This week in Barbados
Barbados is actively addressing domestic issues, with plans to reconstitute its Citizen Security Council following a fatal stabbing and rising crime concerns. The government is also focused on economic reform, aiming to transform the services sector into an export-driven agency, though the National Insurance Scheme is noted as outdated for multi-job workers. Meanwhile, an editorial from Barbados Today highlights the need to win public trust regarding a new IMF agreement.
About Barbados
Barbados, a jewel of the Caribbean, is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and a stable democratic government. Its economy thrives on tourism and financial services, fostering a dynamic environment. The nation's robust democratic traditions ensure a free and active press, providing diverse perspectives on local and international affairs.
Visiting Barbados
Media landscape
Barbados enjoys a free press within one of the Caribbean's most stable democracies, leading to a diverse and active media environment. Both traditional print and modern digital platforms provide comprehensive news coverage.
For comprehensive news, consult major English-language outlets, but be aware that Bajan Creole is prevalent in informal discussions and cultural content.
CTUSAB Demands Equal Treatment for State, Private Employers in Wage Protection Law
- The CTUSAB union is calling for equal treatment for state and private employers under the Wage Protection Act. - The union argues that current provisions disadvantage state employees. - They are urg…
‘No one will save us’: Caribbean must be self-reliant for economic survival - professor
- A Caribbean professor warns that the region must prioritize economic self-reliance due to fracturing global trade. - Professor Justin Robinson stated that foreign powers will not necessarily support…
Squash stars ready to raise their game
- Squash players are preparing to enhance their performance in upcoming competitions. - The article suggests a focus on improving skills and readiness for the sport. - Details about specific events or…
Experts urge border reform to counter trade fragmentation
- Caribbean governments must modernize border systems and reduce costs to protect regional trade from global disruptions. - Improved real-time data sharing is crucial for safeguarding economies agains…
Barbados Tridents give young players chance to ‘Live Like a Pro’
- Barbados Tridents are offering young players an opportunity to experience a professional cricket environment. - The program aims to provide aspiring cricketers with a taste of life as a professional…
Underage drinking concerns surface at Barbados's Crop Over festival
- The National Council on Substance Abuse in Barbados has expressed concern over underage drinking at Crop Over events. - Reports indicate that minors were able to purchase and consume alcohol at some…
NHC Taps Youth to Tackle Construction Skills Gap in Barbados
- The National Housing Corporation (NHC) in Barbados is accelerating efforts to recruit and train young people. - This initiative aims to address a shortage of skilled construction workers. - The prog…
Pearly App 'Draws Thousands' of Users During Crop Over | Barbados Today (BB)
- Barbados's new Pearly app saw thousands of users during the Crop Over festival. - The app's live band tracking and real-time emergency service data were key attractions. - The Pearly app aims to enh…
Merchants fret as ‘the bridge in Bridgetown’ closed to pedestrians
- Merchants in Bridgetown are concerned about the closure of a local bridge to pedestrians. - The closure is impacting businesses and daily life in the area. - The duration and reasons for the closure…
Olga Worrell Scholarship Trust makes $100,000 inaugural donation to QEH nurses
- The Olga Worrell Memorial Scholarship Trust has made its first donation of $100,000 to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital's Nursing Services Department. - The funds will support the education and professi…
Paul: Crop Over losing its true meaning
- The head of the Barbados Agricultural Society, James Paul, believes the Crop Over festival is losing its original meaning. - Paul stated the festival is moving away from its roots as a celebration o…
Crop Over 'success' prompts call for more venues, better planning
- The Crop Over festival saw a surge in visitors and a safe event season, boosting the economy. - An entertainment industry leader called for improved planning and more venues to accommodate future gr…
Grand Kadooment earns high praise, though some say culture took back seat
- The Grand Kadooment event, the climax of Barbados' Crop Over festival, received high praise for its smooth execution and atmosphere. - Attendees highlighted the peaceful environment and energetic ce…
Gun offender fined $30K after ‘Botanical Gardens’ claim rejected
- A man was fined $30,000 after his claim of being in the Botanical Gardens was rejected. - The details of the case and the specific offense are not provided in the article text. - The article primari…
Top Cop Hails 'Safest Kadooment Day' on Record
- Barbados police reported the safest Kadooment Day on record, with minimal incidents. - The Royal Barbados Police Force commended the public for their cooperation and adherence to safety measures. - …
Prescod links low Emancipation Day turnout to lack of historical consciousness
- A commentator linked low turnout for Emancipation Day celebrations in Barbados to a perceived lack of historical consciousness. - The article suggests that insufficient understanding of the historic…
Kadooment revellers urged to guard against extreme heat
- Health officials are warning about the risks of heat-related illnesses ahead of the Grand Kadooment festival. - Dr. Lynda Williams of the Barbados Association of Medical Practitioners issued the war…
Court Allows Key Tenure, Defamation Claims Against AG, Ex-CJ to Proceed
- A court has allowed key tenure and defamation claims against the Attorney General and a former Chief Justice to proceed. - The ruling permits these specific legal claims to move forward in the judic…
Economist warns against complacency as growth slows
- An economist has cautioned against complacency as economic growth in Barbados slows. - The article implies that continued vigilance is necessary despite current economic conditions. - Further detail…
Judge upholds cannabis restrictions as constitutional
- A High Court judge has upheld existing restrictions on cannabis use as constitutional. - The ruling dismissed a challenge brought by a Rastafarian claimant who argued for broader access. - The judge…
Sir Garry received ‘fitting farewell’, say some, as others believe more could have been done
- Some individuals believe Sir Garry received a fitting farewell, while others feel more could have been done. - The article discusses differing opinions on the reception given to Sir Garry. - Further…
BEC renews push for single Labour Code
- The Barbados Employers' Confederation (BEC) is renewing its push for a single Labour Code. - The BEC aims to consolidate existing labor laws into one comprehensive code. - The organization is seekin…
Barbados to establish beneficial ownership register to meet global transparency standards
- Barbados is establishing a beneficial ownership register to align with global transparency standards. - The initiative aims to combat financial crime and enhance the country's financial sector integ…
Atkins: Tennis needs corporate boost
- The article is a placeholder regarding website cookies and user experience. - It states that the website uses cookies to ensure the best user experience. - Continued use of the site implies acceptan…
Blind chess programme aims for world stage
- A new chess program designed for visually impaired individuals is being developed with aspirations of reaching the international stage. - The program aims to provide opportunities and support for bl…
Biz community seeks bigger cushion from oil price shocks, inflation ease
- Business leaders in Barbados are calling for stronger measures to protect the economy from oil price volatility and inflation. - They warn that current efforts to stabilize domestic fuel prices may …
Farm School Graduates Encouraged to Build Wealth Through Specialized Agriculture
- Over 40 graduates from the Hope Agricultural Training Institute (HATI) are urged to leverage their skills for wealth creation. - Graduates are encouraged to focus on businesses like fish farming and…
PSVs pledge on-demand services, infrastructure fixes
- Owners of Barbados's privately run public service vehicles (PSVs) will launch a ten-point transit plan. - The plan includes free on-demand service for disabled individuals. - It also promises infras…
Worrell warns against hoarding foreign currency
- Former Central Bank governor Dr. Delisle Worrell warns Caribbean governments against hoarding foreign currency. - He argues that such practices damage economies because reserves only provide value w…
Barbados Offers Rebates to Poultry Farmers Facing Heat Stress
- Barbados is implementing a rebate program to assist poultry farmers in managing the impact of rising heat stress on their operations. - The initiative aims to mitigate the negative effects of high t…
Salary Deduction Suspension Leaves Barbados Public Officers Struggling for Credit
- Public officers in Barbados are struggling to access credit for back-to-school expenses due to a government suspension of salary deduction authorisations. - The temporary halt has disrupted financia…
Teachers, Parents Scrutinize Caribbean Examinations Council Overhaul
- Representatives of teachers and parents are scrutinizing proposed changes to the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) assessment system. - The review aims to ensure the proposed overhaul adequately …
England clinch third-place finish at World Cup
England secured third place at the World Cup. Details about the website's cookie policy and user consent for personalized advertising are provided. Users are offered options for ad-free access or cont…
Sir Garfield Sobers Hailed as National Hero and World's Greatest Cricketer
- The Democratic Labour Party praised Sir Garfield Sobers as the world's greatest cricketer and a national hero. - Party president Stephen Lashley highlighted Sobers' enduring legacy for Barbados. - T…
Police mark first UWI-accredited crime scene training course
- The University of the West Indies (UWI) has accredited a new crime scene training course for police. - This accreditation signifies a commitment to enhancing forensic capabilities within the Royal B…
Rihanna's Tribute: 'Barbados Loves You Eternally,' Singer Tells Cricket Legend Sir Garry Sobers
- Barbados is celebrating the legacy of Sir Garry Sobers, a legendary cricketer. - Singer Rihanna expressed her deep admiration and love for Sir Garry. - The tribute highlights Sir Garry's enduring im…
CXC to Replace Coursework with Invigilated Exams Amid AI Concerns
- The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) will replace School-Based Assessments (SBAs) with invigilated exams for most subjects by 2028. - This change is a response to concerns about the impact of ar…
Deitz praises WI Women’s series sweep
- The West Indies Women's cricket team achieved a series sweep against Pakistan. - Captain Hayley Matthews and coach Robert Haynes lauded the team's performance and the series victory. - The team's st…
Deputy PM urges review of overseas medical funding for families
- Barbados' Deputy Prime Minister has called for a review of overseas medical funding for families. - The call comes amid ongoing discussions about healthcare resource allocation. - Further details on…
Croney eyes CAC Games as crucial test ahead of World Cup qualifiers
- National netball captain Damisha Croney views the upcoming Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games as a critical test for the Barbados squad. - She believes the games in the Dominican Republic wi…
Landmark transplant bill moves forward in Barbados
- Barbados is moving closer to establishing a legal framework for organ donation after death. - The proposed legislation aims to create a system for organ transplantation. - Health Minister Lisa Cummi…
The Jack-of-All-Trades Advantage
- The author argues that being a "jack-of-all-trades" offers a distinct advantage in various aspects of life. - This versatility allows individuals to adapt and thrive in diverse situations. - The pie…
OPINION: The outlook of today’s young workers: self first
- Young workers increasingly prioritize personal needs and goals over traditional employment structures. - This shift is reflected in a declining number of young people joining unions or adhering to c…
Enterprise vendors fear worsening sargassum will threaten livelihoods
- Large amounts of sargassum seaweed are accumulating on Enterprise Beach in Christ Church, Barbados. - The seaweed is reducing the beach's appeal to tourists and threatening the livelihoods of local …
Govt to target derelict properties tied up in family disputes, revive City
- The Barbados government plans to address derelict properties entangled in family disputes. - The initiative aims to revive urban areas by tackling these long-standing property issues. - This measure…
Matthews, Grimmond’s record 258-run opening stand drives nine-wicket victory over Ireland
- Matthews and Grimmond achieved a 258-run opening partnership, driving their team to a nine-wicket victory over Ireland. - The article mentions the use of cookies and a privacy policy, suggesting it …
Codrington Trust Defends $18 Million Reparations Project Amid Community Concerns
- The Codrington Trust is defending a $18 million reparations project in Barbados. - Local residents have raised concerns about the project's implementation. - The project aims to deliver reparative j…
Clean-up drive gathers pace across Barbados
- Government crews are intensifying drain-clearing and roadside clean-up operations across Barbados. - The efforts are part of preparations for the upcoming Grand Kadooment festival and the peak of th…
Uphold ethical labour practices, says BEC amid worker exploitation charges
- The Barbados Employers’ Confederation (BEC) urged employers to follow national labor laws. - This call comes amid allegations of migrant worker exploitation. - The BEC emphasized the importance of e…
PM says free movement uptake modest
- Prime Minister Mia Mottley stated that uptake of the enhanced free movement regime has been modest. - Fewer than 1,000 people have utilized the program since its introduction. - Most individuals who…
CARICOM seeks CCJ guidance on secretary general reappointment
- CARICOM is seeking guidance from the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) regarding the reappointment of its secretary general. - The request indicates a need for legal clarity on the process or eligibi…
Scientists probe Saharan dust–sargassum link in Barbados
- Scientists are investigating a potential link between Saharan dust and the growth of sargassum seaweed impacting Barbados. - Researchers at the Barbados Atmospheric Chemistry Observatory are analyzi…
Barbados Property Market Faces High Demand, Limited Supply Amidst Unlicensed Agent Concerns
- Foreign and domestic investment in Barbados's real estate sector is increasing, according to industry leaders. - However, a lack of legislative oversight allows unlicensed agents to operate, posing …
Greaves leads Windies fightback with career-best 180
- Justin Greaves scored a career-best 180 runs, defying Sri Lanka's bowlers for over eight hours. - His resilient innings has likely steered the second Test towards a draw. - The match is heading into…
Baby green monkey sale sparks animal welfare alarm in Barbados
- A listing offering a week-old green monkey for $500 has raised animal welfare concerns in Barbados. - Animal rights campaigners and visitors have sharply criticized the sale of infant primates. - Th…
Caribbean urged to join forces on organ transplants
- Caribbean nations are urged to collaborate on establishing a regional organ transplant program. - Such a program could address the scarcity of organs and improve patient outcomes across the islands.…
Opinion: Modern-Day Slavery in Migrant Labour Markets
- The article discusses the issue of modern-day slavery within migrant labor markets. - It implies that the website uses cookies and asks for user consent regarding privacy policy. - No specific detai…
Archer eyes bigger role for creative sector beyond Crop Over
- Barbados Minister of State Senator Shane Archer advocates for the creative sector to become a year-round economic driver. - Archer aims to expand the sector's influence beyond the annual Crop Over f…
EDITORIAL: Modern-Day Slavery in Migrant Labour Markets
- The editorial discusses the issue of modern-day slavery within migrant labor markets. - It highlights the global significance of discussions surrounding migrant labor. - The piece argues that migran…
Govt moves to modernise apprenticeship training model
- The Barbados government is taking steps to modernize the country's apprenticeship training model. - The initiative aims to update the system to meet current industry needs. - Further details on the …
Employers, Sporting Bodies Back Immigration Reforms Amid Workforce, Competitiveness Concerns
- Barbados Employers' Confederation and the sporting community support proposed immigration reforms. - They view the changes as a significant opportunity to address workforce and competitiveness issue…
Advancing Caribbean Teachers’ maths programme completed by 29 Bajans
- Twenty-nine Barbadian teachers have completed a six-month regional mathematics training program. - The program aimed to address weaknesses in mathematics education and improve teaching practices acr…
Barbados, Guyana Launch Historic Digital ID Card Travel Initiative
- Barbados and Guyana have launched a new travel initiative allowing citizens to use digital national ID cards. - This marks a historic step in regional travel facilitation. - The initiative aims to s…
Barbados NHC Cites $20 Million in Arrears as Barrier to Housing Maintenance
- The National Housing Corporation (NHC) in Barbados faces challenges in maintaining estates due to significant arrears in rent and other charges. - Over $20 million in unpaid amounts are hindering th…
Coach Sammy Urges Mental Reset Ahead of Second Test
- Barbados cricket coach Sammy is calling for a mental reset among his players before the second Test match. - The team needs to refocus and address their performance after the first Test. - Specific …
Alleyne School unveils ambitious plans for greener, safer future
- Alleyne School has announced ambitious plans to become a leader in environmental sustainability and safety. - The school aims to be one of Barbados' greenest and safest secondary institutions. - The…
Democratic League of Women hails first female top cop
- The Democratic League of Women praised the appointment of Deputy Commissioner Sonia Boyce as the new Commissioner of Police. - They described her historic promotion as a significant step for women i…
Summer camps seek volunteers as minister warns of decline in community service
- Summer camps in Barbados are seeking volunteers to support their programs. - The Minister of Youth and Culture expressed concern over a decline in community service participation among young people.…
$272m pipeline targets infrastructure, technology, growth
- Barbados is launching a $272 million initiative to boost its agricultural sector. - The plan focuses on infrastructure, technology, and overall growth within agriculture. - The reforms aim to reposi…
Barbados forms alliance with AU in reparations fight
- Barbados has formed an alliance with the African Union to advance its fight for reparations. - The alliance aims to secure compensation for the historical injustices of slavery and colonialism. - Th…
Hilda Skeene graduates urged to dream boldly and persevere
- Graduates of Hilda Skeene Primary School were urged to embrace bold dreams and resilience. - The encouragement came during the school's graduation ceremony for the 2026 class. - Speakers advised the…
New model aims to build fuller student profiles for secondary schools
- Barbados is introducing a new model to create more comprehensive student profiles for secondary school transitions. - This model involves classroom projects and four standardized tests spread throug…
Barbados backs new push for affordable climate finance
- Barbados has partnered with the OPEC Fund for International Development to launch a new initiative for climate finance. - The initiative aims to improve access to affordable financing for climate re…
Joy, Tears, and Hope Fill St. Paul's as Students Embrace Next Chapter
- Students at St. Paul's Primary School in Barbados experienced a mix of joy, tears, and hope on results day. - The school celebrated students' placements as they moved on to their next academic chapt…
Government to table deposit insurance legislation for credit unions
- The government is preparing to introduce legislation for deposit insurance for credit unions. - This move aims to enhance the financial stability and security of credit union members. - The legislat…
Central Bank acts to ensure salary payments, safeguard next payrolls
- The Central Bank is taking action to ensure that salaries can be paid and to safeguard future payrolls. - This intervention aims to maintain financial stability and confidence in the payment system.…
Play with purpose at Maria Holder Nursery School
- Educators at Maria Holder Nursery School in Barbados emphasized that learning activities extended beyond simple fun. - The school organized a purposeful play event on Friday, aiming to foster holist…
Teachers raise funding concerns over proposed assessment changes
- Teachers in Barbados are concerned about proposed changes to the national assessment system. - They fear the changes could negatively impact student learning and teacher workload. - The Ministry of …
PM renews CARICOM reparations call at Accra conference
- Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley reiterated CARICOM's call for reparations for slavery at a conference in Ghana. - Mottley urged global leaders to address the lasting harm caused by slavery, movi…
Walters blasts govt’s lack of financial disclosure, demands answers
- A senior opposition figure in Barbados has accused the government of withholding crucial financial information. - Senator [Name Redacted] demands answers regarding major public projects and spending…
Govt lab named regional superbug watchdog
- Barbados' Best dos Santos Public Health Laboratory is now a PAHO/WHO Collaborating Centre for surveillance of antimicrobial resistance. - This designation enhances the island's capacity to detect an…
Rider safety warning over unlicensed ‘pirate’ transport
- Passengers using unlicensed "pirate" public transport risk losing their insurance coverage, officials warned. - Authorities are urging both commuters and operators to adhere to licensing and insuran…
Illegal dumping persists despite awareness campaigns, environmentalists say
- Environmental advocates report that illegal dumping continues to be a significant problem despite awareness campaigns and stricter laws. - They attribute the persistence of illegal dumping to weak e…
Record arrivals and ‘Tourism 3.0’ shared at BHTA awards
- Barbados hosted the BHTA awards, celebrating achievements in the tourism sector. - The event highlighted "Tourism 3.0" and record arrivals, signaling a strong recovery and future outlook for the ind…
Worker Empowerment
- Politicians and activists frequently use the term 'people's empowerment.' - Trade unionists tend to focus on 'worker empowerment,' emphasizing collective bargaining and workplace rights. - The conce…
BARP urges action against Barbados' 'silent crisis' of elder abuse
- Barbados is facing a growing and largely hidden crisis of elder abuse, with seniors being targeted for financial gain. - The Barbados Association of Retired Persons (BARP) has issued an urgent natio…
How steep World Cup ticket prices affect Caribbean football
- Steep ticket prices for the FIFA World Cup raise concerns about how Caribbean nations can financially benefit from the event. - The high cost of tickets is a significant topic of discussion regardin…
‘Pearly’ app aims to improve access to public services, buses
- The 'Pearly' app is designed to enhance user access to public services and bus information. - The app aims to streamline interactions with government services and public transportation. - Continued …
Interbank transfers to pause ahead of Barbados' BIMPay launch
- Interbank transfers in Barbados will temporarily pause. - The pause is scheduled ahead of the upcoming launch of BIMPay. - The duration and specific timing of the pause were not detailed.
Plans to upgrade Government Industrial School to juvenile detention centre
- Plans are underway to convert the Government Industrial School (GIS) into a modern juvenile detention center. - The conversion is part of a multi-million-dollar investment aimed at upgrading the ins…
Gun laws to be enforced swiftly under new courts - PM
- Barbados is set to swiftly enforce new gun laws, according to the Prime Minister. - The announcement indicates a proactive approach to gun control in the country. - Further details on the implementa…
Queen Elizabeth Hospital launches nationwide newborn screening
- The Queen Elizabeth Hospital has launched a nationwide newborn screening program. - The initiative aims to detect serious health conditions in infants shortly after birth. - Early detection is expec…
Sentencing reform debate highlights shift to public health approach to crime
- The article is about a debate on sentencing reform in Barbados. - The reform discussion highlights a shift towards a public health approach to crime. - Further details are not available in the provi…
OPINION: The rights of a displaced worker
- Private sector employers and governments globally are increasingly downsizing operations. - This trend raises concerns about the rights and support systems for displaced workers. - The article argue…
Scientist Warns of Possible Climate Link to Hantavirus Outbreaks | Barbados Today (BB)
- Scientists are investigating a potential link between climate change and hantavirus outbreaks. - A biosecurity expert urges increased vigilance against the deadly rodent-borne disease. - The concern…
West Indies must improve approach against Sri Lanka spin
- West Indies coach Daren Sammy stated the team must improve its batting against Sri Lanka's spin bowlers. - The crucial One-Day International match is scheduled for Saturday in Jamaica. - Sammy emp…
Barbados youth trail regional peers in green economy awareness
- Youth in Barbados trail regional peers in awareness of green economy principles. - The finding comes from a recent survey conducted across several Caribbean nations. - Increased education and engage…
Data-Sharing Gaps Hinder Caribbean Climate Science, CIMH Reports
- A lack of data-sharing across the Caribbean is hindering climate research and weakening decision-making. - The Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH) highlights the urgent need for…
Caribbean Nations Urged to Challenge 'Discriminatory' Global Financial System
- Caribbean nations are urged to challenge the existing global financial system, which they argue is discriminatory. - The current system is seen as hindering the development and progress of these isl…
‘Sovereign debt’ blasted as imposed burden on small states
- Agriculture Minister Dr. Shantal Munro-Knight criticized the concept of "sovereign debt" as an imposed burden on small states. - She argued that the region's financial liabilities stem from global e…
