First Saint Lucia Mango Festival gathered 500 visitors!
The OECS and EU sponsored Saint Lucia Mango Festival held last week met all expectations as the event brought together 16 exhibitors and 500 participants at the Constitution Park in Castries.
The festival aimed at raising public awareness on the Mango Biodiversity Project which was started in 2017 in order to limit land erosion in vulnerable riverbanks. The high soil stabilisation capacity of the mango tree enables a bio solution to this issue in Saint Lucia where 6.000 have already been planted. Mrs La Force-Haynes highlighted the success of the endeavour.
The Festival was very well received by the public. We had about 16 participants who showcased different products made with mango and at least 500 visitors today. We hope to make the Saint Lucia Mango Festival an annual event ! Environmental Education Officer Nicole La Force-Haynes explained.
On a regional level, The Saint Lucia Mango Festival formed part of the European Union funded GCCA iLand Resilience Project on climate change adaptation and sustainable land management. The GCCA project which started in 2014 includes multiple initiatives implemented in collaboration with governments of participating countries.
Nine OECS Member States are direct beneficiaries of the GCCA Project. It is a 10.6 million euros project and there are various national and regional initiatives supported. Head of the OECS Environmental Sustainability Cluster Chamberlain Emmanuel stated.
Projects undertaken in the scope of GCCA iland Resilience encompasses coastal protection work in the British Virgin Islands and Saint Kitts and Nevis as well as rainwater harvesting in Grenada and Montserrat. Other physical adaptations measures coordinated by the OECS Commission are expected to contribute to a more climate resilience Eastern Caribbean in the future.
BULLETIN
Tropical Storm Isaac Advisory Number 16
NWS National Hurricane Center Miami FL AL092018
1100 AM AST Tue Sep 11 2018
…HURRICANE AND TROPICAL STORM WATCHES ISSUED FOR ISAAC…
SUMMARY OF 1100 AM AST…1500 UTC…INFORMATION
———————————————–
LOCATION…14.6N 49.7W
ABOUT 775 MI…1250 KM E OF THE LESSER ANTILLES
MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS…70 MPH…110 KM/H
PRESENT MOVEMENT…W OR 270 DEGREES AT 16 MPH…26 KM/H
MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE…996 MB…29.42 INCHES
WATCHES AND WARNINGS
——————–
CHANGES WITH THIS ADVISORY:
The government of France has issued a Hurricane Watch for Guadeloupe
and Martinique.
The government of Barbados has issued a Hurricane Watch for
Dominica.
The meteorological service of Antigua and Barbuda has issued a
Tropical Storm Watch for Antigua and Montserrat.
SUMMARY OF WATCHES AND WARNINGS IN EFFECT:
A Hurricane Watch is in effect for…
* Guadeloupe
* Martinique
* Dominica
A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for…
* Antigua and Montserrat
A Hurricane Watch means that hurricane conditions are possible
within the watch area. A watch is typically issued 48 hours
before the anticipated first occurrence of tropical-storm-force
winds, conditions that make outside preparations difficult or
dangerous.
A Tropical Storm Watch means that tropical storm conditions are
possible within the watch area, generally within 48 hours.
Interests elsewhere in the Leeward Islands should monitor the
progress of Isaac as additional watches could be issued this
afternoon or evening.
For storm information specific to your area, please monitor
products issued by your national meteorological service.
DISCUSSION AND OUTLOOK
———————-
At 1100 AM AST (1500 UTC), the center of Tropical Storm Isaac was
located near latitude 14.6 North, longitude 49.7 West. Isaac is
moving toward the west near 16 mph (26 km/h) and this motion is
expected to continue for the next few days. On the forecast track
Isaac is anticipated to move near or over the central Lesser
Antilles on Thursday and move into the eastern Caribbean Sea
Thursday night.
Maximum sustained winds remain near 70 mph (110 km/h) with higher
gusts. Isaac is expected to be near hurricane strength when it
moves through the central Lesser Antilles, with some weakening
forecast afterward on Friday.
Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 105 miles (165 km)
from the center.
The estimated minimum central pressure is 996 mb (29.42 inches).
HAZARDS AFFECTING LAND
———————-
RAINFALL: Isaac is expected to produce total rainfall accumulations
of 3 to 5 inches with isolated amounts near 10 inches across the
southern Leeward Islands late this week, with 1 to 2 inches
anticipated across portions of the Windward Islands.
STORM SURGE: A storm surge of 2 to 4 feet above normal tide levels
is possible near and to the north of where the center moves through
the Lesser Antilles. Near the coast, the surge will be accompanied
by large and destructive waves.
WIND: Hurricane conditions are possible within the hurricane watch
area by Thursday morning, with tropical storm conditions possible
early Thursday in both the hurricane and tropical storm watch areas.
SURF: Swells generated by Isaac will begin to affect portions
of the Lesser Antilles on Wednesday afternoon. These swells are
likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.
Please consult products from your local weather office.
NEXT ADVISORY
————-
Next intermediate advisory at 200 PM AST.
Next complete advisory at 500 PM AST.
The Guyana National Broadcasting Authority and the Belize Press Office joined the regional body’s membership which spans twenty-one countries and territories in the Dutch, English, French and Spanish Caribbean.
The Authority, which regulates Guyanese television, radio and cable services, came on board as an associate member.
The Belize Press Office also joined as an associate member. The BPO produces weekly television news magazines as part of its responsibility for media relations and information dissemination for the government of Belize.
The two newest members of the Union will now be able enjoy the many benefits of CBU membership including access to rights-free programming through the CBU Media Share portal, eligibility to enter the Caribbean Broadcasting Awards, participation in training sponsored by CBU partners, first-look at industry reports, and discounts on attendance at the 50th Annual General Assembly, scheduled for San Andres Island Colombia in August 2019.
About the Caribbean Broadcasting Union The Caribbean Broadcasting Union was officially established in November 1970 to promote regional integration through media co-operation.
The grouping is made up of media entities located in twenty-one (21) countries and territories in the Dutch, English, French and Spanish-speaking Caribbean. The Union’s mandate includes facilitating indigenous programme production and sharing; capacity-building of media institutions and professionals; joint negotiation of rights for programming; and advocacy in regional and international forums on policy and technology issues.
The Elections and Boundaries Department is pleased to present another update to the public on the ongoing 2018 Re-registration of Electors Exercise.
An update is hereby provided as follows for the period 3rd to 8th September, 2018.
During the period a total of nine hundred and fifty-one (951) applications were accepted, therefore the total number of applications received as of 8th September, 2018 is one hundred twenty-two thousand, four hundred and forty-seven (122,447). This figure indicates a drastic decrease in the number of persons applying to be registered.
The public is hereby reminded that all applications for re-registration are now being accepted at the Elections and Boundaries Registration Offices countrywide. The opening hours are Mondays to Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Qualified persons are reminded that as a citizen you have a right to participate in the electoral process. Take your responsibility seriously and register TODAY.
BULLETIN Tropical Storm Isaac Advisory Number 15
NWS National Hurricane Center Miami FL AL092018
500 AM AST Tue Sep 11 2018
…ISAAC REMAINS A STRONG TROPICAL STORM OVER THE CENTRAL TROPICAL
ATLANTIC…
SUMMARY OF 500 AM AST…0900 UTC…INFORMATION
———————————————-
LOCATION…14.6N 48.1W
ABOUT 880 MI…1420 KM E OF THE LESSER ANTILLES
MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS…70 MPH…110 KM/H
PRESENT MOVEMENT…W OR 270 DEGREES AT 14 MPH…22 KM/H
MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE…997 MB…29.44 INCHES
WATCHES AND WARNINGS
——————–
There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect.
Interests in the Lesser Antilles should monitor the progress of
Isaac.
DISCUSSION AND OUTLOOK
———————-
At 500 AM AST (0900 UTC), the center of Tropical Storm Isaac was
located near latitude 14.6 North, longitude 48.1 West. Isaac is
moving toward the west near 14 mph (22 km/h). This general motion
is expected to continue through the end of the week. On the forecast
track, Isaac should move across the Lesser Antilles and into the
eastern Caribbean Sea on Thursday.
Maximum sustained winds remain near 70 mph (110 km/h) with higher
gusts. Little change in strength is forecast during the next few
days, but Isaac is forecast to be at or near hurricane strength as
it approaches the Lesser Antilles.
Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 45 miles (75 km)
from the center.
The estimated minimum central pressure is 997 mb (29.44 inches).
HAZARDS AFFECTING LAND
———————-
RAINFALL: Isaac is expected to produce total rainfall accumulations
of 2 to 4 inches with isolated amounts near 6 inches across the
Leeward Islands late this week, with 1 to 2 inches anticipated
across the Windward Islands.
Grenada hosts Historic China-Caribbean Conference on Anti-Corruption.
Grenada is hosting the historic 1st China-Caribbean Conference on Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Cooperation here this week.
Prime Minister and Minister for National Security, Dr. the Right Honourable Keith Mitchell welcomed the historic meeting saying it signals a combined resolve to “fight corruption and to jointly tackle the issue of cross-border corruption that could undermine good governance, good business practices and general financial services in our countries.”
Dr. Mitchell expressed the hope that the conference will result in a formal framework of cooperation between China and Caribbean governments. “I trust that we have all come to St. George to be part of this momentous occasion, with an unwavering determination to work collaboratively to safeguard our mutual law enforcement and anti-corruption interests,” the Prime Minister stated.
He added, “Corruption impairs social fairness and justice, it undermines the image and credibility of countries and their governments and it hinders economic development and the realisation of sustainable development. In fact, it is well known that when our own citizens think governments are not dealing with corruption aggressively, they tend to perceive that we are also involved.”
The Prime Minister further noted that, corruption undermines the rule of law and marginalises people, making it even more crucial that countries have ongoing cooperation in anti-corruption efforts.
Dr. Mitchell said, “We must appreciate that law enforcement and security are part of a dynamic environment. Every piece of legislation we enact, every regulation we approve, every structure we create, these will be continually challenged by the corrupt few as they find new ways to circumvent established procedures. It is critical therefore that as law enforcers, we always stay ahead of the game and we maintain innovation and timeliness as key watchwords. Regular meetings of this nature, well help to ensure that we stay one step of the corrupt minds.”
The Grenadian leader also noted that cooperation in anti-corruption presents yet another opportunity for Grenada and China to deepen relations. He made reference to the recent introduction of a bill in the House of Representatives that addresses the Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters Treaty, signed between the Grenada and Chinese governments.
Representatives from China including Vice Chairman of the National Commission of Supervision, His Excellency Xu Lingyi and several CARICOM member states, are attending the two-day meeting.
During the conference, delegates will share best practices on mutual law enforcement and security concerns, explore specific cooperation instruments and initiatives to enhance law enforcement cooperation as well as establish networks for information sharing.
BULLETIN
Tropical Storm Isaac Advisory Number 14
NWS National Hurricane Center Miami FL AL092018
1100 PM AST Mon Sep 10 2018
…ISAAC A LITTLE WEAKER…
…STILL EXPECTED TO BE AT OR NEAR HURRICANE STRENGTH WHEN IT
APPROACHES THE LEEWARD ISLANDS LATER THIS WEEK…
SUMMARY OF 1100 PM AST…0300 UTC…INFORMATION
———————————————–
LOCATION…14.5N 46.9W
ABOUT 960 MI…1550 KM E OF THE LESSER ANTILLES
MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS…70 MPH…110 KM/H
PRESENT MOVEMENT…W OR 270 DEGREES AT 16 MPH…26 KM/H
MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE…997 MB…29.44 INCHES
WATCHES AND WARNINGS
——————–
There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect.
Interests in the Lesser Antilles should monitor the progress of
Isaac.
DISCUSSION AND OUTLOOK
———————-
At 1100 PM AST (0300 UTC), the center of Tropical Storm Isaac was
located near latitude 14.5 North, longitude 46.9 West. Isaac is
moving toward the west near 16 mph (26 km/h). This general motion is
expected to continue through the end of the week. On the forecast
track, Isaac should move across the Lesser Antilles and into the
eastern Caribbean Sea on Thursday.
The maximum sustained winds have decreased to near 70 mph (110
km/h) with higher gusts. Little change in strength is forecast
during the next few days, but Isaac is forecast to be at or near
hurricane strength as it approaches the Lesser Antilles later this
week.
Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 45 miles (75 km)
from the center.
The estimated minimum central pressure is 997 mb (29.44 inches).
HAZARDS AFFECTING LAND
———————-
RAINFALL: Isaac is expected to produce total rainfall accumulations
of 2 to 4 inches with isolated amounts near 6 inches across the
Leeward Islands late this week, with 1 to 2 inches anticipated
across the Windward Islands.
NEXT ADVISORY
————-
Next complete advisory at 500 AM AST.
BULLETIN
Hurricane Isaac Advisory Number 13
NWS National Hurricane Center Miami FL AL092018
500 PM AST Mon Sep 10 2018
…ISAAC CONTINUES TO SHOW LITTLE CHANGE IN STRENGTH…
SUMMARY OF 500 PM AST…2100 UTC…INFORMATION
———————————————-
LOCATION…14.4N 45.0W
ABOUT 1090 MI…1755 KM E OF THE LESSER ANTILLES
MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS…75 MPH…120 KM/H
PRESENT MOVEMENT…W OR 270 DEGREES AT 14 MPH…22 KM/H
MINIMUM CENTRAL PRESSURE…993 MB…29.33 INCHES
WATCHES AND WARNINGS
——————–
There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect.
Interests in the Lesser Antilles should monitor the progress of
Isaac.
DISCUSSION AND OUTLOOK
———————-
At 500 PM AST (2100 UTC), the center of Hurricane Isaac was located
near latitude 14.4 North, longitude 45.0 West. Isaac is moving
toward the west near 14 mph (22 km/h). A westward motion with a
slight increase in forward speed is expected through the end of the
week. On the forecast track, Isaac should move across the
Lesser Antilles and into the eastern Caribbean Sea on Thursday.
Maximum sustained winds are near 75 mph (120 km/h) with higher
gusts. Some strengthening is expected over the next day or two.
Weakening is forecast to begin by the middle of the week as Isaac
approaches the Lesser Antilles.
Isaac is a small hurricane. Hurricane-force winds extend outward up
to 10 miles (20 km) from the center and tropical-storm-force winds
extend outward up to 45 miles (75 km).
The estimated minimum central pressure is 993 mb (29.33 inches).
HAZARDS AFFECTING LAND
———————-
None.
NEXT ADVISORY
————-
Next complete advisory at 1100 PM AST.
The workshop would run from Monday 10th to Friday 14th, September, 2018. The proceedings were cheered by Mr. Philcol Jeffers, Communication and Marketing Officer, within Ministry of National Mobilisation etc.
Various persons from different agencies gathered to participate in the opening ceremony. Also attending the opening ceremony was Permanent Secretary within the Ministry, Mrs. Nerissa Gittens-McMillan.
The feature address was delivered by Hon. Frederick A. Stephenson, Minister of National Mobilisation etc.
The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) will provide funding for the project. The local administrator for PPA is Ms. Lystra Culzac.
It was noted that the data required must be timely and reliable. One of the major aims of the PPA is to monitor poverty at the national level. Action research methodology method will be used to collect data. The main purpose of PPA is to better understand poverty in a geographical area.
Eight (8) communities across Saint Vincent and the Grenadines were selected as areas to collect sample data.
There is a local National Advisory Team (NAT) in place to assist in the process. The PPA therefore seeks to identify the cases of poverty as well as the extent of poverty in SVG.
Settlement plan for Venezuelan migrants still under consideration at Dept. of Citizenship.
The Department of Citizenship is still considering a proposal that was made regarding the settlement of Venezuelan migrants in the township of Mabaruma in the Barima-Waini Region (Region One) but thus far, no decision has been taken at the level of the Cabinet.
Speaking to the Ministry of the Presidency’s Public Information and Press Services Unit, Minister of Citizenship, Mr. Winston Felix explained that in July, during an engagement with the officials from the regional office and the municipality of Region One, this recommendation was proffered and the Council indicated that it was willing to make representation to a private land owner for permission to use his land.
“The Department of Citizenship was looking at the recommendation in terms of its feasibility to implement it, but the Government has not made a decision on that issue; it is being dealt with at the level of the Department,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Multi-Sectoral Coordinating Committee, which was established to deal with the influx of Venezuelan migrants, continues to meet regularly to discuss strategies to better serve the immediate and long-term needs of displaced persons. The most recent meeting was held today at the Department’s office on Shiv Chanderpaul Drive.
The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) is the agency that is spearheading relief efforts so far. It is being supported by other Government bodies particularly the Ministries of Public Health, Education and Social Protection, the Immigration Office, the Guyana Police Force and international agencies like the Pan-American Health Organisation (PAHO), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and International Organisation for Migration (IOM).
Last week, the CDC conducted an outreach in Khan’s Hill, in the Mabaruma sub-region district where food hampers were distributed to 24 migrant families. While at White Water Village, another 46 families received hammocks and hygiene supplies.
The Committee is also working to establish a database of all Venezuelan migrants and to ensure that migrants are screened and vaccinated upon arrival at the various ports of entry.
