Local

UK Electronic Travel Authorisation Starts January 8

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade is reminding Barbadians that the United Kingdom (UK) Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme globally takes effect from tomorrow, Wednesday, January 8, 2025.

Barbadian nationals will therefore be required to apply for the ETA online or via the UK ETA App.

The Electronic Travel Authorisation is linked to the passport used in the application and is valid for multiple trips to the UK over a two-year period. If persons acquire a new passport, they will need to get a new ETA. The application fee is £10, and applicants will receive an email confirmation within three working days or sooner.

While an ETA grants individuals permission to travel to the UK, it does not grant them entry. So, they will still need to go through passport control at the border to enter the UK.

Everyone travelling or transiting the United Kingdom needs to get an ETA, including babies and children. Applications can be made for other people. However, refunds will not be granted after applications have been submitted.

To apply for the ETA and for further details, persons may visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta.

The UK ETA does not apply to countries whose nationals require a visa to enter the UK. In addition, it cannot be used for travel to the UK for the purpose of work, study, or residence.

The United Kingdom authorities have indicated that the ETA scheme will strengthen the UK’s border security and expedite safe travel for nationals of Barbados as they pass through the UK border. In addition, the ETA scheme will be used to facilitate increased automation as the UK works towards a contactless border. (PR/GIS)

Government

BILATERAL TALKS HELD BETWEEN PRIME MINISTER MOTTLEYand PRESIDENT OF THE EU

Matters pertaining to further expanding Barbados’ pharmaceutical industry, cyber security, artificial intelligence and its regulation were among the issues discussed yesterday, during a bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley and President of the European Commission (EU), Ursula von der Leyen.

During the discussions at Ilaro Court, both sides praised their long-standing relationship, as they explored other avenues for cooperation in a number of areas that include, but are not limited to, battery storage; production of precision medicine to help the country in the fight against cancer and NCDs; genomic testing to explore the link between race and NCDs, among other areas.

*Mrs Von der Leyen and Prime Minister, Mia Amor Mottley*

Mrs Von der Leyen, who is the first EU Commission President to visit the region, expressed her delight to be in Barbados and expressed renewed optimism in the friendship and strategic partnership with the island.

Also present during the meeting with the EU Commission and her team were Minister of Health and Wellness, Senator Dr. The Most Honourable, Jerome Walcott; Attorney General Dale Marshall; Minister of Energy and Business, Senator Lisa Cummins; Minister in Finance, Ryan Straughn; Minister with responsibility for Culture, Senator Dr. Shantal Munro-Knight; Minister in Economic Affairs, Senator Chad Blackman, and other officials. (PR/GIS)

Local

Local Heroes Honored for Acts of Integrity and Kindness at Special Recognition Event

In a time when simple acts of kindness have the power to restore faith in humanity, two individuals are being honored for their remarkable integrity and generosity.

KindSpire, the local platform dedicated to inspiring and rewarding kindness, is partnering with the Kiwanis Club of Bridgetown to recognize Mr. David Rose and Dr. Janeille Zorina Matthews, two individuals whose selfless actions have touched hearts across the island.Today Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at 6.30 pm, Kiwanis Club Meeting, Cube Blue Building, Barbados Port Authority Complex

Honoring Acts of Integrity and Compassion

David Rose stumbled upon lost cash alongside a list of unpaid utility bills. Instead of keeping the money, he made a selfless choice— he paid off the stranger’s bills, easing their financial burden.

Meanwhile, Janielle Matthews found an envelope filled with cash in the Cost-U-Less car park.Rather than walking away, she took immediate action to return the money to its rightful owner, proving that honesty still prevails.

Their actions not only restored what was lost but also reminded us of the power of integrity and selflessness. To celebrate their incredible kindness, KindSpire and the Kiwanis Club of Bridgetown are hosting a special recognition event to honor David and Janielle and inspire others to follow their example.

Launch of the “Kiwanis Kind Act of the Month” Initiative

In addition to recognizing these everyday heroes, the event will also mark the official launch of the “Kiwanis Kind Act of the Month” initiative. This program, hosted through KindSpire’s website (www.kindspire.app), will highlight. celebrate and reward one exceptional act of kindness each month, encouraging more Barbadians to step up and make a difference. Members of the public can submit their own stories of kindness online, helping to build a movement of goodwill across the island.

Local

Passing of Mrs. Jackie Marshall-Clarke, Manager Corporate Communications & Government Relations

The Barbados Light & Power Company (Light & Power) is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Mrs. Jackie Marshall-Clarke, Manager Corporate Communications & Government Relations.

Jackie passed away peacefully at home after illness.

Light & Power’s management, staff and her immediate Corporate Communications family are shocked and feeling the pain of her passing.

Jackie was a valued and respected member of our team who played an instrumental role in shaping the Company’s voice, fostering meaningful connections, and guiding communications policy with professionalism and grace. She was revered and admired by her colleagues in communications, not only in Barbados but across the region.

Managing Director Roger Blackman said her dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence would be profoundly missed by colleagues, associates, and all who had the privilege of working with her.

“We at Light & Power are deeply saddened by the passing of Jackie Marshall-Clarke. Jackie was not just a valued colleague, but also a friend, a mentor to many in the business, and an inspirational leader, whose contributions to Light & Power and the energy sector in Barbados were immeasurable. At this time, our thoughts and prayers are with her family, and we ask that their privacy be respected as we navigate this difficult period.”

Light & Power extends sincere condolences to Jackie’s family, friends, and loved ones.