Top economist Professor Don Marshall has called for the upcoming national Budget to prioritise targeted stimulus measures for agriculture, industry, and exports, warning that without such interventions, the country risks stalling its economic transformation.

He warned that the country’s ongoing arrangement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) continues to limit the government’s ability to implement specific growth-driven policies.

Barbados remains under an IMF-supported programme through the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF), which guide the country’s economic policies.

The EFF, approved in December 2022, provides $226 million (US$113m) under the Barbados Economic Recovery and Transformation (BERT) 2022 plan, aimed at reducing debt, stabilising public finances, and supporting economic growth.

The $378m (US$189m) RSF focuses on strengthening resilience to climate change and external shocks.

These arrangements require strict fiscal management, shaping government spending and limit room for additional stimulus outside the programme’s framework, according to Professor Marshall.

Speaking to Barbados TODAY ahead of Minister Ryan Straughn’s March 10 Budget speech, Professor Marshall, the director of the Sir Arthur Lewis Institute of Social and Economic Studies (SALISES), stressed that policies should focus on reducing imports and increasing export earnings rather than relying on consumer-driven growth.

“We want growth, but we want the growth to be rooted in import savings and in export earning potentials,” he said.

“But growth that is driven largely by consumption is not going to be experienced on the ground in terms of how people live their ordinary lives. In other words, we wouldn’t see a reduction in the borrowings and so on that we are witnessing.”

Professor Marshall underscored the importance of incentivising small businesses and productive industries, noting that targeted support in these areas is “especially required at this time.”

“A stimulus in the productive sectors is especially required at this time and some relief in terms of mitigation from high cost of living will also be welcome,” he said.

He questioned the extent to which the government could provide such support given the constraints of the IMF agreement.

The economist was particularly critical of what he said were the limitations placed on fiscal policy under the IMF arrangement, suggesting that it restricts the government’s ability to invest in key areas needed for long-term economic growth.

Marshall expressed further scepticism about the Budget: “We go through these annual rituals that more correspond to a constrained policy space, largely because we are in an arrangement with the IMF and I think it is time that Barbados recognises that the constraints on our fiscal policy space mean that the kind of creative expenditures that we can get involved in to stimulate innovation-mediated production, manufacturing and agricultural output wouldn’t happen.

“I’m always very resistant about the annual exercise in the context of an IMF programme. I’m very resistant about what it can do outside of the constraints of fiscal consolidation.”

shannamoore@barbadostoday.bb

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Another 19 records were shattered as Blackman and Gollop Primary upgraded on their boys title last year by capturing both the boys and girls titles in the Sunshine Cereals Ryan Brathwaite Zone of the 2025 Chefette Frosteez National Primary Schools Athletic Championship on Thursday.

Competing at the Usain Bolt Sports Complex, they retained their boys title after amassing 312 points ahead of BSL Wilkie Cumberbatch Warriors (264) and St. Catherines (112).

The girls, meanwhile, finished top of the standings on 271.50 points, dethroning Wilkie Cumberbatch who ended on 250.50 points while St. Mark’s secured the third spot with 114 points.

Blackman and Gollop’s Under-11 star Shakayla Benjamin-Morris and Gordon Greenidge’s Under-13 standout Amira Mayers shared the victrix ludorum title, both athletes finishing on a perfect 30 points.

Benjamin-Morris started off her campaign in the 300m, getting away quickly in the first 100m and powering down the homestretch to a zonal record time of 47.97 seconds.

She then handled the business in the 100m with a swift 14.71 seconds clocking, to add a second gold to her collection, before leaving rivals in her wake with a time of 30.73 seconds to win the 200m.

Mayers led the line for Gordon Greenidge, attacking the first 300m of the 400m fiercely and narrowly missing out on the zonal record, finishing in one minute, 08:46 seconds. She followed up in the 100m, pulling away from the field after the 50m mark with a burst of speed to clock 14.20 seconds at the finish.

Her final individual race was the 200m and she made light work of her rivals as well, bolting through the curve and down the homestretch to a time of 30.16 seconds.

The victor ludorum title was also shared between two star athletes, Blackman and Gollop’s Under-11 Jaden Callender and Wilkie Cumberbatch’s Under-13 Jelani Phillips.

Callender broke records in all of his individual races. In the 300m, he put his mark on the race in the first 100m, motoring off the curve to break his own zonal record with a new mark of 46.64 seconds.

He was yet again dominant in the 100m, commanding the race from the start to storm to the line in another zonal record of 13.74 seconds. In the 200m, Callender delivered the goods once more as he ate the curve up and collected his third zonal record with a clocking of 29.00 seconds.

Wilkie Cumberbatch’s Jelani Phillips was the main act in the Under-13 division with his performance in the 400m being the standout performance of the day. He started at full tilt and delivered a new zonal record of 1:00.05 seconds.

He then cracked a second zonal record when he captured the 100m in 13.45 seconds and he stamped his authority on the field in the 200m with a blistering hot time of 26.97 seconds to post his third zonal record.

While Blackman and Gollop’s title quest was led by Benjamin-Morris and Callender, they received great support. In the girls, Kaliyah Downes won the Under-9 division after accumulating 26 points by winning the 80m (13.10), 150m (25.68) and placing third in 100m (17.27).

Josiah Moore was key for the boys as he won the Under-9 division title, claiming victory in the 100m (16.04), placing second in the long jump (3.08m) and settling for third in the 80m (13.23).

Ajheri Beckles finished second overall on 16 points in the boys Under-11 division, backing up Callender’s record breaking performances well with silver in the 100m (14.05) and 200m (30.12).

Other impressive performances came from Ellerton’s Rakyja Forde-Leacock who won the girls Under-7 division with 20 points, taking home gold in the 50m (10.40) and tennis ball throw (9.40m).

Aiko Delort-Griffith of Wilkie Cumberbatch was also a division champion in the boys Under-7, victorious in the standing broad jump (1.30m) and picking up five points in the tennis ball throw and a point in the 50m.

The final zone action takes place tomorrow in the Rubis Andrea Blackett Zone where Good Shepherd Primary are the defending champions in the boys and girls.

(NGM)

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The government’s planned increase in the national minimum wage this April risks falling short of its intended benefits unless robust enforcement mechanisms are implemented, noted Economist Jeremy Stephen has warned. 

He cautioned that without proper oversight, many employers may fail to comply with the new rates, as was the case when the minimum wage was first introduced in 2021.

He told Barbados TODAY: “If the government does not have the means to enforce or check whether employers are actually increasing the minimum wage, that in itself is a major issue. It all comes down to enforceability. The question is not just whether the economy can bear an increase but whether employers will follow suit.”

Stephen highlighted that government agencies might lack the capacity to ensure businesses comply with wage regulations. He emphasised that enforcement is critical for achieving the desired outcomes of a wage hike.

“Employers were asked to hold strain because of the social compact a few years ago. That ended fairly recently, and a lot of them make decisions based on past actions. They held strain, then saw a dip in profitability. Now, everyone is looking to recoup their investment,” he explained.

He added that many business owners might view a wage hike as premature — an expense undertaken before they see justifiable increases in revenue.

“If they don’t see a justifiable increase in profitability to share that increase in wages, then they would naturally resist it,” Stephen said. 

However, he acknowledged an alternative perspective suggesting that higher wages could stimulate economic activity by increasing consumer spending.

“There’s another point of view that states if you raise wages, you raise expenditure because poor people tend to have a higher capacity to consume. They’ll spend more, especially on retail items,” he said.

Stephen also advocated for industry-specific adjustments rather than uniform wage increases across all sectors. He pointed out that tourism — a key sector in Barbados — is highly seasonal and may require a different approach compared to non-seasonal industries such as banking or retail.

“If you have minimum wage legislation, it has to be issue-specific. Tourism, for example, is a seasonal industry, so a monthly wage adjustment doesn’t always make sense. A system based on hourly rates might be more appropriate,” he explained.

He cited recent targeted wage adjustments for security guards as an example of effective policy but questioned why similar measures were not applied to other sectors.

“The government had industry-specific minimum wages for security officers, but tourism — one of the country’s largest employers — wasn’t given the same tailored approach,” he said.

Stephen warned that tourism businesses might respond to higher wages by increasing seasonal employment rather than offering stable year-round jobs. 

“The more you raise minimum wages, the more seasonal some people will become,” he said.

The economist argued that monitoring employer compliance should be straightforward if relevant agencies are adequately equipped. He suggested that institutions like the Barbados Revenue Authority (BRA) and the National Insurance and Social Security Service (NISSS) could play key roles in ensuring compliance by sharing payroll data with the Ministry of Labour.

But, Stephen expressed doubts about whether such systems are currently in place or whether sufficient resources have been allocated for enforcement. 

“I don’t think the Estimates have given the Ministry of Labour more money to help with enforceability,” he said. “For the next year, at least, we’ll have to wait until after the March Budget to see if any changes are coming.”

Despite his concerns about implementation challenges, Stephen reiterated his support for raising wages: “I am the grandson of a maid — there’s no way I would ever not support raising wages. My problem is always about how it’s done.”

On Tuesday, Minister of Labour Colin Jordan announced plans for a minimum wage increase in April and indicated that a system would be introduced for periodic adjustments. The current sectoral minimum wage entitles workers on a 40-hour week to $340 per week or $8.50 per hour. Security guards earn $9.25 per hour and receive $13.88 per hour for overtime and $18.50 per hour on public holidays.

The planned increase comes four years after Barbados officially introduced its first standardised minimum wage in April 2021. 

sheriabrathwaite@barbadostoday.bb

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Two men were remanded to Dodds Prison after appearing in court on Thursday on gun and ammunition charges.

Shane Mario Clarke, 35, of Medford Road, Whitehall, St Michael, appeared in the District ‘D’ Magistrate’s Court charged with possession of a firearm and three rounds of ammunition on February 21.

Kemar Crick, 22, of Moncreiffe, St Philip, appeared in the Oistins Court charged with possession of a firearm and 11 rounds of ammunition on February 25.

Both Clarke and Crick will reappear in court on March 27. Clarke returns to the District ‘D’ Magistrates’ Court and Crick to the Oistins Court. (SD)

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Police are investigating the fatal shooting of Kadeem Scantlebury, 24, of Belgrave Land, Grazette’s, St Michael that occurred last night at Jackman Road, Wavell Avenue, Black Rock, St Michael.

Scantlebury was standing outside a house when he was approached by a man and shot. Neighbors assisted Scantlebury and transported him to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, where he later died.

Police are appealing to anyone with information about the incident to contact the Black Rock Police Station at 417-7500/417-7506, Police Emergency 211, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477, or the nearest Police Station.

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Two cruise ship passengers were reprimanded and discharged on Thursday, when they appeared before Magistrate Manila Renee on charges related to “very small” amounts of cocaine, cannabis and methamphetamine.

The Americans, answered the charges in the District ‘A’ Magistrates’ Court.

Mikel Eric Gerle, a 69-year-old retiree from Los Angeles, California, pleaded guilty to all eight charges in connection with the possession, possession with intent to supply, trafficking, and importation of methamphetamine valued at $140 (1.4 grammes), cannabis worth $70 (7 grammes), and cocaine valued at $70 (1.4 grammes).

David Martin Aldea, a 58-year-old technician consultant from New York, also admitted to six similar charges.

Magistrate Renee upheld the mitigation of Gerle’s attorney, Michael Lashley KC, that his client should be discharged without a conviction recorded against him on the grounds of his upfront guilty pleas, which avoided wasting the court’s time, the small amounts of drugs, and the fact that he had no prior record in Barbados.

Renee said she was reluctantly agreeing but did so due to the small amounts of drugs and the fact that the visitors were passing through the country.

However, the magistrate warned Gerleand Aldea that they needed to respect the laws of Barbados and that if they returned to the island and were convicted on similar charges, they would face harsher penalties.

Aldea’s attorney, Ensley Grainger, did not have to make any mitigation speech, as Magistrate Renee had ruled that his client would be treated in the same manner as Gerle, given that the facts were similar.

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An unemployed St Michael youth was sentenced to 24 months in prison on Thursday after pleading guilty to stealing jewellery from three women in 2023.

Magistrate Manila Renee ruled in the District ‘A’ Magistrates’ Court that the sentences of Oramile Holder, 27, of Cumberbatch Road, Black Rock, will run concurrently, with a deduction for time already spent on remand. She did not say how long that remand period was.

Holder was charged with stealing one bangle valued at $600, belonging to Doriel Medford, on December 2, 2023; a chain valued at $650 from Yvonnett Kimon on October 25, 2023; and two bangles worth $1 000, the property of Jacqueline Green Mayers, on November 18, 2023.

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Red Advertising & Marketing once again topped the American Advertising Federation awards among the Barbadian Agencies with 7 ADDY Awards, more than all the other Barbadian agencies combined.

Within this were 3 Gold Awards, two of which were for The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Nutritional Security, behind their campaign to educate farmers on how best to deal with Climate Change.

This initiative was spearheaded by veteran entertainer MacFingall though the radio campaign “Old MacFingall’s Farm”.

The Hon. Indar Weir, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Nutritional Security commented on the awards, “Who said information couldn’t be entertaining? Climate Change is a reality and is adversely affecting our critical agricultural sector and putting our farmer’s livelihoods at risk.

Red Advertising and the team at the Ministry delivered a campaign that drove home this message with humour and seriousness combined. Mac balanced this perfectly. This is also a signal that the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Nutritional Security is committed to modern methods of communication as we seek to lead the re-invigoration and modernisation of the sector.

Well done to Red Advertising, we look forward to further cutting edge campaigns in the future!”
Addy awards were also won for Sagicor Life and The Norman Centre, the latter having won awards for 5 years straight!
Jevan Jutagir, Managing Director at Red added, “Every Year we win ADDY and Angel awards for work we do for clients.
The formats have moved to digital and social media away from TV and press, but a strong, strategic understanding of the consumer and brand always delivers better, focused creativity. We seem to understand this fundamental truth better than our competitors, and that is why we have won more awards for over 20 years!”

The ADDY awards is the creative award show of the American Advertising Federation (AAF) of which the Caribbean Advertising Federation (CAF) is a member. The awards are 3 tiered with local shows and awards which feed into regional shows (the CAF is part of the 4th District region which includes Florida, The Caribbean and Puerto Rico) which in turn feed into a National show.

Red Advertising & Marketing, operates across the Caribbean and is one of the Caribbean’s most creatively awarded agencies. Its contact is Jevan Jutagir 1-246-228-4000

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Two days ago (February 26) marked the 100th anniversary of the birth of former Barbados and West Indies batting great, Sir Everton DeCourcy Weekes.

Sir Everton died at the age of 95 on Wednesday, July 1, 2020 after a lengthy illness. Up until his passing, he was the oldest West Indies Test cricketer.

He was one of the famous Three Ws – the others were fellow Barbadians, Sir Frank Worrell and Sir Clyde Walcott, who both predeceased him.

Worrell died at the age of 42 in 1967, while Walcott passed, aged 80, in 2006.

Sir Everton played 48 Test matches between January 21, 1948 and March 31, 1958. He scored 4455 runs including 15 centuries and 19 half-centuries, at an average of 58.61. His highest score was 207. He also took 49 catches.

In 152 first-class matches, Weekes amassed 12 010 runs with 36 hundreds and 54 half-centuries including a highest of 304 (Ave: 55.34).

Sir Everton was witty. Even in his very old age, his memory was still sharp and he remained a source of inspiration.

It is my pleasure to share extracts from a couple interviews I had with him.

The first was in 1990 for Cricket Life magazine of which the Editor-in-Chief was Imran Khan, the outstanding former Pakistan captain and fast bowling all-rounder, who was also a former Prime Minister of his country.

The initial setting was at the popular Enterprise Beach, commonly known as “Miami Beach” in Christ Church before we moved to his home, also in the same parish.

It was just after dawn and Weekes was among a small group of bathers.

When told that sea-bathing seemed to be one of his hobbies, Weekes, a former player for the famous Empire Club at Bank Hall, St. Michael and a Government cricket coach remarked: “I have been doing this for years. I walk about four or five miles on the beach and swim for about half-an-hour. You get some satisfaction knowing that if you are not on a hospital bed and you are not sick, you can make an effort to get reasonably fit. It’s not a bad habit to acquire. I miss it sometimes when I am out of Barbados but I at least try to walk if I cannot find a nice place to swim.

“I am happy with life. I am not crying too much. I suppose the pioneers never seem to get much out of the beautiful things in life but I am not complaining.

“I am happy to see that cricketers nowadays are pretty well satisfied with the money they are making out of the sport. I can only hope that they use it wisely. We can’t all be born at the same time. I suppose a lot of people who played the game at the time I played would, in retrospect, say that they would prefer to be playing now.

“But I always maintain that somebody had to roll the pitches, prepare the grounds and make it easier for some of the players. I am happy that I was part of that crowd that helped to prepare the way for modern cricketers.”

Weekes first came to prominence when he served with the Barbados Battalion of the Caribbean regiment. He was spotted by ELG Hoad, who captained the West Indies in the first-ever Test in the Caribbean against England in Barbados, 1929-30.

By the age of 18, Weekes had made his debut for Barbados as an opening batsman. Although he was impressive at national level, he did not make it to the West Indies team until the 1947-48 MCC tour of the West Indies.

Of all his prodigious feats in Test cricket, Weekes is perhaps best remembered for his five consecutive Test centuries – still a world record – starting in the fourth and final Test of the 1948 series against England at Sabina Park, Jamaica when he made 141.

Then on the 1948-49 tour of India he hit 128 in the first Test at Delhi; 194 in the second at Bombay; 162 and 101 in the third at Calcutta before he was dubiously run out for 90 in the fourth at Madras.

On that Indian tour, he amassed 779 runs at an average of 111.28 and reckons that the 162 was his best Test innings.

“At the time India only had one recognised fast bowler, (Dattu) Phadkar, and the others were sort of medium-fast,” Weekes asserted.

“The run out was unfortunate. I was batting with Gerry Gomez and I played a ball behind square and started running and Gerry stopped. I got back into the crease and watched it all happen.

“I was in the crease when the umpire gave me out but that’s the name of the game. Some days you get a let-off. You may get dropped or you may hit a ball and the umpire not give you out.”

He described the pitches on the Indian tour as “uncovered but very good for batting”.

With his characteristic modesty, Weekes said: “I wouldn’t like to go around with a placard on my back saying that I made five consecutive Test centuries because the first thing people would say is that ‘I always knew he was crazy’.”

Also a former Barbados captain and team manager, Weekes said it was difficult to compare cricketers of yesteryear with those of today.

“I think the fielding has improved tremendously. The players are fitter. But the batting and bowling are about the same level. There have been some great batsmen from all the cricketing nations and I think they measure up favourably with the great players of the past.”

Weekes was also a noted bridge player. He started playing the game seriously in 1974 and competed in World Championships in Holland, Seattle and Venice.

“It’s a beautiful experience playing another sport at that level. I see some of the players at the table behaving very much like some of our cricketers nowadays. I suppose because I played another sport, I am a bit more tolerant than most of the players.”

Weekes was also a fond lover of jazz music, which he collected for many years and enjoyed travelling as well.

In that 1990 interview, he remarked: “I have a travelling bug. I have been travelling ever since I was 18 and I still like to go away from this beautiful island to get away from some of the nice and ugly things. I travel at least ten times a year, mainly to North America and Canada.

“I like church music. I was brought up in the days when one had to go to Sunday school. Frank (Worrell) and I used to sing quite a lot of church music on cricket tours.”

And that came from a technical purist, who struck just one six in his Test career as he explained that, “you have a better chance hitting the ball flat rather than in the air. Three fours, in my opinion, are always better than two sixes.”

Apart from the Order of St. Michael and St. George, Sir Everton was also awarded the Gold Crown of Merit and the Order of the British Empire. He served as an ICC match referee.

In 1995, he was the last of the 3Ws to be knighted.

Sir Everton also worked as a radio analyst for international and regional first-class matches at Kensington Oval.

The other interview which touched me was in a Sunday Sun Cricket Special, produced on October 6, 1996, titled “Salute to our stars” of which I was the editor, following a special banquet for all former West Indies players put on by then West Indies Board president Pat Rousseau at the Jamaica Pegasus in New Kingston. I was fortunate to attend the event.

Under the headline – “Weekes: A wizard at the wicket” – I wrote: “For the modesty, which Everton Weekes displays, anyone who does not know him would tend to wonder what were the qualities that made him such an outstanding batsman.

“One of the famous 3Ws, Sir Everton would unquestionably find a place in any all-time West Indies Test team.

“But Sir Everton hardly goes into the nitty gritty of his feats, saying he prefers someone else to talk about them.”

“I don’t particularly like to talk about myself. I don’t get a lot of fun talking about me,” he said. “My modesty doesn’t go as far as to say I did not recognise myself as a great player and I prefer one of the players to talk about me.”

Weekes considered Australians Ray Lindwall and Keith Miller and England’s Freddie Trueman as the leading fastest bowlers he encountered, but he also had some praise for medium fast bowlers Alec Bedser and Trevor Bailey of England.

Of spinners, he gave top marks to India’s (Subhash) Gupte, Jim Laker of England and Australian Richie Benaud.

Kensington Oval was his favourite ground.

“I always preferred to bat at Kensington and I was able to get a hundred against every touring team there,” he said, adding: “I think I spoiled the Bajans.”

But what was the relationship like between the 3Ws?

“We got on beautifully together. We were great friends. Whenever it was possible for us to room together, we did so. There was no friction,” Sir Everton said.

Weekes was the father of three sons and one daughter. One of his sons, David Murray, was a former Barbados and West Indies wicket-keeper/batsman. Another son, Andy Weekes, played for the Barbados Youth team as a batsman but gave up the game early for a music career, while a grandson, Ricky Hoyte (Murray’s son), also played for Barbados.

Andy Weekes and David Murray are now deceased. Andy died in May 2022 and David in November of the same year.

(Keith Holder is a veteran, award-winning freelance sports journalist, who has been covering local, regional and International cricket since 1980 as a writer and commentator. He has compiled statistics on the Barbados Cricket Association (BCA) Division 1 (rebranded Elite in 2012) Championship for over four decades and provides statistics and stories for the BCA website www.barbadoscricket.org

Email: Keithfholder@gmail.com

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Tyreke ‘Lanks’ Harewood showed why he is feared in the Co-operators General Insurance, Barbados Amateur Basketball Association (BABA) Premier League, when he dropped 41 points for Island Care Ambulance Service & BodyxB Lakers, in a 75-65 take down of Warrens All-Stars 75-65 on Thursday night.

Harewood made it look easy in the paint, dominating the game to finish with a double-double as he added 16 rebounds – seven in the offensive category.

Harewood and Primus ‘Optimus’ Walrond, who also had a double-double of 10 points and 17 rebounds, were too much for Warrens.

Lakers were expected to dominate the game but Warrens put up significant resistance until midway through the fourth quarter when Yearwood sealed the win. At the end of the first quarter, the Lakers led 18-15, and the score was 34-32 at half-time.

The contest was a low-scoring affair mainly because Warrens made it hard for Lakers to score on the outside, playing an active 2-3 zone defence. That strategy made the Lakers guards, including veteran Keefe Birkett, uncomfortable and gave them little space on the wings.

Conversely, when Lakers coach Derek Browne gave Harewood a break, Warrens attacked the middle. Manuel Alleng, Karlos Greendige and Johnathan Dottin took advantage of Harewood’s absence, scored tough layups to keep the score close, and led just before halftime, 31-27.

However, Lakers recognised their advantage in the paint and ensured they fed Harewood the ball, and he easily backed down the opposition to score. What also killed the chances of Warrens was the tough missed layups in the fourth quarter.

Though the game was a physical one in the key, Warrens were unable to score after multiple opportunities in the same possession. The Lakers did not have that problem, and with Harewood and Walrond crashing the offensive boards, the game was won.

Ricardo Jemmott contributed to the victory with 11 points and Birkett had seven.

For Warrens, Alleng never gave up and played to the very end to score a team-high 23 points with 12 rebounds, while Dottin had eight points, 14 rebounds and five blocks.

Karlos Greenidge also played well for his 13 points in the game.

Meanwhile, 246 Mobile Shop City United Celtics beat NSC Combined Schools Tridents 94-65 with Kiserian ‘Csec’ Adams the main weapon for the winners, scoring 26 points and grabbing seven rebounds with five assists and five steals.

Deroni Hurley shot extremely well from the three-point line, scoring five threes on his way to 17 points and six assists. Theo Greenidge had 16 points and Jared Alleyne earned a double-double of 13 and 12 rebounds.

Tyler Forde was the best player on the night for the Tridents, scoring 16 points while Zane Gaskin had 14, Darreon Griffin 12 and Nathaniel Scott, 10 points and nine rebounds.

The two-leg semi-finals of the BABA Presidents’ Cup bounce off Sunday at the Barbados Community College (BCC) with Celtics taking on Lakers at 5 pm and Burger King Clapham Bulls clashing with Fusionz Boutique Station Hill Cavaliers at 7 pm.

(AS)

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Minister of Foreign Affairs Kerrie Symmonds has criticised the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) for failing to address longstanding accreditation barriers, warning that these obstacles could undermine the bloc’s historic move towards full free movement of nationals by June 1.

Speaking in Parliament on Friday, Symmonds lamented what he described as regional complacency in mutual accreditation agreements, hindering professionals seeking opportunities beyond their home countries.

His comments come in the wake of CARICOM’s decision to implement full free movement of nationals across the region by June 1.

“The challenge is sometimes that we are a little bit too complacent,” Symmonds said, stressing the need for urgency.

“I go back to the point of mutual accreditation agreements. Even if the average lawyer chose to practise outside Barbados, the accreditation issue is still going to stand in his way.”

He noted that while the recent inclusion of Martinique in regional trade and professional agreements presents new opportunities, professionals from CARICOM states still face obstacles due to a lack of mutual recognition of qualifications.

“The rules will allow you to establish in Martinique, but if you chose to do so, the accreditation issues will stand in the way of those who go into Martinique,” he said.

“And we have to make sure therefore that we move with alacrity as a region.”

Symmonds further pointed to the historical neglect of this issue, noting that since the signing of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) in December 2007, little progress had been made in resolving accreditation challenges.

He noted that it was only around 2019, with the arrival of new political administrations, that the deficiencies were once more acknowledged.

“This is a matter which we are trying to put onto the front burner again because it did flounder between December 2007 when the EPA was signed and I would say 2018–2019 when new administrations came into the region again and recognised that these were deficiencies that had not been faced and fixed and wrestled to the ground,” he said.

The minister’s comments follow a renewed push by CARICOM for deeper integration, which culminated in the decision to remove all restrictions on movement for its citizens during the recently concluded CARICOM summit.

The foreign minister noted that while this represents a significant step towards regional unity, without proper harmonised professional accreditation, skilled workers may still struggle to access employment opportunities in other member states despite their right to relocate freely.

His comments also align with earlier concerns raised by trade and labour experts who argue that for free movement to be truly effective, CARICOM must establish comprehensive frameworks for the mutual recognition of qualifications across sectors, enabling doctors, lawyers, engineers and other professionals to practise seamlessly within the region without bureaucratic impediments. (SM)

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The Caribbean urgently needs to overhaul its economic model to tackle vulnerabilities, reduce reliance on tourism, and create a resilient, competitive business environment, the President of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), Daniel Best, warned on Friday. 

Speaking at the Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (BCCI) annual luncheon on Friday, he called for bold reforms to ensure the region’s survival in an increasingly volatile global economy.

The Caribbean must act decisively to restructure its economy, reduce vulnerabilities, and create a more resilient and competitive business environment, Best told business leaders and policymakers.

He called for an overhaul of the region’s economic approach, highlighting high migration rates of skilled professionals, growing youth crime, and an overreliance on tourism as indicators that the current model is unsustainable.

He further noted that economic resilience must be the foundation of any sustainable development plan, stating that the Caribbean cannot afford to be passive in the face of global challenges.

Best highlighted the region’s heavy reliance on imports, lack of reserve currencies, and vulnerability to external shocks as major weaknesses that need urgent attention. He noted that tourism accounts for 60 per cent of the island’s foreign exchange earnings, making it particularly susceptible to global disruptions.

Joining the nationwide call for diversification, the CDB president said the move is not just an option but a necessity for the survival and long-term prosperity of the Caribbean. He pointed to other small island developing states (SIDS) that have built resilience through export diversification, stressing that the Caribbean must follow suit.

“Diversification is not just a strategy. It is a necessity for economic survival and long-term prosperity,” he said. “We must establish business ecosystems that create dynamic, internationally competitive firms.”

He stressed that economic ecosystems must be conducive to growth, ensuring that firms can compete globally. He further warned that weaknesses in infrastructure, finance, regulations, and human capital would only push businesses to invest elsewhere.

Best also made a strong case for strengthening regional supply chains, particularly in agriculture and food production, to reduce reliance on global markets and improve food security.

“If we are to move goods smoothly from farm to table across borders, we must align our legislative and regulatory frameworks, logistics infrastructure, and key policies region-wide,” he said, noting that the pandemic exposed the region’s dependence on food imports, with global supply chain disruptions leaving some countries vulnerable to shortages.

“With the world facing unprecedented challenges—climate change, geopolitical instability, economic shifts—we simply cannot afford to wait.”

Unveiling what he said was CDB’s new private sector strategy designed to enhance business competitiveness and increase access to finance for micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), Best listed improving access to finance, enhancing regulatory efficiency, accelerating the transition to sustainable energy, and expanding opportunities for women entrepreneurs as key components.

A major initiative under this plan is a new trade financing programme aimed at increasing Caribbean exports by reducing financial risk for businesses.

“We are actively designing and will deliver to the region a new CDB trade financing programme which will unlock new opportunities for Caribbean trade by partnering with local financial institutions through a tailored risk-sharing initiative,” he announced.

He also highlighted CDB’s ongoing support for renewable energy projects, including the development of geothermal energy in Dominica and exploration in Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis, and St Vincent and the Grenadines as part of an effort to lower energy costs and improve resilience.

“The private sector must lead the charge—not just as the engine of economic growth but as a driver of systemic change,” he said. He further urged business leaders to push for regulatory reforms, invest in research and innovation, and partner with educational institutions to develop a more skilled workforce.

He also encouraged businesses to embrace technology, advocate for better policies, and support initiatives that make the region more competitive.

“The global landscape is shifting rapidly, and we cannot afford to stand still,” he said, challenging policymakers and business leaders in attendance.

He urged action, arguing that failure to act now will leave the region at a disadvantage in an increasingly competitive world.

“The decisions we make today will determine whether the Caribbean is a passive player in a changing world or a region that takes control of its own destiny,” he said.

As president of CDB, his position was clear: “I choose ambition over complacency, action over rhetoric, and transformation over stagnation. And I know that if we work together with urgency and purpose, we will build a region that is not just resilient but thriving.”

“The time is now. Let’s get to work.”

(SM)

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Barbados Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) head James Clarke has called for urgent reforms to address persistent delays at the Bridgetown Port, warning that inefficiencies are stifling business operations and undermining the country’s economic growth.

Speaking at the chamber’s first luncheon for 2025, held at the Hilton Resort on Friday, Clarke called for urgent action to streamline port logistics, reduce bureaucratic red tape, and modernise trade and investment policies to position Barbados as a more competitive global player.

The BCCI president said port bottlenecks remain one of the most pressing concerns for the local business community, highlighting frustrations over costly delays and inefficiencies that have plagued importers and exporters alike.

These issues, he stressed, must be addressed as part of a broader strategy to improve the ease of doing business in the country.

“Delays at the port continue to affect our business community, impacting supply chains and creating unnecessary hurdles for trade,” Clarke said.

“If we are serious about building a stronger, more resilient economy, we must tackle these inefficiencies head-on.”

Addressing an audience of business leaders and policymakers, Clarke outlined the chamber’s agenda for 2025, identifying regulatory reform, digital transformation, and business advocacy as key priorities. He said the chamber would continue working closely with the government and social partners to implement policies aimed at reducing bureaucracy, modernising business practices, and making Barbados a more attractive destination for investment.

The role of technology in economic expansion was another critical focus, with Clarke urging businesses to embrace digital transformation to drive efficiency and competitiveness.

He referenced BCCI’s 2024 trade engagement with Panama as an example of how strategic partnerships can open new offshore markets and strengthen regional and international business linkages.

Clarke also highlighted the importance of workplace wellness, particularly in addressing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes and hypertension, which have been on the rise among the working population.

He reaffirmed the chamber’s partnership with the National NCD Commission and the Ministry of Health, urging companies to adopt healthier workplace policies as part of their long-term sustainability strategies.

The BCCI president also announced plans to mark the chamber’s 200th anniversary—a historic milestone for the private sector. Celebrations will include a gala awards dinner, a community outreach initiative, a public lecture, and a commemorative magazine aimed at reflecting on the chamber’s legacy while preparing for the future.

Clarke thanked members for their continued support and urged the business community to stay engaged as the chamber pushes for economic reforms, investment growth, and global competitiveness in 2025.

“The work is far from over,” he said.

“We remain committed to ensuring that Barbados is a place where businesses can thrive, innovate, and lead. This is our moment to build a stronger, more resilient economy, and we look forward to working with all of you to make it happen.” 

(SM)

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Barbados is set to confront the United States over newly imposed visa restrictions targeting Cuban medical professionals, with Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade

Kerrie Symmonds warning that the move could jeopardise critical healthcare services across the Caribbean.

He described the Donald Trump administration’s decision to penalise those involved in Cuba’s medical programme as “a matter of legitimate concern” for Bridgetown, emphasising the need for “mature dialogue” with US officials.

“The fact that it has now been signalled to us that Cuban medical brigades are an undesirable aspect of what others would see as a relationship between ourselves and Cuba, and therefore the consequences of having them working in our country would be the withholding of visas, is a matter legitimately of some concern,” Symmonds said in Parliament on Friday.

Stressing the importance of a measured response, he added: “It is really important, though, that the temptation to respond in a manner full of testosterone does not overcome us.”

The visa restrictions, announced by the US State Department on Tuesday, expand penalties on Cuban officials linked to the country’s medical labour programme, citing concerns about forced labour and human rights violations.

Symmonds revealed that CARICOM foreign ministers had already begun discussions on the potential fallout.

“We had a meeting as recently as this morning, and the truth of the matter is that Grenada has signalled, for example, that if you took the Cubans out of their public health system, you would be down to one anaesthesiologist in the country and one cardiac surgeon,” he said.

“So they obviously are heavily dependent… so too is Jamaica deeply intertwined with the assistance from Cuba.”

He joined other Caribbean nations in defending their partnerships with Cuba, arguing that the medical cooperation agreements fill critical gaps in local healthcare systems and facilitate the transfer of knowledge and expertise.

Symmonds noted that during the COVID-19 pandemic, Cuba’s medical brigades were at the forefront of testing and treatment efforts in Barbados and several neighbouring countries, further stating that “when others closed their doors, Cuba opened theirs”.

The minister stressed that Barbados must balance diplomacy with its own national interests—specifically speaking out in defence of a health sector bolstered by Cuban medical professionals.

Signalling that Barbados has been walking a fine line on US sanctions, the Foreign Ministry’s Director-General, Donna Forde, noted that the country had been meticulous in complying with the Helms-Burton Act, a 1995 US federal law that imposes restrictions on engagements with Cuba.

“Even though the sanctions are imposed on Cuba and on the Cuban state, the impact of those sanctions redound on the operations of every country that engages with Cuba,” she said.

She revealed that during the pandemic, Barbados implemented strict financial measures to ensure compliance with US regulations.

“One of the things which we were certain to do is to ensure that every Cuban hired during that time had their own bank account so that Barbados was not paying any funds directly to the Cuban authorities in a way that could bring us under the scrutiny of the United States administration,” Forde said.

shannamoore@barbadostoday.bb

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The University of the West Indies (UWI) Cave Hill Campus has pledged to address student grievances after protests erupted on Thursday, with the Guild of Students demanding reforms on funding, accommodation, and transport.

Management met with guild representatives yesterday afternoon and reported that a plan is now in place to address student concerns.

“A team of University officials met with guild representatives and both sides have agreed to collaboratively compile a list of action items for execution within a mutually agreed timeframe,” a university statement read.

The protests stemmed from a range of student concerns, including adjustments to the access of funds allocated to the Guild of Students.

The university explained that these adjustments were implemented following a management audit that revealed financial irregularities.

“These stricter financial controls followed the discovery of financial irregularities. This decision was not taken lightly but reflects our commitment to transparency, accountability and responsible stewardship of resources,” the university stated.

But the university acknowledged that the current system may not adequately balance the guild’s desired independence with the necessary financial oversight.

“Notwithstanding this commitment, the campus does acknowledge that there is scope to engage with the guild to find a mechanism to balance the independence sought by the guild with the need for financial control,” the statement continued.

The university has pledged to work with the guild to establish a new mechanism that allows for a “reasonable measure of independence” in funding student activities while maintaining responsible financial management.

The protestors had also issued a list of urgent demands, including a full audit of guild finances during administrative oversight, improved student accommodation services, and a more efficient shuttle transport system, as well as the reinstatement of guild autonomy in executing its duties as an elected representative body, among other things. (BT)

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Barbados’ economic recovery continues to impress international observers, with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) praising the nation’s robust growth and reform progress while warning of significant vulnerabilities to external shocks and natural disasters.

The IMF mission, led by economist Michael Perks, concluded a four-day visit to Barbados on Friday, delivering a positive preliminary assessment ahead of the fifth and final reviews of the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) programmes scheduled for May.

The team highlighted Barbados’ estimated four per cent GDP growth in 2024, driven by tourism, business services, and construction, alongside moderated inflation at 1.4 per cent and a narrowing current account deficit of 4.5 per cent of GDP.

“Barbados’ economic growth remained robust in 2024. Real GDP growth is estimated at four per cent driven by business services, tourism, and construction. Inflation moderated to an average of 1.4 percent, reflecting an easing of global commodity prices and prices of domestic goods and services,” the IMF reported.

The country’s international reserves reached US$1.6 billion, or $3.2bn, equivalent to over seven months of imports, the bedrock for the strength of the Barbados dollar peg.

Fiscal performance was also commended, with a primary balance of 5.3 per cent of GDP through December 2024, keeping Barbados on track to meet its fiscal target of 3.8 per cent of GDP for FY2024/25. Public debt declined to around 100 per cent of GDP by the end of 2024, with the government reaffirming its commitment to reducing it further to 60 per cent by FY2035/36.

The IMF praised the government’s implementation of its home-grown Barbados Economic Recovery and Transformation (BERT 2022) programme and noted progress in structural reforms supported by IMF technical assistance. These include strengthening customs administration, enhancing public-private partnership frameworks, and improving liquidity forecasting at the Central Bank of Barbados.

“The authorities continue to make strong progress in implementing their ambitious economic reform programme. Targets for end-December 2024 under the Extended Fund Facility were met,” the IMF stated.

But, the IMF cautioned that Barbados remains highly vulnerable to global economic turbulence and natural disasters. “The near-term economic outlook remains positive, but risks continue to be high and tilted to the downside,” it warned.

The mission expressed gratitude for the Barbadian government’s cooperation during its visit and looked forward to concluding discussions during the May reviews. While acknowledging these positive developments, the IMF underscored that its findings represent staff views rather than those of its Executive Board.

(EJ/IMC1)

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Persons with disabilities (PWDs) have been assured that exciting times lie ahead in relation to opportunities the Government will be providing for them, with a view to setting an inclusive climate and ensuring they live fulfilling and active lives.

The message came today from Permanent Secretary, Jehu Wiltshire, at the start of a workshop to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the newly enacted Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill and its associated implications. It was held at the Radisson Aquatica.

Wiltshire noted that during the past 18 months to two years, Government had been instrumental in undertaking a number of initiatives and interventions which have redounded to the benefit of persons with disabilities.

He noted these include the extension of social security support for persons with a wide range of disabilities including Autism, Multiple Sclerosis, Cerebral Palsy, and Down Syndrome.

Noting the formulation of the comprehensive 2023-2030 National Policy for Improving the Lives of Persons with Disabilities in Barbados was laid in Parliament last year, he stressed it would not sit on a shelf but would be accompanied by a very comprehensive strategic plan.

Adding that it is being executed on the basis of a public awareness programme, in relation to persons with disabilities, the Permanent Secretary pointed out that this was followed by the groundbreaking piece of legislation in terms of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act.  

He stressed it would shortly be proclaimed and it essentially “provides a legal framework for guaranteeing inclusive education and training opportunities, accessible and dignified health care, measures to increase employment for persons with disabilities, reasonable access to building, affordable and reliable transportation and protection from natural disasters”.Wiltshire noted that in relation to accessibility to buildings, the Ministry intends to complete an audit in relation to buildings that are owned and used by Government, to ensure persons with disabilities have easy access to those buildings.

“Not only in terms of wheelchairs but various communication devices which Government will be seeking to install,” he stated.

The Permanent Secretary also noted that the Ministry, through the National Disabilities Unit (NDU), was determined to execute more activities beneficial to this group.

“More specifically, the Unit intends to facilitate persons with disabilities in being able to access a wider range of resources, through the amalgamation of the National Disabilities Unit, Child Care Board, Welfare Department, and the National Assistance Board into one comprehensive entity, to be known as the Social Empowerment Agency,” he said.

Those present heard there would be a number of programmes introduced by this agency, including the reintroduction of the Mangrove Agricultural Project to train PWDs in food crop production, with the goal of employing in excess of 30 persons. Additionally, there would be the construction of a Sheltered Workshop to teach PWDs vocational skills to aid, for instance, with small engine repairs and repairs to wheelchairs.

It is also envisaged that more persons will be prepared for the world-of-work, through gaining skills in flower arranging and sign language and will benefit further from work experience programmes. Also, training in Artificial Intelligence is expected to be provided to PWDs through the Ministry of Education.

Mr. Wiltshire added that measures would be taken to enhance the Recreational and Rehabilitative Facility at the NDU, as a space for recreational and fundraising events.

He said this would be undertaken along with the introduction of a video relay service to enhance the ability of the hearing impaired to effectively communicate, particularly when undertaking business transactions.

(BGIS)

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Foreign minister Kerrie Symmonds has called for a bold reimagining of the nation’s diplomatic strategy, urging greater involvement of young people in shaping the country’s international image through creativity, technology, and innovative exchange programmes.

The senior minister questioned how effectively the country is leveraging its youth to advance its global positioning.

“How are we using the youth? How are we engaging the youth? Putting them out there, sending them out there to help shape the image of what we want persons in the world to see? That’s what the representational part of it is,” he said, while responding to a question posed during the Appropriation Bill debate on Friday.

He emphasised the need for Barbados to tap into the technological and creative skills of younger generations, particularly university students and young creatives, to promote the country’s interests on the international stage.

But Symmonds acknowledged that current efforts to involve young people in diplomatic initiatives remain limited.

“The answer, if I go straight to the root of it, is we are using them in a very limited way. There’s tremendous room for opportunity,” he admitted.

The minister pointed to his own experience in an Alliance Française student exchange programme between Barbados and Martinique, which he described as transformative. He argued that similar initiatives could be expanded beyond cultural and linguistic exposure to encompass business, governance, and technological development.

He also highlighted existing programmes such as China’s youth exchange initiatives, where young Barbadians have been exposed to technological advancements in the Asian powerhouse.

“There is a delegation of young people who are called from government departments and other areas in Barbados to experience a three- or four-week exposure in different parts of China, invariably linked to technological developments and opportunities,” Symmonds said. “Those who have done it have come back, not an English expression, forgive me Mr Chairman, but they have come back wowed by what they have experienced in China.”

To further integrate young people into foreign affairs, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working alongside the University of the West Indies (UWI) to establish a framework that will allow students to intern at the country’s diplomatic missions overseas.

“Not only do we want students to spend time with us here at the ministry, but I also want them to be able to spend a period of time in our missions overseas,” Symmonds noted. “Part of the exposure to what the missions do is understanding that aspect of our international relationship development.”

He also called for CARICOM to create more opportunities for young people to engage in governance, allowing senior school students and university attendees to observe deliberations within two of the bloc’s key minsterial bodies, the Council on Human and Social Development (COHSOD) and the Council on Trade and Economic Development (COTED).

Meanwhile, director general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Donna Forde, outlined ongoing initiatives aimed at exposing young people to diplomacy. She cited the Diplomat for the Day programme, which is co-sponsored by the Ministry alongside the British High Commission and the Canadian High Commission in Barbados.

“We are working with schools, exposing students to the rudiments of diplomacy and the practice of foreign policy. They are engaged in a competition, and at the end, a Diplomat for the Day will be chosen and will serve in a representative capacity with the Foreign Ministry and the High Commissions of Canada and the United Kingdom,” Forde stated.

She underscored the significance of such programmes in attracting young Barbadians to the Foreign Service while also fostering a broader understanding of representational duties in international affairs.

“As you pointed out, there are a number of areas for potential involvement of the youth, and certainly we need to explore and develop more programmes like that as active parts of our own foreign policy development and practice,” she added.

(SZB)

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Small island states like Barbados face mounting economic challenges due to global trade barriers tied to climate policies, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Kerrie Symmonds,warned Parliament on Friday.

Speaking during discussions on the Appropriation Bill, Symmonds responded to a question from backbencher Marsha Caddle by highlighting the growing trend of industrialised nations retreating from commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while imposing stringent environmental standards on developing countries.

He pointed specifically to Europe’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, which could penalise exports from nations unable to demonstrate low-carbon production processes.

“The war in Ukraine has given Europe an excuse to return to coal, yet they demand that we strip carbon from our industrial processes or face penalties,” Symmonds said.

The minister revealed that he had raised these concerns with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, cautioning that such measures could morph into “green protectionism,” effectively shutting Caribbean exports out of vital markets.

Symmonds emphasised the importance of forging diplomatic alliances to counteract unfair climate-linked trade barriers, noting that even industrial powerhouses like India were grappling with these requirements.

“If India finds them too demanding, what do you think it means for small states like ours?” he asked.

The senior mInister also underscored the urgency of achieving climate justice, advocating for policies that ensure developing nations have access to clean technologies. He pointed to delays in receiving electric vehicles despite Barbados removing import tariffs, arguing that global industrial policies must create opportunities for small economies to thrive.

Symmonds concluded by calling for a pragmatic approach to international climate negotiations, stressing that small states must not be left at an economic disadvantage.

(SM)

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A message from Prime Minister Mia Mottley to mark the start of Ramadam 2025 in Barbados:

This year, it is with a sense of neighbourliness and community that I greet my brothers and sisters of the Muslim faith as you begin your celebration of the Festival of Ramadan. I do so, conscious of the theme of this year’s celebrations — Connection.

While in Barbados we have been fortunate to have been able to maintain stable and respectful relations between our various ethnic and cultural demographics over the years, it ought now to be clear to all in our nation that merely existing together is not enough.

The gradual loss of some of the key aspects of the values that have distinguished us as Bajans, regardless of our colour, ethnicity or religion, now requires that we wholeheartedly embrace the principles of active citizenship — and we can only do that effectively if we are willing to strengthen the connections among ourselves.

Your mission of Bringing Communities Together is premised on the understanding that true connection — whether rooted in shared experiences, values or faith — can, with mutual respect, build bridges of solidarity and foster a compassionate world where all can coexist in harmony.

As members of the Muslim community know, this is not just about how one practices one’s religion, but it must encompass all aspects of our relationship with all of humanity, in the process encouraging bonds of kindness, understanding and compassion for all, regardless of their background.

That’s why, even as I greet you, I say to all Barbadians that the Ramadan message of self-discipline, self-control, sacrifice and empathy for those who are less fortunate is not just applicable to Muslims, but to all of us who wish to see the cultivation of a more caring and just society. We must look within to be genuinely able to see beyond ourselves to make that “Connection”.

I wish you a most successful Ramadan 2025.

• The Hon. Mia Amor Mottley SC, MP. Prime Minister

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