In a landmark achievement for hotel and tourism workers, the Barbados Workers’ Union (BWU) has finalised a historic agreement that promises substantial improvements in wages and working conditions, just in time for Christmas.

A comprehensive package of benefitsthat aims to enhance workers’ rights and well-being across the industry, together with the first tranche of backpay on Friday, ends two years of intense negotiations.

The BWU’s Deputy General Secretary and Director of Industrial Relations, Dwaine Paul, announced details of the agreement in an official statement, revealing a number of areas where workers can expect changes, including wage improvements and retroactive pay increases from 2021 to 2024.

There will be no increase for 2021; three per cent for 2022, effective December 15; 2023, three per cent; and 4.25 per cent for 2024, effective December 15.

The first tranche was paid on Friday while the second tranche will be due by January 15. Payments will be made in no more than two instalments, according to the union statement.

Regarding meal provisions, Paul said: “Effective 1 January, 2025, you will see new provisions for the sector as follows: all B-class listed properties will receive a meal allowance of $12 daily, all A and luxury class properties that currently provide meals have agreed to [continue providing] balanced meals to workers. Where vacation and other leave provisions apply, the value provided for the meal will be calculated at $14 per day. For hotels that currently opt not to provide meals as a matter of policy, the meal provision will stand at $20 per day for all workers.”

He also revealed that male employees are now entitled to ten days of paternity leave, applicable up to three confinements during their tenure. Additionally, revised hours of work and shift-splitting policies, updated call-out allowances for emergency support, and disaster management plans to protect workers during natural disasters have also been established.
Paul declared: “This agreement marks the start of what we see as a change that needs to take place in the hotel sector and the tourism sector.”

He praised workers for their resilience and lauded the members of the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) who supported these advancements.
But the BWU official was clear that the fight for equity and fair treatment in the tourism industry is far from over.

He said: “I want to take this opportunity to sound the alarm to the workers of the sector. This agreement does not, by any stretch of the imagination, signal the end of the struggle for workers within the hotel industry. We are fully aware that many workers are still experiencing hardship within this sector and may be entitled to the benefits just announced but will not receive them due to differences with their management.”

He continued: “We encourage you to contact the Barbados Workers’ Union and let us know where you are facing these challenges. Furthermore, we know that there are hotels that are not party to this agreement, which will stand on the sidelines and try to dictate your worth within this sector. We are saying to you that 2025 needs to be the year we bring this to an end.

The Barbados Workers’ Union is using this occasion to call on all hotel workers, and all workers in this sector, to come together and stand united for what you, as the backbone of this industry, truly deserve.”

shamarblunt@barbadostoday.bb

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Women and child rights campaigner Dr Marsha Hinds Myrie has issued a stark warning that the recent surge in youth crime in Barbados is not merely a byproduct of the COVID-19 pandemic but rather a symptom of long-neglected issues within the education system and broader societal structures.

Dr Hinds Myrie was responding to comments by Cheryl Willoughby, director of the Criminal Justice Research and Planning Unit (CJRPU), regarding recent crime statistics showing a troubling rise in youth crime linked to the COVID-19 pandemic.

She said that while the pandemic may have contributed to the rise in delinquency among young people engaging in criminal activity, it has also highlighted long-standing deficiencies in Barbados’ education system that have yet to be adequately addressed.

“For many years, our educational system in Barbados has not worked,” Dr Hinds Myrie said. “The inability of some young people to attend school during COVID is just a symptom. Even before the pandemic, while they were physically in school, they were not receiving the kind of education necessary to turn them into world citizens.”

“For many years our educational system in Barbados has not worked, and so those young people not being able to go to school during COVID is a symptom, [because] even before COVID when they were in school, they were not getting the kind of education that they needed to turn them into world citizens.”

Dr Hinds Myrie was also critical of the Barbados Secondary Schools Entrance Examination (BSSEE), commonly known as the Common Entrance or 11 Plus exam, stating that the model still prioritises naturally gifted students while leaving the majority of children, often from at-risk homes, behind.

“We continue to hitch our education upon an examination that yearly siphons off the best five per cent of our students, and we work with that five per cent and we pretty much discard the 95 per cent,” she said. “Some of them in the middle, who are able to struggle and pull through because their parents can afford extra lessons, so perhaps in any one year 30 per cent of our students are really thriving and successfully completing education. The 70 per cent is left wanting . . . that is not something that COVID did, that is a reality that we have had around Barbados for a long time.”

The former head of the National Organisation of Women suggested that to truly address the educational failings that often lead to a life of crime for young persons, systemic issues within homes need to be tackled head-on.

She said: “The way that we don’t understand that the high levels of domestic violence that we have across the island is contributing to a home environment where no matter where you put the children, no matter how well organised the school is, they are coming into the school as shells of people because of the trauma, and stress, and displacement that they are facing in the home.”

She continued: “I’m talking about the high levels of incest; I’m talking about the fact that we still use physical abuse as one of the main means of punishment in society; I am talking about children not being supported emotionally and psychologically . . .  all of those are things that would affect our ability to educate our children, and we are still talking about [these things] as though they are disconnected.” (SB)

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With Christmas fast approaching, the fishing community is still grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, which devastated their industry. 

Despite slow sales and rising prices, vendors remained hopeful, adapting to new challenges while keeping their spirits high.

When Barbados TODAY visited the Bridgetown Fisheries Complex, vendors there expressed optimism despite the challenges. 

“It ain’t like how it used to be years ago, but you’ve got to be contented, very much contented. The little bit that is coming, we are still managing to keep our heads above water,” said Jemma Harris.

She noted that, with the slight increase in prices, customers are purchasing less than they usually do.

“They’re a little hectic with the prices, but some say: ‘Well, you can’t eat the money, so you buy a piece of fish.’ If they wanted six pounds, they’ll probably buy four. They’ll cut down on the amount they were buying, but I’m very contented—very much so.”

Another fish vendor expressed her gratitude for the little sales they get: “Around this time, fish don’t really sell as people tend to stock up on chicken and pork. However, next week after Christmas, sales might pick up. You’ve got to thank God for whatever you get.”

She explained that while sales sometimes increase, it is not consistent, as it depends on the available catch.

“With Hurricane Beryl, we have to source our fish from the processors. Sometimes a lot of people aren’t trying to go out, so you have to wait and see what they bring.”

The vendor also mentioned that government assistance has helped somewhat, though some are still waiting for funds: “The government was supposed to give us $4 500, which is $1 500 per month. I only got it once. They have to give me two more payments, but I don’t know what is going to happen. The money was for us, and they should give it to us. Some people only got $15, some got all, and others haven’t received anything.”

Vendor Ikema Sobers said she too received government assistance once but feels the disbursement process was not fair.

She explained: “I have received $1 500 only one time, but they said they would give us more. The government promised $4 800, but we only got $1 500 as vendors. Without the fishermen, we can’t get fish, but we’ll make do with what we have. I think we should all get the money fairly; that’s my point of view.”

She also expressed disappointment in the lack of sales but remained optimistic: “Sales have been slow, but it’s going to come. We have enough fresh marlin, tuna, and turpit, and a couple of dolphins. The only thing we do not have is flying fish. Honestly, things are now trying to pick back up.”

Many of the fisherfolk are sourcing their fish from processors like Ocean Fisheries.

Sharon Thompson, one of the fish vendors, says her stall has been getting a steady flow of customers.

She said: “Sales are here and there. You will get some sales, and at Christmas, people do buy fish because after having a lot of pork, turkey, and ham, you have to have fish on your plate as well. Since this morning, people have been coming, and it’s a moderate flow throughout the day.”

She explained that although prices have increased slightly, customers are understanding given the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl.

“The price of fish has gone up a little, ranging from $11, $12, and $15 per pound for red snapper; marlin is $11, $12, and tuna is also about $11, $12 per pound,” she said. 

louriannegraham@barbadostoday.bb

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In a move to uplift communities plagued by inadequate living conditions, the government has announced plans to develop sustainable housing solutions that promise to enhance the quality of life for many residents.

The initiative was revealed by Housing Minister Dwight Sutherland on Wednesday during the launch of the Solaris housing project in Whitepark Road, St Michael.

The minister said the government wanted to enhance the quality of life for many Barbadians and a number of families stood to benefit.

Sutherland said: “The Ministry of Housing, Lands and Maintenance anticipates that the measures being implemented would not only assist low-income citizens with becoming homeowners but will furthermore redound to the benefit of the society in a number of ways. In providing these solutions we are cognisant of the social, economic and environmental impact that the policies and actions we implement now can have on future generations. These include: assisting with breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty; creating a sense of accomplishment and pride of ownership; providing a form of security for families; creating a sense of community; as well as by contributing to a reduction in crime, by reducing overcrowding in densely populated neighbourhoods. The overall benefit will be to improve the quality of life, especially for low-income households.”

Plans are on the way to upgrade and redevelop parts of Bridgetown, he announced: “Thought is being given to including the Wellington Street/Nelson Street area in this project, in addition to Greenfield. Through this project, we aim to improve the social and living conditions of the persons currently resident in these areas.”

Some 16 families were benefiting from the housing project at Solaris Court, including five families who were displaced by fire in May, the housing minister said

He gave assurances that the new housing solutions were being sustainably built to be able to withstand storm surges and resist fire.

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A psychologist has told the High Court that while there is no longer a death row at Dodds Prison, inmates awaiting re-sentencing for murder are, for the most part, being kept in similar conditions with no access to rehabilitative programmes.

Psychologist at the penal institution Sean Pilgrim was speaking in the No. 2 Supreme Court on Friday during the re-sentencing hearing of Tyrone Dacosta Cadogan.

Cadogan, of York Terrace, Pine, St Michael, was convicted of the December 8, 2003, murder of Paulette Brathwaite and sentenced in May 2005 to death by hanging. In June 2018, the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) declared that the mandatory death penalty in Barbados was unconstitutional, leading to the sentences of those on death row, including Cadogan’s, being vacated and re-sentencing orders issued.

Pilgrim told the court that while the area previously assigned to death row is no longer used and its former inmates have been moved to maximum security since the CCJ’s ruling, they remain under similar conditions with no access to rehabilitative programmes.

“Death row inmates are housed in maximum security units in one-man cells, and movement within the prison is very closely monitored. Unless certain conditions are met, they would not be allowed to leave the cells. I believe their visits and all interactions with outsiders are closely monitored, even more so than the average inmates. Other than religious programmes, unfortunately, these inmates are not prioritised for rehabilitative programmes,” he said, adding that they also have limited interaction with other inmates and no access to television.

“So he is no longer on death row but in maximum security in much the same way as if he were on death row?” asked Justice of Appeal William Chandler, who presided over the original matter.

“Yes, sir,” Pilgrim replied.

Pilgrim said that currently, there are no programmes at the penal institution to help former death row inmates like Cadogan, who often spends 23 hours a day confined to his cell, re-integrate into society.

“There are no programmes at the moment for someone like Mr Cadogan, who would have spent such an extended period of time in isolation,” the psychologist said, adding: “What I believe would be beneficial for him is a de-escalation of the level of security and restrictedness. Ideally, transfer him to a lower security building where there is a greater level of interaction with individuals and more access to vocational programmes. In that setting, Mr Cadogan would be better prepared psychologically and have easier access to our resettlement officer, who coordinates with the Welfare Department and any other social service agencies deemed beneficial to him.”

Justice Chandler stated that, as the sentencing officer, he must balance the interests of the public and the individual.

He said: “Here are my concerns in reading the reports. There is a need for continuous intervention, and that cannot be facilitated by him being where he is all the time. Reading through the report, the isolation, you seem to suggest, is affecting his attitude. I have to balance the interest of the general public against this individual’s needs, and from your report, he still needs help. We are dealing with the protection of the public versus a person, and from your report, there is no certainty in terms of where he stands in the process of rehabilitation.”

Stating that it would be difficult to give a timeframe for rehabilitation, Pilgrim said Cadogan would have to be observed to see how he adjusted to less restrictive conditions in the other housing units and how he interacted with the other inmates because “it would be dramatically different to what he has been used to in the past 21 years”.

He also told the court that vocational training, substance abuse counselling, and psychotherapy would assist Cadogan’s self-development.

Earlier in the proceedings, Senior Probation Officer Diana Goodridge made similar observations: “To my knowledge, he was on death row and would not have benefitted from educational, vocational or counselling programmes in maximum security.”

Reading the June 2022 report she compiled on the inmate, Goodridge also stated that Cadogan, who has seven other convictions, was rated as having a high risk of reoffending due to his history of substance abuse and lack of educational achievement.

She added that while he admitted to the offence, he gave an explanation that sought to minimise his actions on the day of the incident.

Goodridge said: “It is Mr Cadogan’s explanation that he had been drinking alcohol with a friend throughout the day. He admitted to stabbing the victim prior to his attempt to rob her but subsequently ran off and left her. It is his position that he only remembers stabbing her once and knows nothing about the additional stabs. He mentioned another person he left at the scene with the victim. He expressed regret and said he wished he could take his actions back and also added that he has paid his debt to society due to the length of time he has spent in prison.”

Justice Chandler said that under the Penal System Reform Act, the sentencing process is individualised and it is necessary to fashion an appropriate sentence based on Cadogan’s particular needs, adding: “This is not a run-of-the-mill case.”

He then adjourned the hearing until January 22, saying: “This sentencing process is not as simple as it appeared.”

Attorney-at-law Safiya Moore represented Cadogan, while State Counsel Dr Zoe King appeared for the State.

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Former leader of the Democratic Labour Party Dr Ronnie Yearwood has issued a dire warning about the state of democracy in Barbados, citing voter apathy, soaring inequality, and growing distrust in political systems as critical factors threatening the foundation of governance in the nation.

“Democracy is under threat in Barbados, across the Caribbean, and around the world,” he said in an interview with Barbados TODAY. “People don’t believe that democracy is working for them. They feel it works for some, the elite, but not for the masses.”

Referring to the region-wide issue of low voter turnouts, Dr Yearwood said: “People are just tired of the democratic project in many ways because it keeps disappointing them. There’s failure, there are a lot of promises, but nothing coming of it.”

The university law lecturer further pointed to other events as evidence of democracy’s fragility: “We saw, I think it was in Martinique, the riots recently over rising food prices. We’ve seen the outcomes in US elections and prior elections. We’ve seen what’s happened in the UK with basic minority government.”

Turning a critical lens to national developments, Dr Yearwood identified what he described as systemic inequality in Barbados as a key contributor to the disconnection between people and the democratic system.

He highlighted gun violence among young people as a warning sign.

“What is a teenager doing with a gun in his hand?” he asked. “That is madness. Something is wrong. That tells me that you’ve been robbed of an entire life, and then you rob somebody else of their life because you’ve been robbed of yours.”

Dr Yearwood suggested that youth disengagement stemmed from a lack of opportunity and systemic barriers.

He said: “They need to be heard because nobody’s hearing them. They’re not being heard in their households, they’re not being heard in their communities, and then the people that are hearing them are sometimes not the elements of society that you want them to get attention from, like the gangs.”

He called for reforms to make education and programmes more accessible, especially in underserved areas: “You can’t talk about empowering young people if they can’t afford bus fare to get to a programme.

“We’ve talked about why there isn’t a campus for a community college in the north. As small as Barbados is, travelling can be hard, especially with an inefficient bus system.”

Dr Yearwood further stressed that democracy must deliver more than elections.

He told Barbados TODAY that through his work with Friends of Democracy, formed since his ouster from the DLP, he and his team aim to address systemic inequities and engage marginalised communities.

“For democracy to thrive, people need to feel that it works for them. That means tackling the barriers that keep them on the margins and ensuring they have a real chance to participate in society,” he said.

He declared that his vision for democracy extends beyond governance, noting the need to improve the quality of life for citizens.

“Democracy isn’t just about elections; it’s about the quality of life people experience every day. If we want to secure democracy for future generations, we must start by addressing the inequalities and disconnections that undermine it today,” he said.

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Christmas joy is reaching even more families and children in need, thanks to telecoms provider Flow. In keeping with its annual tradition, the company has delivered over 100 gifts to the Barbados Child Care Board (CCB) and $20 000 worth of supermarket vouchers to several charities.

Flow’s employees participated in the company’s annual “Adopt a Child for Christmas” initiative, where they each ‘adopt’ a child in care and purchase gifts based on the child’s personal wish list.

Employees also thoughtfully wrapped and personalised each gift with notes for the children. This year, the gifts were distributed to wards across seven children’s homes, including Nightingale Home, Lily Cot, Ixora Cottage, Violet Gittens, McManus Centre, Sterling Children’s Home, and the Marina Brewster Centre at Farrs.

Some of Flow’s ‘employee elves’ in Santa’s Workshop before wrapping more than 100 gifts for children in care.

“Our team is always eager to support this initiative, and there is no doubt the need is great. It warms our hearts to be able to make the yuletide season a little more enjoyable for these young, deserving Barbadians,” said Desron Bynoe, Country Manager, Flow Barbados.

“We are committed to being agents of change, and our longstanding partnership with the CCB allows us to positively impact children who need it most. Heart is more than something we have; it’s something we share.”

Carla Haynes, senior care officer at the Child Care Board, expressed gratitude for Flow’s continued generosity.

“Flow has been a longstanding supporter of the CCB, and these Christmas gifts are always well received. The effort made to provide each child with a gift of their choice is inspiring. We sincerely thank Flow for their consistent support of children in care,” she said.

In addition to supporting children in care, Flow extended its holiday giving by donating $20 000 worth of supermarket vouchers to the Barbados Cancer Society, Cancer Support Services, the HIV Commission, and the HIV Food Bank. This contribution ensures that more families and individuals in need receive essential supplies during the holiday season.

(PR)

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The strains of the violin lured her away from the science lab to the stage, and it’s a decision she says she will never regret.

And with that explanation, second-year music student at the Barbados Community College (BCC), Zarina Maynard happily accepted the 2024 Norma Holder Prize for Music, donated by the Errol and Nita Barrow Memorial Trust.

Zarina earned the honour, achieving the highest GPA in her first year of the Music programme.

However, the journey to this stage has not been straightforward. Although she always had a love for music, having attended music camp since she was three years old, Zarina still enrolled in the Science programme at the BCC. “I wasn’t in love with what I was doing,” she admitted.

It was Ms [Kathy] Lewis, a tutor at the college, who encouraged her to pursue her dreams of music after she saw her work at the Joy Knight Music Camp during the summer.

Inspired by this support Zarina switched programmes, “Music is truly what I love to do . . . this is something that I want to do for the rest of my life.”

Zarina delighted benefactors, staff and students who gathered in the College’s Liberal Arts Auditorium for the Music Department’s recent Lunchtime Recital series, expertly delivering a performance of Master Blaster by Stevie Wonder.

“I am very grateful, very excited because it is a result of my hard work over my first year,” Zarina shared.

Aspiring to become a full-time performer, she has applied to two colleges to study classical violin. In addition to the violin, she also plays the cello, and the tenor pan.

She credits her passion for music and her faith in God as her driving motivators.

(PR)

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Just in time for the Holidays, Caribbean Airlines has bridged the gap between Guadeloupe and Barbados with their recently launched flight service between the two countries. This development, in keeping with Caribbean Airlines’ mission to connect the Caribbean, will aid in reestablishing the link between the French and English-speaking territories.

Honorary Counsel of France to Barbados, Captain Don G. Chee-A-Tow, was present for the arrival of flight BW287 at the Grantley Adams International Airport on December 11, where arriving passengers received celebratory tokens compliments of the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI).

He believes the introduction of the new service is timely and considers that a balanced effort by Caribbean Airlines to eventually increase frequency, will go hand-in-hand with the increase in traffic expected with BTMI’s recent marketing drive in Mainland France.

Chee-A-Tow noted, “This development holds great significance for regionally based businesses and also gives international visitors to the Caribbean more possibilities for inter-regional travel only previously enjoyed before the loss of Air Antilles and LIAT 1974 Ltd.”

The new service scheduled for twice weekly operation, in combination with the recently launched route from Martinique, will improve connectivity with the French Caribbean.

Director of the Caribbean at BTMI, Graham Clarke stated, “In keeping with our efforts to grow our Caribbean market, we are pleased with the introduction of flight service from Guadeloupe to Barbados as it provides an opportunity to increase interest in Barbados and enhance our destination brand within the French Caribbean. We applaud our valued airline partner Caribbean Airlines for bringing this development to fruition and certainly anticipate welcoming an increased number of visitors to our shores from throughout the region.” 

Improving regional airlift

Speaking on the inaugural flight, Chief Executive Officer of Caribbean Airlines, Garvin Medera, emphasised the airline’s commitment to furthering regional ties and expanding its network, “Barbados represents a major aviation hub as we extend our network throughout the Caribbean. We are optimistic that this new service will bolster airlift capacity – providing a vital tourism boost and encouraging opportunities for greater commercial and cultural exchange. Caribbean Airlines values the support of the BTMI as a key partner and we look forward to continued collaboration in promoting destination Barbados.”

As the largest regionally based network carrier, Caribbean Airlines operates more than 600 weekly flights to destinations in the Caribbean, North and South America. The airline, which has a fleet of Boeing 737-800 and ATR72-600 aircraft, is committed to delivering exceptional service and providing a genuine Caribbean experience for clients. (PR)

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PoeTree Barbados set the stage for an unforgettable evening of lyrical brilliance on December 19, with their inaugural Open Mic Contest at De Bar, Worthing, Christ Church. The event brought together 12 contestants who captivated the audience with their creativity, passion, and artistry, competing for prizes generously sponsored by De Bar.

Emerging victorious was Ramone ‘Rae’ Blackman, who claimed the first-place prize of $150 and a bottle of Johnny Walker Black with an impressive score of 182 points.

Rae’s powerful performance as the final contestant of the night left both the judges and audience in awe.

Reflecting on his win, Rae expressed his gratitude: “I feel humbled. It was a pleasant surprise because I was in my own head about the performance, given that I had arrived late and felt as though I was rushing. I enjoyed it regardless and look forward to the next PoeTree Barbados event.”

The competition was intense, with judges Akeem ‘Stonedwithcupid’ Chandler-Prescod and Theo ‘Deo The Poet’ Greenidge facing the difficult task of scoring the extraordinary talent on display. The top placements were as follows:

• 1st Place: Ramone ‘Rae’ Blackman – 182 points.
• 2nd Place: Jeremiah ‘The Prophet’ Toussaint – 179 points ($100 and a bottle of Baileys Irish Cream).
• 3rd Place: Atiba Sealy-Thompson – 173 points ($50 and a bottle of Beringer Wine).

Jeremiah’ The Prophet’ Toussaint won second place in PoeTree Barbados’ inaugural Open Mic Contest. He also won $100 and a bottle of Bailey’s Irish Cream.

The remaining rankings showcased the depth of talent in the lineup:

• R-Lando – 163 points.
• Iyah Badd – 158 points.
• Chrystal The Magi – 153 points.
• Kizzy – 145 points.
• Jabari Corbin – 133 points.
• Jada – 132 points.
• Sese Archer – 125 points.
• Kamal Mason – 123 points.
• Ebonee Carter – 120 points.

Adding to the night’s excitement were electrifying guest performances by some of Barbados’ most celebrated spoken word artists. Negus ‘Knots’ Hinds, Malachi Hope, Stonedwithcupid, and Deo The Poet brought their award-winning artistry to the stage, while featured performer and PoeTree Barbados Co-Founder La Shawna Griffith delivered a show-stopping set. Her duet with Deo The Poet, titled Face Value, explored themes of authenticity in relationships, while her signature pieces Society Likes To Police Women and Mama Said resonated deeply with the audience, earning thunderous applause from over 100 patrons.

Co-Founder Stonedwithcupid expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming talent and support shown: “The talent on display was remarkable. This event has set the tone for what we hope will become a staple in Barbados’ literary and cultural scene. We are deeply thankful to De Bar for their sponsorship, which made this event even more special.”

Atiba Sealy-Thompson won third place in PoeTree Barbados’ inaugural Open Mic Contest. He also won $50 and a bottle of Beringer Wine compliments De Bar.

PoeTree Barbados continues to create platforms for emerging poets and spoken word artists, fostering a vibrant cultural community. Stay tuned for more exciting events as they continue to inspire and uplift the creative voices of Barbados. (PR)

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Minister of Housing, Lands and Maintenance, Dwight Sutherland has been elected as the President of the Thirty-Fourth General Assembly of Ministers and High-Level Authorities of Housing and Urban Development for Latin America and the Caribbean (XXXIV MINURVI).

This prestigious appointment took place during the recently concluded Thirty-Third Assembly held in Belem, Brazil last week (December 12 and 13), setting the stage for an exciting future.

This significant development will see Barbados hosting the XXXIV Assembly for the first time next year, marking yet another extraordinary milestone for the country and the region, as the esteemed conference was last held in the Caribbean some 10 years ago.

“I am extremely proud to be chosen to represent Barbados at this level. It is indeed a tribute to the remarkable display of leadership and vision that is now synonymous with the country,” Minster Sutherland stated.

“I step into this role with a commitment to further the institutional strengthening of the MINURVI coalition through enhanced collaboration among member countries. As I emphasised in my acceptance speech last week, there is an urgent need to build resilience within our territories amidst the escalating climate crisis, and this will be high on my agenda.

“The upcoming assembly promises to be a landmark event, fostering collaboration and innovation at a time when it is needed most. It presents a unique opportunity for local entrepreneurs to showcase pioneering housing solutions and collaborate with MINURVI partners in the development of innovative adaptive housing technologies and we look forward to an inspiring gathering that not only celebrates our achievements but also paves the way for a sustainable future,” he added.

With 35 member nations, MINURVI serves as a vital platform for dialogue and partnership, allowing Ministers and High-Level Authorities responsible for housing and sustainable urban development to converge, share best practices, and devise effective solutions to tackle the pressing challenges faced within the Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) subregion. (PR)

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Fusionz Boutique Spartan and Superb Blendz Gladiola have found themselves tied with 73 points at the bottom of the table at the conclusion of the Barbados Cricket Association Elite Three-Day Competition and will await further calculations to determine who will be demoted to the First Division for the 2025 season.

After rain washed out the first two days, the game between Spartan and Bayview Hospital YMPC was reduced to a 40-over contest on the third and final day. 

YMPC took full advantage of the decision made by Spartan in asking them to bat first as their opening batters got off to a blistering start. Raymond Kellman scored 83 in 48 balls with five fours and eight sixes while Jevon Grosvenor recorded his maiden top level century with 101 in 90 balls which included four fours and five sixes. 

Spartan managed to take eight wickets which earned them the much needed three bowling points but YMPC scored a mammoth total of 268 in 36 overs. 

This meant that Spartan would need a minimum of 240 runs to earn three batting points and finish ahead of the relegation pool.

Spartan lost wickets in bunches as they limped to a total of 109 for six in 25.5 overs before fading light ended play which resulted in a no-result and a total of five points in the game.

University of the West Indies (UWI) and IGS Insurance Brokers Yorkshire also finished tied on 73 points. They are safe from relegation as they have won more games outright during the season which covers the first part of the tie breaker per the BCA rules.

Pickwick win big, Wanderers crowned Kings

ESA Field Pickwick claimed 19 points to secure the third position in the standings when they defeated the newly crowned Champions Wanderers by an innings and 27 runs at Foursquare Oval. 

After confirming their title on day 2, Wanderers were forced to follow-on when they were bowled out for 217 in their first innings. Off spinner Preston Clarke cleaned up the wickets, taking seven for 89 in 24.4 overs.

Sent in to bat again, it was another off spinner being the main wrecker for Pickwick as Rasheed Edwin claimed six wickets for 54 runs in 10 overs as Wanderers were bowled out for 138. 

Rasheed Edwin led Pickwick to a win with his six wicket second innings haul.

Joudan Niles top scored with a quick fire 55 in 18 balls.

Champions Wanderers recorded two batting points in the game and managed to affirm their position at the top of the standings and claim the 2024 Elite title, their first in 42 years.

Wildey dismiss Youth

Wildey recorded an easy nine-wicket victory after they bowled out the SigniaGlobe Financial Inc BCA Youth for 112 on their home turf at the Jeffrey Yarde Complex.

In a match reduced to a one-day, 40-over contest after the first two days were completely rained out, the Youth team won the toss and elected to bat against a team that boasted international players, England fast bowler, Jofra Archer and USA batter Aaron Jones in their playing 11.

The lads began rather shaky when they lost their first two wickets for two runs. During the middle of the innings, leg spinner Zishan Motara and fast bowler Archer combined to cause the Youth team collapse when they went from 71 for three to 75 for eight.

Motara, leading the way with four wickets for 21 runs from six overs while Archer picked up three for 25 in eight overs.

Micah Greenidge and Zion Brathwaite, scoring 34 each, top scored for the Youth team.

Wildey wasted little time chasing the total as they knocked off the runs in 10.1 overs, scoring 118 for one. Nimar Bolden top scored with an unbeaten 56 in 26 balls.

Wildey finished the season on 88 points in second position, nine points below champions Wanderers.

UWI survives demotion 

University of the West Indies (UWI) gained maximum batting and bowling points to pull themselves from the pits of demotion in a drawn contest against Superb Blendz Gladiola at the 3Ws Oval. 

Shaqkere Parris (63) and Kyle Corbin (62) struck well played 60s as Jonathan Carter scored 49 to lead UWI to a total of 315 and a first innings lead of 110 runs.

Gladiola in their second innings reached 89 for two before the game was called off and ended in a draw.

UWI’S fast bowler Chemar Holder bowling to Gladiola opener Rashawn Worrell.

In other scores:

At Bank Hall: Empire beat IGS Insurance Brokers Yorkshire by an innings and 22 runs.

Empire 226-6 declared (51.1 overs) (Nathan Sealy 81 – 96 balls, nine fours; Kevin Stoute 49).

Yorkshire 92 all out (33.2 overs) (Indal Persaud 25; Dre Springer 3-15) and 112 all out (40.5 overs) (Shakeel Richards 45; Jomel Warrican 4-16, Kobe Williams 4-53).

POINTS TABLE after final series – Wanderers 97, Wildey 88, Pickwick 87, Empire 83, YMPC 81, Yorkshire 73, UWI 73, Spartan 73, Gladiola 73, BCA Youth 29 (exempt from demotion).

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The Grantley Adams International Airport (GAIA) has reached a significant milestone in its history.

Minister of Tourism Ian Gooding-Edghill reported on Saturday that the port of entry was fast becoming an international hub and statistics showed that by the end of the year, there will be a record number of visitors to pass through the airport.

“The Grantley Adams International Airport is projected to have 2.3 million passengers by the end of this calendar year. This is certainly up from the 2019 figure, which I’m advised was 2.29 million,” he said, stressing that the island was experiencing a boom in tourism.

The minister added that Saturday was one of the busiest days at the airport in its history.

He said 8 000 visitors travelled to Barbados in a single day. Of that figure, 2 200 were air to sea transfers while the other 5 800 were stay over visitors. 

“”The Grantley Adams International Airport has had one of its busiest days certainly in its history. I’ve been advised that there are 54 flights arriving today. We have 15 wide bodies, 15 narrow bodies and 24 regional flights coming into Grantley Adams International Airport… What this tells you is that the growth we are looking for and achieving speaks volumes.”

Chief executive officer of the airport Hadley Bourne said the airport was undergoing a number of initiatives to enhance the customer experience and they augured well for the increased arrivals. 

He added that the neighbouring Concorde experience was reopened for the past six weeks as well to take the load off the main terminal at the GAIA. 

Another significant development was the number of direct flights from the United States (US) to Barbados.

Statistics from January to September this year showed that there were 509 673 stayover arrivals and 176 614 were from the US alone, which made the US surpass the United Kingdom as the number one source market for Barbados for the first time since 1994. 

The minister said he was pleased that six American-based carriers flew into Barbados on Saturday as well. One of them was a re-inaugural flight from Delta airlines direct from the JFK New York airport. That flight, which landed around 2:30 p.m., brought a full capacity of visitors — 160. 

Photo by Sheria Brathwaite.

The passengers and crew of that flight received a warm welcome when they arrived. In a celebratory manner, the red carpet was rolled out and they were greeted with sweet steel pan music, traditional characters and a Bajan Santa Claus. 

During a media briefing at the airport, Gooding-Edghill said measures were being put in place to ensure tourists spent more money during their stay here. 

“We are also focusing on how we can encourage customers to spend more when they are in Barbados. We have a number of exciting programmes which at the appropriate time will be revealed to the country,” he added. 

US-AID general development director of the US Embassy Steven Fonderiest said he was pleased about the improved airlift connectivity between the two states.

Captain of the Delta flight Mark Nagel said he and his crew were happy to provide an important service to Barbados, adding that the trip went smoothly. (SZB)

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One of the island’s leading young medical doctors has developed a creative programme to help in the fight against non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

Dr Emma Dash, founder of Live Well Clinic, started a three-month 10 000 step challenge.

During a closing ceremony on Saturday at Pelican Village, Dash said she was concerned about the high incidences of Barbadians developing NCDs and she wanted to do something about the issue.

“We can work together to make the numbers come down and ensure Barbados is a more productive society,” she said. “The health of our nation affects every single sector in our society. It is not only about the person that is sick or becomes medically unfit, it is also about the person who has to look after the sick person, so NCDs are becoming a burden on society.”

Dash explained that 160 people took part in the challenge with 80 seeing it to the end. During registration they received medical checks for blood sugar levels, cholesterol and other examinations. They were closely monitored throughout the programme. 

“We showed them how to track their steps and they returned in 30 days, then 90 days to get those checks again. We had amazing results, the blood pressure [of the participants] was coming down and people lost up to 30 pounds in 90 days,” she added, pointing out that it was one of the initiatives of her greater low-cost private health-care programme.

“We want to reduce the burden on our public health-care system by providing this low-cost health care. As long as you give people information they can understand, they are willing to [make] a change.”

One of her patients, Joseph Marshall attested to the success of the programme, stating how Dash worked with him to get his high blood pressure to a sense of normalcy. 

During the ceremony, the Director of Clinical and Diagnostic Services at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Dr Corey Forde encouraged Barbadians to make health examinations a frequent activity in their lives and to be responsible during this festive season and eat in moderation. 

Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs Kirk Humphrey said exercise was an important aspect of life, stressing that being active from a young age could guarantee a long and healthy life.

Acknowledging that life could get busy and overwhelming at times, he encouraged people to try hard to make their health a priority and develop better eating habits. Doing so, he said, reduces the possibility of developing an illness.

“A lot of the diabetic cases are because of lifestyle choices,” he said. 

The 10 000 step challenge got underway in August and a number of the participants received special prizes including laptops, free medical examinations, free car insurance, fuel and car services and kadooment costumes. 

Photo by
Sheria Brathwaite.

The challenge will be a biannual event as of next year. (SZB)

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For the second consecutive weekend, Deputy Prime Minister Santia Bradshaw and the Make a Difference Foundation, spread Christmas cheer within the St Michael South East constituency. Following last week’s dinner for seniors at the Hi-Gate Garden Oasis and Bar, this weekend was dedicated to the community’s younger members.

Bringing patrons together in the spirit of the season, Auntie Santia’s Annual Christmas Glow Party attracted a large crowd dressed in white, keeping with the theme of the event. 

Held at the Parkinson Resource Centre, nestled in the heart of the Pinelands community, the grounds were transformed into a fair-like setting for Saturday’s party. A fantastic time was guaranteed as the smell of popcorn wafted through the air, and sno cones were readily available to help beat the heat. 

While many patiently queued waiting to have their faces painted, others had boundless energy to burn. Screams of joy echoed as they clamored for their turn on the inflatable slide or bounced away with wild abandon in their choice of jumping tents. There was still even more energy left for the energetic aerobic session led by Spinny. Eventually they took a break heading over to the food area choosing from the selection which included hamburgers, hotdogs, and ham cutters.

The Santa Corner was a hit with the young attendees who were eager to get up close to Santa Claus. With a photobooth on site, they could get mementos. Close by, a station was set up where they could select gifts from an array of options. As night fell each child received multi-colored glow sticks to light up the night.

Tionne Hernandez was joined by the tiny tots.

In the concert that followed, home drums beat first with appearances by the dancers from the Pinelands Creative Workshop doing the maypole. Nathalee Burke was in the cast singing Caroling Caroling, LR performing some of his popular tracks and Richard Stoute Teen Talent competitor Damario Foster also represented as talent from the area. Other crowd-pleasing performances included Tavon Clarke and the trio Sisters in Harmony, featuring Skyy Dowridge, who later returned for a solo performance.

Roneisha Alleyne and Trinity Clarke showcased their impressive vocals both individually and as a duet, delivering a dynamic performance of Clarke’s hit, I Love Soca. The stage also welcomed Junior Monarch alum Tae and reigning monarch Mr. Showman, who added their signature flair to the festivities. The night concluded on a high note with Tionne Hernandez, who invited excited little ones onstage as she performed her popular Crop Over track, Starta Pack. The night closed with a session by deejay Redemption Sounds. (STT)

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It was a time of sharing skills, stories, and so much more when current employees met with those long retired at the Gentle Folk Nursing Home in a Mix and Mingle event, sponsored by team members of CIBC Caribbean’s Personal & Business Banking, Head Office team.

The event which coincided with Barbados’ Independence celebrations and the upcoming Christmas season, provided a wonderful opportunity for the seniors to be part of both celebrations as they played games and exchanged stories with the staffers.

Commenting on the reason for the event, the bank’s Manager, Branch Experience & Standards, Sonia Boyce, said, “Seniors can face challenges such as loneliness and failing health. This initiative is a great way to help them engage with the community. The advantage of multiple generations coming together in service helps bridge the age gap, and we can all come away benefiting from such interactions and learning.” And they certainly did that as they interacted with the seniors, sharing experiences and taking part in general conversation. 

At the end, comments from the CIBC team members included: “We had a blast!!”  “We met a gentleman who was born on December 23, 1923, and he was as sharp as ever!”  “We sang with the residents … played games. Snakes and Ladders was a hit.” 

Others said, “We were truly blessed by this visit.  Our intention was to share our time and talents with the residents, which we did, but they shared so much more with us!”  “Unforgettable memories were made that day with our Nation Builders.” Another colleague said: “This was excellent for them, and humbling for us.  I thoroughly enjoyed it.”

The bankers did not visit empty-handed, Kwame Mascoll, Sherwyn Codrington and Chris McFarlane presented hampers to the Home on the groups’ behalf.  Gregory Blackman, Director, Client Experience & Sales, , thanked the Home’s staff and management for “the opportunity not only to present gift baskets/tokens but also to interact with their wards.”

The Mix and Mingle was held under the Adopt-a-Cause programme, which encourages the bank’s employees to take part in community projects by donating their time and tangible gifts. (PR)

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ThenWhat? Charity has announced the successful conclusion of its 2024 Christmas Hamper and Toy Drive which culminated on December 14 where they delivered 75 hearty hampers filled with essential items. 

Additionally, more than 150 gifts were distributed to children, spreading joy and holiday cheer throughout several communities.

“This year’s drive was a tireless labour of love but very successful and we’re deeply moved by the outpouring of support from the various donors,” said Samantha Hazlewood-Ermay, Trustee President of ThenWhat? Charity. “The holidays can be a challenging time for many families and it’s heartwarming to see how our community came together to ensure no one was left behind.”

The annual Christmas Hamper and Toy Drive is a cornerstone of ThenWhat? Charity’s mission to uplift and support those in need, particularly during the holiday season. This year’s accomplishments were made possible by the efforts of Emera Caribbean, The Sandals Foundation, UN Volunteers, private contributors, The St Philip’s Primary School, first formers of The St Michael School, Western & Atlantic Marketing, CDB Staff Association, Armstrong Agencies and The Barbados National Oil Company Ltd.

The team at ThenWhat? Charity is already gearing up for an even bigger and better effort in 2025. “We’re incredibly grateful for everyone who made this year’s drive a success and we’re looking forward to continuing this tradition next year,” added Joy Williams-Brome, Trustee Treasurer. “Stay tuned for updates on our plans for 2025, we’re excited to share a fun, year-long activity which will highlight each parish, it will fit perfectly into the ‘We Gathering 2025’ activities as well!” (PR)

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The Barbados Defence Force (BDF) has welcomed 69 new recruits to its ranks.

On Saturday during a pass out parade held at its military Paragon, Christ Church base, newly appointed Chief of Staff, Brigadier General Carlos Lovell congratulated the new officers on their achievement.

He told those attending the ceremony that he was proud of the new recruits for staying the course of the 16-week rigorous training, which included mental, physical, technical and military programmes.

The training, which began in September, started with 101 recruits.  

Lovell said that in order to become a soldier, it required a special calling along with high levels of sacrifice, commitment, patriotism and determination.

He encouraged the new recruits to harness the lessons they learnt in their training throughout their journey as soldiers, give of their best and be beacons of light in their community.

“I temper my congratulations to the recruits however, with a word of cautionary advice. Needless to say this is a milestone and just the beginning for many of you … I implore you fine young men and women to harness the many lessons which you have been taught during recruiting. To become beacons of light in your new postings and assignments. Be proud of your achievements but be humble in the knowledge that you still have a lot to learn. Be positive examples and role models within your communities, armed with the understanding that you, as military service persons, will always be held to a higher standard of  scrutiny,” he said. 

“You should seek to be a positive role model for your peers and always beyond reproach. Be that shining light to encourage positive change by your own personal example and always be mindful that you are now guardians of the force’s reputation. In your every thought, word and deed, be the very embodiment of the defence force’s motto. Be now and forever a symbol of excellence … It is a special privilege to wear this uniform and to bear arms in defence of your country.”

During the ceremony, the new recruits got the opportunity to show off the many skills they developed during their training and performed displays.  Najarie Broomes was recognised as the top recruit. (SZB)   

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On November 5th as the US elections results were being announced the Caribbean watched, knowing that the results would have significant implications for our future. Of course, ‘if America coughs, the Caribbean catches the cold.’

But, as it was clear that Donald Trump had won the US Presidency, Caribbean people now started to question what it would mean for us and the stability or instability of the global international order.

As such, what will Trump 2.0 mean for the Caribbean?

Climate Change

While we don’t know for certain what policies the Trump administration will pursue internally on climate change in light of increased climate-related disasters across the US, and the fact that the Inflation Reduction Act has continued to pour over $390 billion into EVs, and other climate resilient technologies, which have created millions of jobs and other benefits to Republican affiliated states. These may all disappear if he repeals sections of the Act. However, If this has impacts during the midterm elections, he may not be as keen to repeal.

But his global actions will have disastrous impacts for the Caribbean, particularly since he has promised to withdraw the US again from the Paris Agreement, and possibly to withdraw from the UNFCCC, which is the multilateral framework for the reduction of CO2 in the world, and which also provides financial and technical assistance for developing countries like the Caribbean to mitigate climate change through a shift to renewable energy, and to adapt to its impacts and respond to the loss and damage it creates.

When these are coupled with his denial of the existence of climate change as a ‘hoax’, and his intention to ‘drill baby bill’ and ‘frack, frack, frack’, like never before,  increasing the fossil fuel stock of the US, which some have suggested would not only roll back the gains by President Biden, but contribute an estimated 4 billion tons of additional CO2 emissions by 2030 and 25 billion tons by 2050, then these increases would significantly increase the vulnerability of the Caribbean to extreme weather events, more ferocious hurricanes, devastating droughts and floods, and deadly heatwaves, which can continue to plummet our GDPs, increase poverty, destroy infrastructure and roll back any gains made in our climate recovery processes.

As we know, our Caribbean countries are low-lying and heavily exposed to rising sea levels, which erodes coastlines, and displaces populations and industries. Any withdrawal from the Paris Agreement, which is meant to reduce greenhouse gases (GHGs), will increase the emissions of these gases, thereby exacerbating the climate crisis and affecting our ability to protect lives and livelihoods. Of course, it is a no brainer that with warmer ocean temperatures that increase the intensity and ferocity of our hurricanes, the US exit will increase the levels of financial and technical support needed to bolster the climate recovery effort. Such an exit is even more egregious when you add the fact that the US, together with the other developed countries, are the ones that have created this existential climate crisis. The Caribbean may unfortunately be in for some hotter months, longer droughts and more devastating floods.

What is needed now is not an increase in GHGs, which fuels the extreme weather patterns, which Trump promises, but a radical decarbonisation of the US and other global economies. Caribbean leaders should therefore be prepared to dialogue with the president on these critical issues, but also to engage other European counterparts to step up and not bend over backwards to try and mould the climate regime around the vagaries of the US political currents.

These countries, together with China, must now play leading roles in reducing the climate crisis. This is not to suggest however that when the US exits, the climate movement is ‘trumped’, but it is only morally appropriate that due to their overwhelming historical and current contributions to global greenhouse gas emissions, that the US contribute towards reducing the effects on developing countries. Additionally, they must meet their financial obligation, not just to the USD$100 billion per annum that was promised from 2020 by developed countries, but to a higher New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) on Climate Finance. It is one thing to withdraw from the Paris Agreement, like Trump did during his first presidency, but it is another thing entirely to commit to increasing greenhouse gas emissions by expanding oil and gas exploration, given the severe impacts that Caribbean and other SIDS are already experiencing from the climate crisis.

Immigration

Trump’s immigration policy, according to him, would see the largest domestic deportation operation in human history of millions of illegal immigrants.

For the Caribbean, and Haiti in particular, this is troubling, because Trump’s inward-looking policies will devastatingly affect all who flee from war, climate crises, strife, political upheavals and the collapse of their states in search for a better life or the American dream, which has sustained the economic prosperity of America. This use of excessive force against already vulnerable and marginalised populations is testament of Trump’s disregard for human dignity and rights.

Of course, it is easy for us to sit in comfort and say that ‘they should enter legally now or that they should return to their countries.’ That is a privileged position as our countries are not facing the life-threatening issues that Haiti and others do, requiring individuals to flee, as a condition of survival. Who feels it knows it!

But have we for one moment considered that it is also a global responsibility to ensure integration of displaced peoples, in tandem with our humanitarian and civil rights requirements, particularly in circumstances where the US has also contributed towards this destabilisation and has an opportunity to cure these wrongs? At least in Haiti’s case for certain. But, Trump may only compound the problem, making the work of the Expert Group more difficult, if he refuses to assist, but also if he increases his Haitian animus. Remember his eating the animals’ comments, and how they were poisoning the blood of America, ignoring the diversity of America.

What is even more certain is that Trump may not provide support for the improvement of the Haitian state, such that migration is an option, and not a necessity.

It will also now become almost impossible to gain a legal path to citizenship, as even those who have become citizens by marrying an American citizen or their child is a birther are at risk of deportation, thereby further decreasing their quality of lives causing migration issues for the Caribbean.

The implications for the Caribbean are a general sentiment of fear of migration and lack of belonging as they search for a better life, and a concomitant fear by those who voted for ‘closed borders’ of all who are not of the blood of America i.e., also Caribbean peoples. But, more directly, if there are Caribbean peoples who are ‘illegal immigrants’, working and providing remittances to their families back home, one can potentially see a massive reduction in the country’s remittances income, which contribute towards healthcare, education among other areas. The reduction will exacerbate poverty, which has wider economic impacts for the Caribbean economy. Further, there may be deeper fiscal and political strains on other Caribbean countries who would not be able to handle this sudden migration flows.

The Caribbean region as a whole through their political leaders need to engage the President on the abovementioned.

Foreign Aid

In Trump 2.0, particularly with his isolationist ‘America First’ philosophy, there may be less pushback to aid cuts as there were in Trump 1.0, and it could mean that key developmental programmes and agencies within the Caribbean could receive less funding, particularly in areas that are not favourable to the Trump administration. It means that the Caribbean should now utilise the opportunity to forge new relationships with new nations, as opposed to confining itself to looking North.

Trade

Trump will seek to reduce the US Trade deficit, ensuring manufacturing jobs stay within the US, and there’s a baseline global tariff for imports. That has the potential to affect Caribbean exports to the US, making it more difficult through stricter trade regulations. Should there also be a modification of the CBI, which provides certain duty-free access to the US market, in favour of US production, it could also reduce the competitive advantage of Caribbean goods in US markets. But, recognising the large trade deficit with the US, the Caribbean poses no real threat to US jobs, and its beneficial nature to US industry might prove helpful to its continuation.

In the end, Caribbean leaders and people should never see the election of Donald Trump as far removed from impacting the Caribbean region but heed the words of Rudder when he said that they’re trying to pass all laws to spoil our beauty, but in the end we shall prevail. We must take a side or be lost in the rubble, in a divided world that don’t need islands no more. Are we doomed forever to be at somebody’s mercy, little keys can open up mighty doors. Rally!

Rahym Augustin-Joseph is the 2025 Commonwealth Caribbean Rhodes Scholar. He is a recent political science graduate from the UWI Cave Hill Campus and an aspiring attorney-at-law. He can be reached via
rahymrjoseph9@ gmail.com

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There is a wealth of reputable peer-reviewed studies which have confirmed the very small risk of complications from vaccines is far outweighed by their benefits of protection from either infection, or serious complications and even death from vaccine-preventable illnesses.

There is growing evidence that COVID-19 is not ‘just a cold/flu’, even if now less acutely dangerous than the earlier variants. Multiple exposures of our children (and all of us) to its infection, due to the current ‘let it rip’ public health policy worldwide, appear to have serious negative impact on the immune system, leading to increasing rates of other diseases post-COVID-19 infection, as well as increased incidence of long COVID-19. I fear that we will look back with significant regret at how little we protected our children, via vaccination, masking, improvement in indoor air quality and ventilation in high-risk settings.  Pregnant women and babies in utero are still at much higher risk of poor, sometimes devastating, outcomes from COVID-19 infection. In the UK and some EU countries in 2022 – 2023, there were unusual outbreaks of, and death from, severe invasive Group A strep, scarlet fever, RSV and fungal infections in (largely C19-unvaccinated) children. There is growing evidence that this may be due in significant part to COVID-19’s negative effect on the immune system, or ‘immune dysregulation or dysfunction’ (nature.com). Children can be COVID-19 transmission vectors to more vulnerable family members at home, especially with so many Bajans being at high risk of COVID-19 complications, having one or more of: high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, cardio-vascular disease and asthma.

A 2024 international study reveals that ‘the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein remains in brain-protective tissues and skull bone marrow for years after infection, potentially driving long COVID-19’s neurological symptoms’. The mRNA COVID-19 vaccines were shown to reduce this spike protein accumulation by 50 per cent  (neurosciencenews.com). Globally, 50 – 60 per cent  of the population has been infected with COVID-19, with 5 – 10 per cent, approximately 400 million, experiencing long COVID, a huge long-term societal cost.

The increased incidents in many countries of strokes, heart attacks and other sudden medical crises, often from blood clots, including in younger people, are being linked by reputable research as significant evidence that COVID-19 is a vascular disease – and not that the COVID-19 vaccine is the cause, as some anti-vaxxers believe. Instead, it is estimated that 63 per cent, or nearly 20 million, in total global deaths, from COVID-19, were averted during the first year of C19 vaccination ending December 2021 (The Lancet).

If Robert Kennedy Jr, perhaps the most famous antivaxxer, is confirmed as head of the US Health and Human Services Department (HHS), it is frankly terrifying to contemplate the ‘credibility’, global power and platform that that position will give: the turbo-boosting of the toxic combination of anti-establishment, antivax, pro-conspiracy and anti-real science perspective. It ‘validates and enshrines public mistrust of government health programmes’ (Dr Paul Offit, paediatrician, Director of Vaccine Education Center, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia). Kennedy said in 2024 “There’s no vaccine that is…safe and effective” and that he opposes mandatory school-entry vaccinations, as he believes ‘parents should have the right to choose’.  He thinks that COVID-19 was racially genetically engineered, the result of a global conspiracy. He has repeatedly claimed that vaccines are linked to autism, part of another global conspiracy. He has long questioned vaccines’ efficacy in protecting against diseases — statements that have been consistently refuted by decades of overwhelming scientific evidence. He has argued that 5G towers lead to cancer and are designed to collect user data and control behaviour. He promoted unapproved medicines –  eg  Ivermectin – for COVID-19.  He does not think HIV causes AIDS.

Executing RFK Jr’s antivax views as new US public health policy, with the influence that will have in Barbados, and globally, on public health, threatens to undo one of the greatest successes of modern medicine: childhood vaccinations and their eradication (smallpox) and near-eradication (polio) of diseases which used to kill millions, leaving even more to suffer.  When we recall the massive 2019 measles epidemic in Samoa which killed more than 80, many babies and toddlers, due to parental antivax fears amplified personally by Kennedy, it is no surprise that a former US FDA Commissioner, Scott Gottlieb has said that Kennedy will ‘cost lives’, if he leads US HHS.

Antivaccine activism accelerated during the COVID-19 era and has spilled over to childhood immunisations. The US is a cautionary tale: 2022 – Poliovirus detected in NY State’s wastewater; 2023-24 -5x rise in pertussis; 2024 – 16 reported measles outbreaks; 2021-22 saw approx 200,000 needless deaths from refusing COVID-19 immunisations. (Professor Peter Hotez, paediatrician, advocate, global health, vaccinology).

Barbados, a small open society with a high degree of international travel by locals, so heavily dependent on international tourism, with an under-resourced public health system, is particularly vulnerable to the importation of measles and other contagious diseases. We have endured the annual flareup of COVID-19 during our busy winter tourism season; it is very unfortunate that our government has apparently ceased its COVID-19 vaccination programme.  Many of us still wish to protect ourselves, particularly given our significant numbers and percentage of the elderly and those with NCDs. The public also knows little about the antiviral options available.

Public health officials need a targeted, sustained, persuasive and yes, aggressive, multimedia communication campaign, if the antivax messaging war is to be won. This must occur, backed by the power of the state, its vaccination surveillance and enforcement programmes, to ensure that parents cannot successfully decline to protect their children for non-medical reasons, especially as part of our school entry requirements.  We must have a multipronged communication strategy to provide real scientific facts from reputable sources, to regain public trust in government authority figures and the medical community.

We pray it is not too late.

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