Local

NCSA Manager Calls for Collective Action

“The addiction of drugs has become one of the most serious social problems, threatening to erode the gains of our economy and burdening our public health and criminal justice systems.” This is according to Mrs. Betty Hunte Manager of The National Council on Substance Abuse (NCSA).

Her comments as she addressed the congregation at Silver Sands Church of God on Sunday January 12th, 2025, during a Joint church service with Substance Abuse Foundation as they observe Drug Awareness Month 2025.

Speaking to the congregation, Mrs. Hunte described addiction as a profound societal challenge, one that extends far beyond the individual to affect families, workplaces, and communities. She emphasized the importance of understanding addiction not merely as a personal failing but as a societal issue that demands empathy, action, and systemic solutions.

Drawing inspiration from the biblical parable of the prodigal son, she called attention to the power of forgiveness and reintegration. “Like the prodigal son, many individuals battling addiction find themselves at a crossroads, seeking redemption and a place to call home,” she said. “We must ensure that our communities, including our churches, are spaces of support and restoration.”

In a passionate appeal, she urged the adoption of a Barbados National Anti-Drug Plan to coordinate efforts across the criminal justice system, public health, and social welfare. “This plan would allow us to measure impact, intervene effectively, and reintegrate individuals into society,” she explained.

She also highlighted the changing face of addiction, challenging traditional stereotypes. “Addiction is no longer confined to those we see on the streets. It could be someone sitting next to you in church, silently struggling,” she said. “We must address this issue with compassion and proactive measures, creating environments where people feel supported rather than judged.”

Mrs. Hunte called on families to engage in open, stigma-free conversations, workplaces to prioritize outreach and worker health, educators to partner with the NCSA in fostering awareness among students, faith leaders to offer hope, forgiveness, and guidance and media professionals to deliver balanced, factual reporting on drug-related issues.

“This isn’t just about individual choices,” she said. “It’s about societal responsibility. Recovery is possible, and we must all play our part in spreading awareness, extending empathy, and advocating for policies that prioritize health and education over punishment.”

She encouraged those present to reach out and help those in need, “If your friend, neighbour, or family member has a drug problem, go to their aid. Join with others—clubs, service groups, community organizations—and provide the support and strength they need. We all have a role to play in this fight, she said. (PR)

Local

EBC Officers Conducting Verification Of Addresses Exercise

The public is advised that Registering Officers from the Electoral and Boundaries Commission (EBC) are in the field conducting a verification exercise to confirm the address of each registrant. This activity is in accordance with the Representation of the People Act Cap 12, Section 12.

EBC Registering Officers will be wearing the department’s branded T-shirts with the official ID prominently displayed as they visit residents in districts across the island.

Householders are encouraged to cooperate with the Registering Officers and secure their pets or animals during the visit. (PR/GIS)

Local

Police Service Tips For A Safe Bank Holiday Weekend

As persons prepare to attend various events over this extended weekend, Crime Prevention Officer with The Barbados Police Service, Inspector Roger Babb, is encouraging them to “stay in control” as they enjoy themselves.

Inspector Babb reminds members of the public that drinking alcohol impairs their ability to make good decisions, and drinking and driving may result in accidents that can be fatal.

The Crime Prevention Officer shared these useful tips:

Do not feel pressured to drink alcohol; it is okay to say no.
Do not drink and drive, always have a sober designated driver.
If you drink, do so in moderation and never leave your drink unattended.
Do not let anyone bring a drink for you.
To avoid having your drinks spiked, buy your own drinks, and watch the bartender make or open them.
If you think your drink was tampered with, let someone know and seek medical attention.
Be cautious with strangers and do not accept drinks from them.
Be aware of your surroundings.
Never mix alcohol with other drugs.
PR/GIS

Local

SANDALS BARBADOS RECEIVES (CARPHA) AWARD

Sandals Barbados is the proud recipient of the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) Healthier Safer Tourism (HST) award.

The presentation was made recently at the Ministry of Health and Wellness office located in the Frank Walcott Building, St. Michael, Barbados.

Accepting the award for the Luxury Included Resort was General Manager Bruno Couesnon.

In his brief remarks Couesnon thanked every one of the team members who contributed to the resort’s recent accolade.

“It’s always nice to win awards; but it takes a team effort to achieve the results for which we are being recognized, today. The health and safety of our guests and team members are important to us and it is great to be selected and celebrated by CARPHA for doing our part and succeeding,” said Couesnon.

Executive Director of CARPHA Dr. Lisa Indar commended the hotel for achieving this internationally recognized award and praised its commitment to health and safety procedures.

“The 2019 Covid pandemic led to global shut down of tourism but it also demonstrated the resilience of the Caribbean by being able to bounce back. Part of that bouncing back was to be able to create a healthier and safer tourism experience and the reason you are here today is by being part of the tourism health programme and implementing proactive measures,” said Dr. Indar.

Some of the benefits of this award include being regionally and internationally recognized for healthier safer tourism endorsed by the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO); the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) and the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).

The award is the only traveler’s health award where compliance is assessed – it is measurable and verifiable, ensuring the safety of the tourist facility, staff and guests. It also gives a comparative, marketing advantage and gives value to the quality of service.(PR)

CAPTION: Sandals Barbados General Manager General Manager Bruno Couesnon (L) accepting the CARPHA award from Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Kenneth George