Politics
August 15, 2023
Chinese National Detained After Discovery of First Methamphetamine Lab in Trinidad and Tobago
Trinidad and Tobago police have detained a Chinese national after discovering the first methamphetamine laboratory in Port of Spain. Investigations are ongoing as law enforcement agencies crack down on illicit drugs.
August 15, 2023
Democratic Labour Party Candidate Ryan Walters Advocates for Government Employment to Guarantee Pensions in Barbados
Ryan Walters, Democratic Labour Party (DLP) presidential candidate, emphasizes government employment as the key to securing pensions in Barbados and calls for proper payment of National Insurance contributions.
August 15, 2023
Barbados Workers' Union Members to Discuss Proposed Pension Reform, Including Pensionable Age Increase, in Two Events
Members of the Barbados Workers’ Union (BWU) will gather to discuss and provide feedback on the Government’s pension reform plans, including raising the pensionable age to 68. The BWU will make a public statement reflecting the collective view of its members after extensive consultations. The National Union of Public Workers (NUPW) asked if the Government could reconsider the proposed age increase.
August 15, 2023
Government Minister Defends Proposal to Increase Pension Age in Barbados: A Necessity for the Country's Future
The Government minister defends the proposal to increase the pension age in Barbados and emphasizes the need to secure the country's future, stressing that the National Insurance Scheme will not become inaccessible.
August 15, 2023
Government to Establish New Agency for Transforming Derelict Buildings and Vacant Lots into Housing Solutions in Barbados
The Government of Barbados is establishing a new agency to convert derelict buildings and vacant lots into housing solutions, aiming to address the country's housing deficit. The project has secured funding from the Inter-American Development Bank for technical studies. Minister of Housing Dwight Sutherland stated that there are currently 18,000 housing applications pending, with 8,000 homes still needed to meet demand. The government plans to work with property owners, rather than taking advantage of them, to repurpose these properties for housing. The government is partnering with East-West Solutions, Dura Villa, and HOPE to construct 10,000 homes, with ongoing progress across various locations. The construction of infrastructure to support the homes is a significant factor in the pace of development. Additional housing plans are also being considered for residents of the City of Bridgetown, with potential relocations and new developments in Greenfield and Halls Road.
August 15, 2023
Verla DePeiza Endorses Ryan Walters as the DLP Presidential Candidate: A Plan for Rebuilding and Renewal
Verla DePeiza, former president of the Democratic Labour Party (DLP), has endorsed Ryan Walters as the top choice for party president, citing his detailed plan for rebuilding the DLP and restoring Barbados' standing.
August 14, 2023
Niger's Mutinous Soldiers Prepare to Prosecute Deposed President Mohamed Bazoum for High Treason
Niger's mutinous soldiers plan to prosecute deposed President Mohamed Bazoum for "high treason" and jeopardizing national security, with a possible death penalty if found guilty. The military regime suggests Western politicians and allies are spreading misinformation.
August 14, 2023
Deposed Niger President Mohamed Bazoum Held in Difficult Conditions, Doctor Says
Niger's president, Mohamed Bazoum, remains in good spirits despite difficult conditions in captivity, according to his doctor after a recent visit. International pressure for his release is growing.
August 14, 2023
NOAA Upgrades Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook, Predicts Above Normal Activity
The United States National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has updated its prediction for the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, raising the likelihood of above-normal activity. NOAA now forecasts a 70% chance of 14 to 21 named storms, 6 to 11 of which could become hurricanes, and 2 to 5 of which could become major hurricanes. Factors such as warm sea surface temperatures and other atmospheric conditions have contributed to this updated outlook. Residents in vulnerable areas are advised to have a hurricane plan and stay informed through official channels.
August 13, 2023
Barbados Defence Force Chief Calls for Investment to Enhance Resources and Serve Country
The Barbados Defence Force (BDF) Chief of Staff has called for increased investment to enhance resources and better equip the force, citing successes in combating illegal guns and drugs.
August 13, 2023
Marchers Call for National Insurance Scheme Protection: Government Urged to Pursue Delinquent Employers
This article emphasizes the need for the government to take stronger action against employers who fail to contribute to the National Insurance Fund, while also addressing the issue of lost funds from the 2018 debt restructuring.
August 13, 2023
Move in NIS pension age angers protesters
Citizens of Barbados protest government changes to the National Insurance Scheme pension plan, expressing concern over increased pensionable age and higher contribution requirements.