Shane Daniel Jeremiah Polin, who was the subject of a police wanted bulletin is now in custody.
The Barbados Police Service said Marley Vale, St Philip resident, who was wanted in connection with serious criminal matters, turned himself in at the District ‘C’ Police Station on Sunday.
He is now assisting police with their investigations.
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A Silver Hill, Christ Church man is due to appear in court today charged with having two illegal firearms and 62 rounds of ammunition.
According to a statement from the Barbados Police Service, Jamal Neall Stapleton, 37, committed the offences last Monday.
He will answer the charges before Magistrate Deidre McKenna in the Oistins Magistrates’ Court.
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The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) on Monday urged Barbados to continue refining its proposed Cybercrime Bill following a contentious, landmark hearing at the hemispheric body in Washington, DC.
The IACHR, an autonomous organ of the Organisation of American States (OAS), also offered its assistance in refining the bill.
The hearing marked the first time in 20 years that the IACHR has reviewed human rights issues in Barbados.
Both Barbadian government representatives and a local advocacy group calling itself the Loyal Opposition delivered oral arguments on the group’s claims of significant concerns surrounding the bill’s potential impact on rights to free speech, religion and thought.
The matter was taken before the IACHR by the activist group demanding major revisions to the bill. The group claims that the legislation, in its current form, threatens fundamental human rights even as it seeks to combat the growing prevalence of cybercrime.
Among those representing the Loyal Opposition were religious leader Dr Ferdinand Nicholls, spoken word artist Timon Howard, youth advocate Shaquanie Hunte and social media influencer Don Leacock. The group’s legal counsel, international lawyer Julio Pohl, argued that the bill poses a particular risk to freedom of expression for social media users, artists, religious advocates, and women’s groups.
In defence of the Cybercrime Bill, international attorney Robert Volterra, representing the government, insisted the legislation was necessary to fight modern cyber threats. Volterra stated that the legislative process, which began early in 2023, has already involved “robust, transparent, free, accessible” consultation with the public and civil society and aims to align with global standards, such as the Budapest Convention and the draft UN Convention Against Cybercrime.
“The Cybercrime Bill…is fully compatible with the rights to freedom of thought and expression, and freedom of conscience and religion, as protected under the American Convention on Human Rights,” Volterra asserted, adding that the controversial bill may still undergo further review and amendments.
In sharp contrast, Pohl, appearing on behalf of the Loyal Opposition, countered that the government’s claim of inclusive consultation was undermined by its dominance over Parliament, which limits political dialogue.
“The opposition has just one seat in parliament,” he said, noting that this imbalance hinders a meaningful exchange of views.
He further criticised the government’s response to public feedback, alleging that the main result of consultations was a decision to increase penalties in the bill rather than address the underlying concerns.
“The only conclusion of those submissions was to increase the penalties from seven years to ten in jail and from $70 000 to $100 000,” he argued. “If this is called listening to the people in Barbados, I don’t know what is called ignoring them.”
The escalating tensions during the hearing prompted IACHR President Edgar Stuardo Ralón to intervene, reminding both parties that the session was an “international dialogue” intended to facilitate constructive conversation rather than escalate into confrontation.
In response to the submissions, Commissioner Gloria De Mees also described the matter as “very important”, stressing the need to clarify the bill’s language, especially where vague terms might impact freedoms.
She encouraged Barbados to “specify language that is vague, maybe ambiguous, to make it very clear what is the purpose” as well as the limitations of the bill.
De Mees offered the IACHR’s technical assistance in refining the legislation.
The IACHR president also put on record the commission’s readiness to support Barbados in crafting a well-defined Cybercrime Bill, as he urged ongoing dialogue to ensure the legislation strikes a balance between safeguarding national security and preserving essential freedoms.
“We might be able to buttress your efforts to come up with a text,” Ralón said.
In reaction to the day’s developments, Attorney General Dale Marshall signalled a positive response to the IACHR’s observations.
He said the commissioners had endorsed the importance of protecting Barbadians from cybercrime, and recognised that the government has been proactive in providing significant opportunities for civil society groups to be consulted and share their views on the bill during the legislative drafting process.
“Commissioner [Andrea] Pochak noted that significant public consultation such as there has been in Barbados about the Cybercrime Bill is rare in most countries,” the Attorney General pointed out in a statement issued late Monday. According to him, Pochak also highlighted that freedoms of expression and religion are not without limits, as certain restrictions may be justifiable under the law.
Marshall added that Commissioner De Mees noted “the importance of consensus about the need for protections from cybercrime that the bill provides”.
He said she also observed that the hearing illustrated the importance of public dialogue on such significant legislation.
“She noted that there had been significant dialogue between the government and civil society already in Barbados. She noted that some in Barbados felt that the time for dialogue about the bill was now passed whilst others felt that there was still room for more dialogue, particularly to clarify language about the purpose, scope and limitations of the bill,” Marshall said.
He further cited IAHCR President Ralón’s request for clarity on whether the legislative process had concluded or if the bill could still be amended, which was confirmed to be ongoing.
Ralón indicated that the “rapporteurship on freedom of expression” would continue monitoring developments surrounding the bill.
While the IACHR can issue recommendations, its recommendations are not binding or legally enforceable.
emmanueljoseph@barbadostoday.bb
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Top Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) officials on Monday publicly admitted that service delivery at the public hospital needs a major overhaul and have promised to roll out a series of improvements over the next year.
At a Diamond Jubilee church service held at the hospital’s chapel on Monday, Minister of Health & Wellness The Most Honorable Dr Jerome Walcott acknowledged that several areas needed improvement as he declared the government’s commitment to providing quality healthcare at the island’s lone public general hospital.
“We can do better, that’s the reality. We can do better, and we absolutely have to do better,” he declared, adding that he did not enjoy hearing frequent criticisms of the hospital.
“I feel bad when I hear the criticisms; I don’t answer. I don’t get involved in it because I recognise that it’s par for the course. If it is a main tertiary institution, there will be criticisms from time to time; you won’t get it right every time.
“But I know for every case that spent a long time in A&E (Accident and Emergency Department), dozens more would have been seen, treated, admitted or discharged. For everyone whose operation is cancelled, there are over 100 who get the surgery that same week. And indeed, for those who go to the clinic and find their records are not available, I am sure hundreds are seen in the outpatients department.”
QEH Chief Executive Officer Neil Clark said the hospital would be implementing several programmes, including a major recruitment drive, aimed at upgrading service delivery.
He said: “Priority number one is staffing, having our staff able and ready to work. We are recruiting over 250 new staff. We have already received 82 Ghanaian nurses. Priority number two is going to be our health information system that will really change the way we can pass notes around the organisation, communicate better with doctors and with patients.”
Minister of Health & Wellness The Most Honorable Dr Jerome Walcott.
The third priority, Clark said, is investments.
“The minister mentioned the $130 million capital equipment funds that will be coming to us but already, in addition to that, we’ve got the linear accelerator already moving across the water (being shipped) towards us,” the hospital CEO said.
“We’ve got a CT scanner and the X-ray machine already going into the A&E Department, which will significantly improve waiting times in the A&E Department. And we’ve got work underway to fix the roof over the Lion’s Eye Care Centre and refurbish the theatres that will give us more capacity to do elective surgeries. Then there’s also the development project across the road, which will include a new clinical laboratory, oncology department and additional clinical and office spaces.”
Clark said that this was a major undertaking for the QEH, and he hoped that it would bring positive results.
“The next 18 months will be a very exciting time for the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, and I hope we’ll see a lot of positive changes from all that investment,” he said.
The hospital administrator took the opportunity to remind Barbadians to use the A&E department only for emergencies.
He said: “If your issue is not an emergency, there are other options. You could speak to a pharmacist. You could speak to a polyclinic. You could speak to a private clinic. You can go to an urgent care centre.
“We’re not saying by any means don’t come to A&E, and if it’s an emergency of course, we will always triage and treat those patients first. What we’re saying is, if it’s not an emergency, just think about what other options are available to you.” (SZB)
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In the wake of a dengue fever outbreak that claimed four lives and infected more than 1 100 Barbadians, a top disease fighter has called for renewed vigilance in controlling mosquito breeding sites across the island.
The Queen Elizabeth Hospital’s Director of Clinical and Diagnostic Services, Dr Corey Forde stressed that individual and community action remains crucial in preventing future outbreaks, despite recent global advances in dengue research.
The outbreak, which began in October 2023 and recorded 1 133 confirmed cases, was officially declared over by the Ministry of Health in May 2024. However, health authorities warn that sporadic cases could emerge during the rainy season.
Speaking on the QEH Pulse Radio show on Monday, Dr Forde said: “There’s been a lot of work going on globally on dengue fever, from vaccines to manipulation of mosquitoes. But despite all of that, if there’s no vector, like the mosquito, or a reduction in the vector, the risk of transmission is going to be down.”
The health director urged Barbadians to focus on “simple things” such as clearing stagnant water and removing water-collecting items from their yards.
“How can every single Barbadian impact the transmission of vector-borne diseases like mosquitoes? It’s the simple things… throwing out bottles and [getting rid of] old tyres, and even in neighbourhoods with lots of old vehicles catching water,” he said.
Drawing parallels with the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr Forde stressed the importance of community cooperation.
“If COVID didn’t teach us anything in Barbados, we’re never going to learn. If we work together as a team on these diseases, we’ll do much better, not only in Barbados but globally,” he said.
He highlighted the need for neighbours to work together: “We have to be our neighbour’s keeper because sometimes our property is fine, but our neighbour’s next door is not good.”
“Every little action counts,” Dr Forde added. “When each person takes responsibility for their surroundings, we can collectively diminish the breeding grounds for mosquitoes and lower the incidence of dengue cases across the island.” (SM)
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The Queen Elizabeth Hospital’s Accident & Emergency Department (AED) is experiencing an unprecedented surge in patient numbers, prompting senior officials to urge Barbadians to take greater responsibility for their health.
Dr Corey Forde, the hospital’s head of clinical and diagnostic services, said that while the hospital has “surge plans” in place, the current influx is putting significant pressure on emergency services, with longer wait times becoming increasingly common.
Speaking on the QEH Pulse Radio Show, Dr Forde explained that whilst some increases in patient volume can be anticipated during specific outbreaks, many surges remain unpredictable.
“From time to time you have a cohort of people who come in for many different reasons,” he said. “It may be predictable if the country has, for example, a dengue outbreak or a gastroenteritis outbreak or something but then there are the unpredictable events… you may have a cohort of people who may come in at one time with strokes and heart attacks.”
The senior physician noted that the hospital typically experiences higher admission rates during this period, though he was unable to specify the cause.
“I can’t tell you why, but at this time of the year, we… often see a large influx of people into the hospital,” he said.
Dr Forde emphasised the crucial role of triage in managing emergency cases, asking the public to understand when priority is given to more critical patients. “I always give the example that I might come there and think that my [situation] is urgent but someone may really come in and have a massive… stroke,” he said.
In a statement issued earlier in the day, the QEH reported a significant increase in the number of patients turning up at the AED with various medical complaints, and it advised those whose cases were not urgent to seek medical care at other facilities or be prepared for an extended wait.
“Life-threatening conditions, under the AED’s Triage System, will continue to be seen and treated immediately. Other individuals who present to AED with conditions considered less urgent during the current surge will in some cases have an extended wait for treatment,” it said.
The hospital reminded the public about the other options for medical assessment and treatment. It said patients can call the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS/Help Desk) at 536-4800 using regular or WhatsApp calls, between 9 a.m. and midnight, for medical personnel to give them an initial assessment and provide advice on their next course of action for treatment.
Addressing the root causes of emergency admissions, Dr Forde highlighted the impact of lifestyle choices and non-communicable diseases on the healthcare system.
“Health care is a reflection of you as an individual,” he said. “So whether you decide to eat crazy, do crazy things like drink lots of alcohol, destroy your liver… it is up to you.”
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As the US presidential election concludes with Donald J. Trump securing a second term, important questions arise about what this renewed administration might entail, particularly given recent policy directions. For clarity, this column isn’t politically charged; instead, it explores the intersections of business, technology, and politics, where these worlds often collide in unexpected ways.
One of President Trump’s key policy positions has been the imposition of new tariffs on Chinese imports, potentially as high as 60 per cent, intended as a protectionist strategy to strengthen the American tech sector and encourage domestic job creation. However, critics argue that such tariffs would likely raise costs across the tech market, with products like video game consoles potentially increasing by up to 20 per cent and mobile devices by around 26 per cent. Since much of this manufacturing currently occurs in China, repositioning the U.S. as a primary manufacturing hub would require significant effort and investment.
In the final months of the 2024 campaign, billionaire Elon Musk openly backed Donald Trump and the Republican Party, offering substantial financial support to the campaign. Reports reveal Musk contributed around $75 million to America PAC, a pro-Trump political action committee, over three months.
This level of financial commitment naturally raises questions about Musk’s motives and possible expectations from the administration. While his intentions remain speculative, it’s likely that such sizeable contributions are intended to safeguard or advance his business interests under the new administration.
What might be driving Musk’s strong allegiance? To understand, let’s look at the three key pillars of his business empire: Tesla, SpaceX, and xAI.
Starting with Tesla, known for its electric vehicles and energy storage solutions, the company currently faces regulatory scrutiny from various government agencies over concerns that its Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) marketing may mislead consumers and pose safety risks.
SpaceX, a key venture of Elon Musk focusing on satellite deployment and space transport services, has encountered regulatory scrutiny from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) over alleged launch licence violations and delays in approving Starship test flights, resulting in proposed fines and legal disputes. Additionally, environmental concerns have been raised regarding the impact of its launch activities on local wildlife habitats.
Lastly, xAI: Founded in 2023, Elon Musk’s AI startup aims to uncover the universe’s true nature while positioning itself as a competitor to major AI firms. However, it faces regulatory challenges over privacy concerns for using X (formerly Twitter) data without user consent, risks of misinformation from its AI tool Grok, and environmental concerns surrounding its Memphis data centre.
Each of Musk’s enterprises reflects his ambition but faces significant regulatory scrutiny, especially around privacy, misinformation, and environmental impact. Under a renewed Trump administration—known for its historically lenient industry oversight—Musk may find a more favourable environment to pursue these ventures with fewer regulatory hurdles.
The one enterprise most relevant to the Caribbean—and likely to reshape the global telecommunications landscape—is SpaceX. Through its Starlink brand, SpaceX is already legally offering high-speed broadband services in the Caribbean. However, what many may not realise is that, in my view, Starlink could serve as a Trojan horse for Musk’s true goal: becoming the world’s first truly global mobile phone service provider.
What many don’t know is that numerous high-end flagship mobile phones can already connect directly with Musk’s low-orbit satellites, making it possible for users to have a single provider for seamless global roaming. This capability could fundamentally disrupt the traditional telecom industry worldwide, as Musk holds the unique position of providing cost-effective low-orbit satellite coverage. In this scenario, local and regional telecom providers, such as Digicel and Flow, could face unprecedented competition from a single, far-reaching network that offers connectivity without the need for traditional infrastructure or physical footprint.
So, where does this fervent support for Trump come in? In an August 16, 2024, article in The Verge, it was reported that AT&T and Verizon filed complaints with the Biden administration’s Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to block T-Mobile and SpaceX’s plans to connect mobile phones to Starlink satellites. AT&T and Verizon argue that this plan could harm their mobile broadband networks and claim that SpaceX’s request for a waiver of out-of-band emission limits would result in unacceptable interference with their services.
AT&T’s claims of potential interference and degradation if Musk’s satellite mobile service goes live appear unfounded, given that the service is not yet operational. These assertions seem more like legal manoeuvring to protect the dominance of legacy players who, after misreading Musk’s intentions, now feel their business models are threatened by his expansive satellite network. Rather than adapting to this technological shift, they are seeking legal backing from a Biden administration inclined to temper Musk’s influence.
With Trump potentially assuming unchecked power in 2025—and Musk as a key financial figure in his campaign—it seems unlikely that Musk’s ambitions in telecom and beyond will face substantial barriers.
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Barbados celebrated another historic tourism milestone on Saturday with the arrival of American Airlines (AA) nonstop Flight AA 549 from Philadelphia, piloted by Barbadians Captain Dillon Jackson and First Officer Akiel Alleyne.
The flight touched down at Grantley Adams International Airport (GAIA) at 1:55 p.m., where 118 passengers, including Jackson’s mother, Judy Jackson, and Alleyne’s parents, Blondelle Warner and Keith Alleyne, were warmly welcomed.
Present to greet them were Minister of Tourism and International Transport Ian Gooding-Edghill, Chairperson of the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) Shelly Williams, officials from the BTMI, and a vibrant display of local culture, featuring the Haynesville Tuk Band, dancers, and stilt walkers.
Minister Gooding-Edghill said: “Today’s inaugural flight holds even more significance as two of our own, Captain Dillon Jackson and First Officer Akiel Alleyne, were at the helm, guiding you safely home to beautiful Barbados. I want to extend a special thanks to both of them personally. What better testament to the enduring cooperation between Barbados and American Airlines? We are honoured to have them here today as true ambassadors of Barbados, proudly representing our country as they fly with American Airlines.”
“This is surely cause for celebration, especially during our month of independence, as we welcome them and their family members back to their homeland, Barbados,” he added.
Jackson, 27, and Alleyne reflected on the significance of the moment, both for their personal careers and for Barbados.
Jackson, the second youngest captain at American Airlines, shared: “My career started just on the south end of this field at the Barbados Light Aeroplane Club about 20 years ago. So, when I first showed up to work and saw Akiel—because it’s our first time flying together—it was really memorable. I left Barbados in 2014 with a dream, and today I made that dream a reality, piloting the Boeing 737 aircraft back home. It’s always nice when the company entrusts me with about $150 million worth of aircraft, and to bring it back home for this inaugural flight is definitely a career highlight for me.”
Alleyne, 31, echoed Jackson’s sentiments.
“My parents took me to the Light Aeroplane Club when I was younger, and I would watch planes take off and land all day. I was so fascinated, and I told my mom every year that I would be a pilot for American Airlines. This is truly a dream come true. Thank you all for making this happen—it’s a special moment,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of AA’s Caribbean Employee Business Resource Group (EBRG), Global Lead Krystle Louis highlighted the pride in having the flight piloted by two Barbadians.
“The Caribbean EBRG is one of 20 diverse groups within our airline, promoting a positive and inclusive environment that celebrates our employees’ backgrounds, beliefs, and nationalities. As a Guyanese woman, it’s always a proud moment to celebrate new routes in our region, but it’s even more special when we can bring our crew members back home, as we did today,” she said.
Meanwhile, Minister Gooding-Edghill expressed gratitude to everyone involved in making the inaugural service possible and emphasised the significance of AA’s new route from Philadelphia which will operate every Saturday during the 2024-2025 winter season.
He said it was an important milestone in ongoing efforts to strengthen Barbados’ position as a premier destination.
“This new route from Philadelphia demonstrates American Airlines’ confidence in our island’s appeal to a broad range of travellers. It not only enhances connectivity to Barbados from one of the largest cities in the United States but also provides vital access from a key hub for Trans-Atlantic travel,” he said.
Gooding-Edghill added that his ministry, in collaboration with the BTMI, will continue working with the airline to increase airlift to the island, aiming to exceed the 633 540 visitors recorded in 2023.
“Based on current figures, we are well on our way to achieving that goal,” he noted.
The minister also highlighted the significance of this service for the upcoming We Gatherin’ initiative: “The timing of this new route is perfect, coming right after our successful appearance at the World Travel Market, held in London from November 5th to 7th, where we introduced the We Gatherin’ initiative for 2025. As we prepare to invite the world to experience all that Barbados has to offer, this service will create a welcoming gateway for visitors from North America, as well as travellers from the United Kingdom and continental Europe.
“With the We Gatherin’ campaign underway, we hope to attract even more airlines and experiences like today’s. We are eager to welcome more members of the diaspora as they reconnect with their loved ones here on the island.”
In addition to the inaugural flight, last Saturday marked another significant moment in Barbados’ partnership with AA, as six AA aircraft were on the tarmac at GAIA in a single day.
(BGIS/BT)
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The Autism Association of Barbados says the government’s planned respite and residential facility for adults with disabilities is a significant step for the disabled community.
Public Relations Officer, Nadia Simmons told Barbados TODAY on Monday that the facility will give both parents and autistic adults an opportunity to “rejuvenate”, acknowledging the significant mental strain often present in households with autistic individuals.
“It gave us hope. Being a parent of a child with autism, in many cases you would be their main caregiver for the rest of your life, and the thought of my community being able to have the chance of being able to get a break in the future, whether it be for a few days or a few hours, that gives us a lot of hope for our lives and our children’s lives,” she said on the sidelines of the disabilities awareness workshop, organised by the Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, at the Radisson Aquatica.
“It’s something that the BCD – Barbados Council for the Disabled – has sought for years to implement, and we are ecstatic to hear that it’s being started in the next few months.”
Last Tuesday, during debate in Parliament on the 2023-2030 National Policy to Improve the Lives of Persons with Disabilities, Prime Minister Mia Mottley announced that the government will next year begin construction on the facility. She said the planned 40-bedroom respite centre would be carefully designed not to resemble an “institution” but rather a village where persons with disabilities could function comfortably, whether independently or with professional support.
Simmons said the planned safe space will be critical for autistic adults who often require but lack easy access to specialised care.
She pointed out that as autism rates continue to increase both locally and globally, the demand for specialised facilities and additional resources will also grow.
“They can’t ignore it anymore. Autism [numbers] are exploding all over the world and I don’t think most persons don’t know somebody with autism – a family member or a coworker; it’s everywhere now. Our membership is unfortunately growing [and] it does mean the resources that we need, need to be expanded,” Simmons said.
Meanwhile, Chea Greenidge, founder and chair of the Deaf Heart Project, welcomed the interest Prime Minister Mottley expressed in introducing sign language in primary schools.
“I think it’s a great opportunity for us to be teaching and nurturing empathy and compassion for persons with disabilities from such a young age. This opens the door for that. I also think that the approach to it definitely needs to be immersive; just like how you would have French immersion in Canada and other parts of the world, [no] matter what the language is. Children need to be interacting with deaf children,” Greenidge said.
“We at the Deaf Heart Project are doing this with our Kids Club, so this happening at scale is a positive move.”
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The Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment, announced this weekend that it is exploring a framework for cooperation in several areas with Ross University School of Medicine, which will positively impact athletes and sports organisations.
Minister Charles Griffith on Friday led a delegation which met with Dr Rhonda Mc Intyre, Senior Associate Dean of Ross University School of Medicine, External Affairs and Dr Carlene Radix, Assistant Dean of Community Medicine and Global Health at Ross University, for approximately 90 minutes on Friday.
The discussions at the Ministry’s Haggatt Hall, St Michael offices, were initiated by Minister Griffith’s interest in supporting sports persons who may face challenges that require first response medical interventions while at games. He contended that “most of the over 70 national sporting federations in Barbados have very few personnel to cover medical injuries that may arise and it’s high time that this issue be addressed.”
The discussions included a range of individual, group, and community health care initiatives, expanding into the various engagements of the sections within the Ministry where attention is also needed.
Some of the opportunities for consideration shared by the Ross team, included a Heart Savers Programme, a Basic Life Support Programme, Community Medical Interventions, the use of Automated External Defibrillators, training for sportspersons and coaches and educational programmes including NCDs, parental awareness, cancer awareness for men and women.
Stating that she was “excited with the initiative which can be incorporated into a formal agreement between the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment and Ross University”, Dr Mc Intyre added that the overall framework agreement, with all the various components would guide the process.
Minister Griffith said he had “learned a lot” from the talks, and he is looking forward to ensuring the initiatives set out under the agreement are supported and implemented. In acknowledging the Minister’s commitment and enthusiasm, Dr. Mc Intyre noted that the two sides can work towards a letter of agreement that could effect an agreed timeframe to execute the programmes.
Before Friday’s talks, Ross University School of Medicine and the Ministry held two rounds of deliberations which explored the co-operative framework.
The Ministry delegation also included Joy Adamson, Permanent Secretary; Cleviston Hunte, Director of Youth Affairs; Neil Murrell, Director of Sports at the National Sports Council; Yolande Skeete, Chief Community Development Officer (Ag); Kay Hinds, Deputy Chief Community Development Officer (Ag); Andrea Titus, Principal Youth Development Officer (Ag); and Wanda Reid-Beckles, Public Relations/Liaison Officer.
(PR)
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Barbados’ and the Caribbean’s top female surfer Chelsea Tuach finished third at the World Surf League (WSL) US Air Force Super Surf Pro presented by Jersey Mike’s Subs, as she made her second consecutive World Surf League final at the weekend, at the North America and Hawaii/Tahiti Nui Qualifying Series (QS) 3000 event.
After her strong showing this weekend in Jacksonville, Florida, USA, Tuach is now the fourth-ranked female surfer in the North American rankings, after making the last day for the second time in two weeks, and finishing runner-up at the La Marginal event in Puerto Rico.
Three- to five-foot, stormy conditions pushed contenders to bring their best with Kirra Pinkerton (USA) emerging victorious over Canada’s Sanoa Dempfle-Olin, following a marathon Finals Day. This marks Pinkerton’s first-ever Super Girl Surf Pro after a decade of competing in the event series.
Barbados’ first-ever Championship Tour qualifier, Tuach, was one of two Barbados surfers in Jacksonville, along with Chelsea Roett. In Friday’s Round of 96, Roett placed second in Heat 8, finishing with 8.03 (4.83 + 3.20) to advance to the Round of 64 behind the USA’s Zoe Panettiere, who got 11.64 (7.17 + 4.47).
Tuach, meanwhile, had a bye to Saturday’s Round of 64, where she was second in Heat 3 with 10.60 (6.60 + 4.00) behind the USA’s Olivia Storrer, the latter being given 12.17 (6.67 + 5.50). Roett also manoeuvred past the Round of 32, with a consistent 8.06 (4.33 + 3.73) to end second in Heat 7. Eden Walla of the USA earned 8.90 (5.67 + 3.23) to win that heat.
In the Round of 32, Tuach had the fourth best score, 14.10 (8.00 + 6.10) to take Heat 1 from the hard-charging Hawaiian, Eweleiula Wong, who made 13.77 (7.60 + 6.17). Roett, too, had a strong performance in the Round of 32, topping Heat 3 with 10.20 (6.33 + 3.87) ahead of the USA’s Kylie Pulcini with 8.13 (4.43 + 3.70).
Tuach showed her elite backhand attack, and her ability to adapt to conditions from pumping El Rastrial, Puerto Rico, to challenging Jacksonville Beach was on full display.
“That definitely felt good to win that heat. That heat this morning was a little tricky with not as many opportunities and then I was watching Kirra rip it up the heat before mine,” said Tuach. “I saw there were more opportunities and I love the heats where you can just keep surfing. You go from first to second to third, back to first, it’s just really fun to surf it out.”
Roett’s journey would come to an end in the last 16, as she fell to Canada’s Sanoa Dempfle-Olin, 9.50 (5.17 + 4.33) to 4.13 (3.13 + 1.00) in Heat 3. Tuach, on the other hand, had the second-best winning total for the round, 13.83 (7.33 + 6.50) to win Heat 1 over Hawaii’s Vaihitimahana Inso, 12.24 (7.17 + 5.07).
The strong run continued for Tuach, who again met Hawaii’s Wong in the quarterfinals, winning Heat 1 11.63 (6.00 + 5.63) to 9.34 (6.67 + 2.67) in spite of another strong backhand ride from her opponent.
Notwithstanding a strong semifinal outing, Tuach lost to Canada’s Dempfle-Olin in the semis, 16.10 (8.27 + 7.83) to 14.10 (7.27 + 6.83). Tuach broke her quarterfinal curse at the Super Girl Surf Pro but fell to an in-form Dempfle-Olin after an exciting back-and-forth battle.
The next WSL North America QS event will be the Pacifico Cerritos Surf Open QS 1000 beginning November 20 through 23. The next Hawaii/Tahiti Nui QS event will be The Hawaiian Islands HIC Haleiwa Pro QS 1000 beginning November 25 through December 7.
(TF)
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Caribbean Airlines has abolished its controversial age limit on student travel discounts following successful lobbying by a Barbadian consumer rights group on behalf of a mature student who was denied access to reduced fares.
The Trinidad-based carrier had restricted its student travel package to those aged between 16 and 40 for more than five years before the Barbados Consumer Empowerment Network (BCEN) intervened, arguing the policy discriminated against older students.
The airline officially removed the age restriction on October 30, extending eligibility to all enrolled university students regardless of age, for travel within the Caribbean region and some international routes.
The policy change came after University of the West Indies Cave Hill campus law student Joan Lavia sought BCEN’s support when she was refused the student package because of her age.
BCEN challenged “the discriminatory nature of the restriction”, saying the previous policy created barriers for students over 40 despite their active enrollment in university programmes.
“BCEN argued that student status should be based on enrollment rather than age, emphasising equal access to the benefits offered to all students,” executive director Maureen Holder told Barbados TODAY.
Holder described the decision as “a meaningful victory for equal access” and “a win for student rights and consumer advocacy”, highlighting its positive impact on Caribbean students.
“With the age limits removed, the Caribbean Airlines student travel package now provides a more inclusive solution, ensuring that all university students, regardless of age, can benefit from affordable travel options as they pursue their education,” she said.
The consumer advocate noted that the revised policy better reflects the diverse student population it serves, providing more affordable travel options for mature students pursuing higher education across the region.
Caribbean Airlines has updated its website to reflect the new eligibility criteria, which now applies to all “accepted and enrolled” students, marking the end of what BCEN called a “discriminatory” restriction that had created barriers for students over 40 despite their active university enrollment.
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Popular talk show host Walter Blackman has died.
Blackman, a moderator on Voice of Barbados’ Down to Brass Tacks call-in programme, passed away at home in the United States surrounded by his family.
General Manager of Starcom Network Inc. Anthony Greene praised the work of Blackman who last hosted the show on October 2.
“Walter was one who enjoyed representing the position of ordinary Barbadians and empathised with many who shared their challenges relating to customer service, and he could be heard giving them direction on how to approach the matter,” Greene said.
Blackman was an actuary by training. He worked for more than two decades in North America.
Scores of Barbadians have been paying tribute to Blackman on today’s edition of Down to Brass Tacks.
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Due to the inclement weather over the last few days on the island, the water levels at the Graeme Hall Swamp in Christ Church are currently elevated.
As a result, the Drainage Division of the Ministry of Transport and Works (MTW) has opened the sluice gate to reduce these levels. The gate will remain open until approximately 8 a.m. on Wednesday, November 13, 2024.
Although the beach at Worthing has not been closed, the Drainage Division is assuring the public that the discolouration seen is as a result of leaves, mud and debris and not as a result of sewage.
MTW apologises for any inconvenience and thank the public for its patience .(PR/MTW)
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Elections have consequences. The defeat of Vice President Kamala Harris which will see the return of former President Donald Trump to the White House now poses a significant threat to the fight against climate change, particularly for Barbados and other small island developing states (SIDS).
As the COP29 climate summit unfolds in Baku, this political shift underscores the urgent need for a refocused response from Caribbean nations that are about to lose a significant ally in the fight against the climate crisis and in the cause of sustainable economic and human development.
Trump’s election will now surely end a series of initiatives championed by Vice President Harris in the US-Caribbean Partnership to Address the Climate Crisis 2030 (PACC 2030, intended to bolster our climate resilience and energy security.
Recognising the unique challenges the Caribbean faces, including rising sea levels and increased hurricane intensity, exacerbated by climate change, PACC 2030 was designed to enhance access to development financing, facilitate clean energy projects, and build national capacities to respond to climate-related threats. It represented a crucial framework for cooperation between Washington and the Caribbean, emphasising a shared commitment by one of the world’s two largest contributors to climate change to the region’s sustainable development.
Trump’s previous administration was characterised by a blatant disdain for climate science, international agreements and global cooperation. His return threatens to roll back the progress made under the Biden-Harris administration, jeopardising vital funding and support mechanisms that Caribbean countries rely on to combat climate change. The potential withdrawal from global climate commitments like the Paris Accord could leave Barbados and our neighbours even more vulnerable to the effects of climate change and less able to implement effective adaptation strategies with five years left on the clock to slash emissions to prevent an irreversible rise in global temperatures.
Without the imminent dissipation of initiatives like PACC 2030 as the Trump administration dismantles an edifice of intelligence, enlightenment and action, Caribbean nations will no doubt struggle to secure investments necessary for clean energy infrastructure and climate resilience projects. The vacuum of American leadership in global climate negotiations threatens to diminish the collective power of small island developing states to advocate for their needs on the world stage.
Elections have consequences. They should also inspire a proactive approach that leverages vulnerability to build resilience. Strengthening regional cooperation and integration is essential; by pooling resources and knowledge, we can enhance our collective capacity to address climate change. We will need fresh alliances with other industrialised nations large and small and diversifying partnerships beyond traditional allies like the United States to secure not only funding but technical support and knowledge and technology transfer from those other nations committed to climate action.
We must remain friends of all and satellites of none. The China that is reviled in Washington is the same China whose electric buses save our scarce foreign exchange and give our citizens a comfortable ride to work, school and play. We can maintain our independence by actively pursuing global interdependence. While Trump prepares to raise tariffs on electric vehicles, we should be taking advantage of their increasing affordability and availability.
Yet, this is no call for merely switching importers. We will need to rely more on our own resources to invest in Bajan innovation, no foreign donor need apply. Homegrown solutions and technologies such as the sargassum fuel project can reduce dependence on external fossil fuels while building resilience within our communities. While the government pursues a foreign policy agenda of debt swaps, it should simultaneously engage the private sector in climate resilience initiatives, unlocking new opportunities for investment and development.
So where will our vote go? We can either engage in collective handwringing, resign ourselves to the stoicism of the frog in a slowly boiling pot, or remain steadfast in our commitment to combating climate change. By adapting our strategies and reinforcing our resolve, we can continue to advocate for a sustainable future.
The consequences of this election are profound, but a sober and determined Barbados, OECS and CARICOM may yet emerge even stronger in our fight against the climate crisis.
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The Ministry of Health and Wellness has given the water in St Lucy the ‘all-clear’, and says residents can resume their usual use of the water from their taps.
It said that after conducting numerous sanitary water samples in the parish, the Environmental Health Department is “comfortable” and satisfied that the scrubbing and chlorination exercise conducted by the Barbados Water Authority was successful.
The ministry said the exercise yielded the desired results of rendering the water potable at the time of sampling. It further noted that both the clarity and colour of water samples in several areas of the parish have improved.
As a result, the Ministry of Health and Wellness, in conjunction with the Barbados Water Authority, has advised that the ‘Boil Water Notice’ which was previously issued has been removed.
(Ministry of Health)
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A dramatic surge in murders this year has so far left 45 people dead, compared to 20 in 2023, bringing Barbados close to its pre-COVID-19 pandemic peak, a government report has revealed.
And a senior lawman has warned that violence stemming from perceived “disrespect” is emerging as a threat to law and order in the country.
The spike in killings comes amid growing concern over the increasing involvement of children in serious violent crimes, according to the findings presented by criminologist in the Attorney General’s Office, Kim Ramsay on Tuesday.
Revealing that the age of offenders is “significantly decreasing” with many individuals between 11 and 15 years old being charged with serious offences like murder and robbery, she said: “We have 16-year-olds committing murder, fresh out of school and obviously with no guidance. These young people are not only perpetrators but increasingly victims of violent crime as well.”
The island is approaching its highest murder count in recent years, which reached approximately 50 in 2019.
“We’ve just come out of one of our lowest rates of homicides in 10 years, and now we’re at 45 murders, and we’re not even finished the year yet. That’s deeply concerning for us,” Ramsay said.
The criminologist reported that this shift has underscored the need for targeted interventions.
“We must address this young population who are becoming involved in and affected by crime with various social programmes that provide structure, guidance, and alternatives for these youths,” she advised.
The report highlighted that firearms were used in 70 per cent of slayings, though violent crimes constitute only seven per cent of the average 6 400 cases reported annually.
Also of concern, according to Ramsay, are property violations, particularly theft and burglary, which she revealed remain the most prevalent, accounting for a substantial portion of reported cases.
Whilst overall crime resolution stands at 64 per cent, Ramsay presented findings that the police struggle to solve property crimes effectively, with only 17 per cent of residential burglaries being solved.
The findings also revealed widespread assaults across all police divisions, often resulting from unresolved conflicts that escalate.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Irwin Boyce reported the rise of cybercrime and violence stemming from perceived “disrespect” are emerging as critical threats to law and order in Barbados.
He traced a changing landscape of criminal behaviour, with malicious online communications becoming a particular concern.
“Crime has changed over time. What used to be offences many years ago are either consolidated into particular offences, or they are emerging as new threats, crime threats,” Boyce said.
The senior lawman expressed specific concern about online harassment, describing how it creates “harassment or annoyance at the expense of an individual using the media”.
Boyce also pointed to a troubling trend of violence linked to perceived slights.
“We are seeing a level of violence coming out of that word, ‘disrespect’,” he said, noting this as a critical issue amid escalating societal violence.
In response to these shifting patterns, Boyce called for a more collaborative, evidence-based approach to policing, emphasising that law enforcement cannot operate in isolation.
“Policing is not to be seen in silos. It has to be seen as a collaborative activity,” he said.
The deputy commissioner acknowledged that different regions of the island face distinct challenges, with the Northern, Southern and Bridgetown Divisions each confronting unique issues based on their demographic and socioeconomic profiles.
“The reporting mechanisms or the type of crime that you see in certain areas, you might not necessarily see in others,” he noted.
While recognising society’s desire for minimal crime, Boyce acknowledged that “because people have choices, there will always be lawbreakers”. He emphasised the importance of research-driven approaches, suggesting they could “provide us with the answers or provide us some level of predictability in the way that we do our business”.
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Netball queens the Combermere School outshone the Christ Church Foundation School with a double win in both age groups of the 2024 Dasani Powerade Barbados Secondary Schools’ Netball League Under-13 and Under-19 competitions played at the Church Hill, Christ Church institution.
On Monday afternoon the two sports arch-rivals met on the netball court, and Combermere got the best of Foundation in the U19 matchup that ended 24-21 in favour of the visitors.
Combermere took an early lead in the first quarter, finishing 6-3 as their shooters Tyesha Trotman and Naylei Yearwood found their momentum. Trotman, playing as goal-shooter, was adjudged best shooter when Combermere won the U19 crown last year.
A national Under-16 player as well, Trotman displayed remarkable accuracy with 14 goals from 18 attempts, while goal-attack Yearwood contributed 10 goals from 12 attempts.
At halftime, Christ Church Foundation had narrowed the gap, with Serena Rouse and Ashari Brathwaite working well together. Rouse netted 9-12 as goal-shooter, while Brathwaite scored 12-17 as goal-attack, bringing the score to 11-9 in favour of Combermere.
The third quarter was entertaining with both teams exchanging goals and momentum swinging back and forth. Combermere maintained a slender one-point lead at 18-17 heading into the final period.
Despite a strong push from Christ Church Foundation, who briefly levelled the score, Combermere’s determination in the closing minutes allowed them to secure a hard-fought 24-21 win.
In the U13 division, Combermere also emerged victorious in a low-scoring but equally intense game, edging out Christ Church Foundation 6-5.
Combermere’s Skye Cox led the way as goal-shooter, scoring a perfect four along with teammate Kycia Phillips, as goal-attack, added two goals from three attempts. Despite the home team’s efforts, with Eubriena Knight out front scoring three out of four attempts as a goal-attack, Combermere clinched the narrow victory.
After a tied first half at 4-4, the game saw fewer goals in the second half as both teams tightened their defence. However, Combermere managed to secure the deciding point, showcasing strong teamwork and effective communication.
In another Zone 1 U19 match, The Lodge School comfortably defeated Princess Margaret Secondary with a final score of 16-9. Lodge School took control early, leading 5-3 at the end of the first quarter. They continued to build on this momentum throughout the game, with standout performances from goal-shooter Jenica Graham, who scored six goals from 10 attempts, and goal-attack Caitlyn Boyce, who contributed 10 goals from 19 attempts.
Princess Margaret’s efforts to mount a comeback were thwarted by solid defensive play from The Lodge School, extending their lead in each quarter. Even after a spirited performance from Princess Margaret’s goal-attack Keanna Connell with seven of her 14 attempts, they could not close the gap, resulting in a decisive win for The Lodge School.
(AS)
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Kyrone Alexander had a strong outing on Monday evening, but his Boston University Terriers were drubbed by the UCLA Bruins, 71-40. The game bookended a weekend west coast trip, on which the Bajan guard enjoyed mixed fortunes.
Against UCLA, Alexander led BU with 10 points, including a pair of 3-pointers and two steals. Graduate student Miles Brewster and junior Ben Roy both dished out three assists and tied Alexander at two steals apiece.
Alexander, a sophomore, was the only Terrier in double figures. “I don’t think anyone played very well offensively, but he was a bright spot,” conceded Boston University head coach Joe Jones. “He only had two turnovers. He has been out of practice a lot, so he has been working on getting his rhythm back.”
Ranked No 22 nationally one day prior, the Bruins (2-1) only shot 40.0 per cent from the field but remained undefeated at home by tripling the Terriers (0-3) in made free throws, 18-6, and outscoring BU off turnovers, 36-12, with their consistent ball pressure. The visitors were poor from the charity stripe, and hit only 25 per cent from three.
“We really had some good ones and we had some open ones we had to make,” said James. “I think we are a better three-point shooting team. We only went to the line nine times, but we only shot 66 per cent.”
The Terriers held the Bruins to 35.7 FG per cent in the second half, but UCLA went 10-of-12 from the charity stripe to prevent any chance of a rally attempt.
Over the weekend, Alexander had one of the worst shooting nights of his young career, in a 74-60 loss to San Diego . He hit just one field goal from nine tries, and was 0-3 from three, with three turnovers to boot. He added five rebounds and three steals as the torerors rode a 15-point run in the second half to take the win.
(TF)
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Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operators have been warned by chairman of the Alliance Owners of Public Transport (AOPT) Roy Raphael that they must undergo mandatory training approved by the Transport Authority.
Despite newly introduced regulations aimed at reforming the public service vehicle industry, there has been minimal progress in operators stepping forward to undergo training and certification, he told Barbados TODAY.
In September, Acting Prime Minister Santia Bradshaw announced a series of reforms following several stakeholder meetings that underlined the urgency of addressing the industry’s long-standing issues. Emerging from this meeting, the new regulations stipulate that no person shall be granted a licence to drive a PSV or motor omnibus unless they have been certified in a service-related training course.
Raphael said that despite this announcement, little change has been seen from the PSV community since the regulation went into effect in October.
“We suspect that when the regulation is fully enforced, we should see a decline in the number of operators working in the sector because we now have to deal with 70 per cent of the persons not [operating legally] because they don’t have the certification,” he said.
“The regulation speaks to conductors who are ‘legal’ under the act, and all persons who conduct on public service vehicles; the law states that they should have the appropriate licence to operate as a conductor. There is a penalty added if you operate as a conductor without being regulated…. Obviously the law would be against them if a person refuses to pay them a fare because they are not legal conductors.”
Raphael said the training course is currently being conducted at the Barbados Community College at a reduced cost of $200. Despite this, operators have been slow to sign up for the course.
He stressed that as law enforcement and the ministry ramp up efforts to crack down on delinquent behaviour in the industry, several operators will soon find themselves without jobs if they fail to get certified.
The public service vehicle spokesman said: “We are going to lose conductors…. Right now there is a shortage of drivers and conductors, and we keep reinventing the wheel when we fire a driver or conductor [for infractions], and then they go and work for somebody else, creating more issues. We want to encourage the drivers and conductors to do the course. As far as we understand, it is not a hard course; it’s interactive, [and] all they need to do is attend the course, be certified, and then they have two years to recertify again as far as this programme is concerned.
“Do the right thing, [because] if there are any challenges, they will be able to stand up in court without being accused [of wrongdoing].” (SB)
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