Local

National Council On Substance Abuse Christmas Message

As the season of joy, hope, and renewal is upon us, the National Council on Substance Abuse (NCSA) extends warm greetings to our partners and the people of Barbados. Christmas is a time to reflect on the blessings of the year, embrace the love of family and friends, and rekindle our shared commitment to building a stronger, healthier society.This year, we have worked together to champion the cause of substance abuse prevention, touching lives across our island and inspiring positive change. Your partnership has been invaluable in amplifying our message of hope and resilience. It is through collective efforts that we can create a Barbados where every citizen thrives free from the grip of substance abuse.

The Christmas season also reminds us of the importance of giving – whether it’s the gift of time, compassion, or support. As you celebrate with loved ones, let us all embrace the spirit of responsibility and care, ensuring our actions uplift those around us.

Looking forward to 2025, we remain steadfast in our mission to empower individuals and communities. January marks Drug Awareness Month, and next year’s theme, “NCSA: Strengthening Prevention,” highlights our unwavering commitment to proactive education, outreach, and support. During this time, we invite you to join us for:

An Open Day at the NCSA, where the public will discover the vital work we do and the resources available to the public.
A Church Service where we will offer prayers for guidance, healing, and hope for our nation.
Appearances on Mornin’ Barbados, where we will engage with the public to share impactful stories and strategies for prevention.
The finals of the Voices of the Youth speech contest, where we will hear from our youth leaders on substance abuse prevention.
Volunteer training, to equip community members with the skills to assist in substance abuse prevention efforts.
An early morning system workshop, focusing on best practices and resources for professionals working in the field.
A food drive, aimed at supporting families and communities in need.
The release of BARDIN (Barbadian Drug Information Network), where we will share key findings from recent drug-related research.

These activities reflect our dedication to partnering with you to strengthen prevention efforts and create a brighter future for all.

As we celebrate this festive season, let us cherish the values of hope, peace, and togetherness. Remember that the choices we make today shape the well-being of our families and communities tomorrow. We urge everyone to embrace healthy, positive lifestyles and support one another in the spirit of Christmas.

From the entire team at the National Council on Substance Abuse, we wish you a Merry Christmas filled with love, laughter, and light. May the New Year bring renewed purpose and strength as we continue to work together for a drug-free Barbados.

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