Tuesday, June 23, 2026
Facebook Instagram Soundcloud X Youtube
Home Blog Page 110

Venezuelan Embassy Marks 206th Anniversary of Independence

Venezuela Independence
The Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela on Wednesday 5th July marked the 206th Anniversary of the Independence of Venezuela, with a special activity held at its headquarters in Kingstown.
The event, which was held along with the Venezuelan Institute for Culture and Co-operation, also featured an official flag raising ceremony.
A number of government officials, including Minister of Housing, Hon. Montgomery Daniel; Minister of Economic Planning, Hon. Camillo Gonsalves; Minister of Health, Hon. Luke Browne; Minister of Transport and Works; Hon. Julian Francis; and Minister of National Mobilisation, Hon. Frederick Stephenson; as well as senior civil servants and members of civil society organisations attended the event.
Minister Gonsalves, in his remarks on behalf of the government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, said that Venezuelan independence has always been, from the outset, a regional enterprise, and Simon Bolivar always placed Venezuela’s struggle for independence and liberation within the context of our America.
“It is that regional sense of independence and sovereignty that animated Venezuelan political consciousness from Bolivar, in 1811, to the present day of the eternal commander, Hugo Chavez, and current president, Nicolas Maduro,” he said.
The information Minister added that the late Chavez imagined that a new world was possible, and he put his philosophy inspired by Bolivar into action and inspired governments across Central America and the Caribbean, because, like Bolivar, Chavez saw independence as a regional matter.
He added that this country is grateful to Commander Chavez for his inspirational leadership in this regard.
Minister Gonsalves, in his summary of the current situation in Venezuela, said that there is a movement afoot to subvert the will of the people to form a government and system of their own choosing; and there is an external imposition on the people of Venezuela to force solutions, some of them being interventionist in nature.
He noted, however, that Venezuelans over the last 200 years and more, have demonstrated that they are quite capable of handling their affairs without outside interference.
“The will of the people of Venezuela and their fierce independence and solidarity will again shine through when put to the test,” he concluded.
Venezuela’s resident Ambassador, His Excellency Yuri Pimental thanked Caribbean governments for their support during this difficult time for the country.
He said once again the governments of the Caribbean showed an attitude of courage and dignity, making them fundamental players in the resisting of the onslaught of imperialism against Venezuela.
Ambassador Pimental singled out the government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines led by Prime Minister, Dr. Hon. Ralph Gonsalves, for special recognition for the tremendous support given to Venezuela.
“We wish to take advantage of this patriotic event to thank him deeply on behalf of our people and President, Nicolas Maduro,” he said.

Belize Delegation Attends 38th Regular Meeting of CARICOM

CARICOM

Belize Delegation Attends 38th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Hon. Wilfred Elrington attended the 38th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) held in St George’s, Grenada on July 4th to 6th, 2017.
CARICOM Heads of Government reiterated their support for the sovereignty, territorial integrity and security of Belize. They urged the development of a protocol for the Sarstoon and expressed hope that the referendum would be held as soon as possible to allow for the Guatemalan claim to be referred to the International Court of Justice.
Heads reviewed the operation of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy with a view to accelerating its implementation in order that Caribbean nationals could fully benefit. In this context, Belize emphasized the importance of the CARICOM Single Market for Belize-produced sugar and called for policies which are conducive to the intra-regional trade in sugar.
Heads considered and decided on a number of issues vital to the sustainable development of the Caribbean including the CARICOM Human Resource Development 2030 Strategy, a work plan for a Single ICT space, regional transportation, tackling non-communicable diseases, regional security and promoting regional tourism. Heads also discussed opportunities for development financing of small states.
Minister Elrington was accompanied by His Excellency Pat Andrews, Chief Executive Officer in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ms. Ayesha Borland, Director of International Affairs.
CARICOM CARICOM
 

Digital Border Crossing Card

Digital Border Crossing Card

The Department of Immigration implemented the use of the Digital Border Crossing Card on 1st July 2017 following months of consultation with and notification to the Corozal Free Zone (CFZ) Management, as well as the major established businesses in the Export Processing Zone (EPZ) area.
In a meeting held with the CEO of the CFZ in January 2017, the use of the border crossing card was welcomed as a means to facilitate the movement of persons employed in and those visiting the Free Zone, as well as for Belizeans who wished to use the card to pass the Immigration Controlled point. In April of 2017, the major business establishments in the EPZ and CFZ were notified of the availability and use of the card and were provided with the necessary applications to supply their employees, enabling them to obtain the card before the implementation date. Provisions were made for the issuance of special cards to foreigners who were holders of Temporary Employment Permits and Permanent Residents who were employed in the Zone. To date, some 2000 cards have been approved and issued.
The Department of Immigration advises persons who wish to obtain the border crossing card, that the cards can be applied for at the Belize Northern Border Station (8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) and at the Belmopan Office (from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.). The Department has been and will continue to provide priority service to those persons employed in the Corozal Free Zone and the Export Processing Zone.

World Environment Day photo challenge

#BelizeWithNature.

World Environment Day is a day that is celebrated worldwide, including Belize, in recognition of the value and benefits the environment provides to us and other living organisms. This year (2017) the Department of the Environment (DOE), organized an online photo challenge under the theme “Connecting People to Nature” in commemoration of this day. The theme appeals to us to get outdoors and into nature, to appreciate its beauty and its importance, and to take forward the call to protect the Earth that we share. The photo competition asked members of the general public to submit original photos that captured their favourite spot in nature in Belize or how they connected with nature; in addition, they had to briefly share on social media their story about that photo using the hashtag #BelizeWithNature.
The deadline for submission was June 23, 2017. Numerous eligible online submissions weredownloaded by the DOE. Out of these submissions, 3 top photos were selected by our judges through a lengthy evaluation process. These photos were submitted by Sasha Eiley, Shamah Smith and Kelsie Cuevas, who will all be awarded a prize of $300 each for their excellent work in capturing a connection to nature.
The DOE congratulates the winners for a job well done, and also thanks all those who participated in the photo challenge!
World Environment Day Photo Challenge – Top 3 submissions

#BelizeWithNature Shamah Smith
Shamah Smith

#BelizeWithNature Sasha Eiley
Sasha Eiley

#BelizeWithNature Kelsie Cuevas
Kelsie Cuevas

Infrastructural upgrades commences at Princess Alice

Princess Alice Hospital
The Ministry of Health hereby informs the General Public that as of Wednesday, July 6th, 2017, infrastructural upgrades will commence at the Princess Alice Hospital, Mirabeau, St. Andrew.
As a result, there will be some disruptions to the usual flow of traffic to the hospital.
In light of the new traffic and visiting arrangements all concerned should note the following;
·        A park and walk system is now in effect and all vehicle operators would be allowed parking only in the vicinity of the old nurses’ hostel.
·        Persons accessing the facility with non-emergencies would not be granted access to the back of the facility towards the Accidents and Emergencies (A&E) department.
·        Only persons with life threatening medical emergencies would be granted access to the back entrance of the facility to enter the (A&E) department.
·        All non emergencies and regular visitors must enter the facility from the front section of the hospital unless otherwise instructed by the security personnel.
The upgrading of the hospital is intended to enhance services delivery and ensure it can function effectively especially in times of disasters. The “Smart Hospital” initiative is an international concept funded by the United Kingdom Department for International Development and executed by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).
The upgrades which were internationally recommended and approved, will include a redesigned roofing systems, improved water collection and storage system, the installation of an automated backup power supply system, improved drainage, access, electrical and other modern out-fittings.
Meanwhile in light of the above the (MOH) would like to thank the public for its anticipated cooperation and understanding as it endeavors to upgrade and improve health services delivery at the hospital.
The (MOH) also encourages all patients, visitors and staff alike, to exercise extreme caution while at the facility. The (MOH) sincerely apologizes for the inconveniences that are likely to be caused.

Regional stakeholders discuss integrating climate resilience in road transport sector

Stakeholders Workshop Road Transport Sector
In the Caribbean, road infrastructure is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, and damage caused by natural hazards. At a workshop held July 4 to 5, 2017 at the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), stakeholders from the Region discussed the best way to integrate climate resilience in the road transport sector.
Speaking at the opening of the workshop on July 4, 2017, Daniel Best, Director of Projects, CDB, noted that between 1970 and 2015, approximately 22 percent of CDB financing has gone towards the transport sector.
“Increased  investment  in  infrastructure  is  a  main  catalyst  for  propelling  the  Caribbean  forward  into a position  where  growth  is  inclusive;  extreme poverty  is  eradicated; and prosperity is shared. Much  of  the  road  network  within  the  Bank’s  BMCs  is  coastal  and  low-lying  or  in  mountainous terrain,  characterised  by  inadequate  drainage  features,  and  thus  vulnerable  to  climate-related  phenomena characteristic  of  the  region. Each  year,  transport  infrastructure  in  the  Caribbean,  and  particularly  road  infrastructure,  suffers substantial  damage  as  a  result  of  natural  hazard  events,  with  flooding  being  among  the  most  frequent  and costly  of  events,” he said.
The workshop was part of a technical assistance project, through which the Bank will fund a study on approaches for mainstreaming climate resilience into the road transport sector in its Borrowing Member Countries (BMCs). The project will develop and pilot approaches for constructing road infrastructure that is resilient to natural hazards and climate change. It is being implemented under the African Caribbean Pacific-European Union-Caribbean Development Bank Natural Disaster Risk Management in CARIFORUM Countries Programme.
“This workshop marks the beginning of a process of enhanced engagement with key sector stakeholders, with the aim of reviewing and adapting risk and resilience decision-making standards and approaches pertaining to the road transport and the water and sanitation sectors. It is envisaged that, coming out of the series of consultations and studies, a package of guidelines and technical notes will be developed for use across the participating countries to help mainstream climate resilience in these two sectors,” said L. O’Reilly Lewis, Division Chief, Economic Infrastructure Division, CDB.
Workshop participants included representatives from 14 Caribbean countries. The agenda included presentations by technical specialists on climate change and road transport issues, including the importance of fully integrating social and gender considerations in the sector. Country representatives also shared information on the maintenance of their national road infrastructure. The workshop took place at CDB’s Headquarters in Barbados.

Community Festival brings out Penal's Finest 'Curry Duck' Cooks

Curry Duck
Presentation by one of the teams at the St Patrick District Office's Community Festival. (Photo courtesy the Ministry of Community Development, Culture and the Arts)
The Bunsee Trace community came alive on Saturday 1st July, 2017 as the St Patrick District Office, Ministry of Community Development, Culture and the Arts hosted its Community Festival with a “Curry Duck, Dhal and Murtani Competition” 2017 at the Bunsee Trace Activity Centre, Penal.
Themed, Community Festival: A Family Affair, this was the second of six community festivals to take place across Trinidad as part of the in commemoration of Community Development Day which will be celebrated on July 5.
The competition began at 2:00 p.m. where 10 groups fired up their chulhas (firesides) to see who would win the first prize of $1,500. While the groups used their puknies (long steel pipes to blow into the fires) to keep the fires going, patrons of the Community Festival were invited to visit one of Trinidad’s lesser-known mud volcanoes – the Bunsee Trace Mud Volcano. This natural attraction is made up of 3 different volcanoes surrounded by soft, grey mud.
According to Basdeo Mootilal, Community Development Officer II (Ag.), “The St Patrick Community Development District office believes that we should really have more people know about this area, so we decided to upgrade this area. The beautification project upgrade was done by Mohan Bachoo – a Landscaping and Ornamental Plants Tutor of the Community Education Programme,”   After the visit, one participant from Arima said that “I had never even heard of this Mud Volcano before. I am really glad I had the chance to come and experience this. ”
The Curry Duck, Dhal and Murtani Competitors then lined up their dishes for the judges to assess based on Taste; Presentation; Explanation of Ingredients Used and Originality. The competition was a close one with many of the entrants taking the presentation aspect of the competition very seriously. At the end the winners were:

  • Best Dhal: Penal Rock/Bunsee Trace Village Council
  • Best Murtani (roasted melongene, tomato, ochro, pepper, onion and garlic):  Bunsee Trace Youth Group
  • Best Curry Duck/Overall Winner: Bunsee Trace Youth Group

Ms Susan Corbett, Director – Community Development Division was high in praise praised the activity, “Today has been quite an enjoyable event. It has truly achieved our objective of bringing the people together to be part of community activities and projects. This Community Festival has brought youth, older persons, men and women to participate in the competitions and I thank you all for your involvement.”
The Ministry of Community Development, Culture and the Arts’ Community Festivals, dubbed “A Family Affair” and will continue with:

 Nariva/Mayaro Community Festival 2017
Guayaguayare Festival of the Heart
Saturday 8th July
10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Guayaguayare Community Centre
Art Exhibition, Pictorial Exhibition, Capoeira Demonstration, Pan Shoot Out (Solo)   Contact: 644-0849

 St George West Community Festival 2017
Saturday 22nd July
10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Beausejour, Blue Basin Waterfall, Diego Martin
Tour and Mini Hike to Waterfall, Cook Out, Moko Jumbies, Bamboo Bursting, Craft Exhibits and more
Contact: 623-6929

 St George East Community Festival 2017
Sunday 6th August
10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Talparo Recreation Grounds
Sporting Competitions, Cultural Showcase, Cuisine Corner, Community Artifacts and Craft Display
Contact: 662-4241

 Victoria Community Festival 2017
Sugar Cane Festival – Sweet and Sombre
Saturday 15th July
2:00pm to 10:00pm
Lower Barrackpore Recreational Ground
Re-enactment of “A Day in the Life of a Sugar Cane Worker’s Family,” Talent Competition, Cultural Programme, Live Band, Children’s Corner, Local Cuisine
Contact: 657-7075/652-5203

Curry Duck
Getting Ready: A member of one of the competing groups for the “Curry Duck, Dhal and Murtani Competition” uses a puknie to blow the chulha (fireside) while his team mate stands ready to start the meal. The Competition was the second of six Community Festivals hosted by the Ministry of Community Development, Culture and the Arts.
Bunsee Trace Mud Volcano
Bunsee Trace Mud Volcano: Patrons at the St. Patrick Community Festival has the chance to visit the Bunsee Trace Mud Volcano in Penal.

Best Curry Duck Winner
Susan Corbett, Director – Community Development Division presents the Best Curry Duck/Overall Winner: Bunsee Trace Youth Group with a cheque.

Petrotrin launches Education Outreach Campaign

Petrotrin
(Photo courtesy petrotrin.com)
On Monday July 3rd 2017, Petrotrin launched its annual education outreach campaign targeting the students of 35 primary schools in the several communities neighbouring its exploration, production, refining and marine operations.
This outreach campaign comprises two elements: an education support programme and a vacation food drive. The vacation food programme was conceptualised six years ago to provide support for needy families whose children would have otherwise benefited from the Ministry of Education’s school-feeding programme during the term. The programme involved the voluntary donation of food items by
employees supplemented by support from the Company whilst the education support programme involves the distribution of back to school supplies including book bags and stationary items.
As Petrotrin continues to pursue its strategic objectives and to build a sustainable business, the Company remains mindful of the need to simultaneously invest in its stakeholder communities, strengthen its presence as a good neighbour and provide value to the national community.

ECLAC boost for TT creative sector

ECLAC
The local film, fashion and music sectors are to get a much needed boost. These industries will benefit from outside expertise to be provided by the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC). ECLAC will provide technical cooperation to Minister of Trade and Industry to conduct studies on the creative industries, specifically in the areas of film, fashion and music.
The UN agency will also help with development of the export potential of these sectors. Additionally, the Ministry will get help to develop its national trade policy and strategy for the five year period from 2018-2022.
These decisions were taken following discussions between Minister of Trade and Industry, Paula Gopee-Scoon and Director, Subregional Headquarters for the Caribbean, Diane Quarless.  Other areas for prospective collaboration are special economic zone, high value manufacturing and information technology (IT).
The Government believes that the ICT sector has the potential to become one of the most critical areas of economic diversification in the coming years and will be a pivotal player in the creation of new jobs. The Tamana Intech Park which is managed by Ministry of Trade and Industry is part of the Government’s vision to diversify the country’s economy away from oil and gas and create highly-paid sustainable jobs in communities around the country.
Gopee-Scoon acknowledged the experience and success of ECLAC in the implementation of projects aimed at diversification in the Caribbean region and accepted the opportunity to partner with ECLAC on the studies related to the sectors. Both parties agreed to pursue these initiatives in the immediate future.

Dominica Joins CARICOM Day Celebrations

CARICOM
Dominica joined the rest of the Caribbean Community to commemorate CARICOM Day 2017 on Tuesday July 4th.
CARICOM Day recognizes when members signed the treaty of Chaguaramas on July 4th, 1973. CARICOM leaders also use this time to hold the regular ‘Heads of Government’ meeting.
This year, Heads of Governments will hold the 38th regular meeting in Grenada.
“The function opens with the opening ceremony this evening at 6:00pm…that will be the flagship event for the day; we will get speeches from a number of heads of government.  The Chairman of course, the Prime Minister of Grenada and also the outgoing Chairman, Prime Minister of Guyana and the incoming heads of government (those who had elections recently).  It will be a time reflect on what has happened over the last six months and where we are going,” Dominica’s Ambassador to CARICOM, His Excellency Felix Gregoire told the nation’s radio on Tuesday morning.
“The single market and economy will be under review in this meeting.  There will be a report on what has been achieved and what next we have to do.  CARICOM has in fact achieved most of the targets but there are a few remaining items to be dealt with…,” he said.
The single currency, travel and transportation for trade purposes will also be discussed.
Ambassador Greogire called on CARICOM nationals to offer their assistance in the development of CARICOM plans and programmes.
“We are moving ahead and it’s not only the governments to do, it’s for the people of the region to think, give advice and to help in the development of all the ideas that are coming on the table.”
1...109110111...269Page 110 of 269
Audio Theme

Follow us on Instagram @cpressrelease

© 2026 Caribbean Press Releases | Developed by Fire Online