ICE Summer Colours VIP Experience is now on the Crop Over calendar!

The event, which has been staged at the end of summer in September in the past, will now join the list of epic events held during the last lap Crop Over week.

Billed as: The Ultimate VIP Crop Over Experience, the event will be held on Thursday, August 1, at 4 p.m. on the spacious grounds of The Lawns of the Philip Balgrove Training Turf, Garfield Sobers Sports Complex, Wildey, St Michael. ICE will be the first event of its kind at the location.

Looking to do something special and different as the Crop Over Festival celebrates 50 years, organisers have planned an event that merges nostalgia with current and trending vibes.

Performing on stage will be headliners Alison Hinds, Edwin Yearwood, Lil Rick and Hypasounds, with the best of Crop Over 2024 supported by a line-up of talented and young DJs set to keep the vibe going.

Party-goers are promised value for their money and an epic time at the food inclusive event. Committee leader Nathan Walters spoke about the event and what can be expected.

“The team decided to shift the event to be a part of Crop Over this year and the response has been pretty good so far. ICE is known for its vibe and for offering top-notch experiences and we plan to continue with fulfilling this expectation. So we look forward to people coming out in their summer colours to be a part of this event during the last lap Crop Over weekend,” he said.

Along with the star-studded entertainment line-up, patrons will also enjoy fully-stocked bars, a number of food stations and ICE branded giveaway.

For more information follow @ICE246 on IG and FB.

(PR)

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Sol, the Caribbean’s leading provider of energy solutions is proud to fuel this year’s Crop Over celebrations through a partnership with the National Cultural Foundation (NCF). As part of the partnership, Sol stations will become hubs of activities during the season and will also see Sol and the NCF working closely together to enhance the experience of festival-goers.

Carol Roberts, Retail Formats & Promotions Manager at Sol Barbados Limited, confirmed Sol’s commitment to add value and give back to the community. She explained that the various activities at the Sol service stations will see Sol and the NCF combining forces to delight customers with exciting Crop Over giveaways, Tuk Band and other familiar Bajan cultural performances, SolXtendTM fuel vouchers and other branded giveaways. Commenting on the partnership,  Roberts said that Sol’s purpose as a company is “Powering what moves people” and that nothing moves people in Barbados like Crop Over celebrations, making the NCF/Sol partnership a perfect match.

Also as part of Sol’s Crop Over promotions, the company launched “Sol Soca Summer” where drivers who fuel up with $50 or more at any Sol service station across the island will get a chance to enter to win tickets to the hottest events this Crop Over season, including Tipsy, Island Mas Breakfast Party, The Reunion, Soca on De Hill, Soca 5.0 and Pic-O-De-Crop Finals. During the promotion, five winners will be selected each week until July 28, 2024.

This year, the company introduced a game-changing fuel called SolXtendTM which gives drivers more miles and less engine maintenance. Sol is also in the process of extending its service station network in Barbados where SolXtendTMwill be available.

(PR)

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Elecia Bowman, Asabi Callender, Dicoreya Collymore and NaiJanni Cumberbatch and Erin Deane are five Barbadian players named in a West Indies Under 19 ladies squad to oppose a USA Under 19 ladies squad in a T20 series to be played in Trinidad and Tobago.

The matches scheduled are to be played on July 20, July 22, July 24, July 25 and July 27.

The full West Indies Under 19 ladies squad reads:

• Samara Ramnath (captain).
• Elecia Bowman.
• Abigail Bryce.
• Asabi Callender.
• Kenika Cassar.
• Jahzara Claxton.
• Dicoreya Collymore.
• NaiJanni Cumberbatch.
• Erin Deane.
• Trisha Hardat.
• Brianna Harricharan.
• Danielle Manns.
• Amrita Ramtahal.
• Selena Ross.
• Kristen Sutherland.

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Rihanna has signed a historic partnership with the 2024 Paris Olympics, boosting her billion-dollar fortune.

The singer turned beauty mogul signed a deal said to be worth tens of millions, insiders tell The Standard, to “beautify” the world’s top athletes.

“This deal with her Fenty cosmetics brand is a major coup for Rihanna,” the source says. “She’s the first ‘non-corporate’ self-made, beauty brand to get such a major deal from the sporting event.

“Her line is known as diverse and for all skin types – so it makes sense as it will be perfect for the variety of athletes from all over the world.

“She’ll also have her image along with the cosmetics plastered everywhere. It’ll be great for the brand and she’s bagged millions for the deal.”

This week the singer posted a photo of herself walking hand-in-hand with a Fenty Beauty lip product, which was holding a glass of wine, with the Eiffel Tower and Olympic rings in the background.

She captioned it, “tried to tell yall…we outside all 2024!!! PROUD to announce that @FentyBeauty is a premium partner of the Olympic AND Paralympic Games baby!!! #FentyxParis2024”.

In a press release, it was revealed that Olympic volunteers will receive Fenty Beauty makeup kits, including the Eaze Drop’Lit All-Over Glow Enhancer, Invisimatte Instant Setting and Blotting Powder, Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer, and the Eaze Drop Blurring Skin Tint.

Volunteers will get tutorials to create a “designated look,” with Fenty makeup artists available for assistance.

Rihanna’s photo featured her in a shirt dress, army-print bomber jacket, Louis Vuitton handbag, oversized red sunglasses, and gold heels, with her long brown hair flowing and jewellery.

The image humorously replaced her partner A$AP Rocky as the lip gloss from their Paris Fashion Week trip.

Rihanna and Rocky have been dating since 2020 and share two children, RZA and Riot. Fans enjoyed the joke, with comments like “not you replaced Rocky with your gloss bomb” and “I know A$AP somewhere with his hands on his hips and mouth wide open at this picture”.

Fenty Beauty’s account responded with, “Let’s go Paris!” while sister brands congratulated her. Fenty Hair wrote, “Issa Fenty TAKEOVA,” and SavagexFenty commented, “Always elevating the game.”

The pop-star’s Fenty brand success has made her a billionaire, worth $1.4billion USD, making her the world’s richest female singer.

Rihanna, full name Robyn Rihanna Fenty, launched Fenty Beauty in 2017. It is considered revolutionary for being one of the first brands to offer a diverse range of foundation shades in a market that was lacking in inclusivity.

She said her inspiration for launching the brand was seeing many black and brown women struggle to find shades of make-up that matched their skin tone. “I want everyone to feel included,” she added.

SOURCE: The Standard

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Director of the Department of Emergency Management (DEM), Kerry Hinds, is encouraging more students across Barbados to be more aware of the various hazards that are likely to affect the island.

Hinds made this appeal as she thanked students for participating in the Department’s Early Warning poster competition held as part of activities to mark Hurricane Awareness Month celebrated in June under the theme Early Warning, Early Action, Saves Lives!

Speaking during the prize-giving ceremony at the DEM recently, the Director explained that the competition was designed to raise awareness about the hurricane hazard.

“We saw firsthand how we were impacted by Hurricane Beryl, not just Barbados, but Grenada, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Jamaica,” she said.

She told students that the destruction caused by a hurricane or severe weather event can wreak havoc on countries like Barbados.

“The storm surge was horrific. We are left to try and recover the fishing industry. In addition, the south and west coast beaches and coastal roads were also severely impacted,” she said.

The Director encouraged the students to keep up to date about the hazards that could affect the country, early warning systems that are available to warn about any potential threat, and actions they should take to prepare for a possible impact.

The first prize was captured by Fabianna Holder, of Class 3 at the St. Judes Primary School; Class 4 student, Diamond Prescott, of the Bridgetown Seventh-Day Adventist Primary School, took second place; while J3 student, Arya Kirpalani, of the St. Gabriel’s School, captured third place. Shaniyah Hall of Class 3 at the Reynold Weekes Primary School received a special mention for her entry.

During the presentation ceremony, second place winner, Diamond Prescott, stated that his “take away” from the competition was that “early warning saves lives”.

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Fisherfolk will play a major role in discussions, when fish processors meet with officials from the Ministry of the Environment and National Beautification, Green and Blue Economy, in the near future, to ensure the sustainability of their livelihoods.

This was disclosed by Minister Adrian Forde at a recent press conference held at the Ministry at Warrens Tower II, Warrens, St Michael.

Forde gave this assurance, stating: “They (fish processors) are ready, able, and willing to partner with us, as they have been doing for a very long time, to ensure that Barbadians are able to have fish as part of their palette and to be able to enjoy that which we have been enjoying since we know that Barbados exists. We are going to work with the fisherfolk and Barbadians to ensure the survival of the fishing industry.”

The main objective of the upcoming discussions, as outlined by the Minister, is to pave the way forward for the sustainable development of the fishing sector.

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The Coastal Zone Management Unit will commence repairs to sections of the Richard Haynes Boardwalk at Hastings, Christ Church, from Monday, July 22. The repair work is expected to be completed on Friday, August 2.

The areas being repaired will be cordoned off, but the Boardwalk will still be accessible to users.  Persons are, however, advised to exercise caution in the area under construction.

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Prime Minister Mia Mottley has issued a call for collective reflection and unity in Barbados, particularly in the face of rising gun violence. Her comment comes as Barbadians today stop at midday to pause, reflect, pray for a peaceful country, and observe a five-minute period of silence and reflection to acknowledge the national issue of violence.

Speaking to the media as she observed the parade of bands taking part in the 2024 Junior Kadooment at the National Botanical Gardens in Waterford, she noted that the commitment to guns by a few individuals threatens the Barbados that its citizens know and love. 

“Because we’ve reached a point now where a handful of people cannot take the Barbados that we know or the Barbados that we love because of their commitment to guns. Guns don’t walk; guns don’t talk,” the prime minister said.

Drawing a contrast with historical injustices, Mottley pointed out that the current crisis is within the nation’s power to change. “Unlike slavery, where something was imposed on us from outside, we have the capacity to make the choices, make the difference, and to walk away from guns and leave that out. It starts first and foremost.”

Quoting the lyrics of the 2016 Alison Hinds hit Togetherness, “the fussing and the fighting and the war must done,” she stressed the importance of reducing societal anger and anxiety, emphasising the need for counselling and support. “Fussing and the fighting start there…There’s too much anger, and there’s too much anxiety. There’s an issue if we know that a person needs help; counselling is there, and doctors are there. At the same time, if we have the capacity to think for ourselves, then let us not get into the foolish fussing and the fighting. It’s not worth it.”

The prime minister called for a national chorus of peace and unity, stressing that these values should be echoed in every household and community. “So, that has to be the mantra, that has to be the refrain, and that has to be the chorus in every household and in every community across the country. And if we start with that, then those who are committed to violence and guns will be isolated more and more. And as we say, we need people to step up.”

Prime Minister Mia Mottley at the 2024 Junior Kadooment.

She further emphasised the importance of early intervention and community support. “In [that] sense, waiting until something happens to hold your belly and bawl; you need to step up early. And that’s the simple, simple, simple message. These youngsters here at [Junior] Kadooment, we want a better Barbados for them. And we want them to be able to enjoy the country as we did when we grew up. There must not be a fear of being able to move about and do things in this country. And the only way we’re going to do that is if the majority say this is not the direction that we want to go in.”

Reiterating the urgent need for change, she concluded, “There’s too many guns, there’s too much violence, there’s too much anger, and there’s too much anxiety. Let’s pull it back.”

Mottley recalled the traditional Barbadian values of patience and conflict resolution. “The fussing and the fighting, the ability to walk away, the ability not to anger quickly — those things are as bajan as I know.  People would laugh at Bajans and say Bajans walk away from a fight. Bajans don’t fly up in people’s face that way. That is who we are.”

She further emphasised the importance of early moral grounding and community involvement. “Now, with the ability to want to resolve everything yourself, life doesn’t work that way. So we have to train, and that’s why we made the commitment to get our kids, whether it is Sunday school, the mosque, or whatever it is, to go back there. Even if they walk away from it as adults, they must have what the old-time Bajans call the early groceries.”

Mottley highlighted the role of various community members in fostering a culture of peace and understanding.

“They must have the grounding. And there are people who I am talking with across the country to be able to see how in communities we can get people to understand that that basic difference between right and wrong, the understanding of it in terms of our religious anchoring, whether it is Christian or whether it is Muslim or whether it is Hindu or whether it is Rastafari, it doesn’t matter what, the grounding is there.

“Because all of these religions teach us about the virtues of doing good for people, caring for each other, and the difference between wrong and right,” she said as she called on Barbadians to play their part in creating a peaceful society.

“Now, at the end of the day, that’s the role of the parent; it’s the role of the aunt; it’s the role of the godparent; it’s the role of the grandparent; it’s the role of the neighbour; it’s the role of the community; it’s the role of the sporting groups and the cultural groups; it’s the role of everyone to be able to tell everybody, bring it down, and let us talk this out, talk with each other. Those prepositions that I talked about earlier this week are important. Talk with, not talk at, not talk to, and certainly not talk about.” (RG)

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President of Soroptimist International (SI) – Barbados, Peta-Lee Blackman, is appealing to Barbadians to assist the vulnerable in whatever way they can, including partnering with charities or organisations like SI Barbados to help individuals and families escape poverty and hunger.

The call came recently as members of the club participated in their annual SIGBI Day of Action which is a mandated day for regional and national Soroptimist associations across the world to showcase their respective project work under a theme. This year’s theme was Poverty where the objective was to focus on Food, Health, or Education.

For SI Barbados it provided the opportunity to focus on President Peta-Lee Blackman’s mission where she pledged to support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) to which Barbados is a signatory, and in this case specifically targeting zero hunger (SDG2).

Members took action gathering together at the Soroptimist Village in Eden Lodge last Saturday morning, July 13 to prepare delicious and healthy breakfast packages. The team then hit Jubilee Gardens in the City to feed the homeless community, some of which included children.

“We wanted to be able to serve the community and one of the things we think are pressing in this society are those vulnerable persons who can’t get something to eat. As a club, we came together, and we made some nutritious breakfast packages in order to serve these vulnerable persons. Additionally we traveled down to Jubilee Gardens, where we were able to hand out those packages to persons in need as we continue to push forward our mission and our mandate to serve persons in our community. We are definitely thankful that we can do that,” said Blackman.

She further explained that it was also important to have community collaboration and that is why SI Barbados chose Fishers of Men to assist in their food drive.

SI Barbados has been committed to addressing food insecurity and hunger and through the dedication of its membership and generous donations from the community, the organization has been able to make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need by also distributing food hampers every quarter to assist women in need. It also supports food security with its Frances Chandler Memorial Award where women in agriculture are assisted to increase crop production. (PR)

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At the 2024 International Karate Daigaku (IKD) World Cup, which continued on Friday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall in Georgetown, Guyana, Barbados kept up their impressive performance.

National black belts competed on day two of the competition in individual Kata and Kumite contests on the tatami against some of the world’s best, showing remarkable results across a range of age groups.

In the highly competitive 20-39 male Kumite division, Sheridan Greaves demonstrated his exceptional ability by winning both of his bouts, securing a spot in the semi-finals where he will face Liam Gilbert of Trinidad and Tobago.

Meanwhile, Nicholas Blackman and Joseph Tseu faced early exits in the first round. However, Tseu made a remarkable comeback in the Kata event, advancing to the final after a stellar performance, while both Greaves and Blackman were eliminated in the first round of the Kata competition.

The women’s 20-39 age group also saw strong representation from Barbados. Ayesha Harewood and Shannan Skeete both advanced to the final eight in the Kata competition, showcasing their technical skills and precision.

In the Kumite semi-finals, Harewood is set to face Caitlyn Sachkowski of Canada, while Skeete will go up against Chelsea Mohan of Trinidad and Tobago, promising thrilling encounters.

Delano Allsopp continued Barbados’ impressive run, making it to the final of the 17-19 male Kata category. In the Kumite division, Allsopp will contend with William Grant of Trinidad and Tobago in the semi-finals, aiming to secure another medal for his team.

Nathan Greaves won silver in the 14-16 Kata in the brown belt division.

In the younger age brackets, Barbados’ Ziede Greaves advanced to the final eight of the 11-13 boys Kata. Greaves also progressed to the Kumite semi-finals, where he will face Omar Shariff of Guyana.

Unfortunately, Kieron Viren was eliminated in the Kumite competition but remains a strong contender in Kata.

The 14-16 male division saw Zarek Greaves, Raphael Alexander, and Nasir Cadogan all advance to the final eight in Kata. In the Kumite semi-finals, Alexander and Ramario Yearwood will represent Barbados, with Alexander set to face Jaycob Lezama and Yearwood matched against Xavier Millette, both of whom are from Trinidad. Greaves and Cadogan were unable to progress past the elimination rounds in Kumite.

Erynn Nelson showcased her versatility by advancing to the final six in the 14-16 girls Kata and securing a spot in the Kumite semi-finals, demonstrating the depth and talent of Barbados’ young karatekas, one of the most competitive national teams at the fourth edition of the IKD World Cup. (AS)

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This year’s Junior Kadooment returned to Waterford, St Michael, albeit with some adjustments to the set-up and the route, and it saw a mix of feedback from local vendors, who praised certain aspects while suggesting areas for improvement. While many vendors appreciated the overall organisation and new setups, there were calls for better advertising and more consideration for vendor competition.

One vendor in the Kid’s Zone, who chose to remain anonymous, highlighted issues with the festival’s advertising. “Business-wise, it’s not bad, but it would have been better if they advertised that there’s a kids zone where you have rides and toys,” she said. “I find a lot of times they take it for granted and assume that people will know that toys are there. But sometimes people aren’t thinking, and when they leave home, they don’t come out with the money.”

She noted, “A lot of people are coming up and saying, ‘Oh god, I wish I had more money to buy some.’ But you know, they really didn’t know or whatever. So, other than that, it’s okay. But I’m saying in their advertising they must do a pitch, letting people know that there are toys, there are rides, there’s food, and so on. They take it for granted that people will know it, but uh-uh.”

Popular vendor Roger Goodridge of The Do’s Toy City had a more positive outlook, praising the event’s organisation and setup. “It was good today. Everything was good today. Today the horns were selling, and if rain comes, the umbrellas are there. But it’s hot outside, as you can see,” he said. “I like this new setup. It was better because they took the masquerade into the schools and spread it more, and they had the route. They are more uniform in coming out and crossing the stage, and then they go right around the stadium, back into botanical gardens where they can have some fun.”

Goodridge added, “It’s more uniform this year to me than last year. It’s sweet to do business for me. You really want to flow, you know. You can see I’ve done a good job this year by changing up the routine for the children, you know.

Dwayne Philips, who was participating for the second time, noted a difference in sales compared to the previous year. “It ain’t going as quick as it did last year, I should say, because I’m not the only vendor out here in this area by the stage. Then I had no competition. Now it’s still moderate, still average,” he explained. Despite this, Philips acknowledged the efforts of the National Cultural Foundation (NCF). “You can still eat the food, you know. But yeah, the NCF has done a great job this year, I must say.”

He provided details to Barbados TODAY about his offerings, saying, “We sell a variety of everything. I have sno-cones, doughnuts, cookies, and muffins. Then, you know, you’ve got your sweet treats for children. I have soft drinks from the sponsors that I can only sell today. But you know, certain things can’t sell. My hot ticket item is mostly water. People want water, but the sno-cones and the donuts ain’t doing bad. You know what I mean. Nice, nice, nice.” (RG)

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The Vector Control Unit will take its fogging programme to St George and St John, this week.

The Unit will visit both parishes on Monday when it carries out its fogging exercise in Wakefield Road, Four Road, Lemon Arbour Village, Bayley Alley, Sweet Vale, Butcher Road, Brathwaite Road, and Golden Ridge.

The team will focus on St George, for the rest of the week. On Tuesday the Unit will spray Paradise Village Nos. 1 to 3, Roach Village, Applewhaites, Lucas Hall Tenantry Road, Lucas Heights, Belair Nos.1 and 2, Upper Belair, Jericho, and surrounding areas.

It will be the turn of Cottage Heights, Cottage Crescent, Grove Tenantry, Market Hill, Bridge Cot, Grove Cottage, Bridge Cot Terrace, Old Post Office Road, Cottage Court West, Cottage Crescent Drive, Moon Shine Close, and St Helens, when the Unit fogs on Wednesday.

The next day the following districts will be sprayed:1st and 2nd Lower Newbury, Newbury, Fusilier Road, Rose Hill, Taitt Hill, and Newbury Heights.

The fogging exercise for the week will conclude on Friday in Salisbury, Hope Road, Free Hill, Workmans, and environs.

Fogging takes place from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. daily. Householders are reminded to open their windows and doors to allow the spray to enter. Children should not be allowed to play in the fog.

Members of the public are advised that the completion of scheduled fogging activities may be affected by events beyond the Unit’s control. In such circumstances, the Unit will return to communities affected in the soonest possible time.

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T

his year’s staging of Junior Kadooment has received positive reviews from key stakeholders and Chief Executive Officer of the National Cultural Foundation Carol Roberts is satisfied that some of the improvements worked for a smoother event.

While walking through the gardens, several vendors, parents, and spectators praised the changes made from last year, including a different set-up and route for the young revellers.

While noting the early reviews, Roberts howver, emphasized the importance of seeing the entire event through before celebrating.

“I wouldn’t say that until after the last child, the last junior reveller, the last leader, the last vendor, and of course my staff have reached it home safely, but I think that we’ve got several things right this year,” she told reporters, while acknowledging that there were minor hiccups.

.“There were issues; they always are when you’re dealing with numerous dynamics all moving along the same parallel, but I think this year we did a better job of ironing out the kinks as they occurred.”

She listed managing children, especially in the intense heat, and reassuring parents as some of the challenges but said the NCF put in much effort to address any issues.

“I think that we have scored relatively high this year, but that’s just from where I sit, watching the children parade, having a good time, checking in to make sure there are enough water stations, looking at the patrons.”

Roberts was pleased with this year’s layout, noting that it worked better for the children, bands and patrons

“The children actually feel as though they’re jumping along a route; it’s decorated as such; there is a clear demarcation via a very low stage as to where they start their choreographies; the space for patrons to watch the parade is also much better laid out and more expansive, so you know, the space for people to take up vantage points. Now if I could just control the heat, I’d be good.”

When asked for a review of this year’s festival so far from the official opening to the present, Roberts was again upbeat but made clear that the Foundation is listening to stakeholders regardless of their views.

“I think it has gone relatively well. I am not one to ignore negative comments and useful criticisms; we store them away, the ones that we can implement or manage immediately before the festival ends, and we take them on board.

“I think the festival is going relatively well, and I say that not only from the perspective of the events that we’ve produced but also from the hundreds upon hundreds of other events that private promoters and producers have produced,” she added, saying high-end events to grassroots community gatherings have been well staged.

“I think they’ve done a good job.”

Reifer acknowledged that one of the ongoing issues has been logistical challenges, particularly the rental of services and infrastructure and a notable shortage of skilled manpower this year.

“Tons and tons of events are not only stretching capital resources and assets, but also human resources, lighting technicians, and sound engineers.”

“The sector is now slowly but surely building back up its resources,” she explained. Shipping delays also continue to affect the timely acquisition of necessary items. Despite these hurdles, Roberts remains optimistic, saying , “Against that backdrop, I still think that we’re doing relatively well.” (RG)

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The Barbados-based Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) on Sunday confirmed that it had concluded the “internal administrative process” involving its president, Dr Hyginus Leon, and that he “has ceased to hold the office of the President of the Bank”. 

In a four-paragraph statement, the CDB said that its board of governors had taken note of the “closure of the internal administrative process” involving the St. Lucia-born economist and that “in accordance with the Agreement Establishing the Caribbean Development Bank, the Vice President (Operations), Isaac Solomon, will continue to exercise the authority and perform the functions of president until a new president is elected”. 

It said that “the process for the election of a new president has commenced and the Board of Governors has been invited to submit nominations for the position of the president of the bank by August 26, 2024. It is expected that the election process will conclude in October 2024.” 

In April this year, Leon submitted his resignation with “immediate effect” from the regional financial institution after his St. Lucia-based lawyers wrote to the bank indicating Leon is of the opinion that “he will never be treated fairly” after being sent on administrative leave in January. 

“It is also evident that the bank has lost all trust and confidence in our client by the failure of the Board of Governors to prevent the continued violations of its Charter, policies, rules and regulations with regard to its elected President. 

“Our client has therefore made the extremely difficult decision to resign his elected position of the President of the Bank with immediate effect.” The lawyers had given the regional financial institution until May 4 “to negotiate an amicable separation”, indicating also that their correspondence should be viewed “as our client’s pre-action protocol letter” regarding the entire situation. 

In the letter dated April 21, a copy of which has been obtained by the Caribbean Media Corporation, Leon’s lawyers said they would be moving to the courts in Barbados “or any other jurisdiction more appropriate, to enforce our client’s legal and constitutional rights.” 

In January, it was disclosed that Leon had been sent on administrative leave until April this year as “an ongoing administrative process” continued at the financial institution. The CDB has continued to remain mum on the circumstances surrounding the decision to send the former International Monetary Fund (IMF) senior official on administrative leave, with Solomon, confirming at a news conference by the bank in February that “there is an internal administrative process involving the president.” 

In February, Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne, who was attending the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) summit in Guyana, said concerns had been raised about the method used to send Leon on administrative leave. “… at some point we will have to address the issue of the procedures and the fact that subordinates within an institution can literally take disciplinary action against their superior without even consulting with the directors or the governors of the bank.” 

In May, St Vincent and the Grenadines Finance Minister, Camillo Gonsalves, called on his fellow CDB governors to stop “exposing” the financial institution “to further ridicule and undoubtedly, more litigation” and move on from the “resignation” of its former president. In a May 14 letter sent to “my fellow members of the CDB Board of Governors,” Gonsalves said that he has been asked to “vote on whether the Caribbean Development Bank should accept the resignation of Dr Hyginus Leon from his position as President of the CDB, or whether he should be terminated as of a date three weeks beyond his resignation letter.” 

In the letter, a copy of which has been obtained by the CMC, Gonsalves said that “as Governor for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines” he had received two separate voting forms on “successive days” asking him to vote on the issue. In his letter, Gonsalves noted that the correspondence attached to the voting form he had received regarding whether to vote to accept Leon’s resignation or his termination, notes that “In accordance with Article 33 of the Agreement Establishing the Caribbean Development Bank, for a Proposal to be adopted, replies in favour must be received from Governors representing not less than two-thirds of the total number of governors and not less than three-fourths of the total voting power of the members”. 

But Gonsalves, a lawyer, said “this citation of Article 33 and the procedure laid out in the correspondence “do not support the ‘Options’ laid out in the Voting Form. “The false application of Article 33 to the situation before us leads to a number of absurdities and illogical possibilities: namely that (a) a president cannot resign without ‘permission’ of two-thirds of the Governors; (b) Governors may vote endlessly until a threshold of two-thirds is reached; or a resignation can be held in abeyance for weeks-possibly months-on end, unless Governors by a supermajority decide to accept or reject it.” 

Gonsalves wrote “to put it simply, while Article 33 indicates that a two-thirds majority is required to terminate the President, there is no requirement that a two-thirds majority is required to accept a resignation. 

“The Secretariat is reading into Article 33, a requirement that does not exist. The Secretariat, or the Board of Governors, have no power under the Agreement Establishing the Caribbean Development Bank to reject or defer a President’s resignation. The attempt to read such a power into the Agreement is misplaced and has led to the absurd daily-voting scenario we now face,” he added. 

Gonsalves said that the “options” placed before the board of governors “would create the incongruous situation of a President who remains in the employ of CDB three weeks after he submitted his resignation-and possibly beyond. 

St Lucia’s Prime Minister Phillip J Pierre, speaking in his country’s Parliament in May, blamed a “conspiracy” for the removal of Leon saying: “I want to put on record St Lucia’s full support for the work that Gene Leon did at the Caribbean Development Bank and to regret that a conspiracy, and I make no bones about it and this is not personal to anybody, to any function to the bank, a conspiracy is what caused Gene Leon to resign”. 

Leon is the sixth president of the regional financial institution. He was elected at a special meeting of the CDB Board of Governors held on January 19, 2021, for a five-year term, and assumed office on May 4, 2021. 

Leon headed a team of more than 200 employees and came to the assignment with 35 years of experience in economics, financial policy development, and executive management, more than 20 of which were spent working with the Washington-based IMF. He succeeded Jamaica-born Dr Warren Smith who retired in 2021 after serving as president for 10 years. 

In its brief statement on Sunday, the CDB said that “under the direction of its Board of Governors and Directors, and through the leadership of its management and the efforts of its staff, continues to work fully and effectively together with its member countries and development partners to advance CDB’s mission of reducing poverty and transforming lives through sustainable and resilient development initiatives”. 

SOURCE: CMC

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Heeding the call by Prime Minister Mia Mottley, Barbadians paused at midday on Saturday to reflect on the national issue of violence. As they observed a five-minute period of silence there was a collective prayer for a peaceful country.

Mottley’s plea for this observance coincided with A Vision of Peace Prayer Breakfast hosted by the Tyrese Caesar Foundation (TCF). The non-profit organisation was created to heighten awareness of gun violence on the island and implement programmes to curb and eliminate illegal firearms. Its formation is deeply rooted in the grief of those mourning the loss of Caesar, a victim of gun violence. His loved ones have chosen to channel their pain into a greater good.

Over the last two years TCF has hosted a series of events including a recent 5K Charity Walk and Run. Barbados continues to grapple with a surge in gun-related crimes, but founder Jacqueline Caesar remains steadfast in the view that a closer walk with God is necessary. She explained, “The annual breakfast occurs in July and brings together a cross-spectrum of leaders, friends, and supporters for the sole purpose of prayer.”

The function, which took place at the Accra Beach Hotel, saw Minister Tyneesha Watson leading the worship session. Ysobel Jones performed a liturgical dance. Several prayers were offered, Jeanette Murray prayed for the nation, Dawn Franklyn for the youth, Patricia Gulstone against the spirit of violence and Reverend Simone Jemmott delivered a prayer for guidance and peace. Pastor Deborah Hall prayed for protection over each of those persons.

Caesar emphasised, “It is incumbent on the church as a figurehead to return to basic evangelism and crusades across our various communities. There is a need for the church to employ spiritual techniques to realign personal values across the nation.”

In the feature address Reverend Dr Eric Peters encouraged, “Let us understand true peace but let us understand that we have a responsibility in this nation to initiate. I love this foundation; it did not sit waiting for something to happen, enough has happened. What more do you want to happen? We can rise up as God’s people and begin to pray.”  He reminded, “Our god can do all things, there is nothing that is impossible for him.” Peters assured, “One life at a time, one community at a time, one young person at a time, change will come. But we need to engage each other in a meaningful way.”

Minister Tyneesha Watson led the worship session.

TCF’s multifaceted approach includes conducting youth developmental programmes through their Help Young People Excel (H.Y.P.E) programme. Caesar explained, “My focus is on preventative measures to ensure we do not lose another generation. My approach is to keep those who have not committed any infractions away from violence and on a path of personal growth and development.”

Each gun-related death is a stark reminder of Caesar’s own loss. She expressed, “It is painful and a constant reminder of the distressing reality that my son’s life was taken by a gunman. I was robbed of a future with him, and another mother has been added to this dreadful list.”

The impact of gun violence is far reaching, she said, “With the recent upsurge in gun violence, there is a surge of despair, rising anxiety, and a rising sense of disbelief. Our society, fraught with death on a weekly basis, now considers what was once abnormal as normal.”

Hosting the Prayer Breakfast was not about profit but purpose. Despite challenges, Caesar remains resolute. “Limited funding means limited reach and lots of sacrifice, but I am determined that my son’s death will not be in vain. My mission is to save lives so that other mothers do not experience such earth-shattering loss,” she added. (STT)

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The Barbados Water Authority is advising customers and businesses in Christ Church that it will be installing a meter at Rock Hall on Tuesday between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.

As a result, residents and businesses in Rock Hall, Gemswick, Harmony Lodge, St Martins, Ocean City, Harlington, Highway N, Lashley Road, Turtle Drive, Atlantic Ridge and surrounding areas will experience low pressure or a water outage for the duration of the connection.

Customers are asked to store an adequate supply of water to assist.

The Barbados Water Authority apologises for any inconvenience this work at Rock Hall, Christ Church on Tuesday may cause.  (PR)

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An opposition senator has expressed concern about the government’s handling of the $1.3 billion climate resilience funding and what he calls a lack of transparency surrounding the utilisation of substantial financial resources acquired to combat climate change.

Senator Ryan Walters believes greater accountability and detailed reporting are needed on how these funds are being used to build resilience in Barbados.

“We have had a lot of discussion in Barbados surrounding what we refer to as building resilience against climate change,” Walters stated recently during a media conference at the Offices of the Opposition Leader.

“I know a lot of Barbadians are getting weary of the terms resilience and climate change, and everything is kind of angled back and directed back to this whole phenomenon of climate change. I don’t agree that we’re thinking Barbadians, the Democratic Labour Party, definitely does understand the importance of climate change and the impact that climate change will have.”

He acknowledged the awareness and understanding among Barbadians regarding the effects of climate change, such as sea erosion, renewable energy, and increasing temperatures. “We hear about the erosion of the seas and the sands. We hear about renewable energy. We hear about how hot the days are. We know, we understand, and we appreciate that there has to be a response from the government.”

However, the senator pointed out a significant gap in communication from the government about their specific actions and responses to these challenges.

“But missing from this conversation, we have not really understood or have not really gotten from the government what their response has been. They talk a lot about resilience, and they talk a lot on the national front. They talk a lot on the international stage. But they’ve been doing some things behind the scenes, and I know Barbadians have not really gotten the full sense of what this government has done from the perspective of financing sustainability as it relates to building resilience against climate change.”

Senator Walters provided a detailed overview of the financial resources that Barbados has accessed since January 2023 to bolster climate resilience. In September 2022, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) stated in a press release that Barbados was the first country to reach a staff-level agreement to access its Resilience and Sustainability Trust (RST), which helps low-income and vulnerable middle-income countries build resilience to external shocks and ensure sustainable growth, contributing to their long-term balance of payment stability.

Barbados secured $366 million under the RST and another $220 million under an extended fund facility. Walters detailed the disbursement of these funds, citing official reports.

“So I turn now to the Section 9 report of 2023, just to see if we draw down on this money [and] Barbados, based on this report, has received BBD $151 million from the Resilience and Sustainability Trust in 2023, Barbadian dollars.”

Quoting from the Section 9 report, he said, “Multilateral institutions were the main sources of foreign financing for the government. During the first nine months of 2023–2024, policy-related loans amounted to $427.6 million. The IMF extended fund facility and the Resilience and Sustainability Facility contributed $227.6 million, with $151.7 million earmarked for climate resilience.”

He further highlighted additional funds accessed, including $74 million from the IMF in June 2024, $200 million from the World Bank, and $100 million from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).

“On June 28th, 2024, the IMF issued another release for a review of the financial performance of the economy. And in that release, we have access—an immediate access note—from the government of Barbados to an additional $74 million from the RST. So we have $151.7 million in 2023. Year-to-date, $74 million, or $225.7 million in total, came from the IMF’s RST, the Resilience and Sustainability Facility, obtained to fight against climate change.”

Walters emphasized the necessity for transparency and accountability in how these funds are used. “I reiterate that we understand the importance of building resilience, but we need to have an account for the money because we need to see the buildup of resilience. Where is it going? How much is being spent on consulting fees for actual infrastructure?

“We’re not being facetious here, because if projects have not started, identify those projects. Identify the cost of those projects. Identify the timelines of those projects, the duration of those projects, and what is being allocated to those projects. We need transparency because there’s still a balance in the IMF to come. And I’m sure that there will be more deals to be brokered as we campaign internationally about climate resilience.”

He also mentioned additional funding sources and commitments, such as the $773 million loan from the United Kingdom Export Finance Agency and projects funded by the Green Climate Fund. Walters expressed his support for these initiatives but stressed the importance of clear, accountable governance.

“So I know this is an Olympic year, but Barbados has to have a record in the amount of money they could borrow in 18 months as a small island developing state to build resilience. $1.3 billion, and what do we have to show for it? We can support it as a party. I am sure the public will support it, but we have to see what we are supporting. We have to give an account for this financing that we have obtained.”

Walters contrasted the significant funds raised with the limited support offered to sectors affected by natural disasters. “After having this information before me, before us here today, that you would offer an industry that has been devastated by a natural disaster, $500,000. That has not been invested by the government but has been donated by another bank.” (RG)

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The Ministry of Health and Wellness reminds members of the public that the Mobile Clinic will operate at the following locations and times, this week, from Monday to Thursday.

• Warrens Tower II, Warrens, St Michael – Monday, July 22.
• Emerald City Carpark, Six Roads, St Philip – Tuesday, July 23.
• National Insurance and Social Security Service, Culloden Road, St Michael – Wednesday, July 24.
• Queen’s Park, Constitution Road, St. Michael – Thursday, July 25.

The services being provided are routine screening for non-communicable diseases, Prostate-specific antigen testing, blood pressure checks and blood sugar testing, HbA1c , screening for sexually transmitted infections, breast examination and teaching, and Tetanus Toxoid vaccines.

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Barbados are the new Champions of the West Indies Rising Stars U19 Regional two-day Championships.

Defending champions, Jamaica U19, resumed the day on 72/2 at the Arnos Vale playing field in Kingstown, St Vincent and the Grenadines.

With the game hanging in the balance and all to play for, Steve Wedderburn who was not out overnight on 39, failed to add to his total as he was out off the bowling of fast bowler Jatario Prescod. Quickly following his dismissal, his overnight partner Matthew Morgan was brilliantly bowled by off spinner Saurav Worrell leaving the score now at 79/4 and Barbados taking the upper hand in the game.

Prescod struck again to make the score 89/5 as he removed Trevaun Williams caught in the slips for two runs.

Worrell then got back into the action as Brian Barnes was out caught for 16, the score now 107/5, the sixth wicket also fell at the same score when Prescod was able to dismiss Michael Clarke for 10. The eighth wicket was taken when the score was at 112 as Worrell bowled Jevone Wynter for four runs.

Ninety minutes into the day’s play, Jamaica made a decision to declare their innings on 127 giving Barbados a lead of 73 runs and being one step closer to the championship.

Worrell had figures of 3/16 while Prescod finished with 3/51 as all of their wickets came in the morning session.

By losing out on the first innings lead, the only possible way for Jamaica to regain the title would have been to bowl out Barbados in the second innings and push for a win before the end of play.

Barbados could simply bat the remainder of the day and take the 2024 2-Day title, and that they did.

Joshua Morris, opening the batting for the first time all tournament top scored with 62 in 133 balls with three fours and two sixes. Kyle Jordan scored his second half century of the tournament as he made 52 in 95 balls with six fours. Their opening partnership of 96 runs secured the title for the Bajan Boys.

Batting at numbers three and four respectively, Joshua Dorne and Zion Brathwaite both with unbeaten knocks, took the game to the end of play as Dorne patiently batted for his 29 in 80 balls while Brathwaite made 22 in 36 balls.

Barbados finished the day at 172/2 claiming first innings lead in a drawn game and celebrated a well deserved victory in the two-day competition.

They will now begin preparation to make a run at the double crown as the 50 over tournament begins on Tuesday. (ZM)

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