AGP Executive Report

Tourism Awards: Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. chair Andrea Franklin was named Director of Tourism of the Year at the CTO’s Caribbean Women in Tourism Leadership Awards in New York, alongside Virgin Islands minister Luce Hodge-Smith. Youth & Climate Jobs: A UNICEF-backed regional survey says young people in Barbados and other islands aren’t linking climate action and green economy plans to real opportunities. Public Health Policy: PAHO brought nutritionists, NCD focal points and legal drafters to Barbados to map sodium cuts and trans fat elimination steps across the region. Security & Justice: The Barbados Probation Service marked its 80th anniversary; Home Affairs Minister Gregory Nicholls said nearly half of probation cases in 2025 involved violent or threatening offences. Defence Force Leadership: President Jeffrey Bostic urged BDF members to uphold standards and said he will no longer use the Lieutenant Colonel title. Infrastructure & Roads: Government is considering expanding Highway 2A from two to four lanes, while also rehabilitating bridges along the corridor. Energy Costs: BLPC says fuel prices drive most of electricity bills and FCA-related generator costs could add about $1.25 monthly for the average household. Heritage Month: Barbadians were urged to protect heritage and pass values on, with plans to preserve cricket legends’ childhood homes. Local Business Support: Endeavour Credit Union launched a partnership programme for micro, small and medium businesses, with 11 partners signing on.

Public Safety & Justice: Barbados Probation Service marks its 80th anniversary, with Home Affairs Minister Gregory Nicholls saying 295 people were on probation in 2025 and almost half were linked to violent or threatening offences—plus a reminder that probation is meant to be an “off-ramp” before things worsen. Defence & Leadership: President Jeffrey Bostic urged Barbados Defence Force members to uphold standards at the Commander-in-Chief Parade, and announced he will drop the “Lieutenant Colonel” title from his official designation. Infrastructure: Government is considering expanding Highway 2A from two to four lanes, while also rehabilitating bridges along the corridor. Energy & Storm Readiness: BLPC says fuel costs drive bills, and warns solar owners to properly isolate systems and not restart damaged panels after storms. Local Business: Endeavour Credit Union signs 11 small-business partners to expand support for micro, small and medium enterprises. Heritage & Values: Heritage Month messages urged Barbadians to protect cultural legacy and pass on core values. Tourism & Travel Deals: P&O Cruises launches Caribbean fly-cruise promos with up to £500 onboard spending and low deposits. Sports & Community: Cricket West Indies and Republic Bank’s “Five for Fun” programme launches in Barbados with 60 primary schools taking part.

Heritage Preservation: Residents in St Michael’s Bay Land and Bank Hall are celebrating government plans to turn the childhood homes of cricket legends Sir Garfield Sobers and Sir Frank Worrell into permanent heritage sites, with Minister Trevor Prescod saying the state will move beyond temporary tributes to protect key pieces of Barbadian history. Crime & Gangs: Opposition senator Karina Goodridge and Ryan Walters both backed the Criminal Gangs (Prevention and Control) Bill, but urged a wider public education push and stronger action against the people financing gang activity—“cut off the head,” not just street-level offenders. Public Health: Doctors are being urged to help shape policy to tackle non-communicable diseases, as figures show chronic illness is driving most deaths and major economic losses. Energy Safety: Barbados Light & Power warned solar and renewable system owners to properly isolate and secure installations before storms, and not to switch systems back on after damage without checks. Tourism & Community: BTMI’s Oistins Comes to Brooklyn drew an estimated 15,000 people for a second year, while Cricket West Indies and Republic Bank’s “Five for Fun” launched in Barbados with 60 primary schools set to take part. Climate Finance: Deputy PM Santia Bradshaw called for faster, simpler climate funding for small island states, saying delays mean money arrives after the window to act.

Climate Finance Push: Barbados’ environment minister Santia Bradshaw says SIDS are stuck with slow, complicated funding that arrives after the damage is done, calling for simpler access and faster disbursement. Health Policy & Prevention: Doctors are urging a bigger role for medical professionals in shaping policy to tackle non-communicable diseases, as youth and families face rising chronic illness burdens. Hurricane Safety for Solar Homes: BLPC warns solar owners to properly isolate systems and not restart after storms if panels are damaged, stressing safety for crews and neighbours. Gangs Bill Debate: In Senate discussions on the Criminal Gangs (Prevention and Control) Bill, opposition senators backed tougher action but argued authorities must “cut off the head” by targeting financiers and networks, not just street-level youth. Crime Justice Tools: Minister Michael Lashley says offender monitoring will be used for people reoffending while on bail, and legislators will debate a gun court next Tuesday. Local Governance & Community: Four people are left homeless after a St. James house fire; no injuries were reported. Tourism & Culture: BTMI’s Oistins Comes to Brooklyn drew 15,000+ for a second straight year, while Barbados’ Petra Roach was inducted into the CTO Hall of Fame. Business & Money: Central Bank enforcement shut down Zeemoney’s operations in Barbados after a licence suspension and compliance concerns. Sports & Youth: Barbados doctors, youth, and schools are also in focus as campaigns push back on junk food marketing linked to childhood obesity. Leadership Update: President Jeffrey Bostic has dropped the “Lieutenant Colonel” title from his official designation.

Criminal Justice: Opposition Senator Ryan Walters backed Barbados’ Criminal Gangs (Prevention and Control) Bill, but warned it won’t curb violence unless authorities “cut off the head” by targeting those financing and directing gangs—not just street-level gunmen. Bail & Courts: Minister Michael Lashley said offender monitoring will soon be used for people reoffending while on bail, with bail applications going to the High Court, and legislators to debate a gun court next Tuesday. Tourism Recognition: Barbadian tourism leader Petra Roach was inducted into the inaugural CTO Hall of Fame during Caribbean Week in New York, while the CTO also honoured Caribbean media talent at its Caribbean Media Awards luncheon. Local Economy & Finance: Zeemoney shut down in Barbados after a Central Bank suspension order, following concerns over its financial condition, governance, and compliance. Climate & Youth: A UNICEF-commissioned study found Barbados youth lag behind peers in awareness of green and circular economy opportunities, despite strong climate resilience efforts. Health Policy: Regional health groups urged faster healthy food policy action to tackle the Caribbean’s NCD crisis, citing gaps between evidence and implementation. Women & Wealth: Egi Women and JMMB International ran a Women & Wealth Masterclass focused on financial wellness and long-term wealth building. Tourism Growth: Turtle Beach Barbados opened on the South Coast, adding 161 rooms to the island’s all-inclusive options.

Public Safety & Justice: Barbados is moving toward offender monitoring for people out on bail, as lawmakers debate the Criminal Gangs (Prevention and Control) Bill; the bill also points to a gun court next Tuesday and includes tougher measures around gang recruitment and harbouring. Gang Prevention: Prime Minister Mia Mottley says the response must go beyond enforcement, calling for community parenting clubs and a national support hotline, plus youth-focused support through faith-based groups. Financial Services: Zeemoney has shut down in Barbados after a Central Bank suspension order, citing concerns over financial condition, governance, compliance and operational continuity. Tourism & Connectivity: LIAT (2020) and Air Caraïbes signed an interline agreement for single-ticket, through-checked travel across their combined networks, boosting links for Barbados and the wider region. Tourism Leadership: Petra Roach was inducted into the inaugural CTO Hall of Fame during Caribbean Week in New York. Environment & Health: World Environment Day messaging and regional calls for stronger healthy food policy target the NCD crisis, while local officials urge behaviour change to curb illegal dumping. Energy Costs: BLPC says monthly spending on temporary generation is set to rise, with a small expected electricity cost impact as reserve capacity is increased.

Healthy Food & NCDs: PAHO, CARPHA, OECS and the Healthy Caribbean Coalition say progress on non-communicable diseases is slow, with only Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda and Grenada on track for 2025 targets, as healthy food policy is pushed using WHO “Best Buys” and a regional policy package. Climate & Data: Scientists warn more Saharan dust could reach Barbados after the weekend plume, while CIMH says data-sharing gaps across the island and region are holding back climate research and decision-making. Power Costs: BLPC says monthly spending on backup generation is set to jump from about $700,000 to $900,000, with a small electricity cost increase expected as reserve capacity is added. Tourism Strategy: The CTO launched a Tourism Supply Side Initiative aimed at keeping more value in the Caribbean, and CTO/CHTA also unveiled new tools including CTO TV. Labour & AI: The BWU warns AI and app-based work could leave workers exposed unless protections keep up. Environment: Officials urge behaviour change to tackle illegal dumping after an environmental tour of Chancery Lane Swamp and Wetlands. Public Services: CTUSAB says public transport problems remain unresolved and should be treated as a national priority. Health & Schools: Doctors are reminded of legal duties to report child neglect, and the Barbados Union of Teachers urges continued vigilance at Hillaby Turner’s Hall Primary despite assurances. Regional Connectivity: LIAT (2020) and Air Caraïbes signed an interline agreement for single-ticket travel across combined networks. Crime & Protective Services: CTUSAB also raises concerns about delayed payments and allowances affecting protective services staff.

Offshore Oil & Gas: Barbados has opened a new offshore licensing drive, offering 19 ultra-deepwater blocks for oil and gas exploration, with bidders pushed to meet tougher climate and environmental standards. Climate Data & Policy: The Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology says data-sharing gaps are holding back climate research and decision-making, while Barbados also launched a push to put scientific research at the heart of national policy. Health at Hillaby Turner’s Hall Primary: The Barbados Union of Teachers is urging authorities not to dismiss ongoing health concerns at the St Andrew school, despite assurances there’s no scarlet fever outbreak. Livestock Feed Crisis: A severe feed and forage crisis is hitting sheep farmers as pasture fires burn grazing lands and drive up hay prices. Public Service Pressure: CTUSAB says protective services workers are being short-changed through delayed payments, weak insurance coverage and unresolved allowances. Regional Cricket Business: CWI CEO Chris Dehring says bilateral cricket needs “re-engineering” as fans demand more context and meaning. Caribbean Governance & Courts: A CCJ judge laments that most CARICOM states still don’t accept the court as their final appeal court. Payments & Independence Tech: Government is rolling out new services tied to BiMPay’s June 12 launch, including WhatsApp-based bill payments using digital ID. CDB Reform: CDB president Daniel Best says the bank is entering a “rebirth” phase with an ambitious reform programme to boost impact across the region.

Offshore Energy Push: Barbados has formally launched offshore petroleum direct negotiations, offering 19 ultra-deepwater blocks and saying seismic work points to potential reserves of up to 13+ billion barrels of oil and 40+ trillion cubic feet of gas, with stronger climate and methane standards for bidders. Regional Finance & Reform: Caribbean Development Bank president Daniel Best used the CDB’s annual meeting in Nassau to call for faster, bolder action on a “CDB Forward” reform plan as debt, climate shocks and tighter development finance squeeze the region. Caricom Free Movement Debate: A lawyer warns that Caricom treaty provisions could complicate Bermuda’s immigration rules if it moves toward full membership, reigniting questions about how far free movement is actually going. Local Safety: Barbados Police warn of a WhatsApp video-call scam where fraudsters impersonate officers and claim they can recover “hacked” bank funds—urging people not to share IDs or banking details online. Road to Resilience: CDB and regional partners keep spotlighting climate and resilience, while St. Kitts and Nevis launched work toward 100% renewable electricity using EU and UNDP support. Sports & Youth: Cricket West Indies confirmed its 2026 home series schedule, with Barbados co-hosting the final two New Zealand ODIs, and CWI’s “WI OUTSIDE!” push for free entry for kids 16 and under. Health Watch: PAHO says measles cases are rising across the Americas, urging vaccination vigilance ahead of major travel surges. Business & Jobs: Insurance officials warn motor claims are outpacing premiums, pushing the industry toward higher costs unless driving behaviour improves. Community: PickUp Barbados and PwC teamed up to boost blood donation efforts.

Offshore Energy Push: Barbados has formally launched offshore petroleum direct negotiations, offering 19 ultra-deepwater blocks and setting a three-month window for proposals, with the government saying bidders must meet stronger climate and environmental standards. Energy Transition Costs: Acting Prime Minister Kerrie Symmonds says the renewable transition is expected to cost more than US$2 billion, while natural gas is framed as a bridge fuel during the shift. Regional Development Finance: CDB President Daniel Best urged faster, bolder action for a stronger, greener, more resilient Caribbean as debt, climate shocks and shrinking development finance squeeze the region. Public Safety Alert: Barbados Police warn of a WhatsApp video-call scam where fraudsters impersonate officers, claim bank accounts were hacked, and ask victims to share IDs and banking details. Health Watch: PAHO says measles cases are rising across the Americas ahead of the 2026 World Cup, with most cases linked to unvaccinated people or unknown vaccination status. Tourism & Jobs: Royalton Vessence Barbados is promoting year-round employment and a culture-led guest experience as the resort opens. Sports Calendar: CWI released its 2026 home series schedule, including Barbados co-hosting the final two New Zealand ODI matches. Community & Culture: President Jeffrey Bostic urged students to use kindness as a force for change, while Party Monarch’s return drew strong performer interest.

Offshore Energy Push: Barbados has started direct negotiations for offshore oil and gas, with Minister Kerrie Symmonds saying seismic surveys point to potential reserves of 13+ billion barrels of oil and 40+ trillion cubic feet of natural gas, as the island moves to cut fuel imports and create new investment opportunities. Payments Upgrade: The Central Bank says BimPay will go live soon, describing it as the “payment rail” that will speed up, simplify and secure transactions for banked and unbanked users alike. Citizenship Scrutiny: In Parliament, Foreign Affairs Minister Chris Sinckler defended keeping due diligence strong even as concerns grow about slow citizenship processing and possible passport devaluation. Electricity Costs: BL&P says a Fair Trading Commission approval will mean a modest $1.25 average monthly electricity increase, with timing likely not before September. Regional Connectivity: Cricket West Indies confirmed its 2026 home season, with Barbados co-hosting the final two ODIs in the New Zealand series, and LIAT (2020) and Air Caraïbes signing an interline deal to make Caribbean-Europe travel easier. Tourism & Business: Royalton Vessence Barbados opened as an adult-oriented all-inclusive on the Platinum Coast, while Barbados and Antigua were highlighted as gateways linking Africa and the Caribbean via new Lagos service.

Payments & Economy: Barbados’ BimPay national instant payment system is set to go live on June 12, with the Central Bank stressing it’s about faster, safer digital payments for everyone—banked or unbanked. Energy & Jobs: Acting Prime Minister Kerrie Symmonds says Barbados is moving toward offshore oil and gas exploration, launching a 2026 Offshore Direct Negotiations Programme covering 19 offshore blocks. Electricity Costs: BL&P says a Fair Trading Commission approval will mean a modest $1.25 average monthly electricity bill increase, expected to take effect no earlier than September. Tourism & Travel: Royalton Vessence Barbados opens on the Platinum Coast as an adult-oriented all-inclusive, while LIAT and Air Caraïbes launch an interline agreement to make multi-island trips easier on one ticket. Regional Connectivity: Barbados and Antigua are positioned as hubs linking Africa to the Caribbean after the Lagos–Barbados direct service begins. Public Life & Culture: Heritage Month 2026 is launched, with officials urging unity and stronger cultural grounding for young people. Health & Schools: Hillaby Turner’s Hall Primary School remains open after scarlet fever concerns—testing found only one positive case. Community & Legacy: Tributes continue for youth worker and activist Winston Pinder, remembered for decades of social and racial justice work. Politics: Friends of Democracy is urged to build lasting trust through integrity and meaningful engagement.

Caribbean Tourism in Focus: Caribbean Week 2026 is underway in New York, with CTO-led talks bringing ministers and industry leaders together under “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences,” as the region pushes for stronger connectivity and resilience. New Air Links: LIAT (2020) and Air Caraïbes launched an interline agreement letting travellers book both airlines on one ticket, with through baggage to the final destination—boosting routes that include Barbados. Barbados Resort Opening: Royalton Vessence Barbados has opened on the Platinum Coast as an adult-oriented all-inclusive, debuting the new Vessence brand with swim-out suites, 17 dining options, and cultural programming. Health & Schools: Hillaby Turner’s Hall Primary School remains under scrutiny after scarlet fever concerns; officials say 13 cases were investigated and only one tested positive for Group A Streptococcus. Water Watch: Barbados is not considering water restrictions yet, but authorities are monitoring low rainfall and reservoir levels amid ongoing supply complaints. Public Safety: A High Court judge urged people fascinated with firearms to join lawful security forces, warning of “national exhaustion” over gun offences. Tourism Training: OHADAC–CARO arbitration and ADR training programmes will be launched regionally in June to strengthen access to economic justice across the Eastern Caribbean.

Tourism & Hospitality: Royalton Vessence Barbados has officially opened on the Platinum Coast, bringing 220 suites, 17 dining options, swim-out categories, butler service for Diamond Club guests, and local arts programming. Aviation Connectivity: LIAT (2020) and Air Caraïbes launched an interline agreement for single-ticket travel with checked baggage through to final destinations. Regional Travel & Cruise News: Norwegian Viva cancelled select San Juan sailings for 2028 due to port availability changes, with refunds or incentives offered. Business & Finance: Butterfield is set to acquire CIBC Caribbean’s 91.7% stake in a landmark US$1.8 billion deal, expanding a combined banking and wealth platform across international financial centres and Caribbean markets. Public Health: Barbados’ Ministry of Health says Hillaby Turner’s Hall Primary School won’t close after a scarlet fever case, with standard hygiene and mosquito-prevention guidance reiterated. Community & Culture: CPL Finals Week in Barbados will feature a Live & Louder world-class concert at the National Botanical Gardens on 19 September 2026. Education Watch: GTEC in Ghana warns the public about 70 unrecognised tertiary institutions, urging due diligence on certificates.

Youth Vaping Crisis: A Caribbean youth advocate warns vaping is spreading fast among teens, with flavours and online sales masking nicotine addiction risks and mental health harms. Caribbean Week in New York: Barbados tourism leaders are in the spotlight as Caribbean Week opens today, with strong ministerial turnout and a major marketing conference keynote from aviation analyst Henry Harteveldt. Tourism Leadership: New BTMI chairman Peter Harris pledges to make Barbados “a Standard,” promising better returns for taxpayers and closer teamwork with the tourism ministry. Banking Deal: Carey Olsen advises Butterfield on its $1.8 billion acquisition of CIBC Caribbean, a move expected to expand banking and wealth services across the region. Port Security: Barbados Port Inc. says hackers have repeatedly targeted the seaport, highlighting rising cyber risks for critical trade infrastructure. Health in Schools: Hillaby Turner’s Hall Primary School won’t close after scarlet fever was detected, with health officials stressing standard measures and quick treatment. Heritage Moves: Heritage Month begins with plans to preserve the homes of cricket legends Sir Gary Sobers and Sir Frank Walcott. Community Outreach: Youth Affairs launches a mobile outreach programme bringing services and registration directly into neighbourhoods. Refugee in Limbo: A UN-recognised refugee in Barbados says he’s stuck in legal and physical limbo while awaiting resettlement.

Aviation & Tourism: JetBlue has started daily nonstop flights from New York (JFK) to Barbados, giving visitors a faster, connection-free route to the island’s beaches, resorts, food scene and heritage. Public Safety & Community: Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley urged deeper community engagement by the police as the Barbados Police Service hosted a Family Fun Day at the National Botanical Gardens. Heritage & Culture: Heritage Month kicked off with the Fielding Babb Heritage Recognition Award, honouring Sir Paul Altman, Celia Toppin and others, while the ministry also plans to preserve the homes of cricket legends Sir Gary Sobers and Sir Frank Walcott. Youth & Outreach: Youth Affairs launched a nationwide mobile community outreach, bringing programmes and on-the-spot registration to neighbourhoods like Passage Road and Deacons. Port & Security: Barbados Port Inc. says hackers have repeatedly targeted the Port of Bridgetown, warning that ports are high-value cyber targets. Business & Economy: Roberts Manufacturing’s listing on the Barbados Stock Exchange was hailed as a major milestone, and Prime Minister Mottley pressed for stronger private-sector leadership to drive inclusive growth. Arts & Film: Emerging filmmaker Mary Walker says her short film project “Moko” gained major crowdfunding support after being selected for a Seed&Spark Staff Pick and a Patron Circle Grant.