonal issues before they escalate. “We must address issues at the interpersonal level before they reach boiling point and escalate to formal grievances.”

The statement also touched on the importance of unity in the face of these challenges. “Our unity continues to provide us with hope and, empowers us and strengthens us to stand tall against threats within our movement and those threats on the outside that can impact our movement,” Moore said.

Moore ended by stressing that this call to action should not be a temporary measure but a long-term commitment. “As we move forward, let us remember that stepping up is not just a directive. It’s not just a thing that we should preoccupy ourselves with for the next few days. Stepping up must be a shared responsibility,” she said.

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Attorney General Dale Marshall has rebuffed Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne’s criticism of a new anti-gang police unit, dismissing the claims as “really, really quite silly”.

The controversy stems from Prime Minister Mottley’s announcement of plans for a Serious Organised Crime Unit within The Barbados Police Service. Thorne contended that the prime minister had overstepped her legal authority by making this announcement.

Responding to Thorne’s comments, Marshall told Barbados TODAY: “That criticism is really, really quite silly. It is obvious that the leader of the opposition is seeking to deflect attention from the failings on his side and the chasm that exists among his members, more than engaging in a serious discussion.”

The attorney general further questioned Thorne’s reasoning: “Is he saying then that Her Excellency the President ought to have made the announcement of the establishment of the Serious Organised Crime Unit instead of the Prime Minister?”

Thorne had earlier argued at an opposition media conference: “The prime minister has gone beyond her legal bounds. That is a matter for the Commissioner of Police to deal with. The point I wish to make is this . . . the prime minister is beyond her legal bounds when she makes this announcement as to how the police force shall function. The prime minister does not have that power.”

Citing Section 8 of the Police Act, he said: “The Commissioner of Police is responsible for the superintendence and administration of the police force, and he is not answerable to a prime minister. He is answerable to The President, the Head of the State.”

The attorney general countered by explaining the origins of the new unit: “Had he paid even the slightest attention to what was said, he would not be going down this road. That recommendation came out of a study that was done on The Barbados Police Service by an independent UK policing body. This was one of the two recommendations that were accepted by the Police Service and endorsed by the National Security Council.”

The attorney general defended the PM’s right to make such announcements: “Why then should the prime minister not make such an announcement? There are other recommendations that will likely be adopted by the Police Service and endorsed by the administration in the coming months. Will these initiatives be any less authoritative or effective because they are announced by the attorney general for example?”

Marshall contended that Thorne may have targeted Prime Minister Mottley because it may not have been expedient to criticise the police service.

“The leader of the opposition can’t criticise the initiative taken by the service, so instead, he focuses on who makes the announcement? Let’s get serious,” the attorney general declared.

Mottley had announced the new unit as a key recommendation from the Independent International Police Assistance Service (IPAS). She stated that it would focus “entirely on organised crime and gangs” in response to a surge in violent crime.

Mottley had also told reporters that “people must come to work every day to ensure that this [crime] is wrestled down and that this country is not held to ransom by people who want to act in a way that is inimical to people’s liberty and safety and property”.

The government has agreed to create temporary posts for the unit, which will operate alongside existing police divisions. 

emmanueljoseph@barbadostoday.bb

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Despite several problems at some local public schools over the last academic year, the Barbados Union of Teachers (BUT) is optimistic that both educators and students will benefit from a renewed focus on occupational health and safety when classes resume in September.

Union president Rudy Lovell, describing the 2023-2024 school year as one ‘rife with challenges’, told Barbados TODAY that the teachers’ representative had high hopes that these issues would be effectively addressed.

“Most of the issues that were brought to the attention of the Ministry of Education have been rectified and those that were not immediately dealt with, there are plans to remedy those issues. Going forward into the 2024-2025 academic year, we would want to see a reduction in the number of schools plagued by environmental issues.

“As we would have indicated, a dedicated maintenance plan would assist with reducing some of these issues that students and teachers are faced with on a daily basis,” he said.

Lovell added that the union has been pleased with its improving relationship with the ministry, but he noted that a promised audit of all of the school compounds, should be followed up urgently with much-needed remedial work.

“If you are going to do an audit to indicate the deficiencies across the school system and then you don’t put measures in place to correct these deficiencies, then the audit is a waste of time.”

The union head said he was also optimistic that talks around the disputed term’s leave for eligible teachers would soon come to a favourable end.

“The union is also hopeful that come September, we will have a resolution to the term’s vacation leave issue. We had two meetings so far, and we are hoping to resume those discussions before the school term begins so that we can have a final decision on term’s leave for teachers in the public school system.”

Lovell also emphasised that there are certain schools where there are persistent security concerns and which would benefit from the service of security guards. He however acknowledged that though the union would like to see guards stationed at every school, parents also had a role to play in guiding their children on what is  “appropriate behaviour” and showing respect when on school property or when in the school’s uniform.

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