The budget in five strengths, five weaknesses
For the third consecutive year, the budget was presented shortly after the estimates and with the country in an economic adjustment programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). At the outset, let me state that in my assessment, this year’s budget was an improvement over the previous two presented by the substantive minister of finance, […]
Use psychology rather than punishment to tackle youth violence
A university psychologist has called for an urgent shift away from punitive responses to youth violence towards addressing the deep-seated psychological factors that drive it, arguing that trauma and adverse childhood experiences are key contributors to violent behaviour among young people. The position was laid out by Professor of Psychology Donna-Maria Maynard, when she […]
Clinic launches 90-day fitness challenge to combat diabetes crisis
In a bid to tackle the alarming prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), LiveWell Medical Clinic has launched the second edition of its ‘10,000 Step 90-Day Challenge’. The initiative encourages people of all ages to commit to a more active lifestyle in the fight against chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. Founder […]
Barbados to reimagine Crop Over, focus on heritage amidst revelry
The Ministry of Culture is embarking on a significant transformation of the Crop Over festival, aiming to strike a balance between its revelry and rich heritage. Minister with responsibility for Culture in the Prime Minister’s Office, Senator Dr Shantal Munro-Knight, revealed that extensive consultations are underway to reshape the festival for the future. “Since last […]
New laws to create fisheries institute, transform industry
The government has vowed to revolutionise the fishing industry with comprehensive new legislation that will govern fish waste processing, establish a dedicated fisheries institute, and prioritise the engagement of youth and women in the industry, Chief Fisheries Officer Shelly-Ann Cox has announced. The upcoming bills, the Fish Management Bill and the Seafood Bill, spanning over […]
Season of emancipation launches with reparations call
The fight for emancipation in Barbados, where slavery ended 190 years ago, is far from over, a government official declared on Friday, emphasising the critical need for reparations to address the lasting impact of slavery and colonialism. Rodney Grant, programme adviser in the Division of Culture in the Prime Minister’s Office, made the comment at […]
GPO denies rodent infestation after union claims
Health officials have found “no evidence of rodent infestation” at the General Post Office, Postmaster General Joann Busby has insisted, contradicting claims that prompted a union leader to advise workers to stay home over safety concerns. Busby strongly refuted the allegations, revealing that preventative cleaning measures were already planned for the weekend. The head of […]
Man shot by assailants
A man was hospitalised in stable condition after being shot in his leg on Friday night. Police at Hastings/Worthing Station received a report about the incident at about 10:40 pm. Based on their investigations, the victim was walking to his motorcar after liming at a shop in Dunlow Lane, Bay Street, St. Michael. On entering […]
Investigation into unnatural death
Police are investigating the death of a 45-year-old man on Friday night at Advent Avenue, Bank Hall, St. Michael. A report was made at around 10:52 pm, and, upon investigation, the body was discovered perched motionless on a branch in a breadfruit tree. It was later identified as that of Andrew John from Manning Land, […]
Beyond the socks
The vibrant display of mismatched and colourful socks across Barbados today was a heartwarming sight, evidence of our willingness to acknowledge and celebrate World Down Syndrome Day. From the youngest to the oldest, we came together in a colourful expression of solidarity. But as we reflect on this symbolic gesture, we must ask ourselves: […]