AGP Executive Report

BDF Leadership: President Jeffrey Bostic urged Barbados Defence Force members to uphold the institution’s standards during the inaugural Commander-in-Chief Parade, and he also moved to retire the “Lieutenant Colonel” title from his official designation. Transport & Roads: Government is considering expanding Highway 2A from two to four lanes, while MTW teams also inspect and plan bridge rehabilitation along the corridor. Education Overhaul: The Ministry of Education Transformation is accelerating modernisation, with a revised Education Act expected by year-end and an Education Quality Assurance Framework to set system-wide standards. Justice & Youth: Probation Service marks its 80th anniversary, with 2025 figures showing nearly half of probation cases tied to violent or threatening offences, prompting calls for stronger “off-ramp” support. Energy Costs: Barbados Light & Power says temporary generation approvals could add about $1.25 to the average household bill via the fuel clause adjustment. Tourism Recognition: Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. chair Petra Roach and other regional leaders were honoured at CTO awards in New York, spotlighting Barbados’ tourism leadership. Heritage Month: Barbadians are being urged to protect heritage and pass on values, including plans to preserve the childhood homes of cricket legends Sobers and Worrell as permanent heritage sites.

Barbados Defence Force & Presidency: President Jeffrey Bostic says he will drop the “Lieutenant Colonel” title from his official designation, ending the practice as he addressed the inaugural Commander-in-Chief Parade at St Ann’s Fort. Energy & Hurricanes: Barbados Light & Power says it’s ready for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season and is warning solar customers to isolate systems properly and not restart damaged panels after storms. Public Health: Doctors are being urged to help shape policy to tackle non-communicable diseases, with local figures showing heavy adult burden and major costs. Local Business Support: Endeavour Credit Union signed 11 small-business partners in a push to help micro, small and medium enterprises grow. Tourism & Diaspora: Barbados’ BTMI brought “Oistins Comes to Brooklyn” back for a second year, drawing thousands in New York’s diaspora community. Heritage & Cricket Legends: Bay Land and Bank Hall residents in St Michael are celebrating plans to preserve the childhood homes of Sir Garfield Sobers and Sir Frank Worrell as permanent heritage sites. Transport Regulation: Alliance Owners of Public Transport is calling on illegal passenger operators to stop “pirating” routes and join the regulated system. Hospital Digital Upgrade: Queen Elizabeth Hospital’s digital transformation is gaining momentum, with digitisation of records and efficiency gains highlighted.

Caribbean Media & Tourism: The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) honoured top storytellers and digital creators at the Caribbean Media Awards in New York and launched CTO TV, with a library of 700+ videos aimed at boosting Caribbean voices beyond beaches and resorts. Cricket & Community: Republic Bank’s “Five for Fun” cricket programme officially landed in Barbados, targeting 60 primary schools and teaching teamwork and basic skills through a fun format. Local Governance & Defence: President Jeffrey Bostic announced he will drop the “Lieutenant Colonel” title, to be known officially as “The Most Honourable Jeffrey Bostic.” Hurricane Readiness: Barbados Light & Power says solar owners must properly isolate and manage systems before, during and after storms to protect crews and the public. Health & Food Policy: Doctors are urged to help shape policy to tackle non-communicable diseases, while youth advocates warn ultra-processed food marketing is driving childhood obesity. Crime & Gangs: Opposition Senator Ryan Walters backed the Criminal Gangs Bill but stressed enforcement must target the financiers and leaders, not just street-level offenders. Culture & Fundraising: Three Barbados choirs unite for a Sunday charity concert at St Mary’s Anglican Church, with proceeds for the Barbados Cancer Society and the church roof restoration. Sports: Weymouth Wales will enter the CFU Club Shield in Trinidad and Tobago after Friday’s draw, facing SV Britannia in the round of 16.

Crime & Justice: Opposition senator Ryan Walters backed the Criminal Gangs (Prevention and Control) Bill but warned legislation won’t work unless authorities “cut off the head” by targeting those financing and leading gangs, not just street-level offenders. Bail Monitoring: Minister Michael Lashley says offender monitoring will soon be used to curb reoffending while people are out on bail, and legislators will debate a gun court next Tuesday. Energy Safety: Barbados Light & Power warned solar owners to ensure proper isolation and inspections before, during and after storms, stressing that switching systems back on after damage can endanger people and crews. Climate Jobs: A UNICEF-commissioned study found young people in Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean want green careers but lack accessible information, training and opportunities. Culture & Business: The Marcus Garvey Entrepreneurship Pitch Competition opens with $30,000 in prizes, aiming to grow creative-sector businesses. Tourism Recognition: Petra Roach was inducted into the CTO Hall of Fame during Caribbean Week in New York, while BTMI leaders Andrea Franklin and Eusi Skeete also received CTO awards. Sports: Weymouth Wales will enter the CFU Club Shield at the round of 16, drawn against SV Britannia of Aruba. Finance Watch: Central Bank action led fintech Zeemoney to shut down after a licence suspension and enforcement order.

Crime & Justice: Attorney General Wilfred Abrahams defended Barbados’ Criminal Gangs (Prevention and Control) Bill in Senate, saying the state is “finished playing games with violent crime,” while Minister Michael Lashley added that offender monitoring will soon be used for people reoffending while on bail and that lawmakers will debate a gun court next Tuesday. Local Governance: Prime Minister Mia Mottley called for community-based parenting clubs and a national support hotline to tackle rising gang culture, alongside youth-focused support through faith-based organisations. Finance & Regulation: Zeemoney (Barbados) Limited shut down after a Central Bank suspension order, with the regulator citing concerns over financial condition, governance, compliance and operational continuity. Tourism & Recognition: Barbadian tourism executive Petra Roach was inducted into the inaugural Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) Hall of Fame during Caribbean Week in New York, while BTMI CEO Andrea Franklin and director Eusi Skeete also received CTO awards. Climate & Youth: A UNICEF-commissioned study found Barbados youth lag behind peers in awareness of green and circular economy opportunities, pointing to a communications gap rather than lack of interest. Sports: Barbados was placed in CONCACAF Nations League League B, targeting promotion to League A.

Public Safety & Justice: Minister of Legal Affairs and Criminal Justice Michael Lashley says Barbados is moving toward offender monitoring for people on bail, as lawmakers debate the Criminal Gangs (Prevention and Control) Bill, 2026, and he also flagged a gun court for next Tuesday. Gang Prevention: Prime Minister Mia Mottley called for community-based parenting clubs and a national support hotline as part of the anti-gang push, alongside a $5m grant fund for faith-based youth programmes. Tourism & Business: BTMI CEO Andrea Franklin and BTMI Canada director Eusi Skeete were honoured by the Caribbean Tourism Organisation during Caribbean Week in New York, while the CTO launched a Tourism Supply Side Initiative aimed at making tourism deliver more value for locals. Connectivity & Transport: LIAT (2020) and Air Caraïbes signed an interline agreement for single-ticket travel across their combined networks, and CTUSAB raised concerns about public transport challenges. Energy Costs: BLPC says monthly rental costs for backup generation are set to rise, with customer impact expected after additional temporary capacity is approved. Climate & Health: World Environment Day is marked with a “Climate Action – Now for Climate” theme, and scientists warn more Saharan dust could reach the island.

World Cup Build-Up: Caribbean Premier Sports Limited (Rush Sports) says it’s gearing up a region-wide 2026 FIFA World Cup broadcast, holding rights for 13 Caribbean markets and carrying all 104 matches in 12 territories, with Jamaica split between Rush Sports and TVJ. Tourism Push: Caribbean Tourism Organisation and Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association unveiled new initiatives, including a digital platform called CTO TV, as tourism leaders meet in New York for Caribbean Week. Local Rugby: Barbados’ national men’s rugby team is set for a tough run—hosting Guyana Green Machines on Saturday, then travelling to face the Cayman Islands on June 13 with a win targeting a South American play-off. Public Transport Pressure: CTUSAB says bus scheduling and reliability issues remain unresolved and wants the Government to treat transport as a national priority. Health & Schools: Doctors are reminded of their legal duty to report child neglect, while the Barbados Union of Teachers urges continued vigilance at Hillaby Turner’s Hall Primary despite assurances there’s no scarlet fever outbreak. Fisheries Readiness: Fisheries officials tested hurricane preparedness by relocating boats, aiming to avoid losses like Hurricane Beryl. Coastal Warning: Unseasonal erosion is worsening as unusual freshwater outflows from South America raise sea levels around Barbados. Business & Payments: Government is rolling out new services ahead of Independence, including BiMPay’s WhatsApp-linked payments push on June 12.

Barbados–Canada Ties: Prime Minister Mark Carney met Mia Mottley in Canada, with both leaders pledging deeper cooperation on development, climate and security as they renew the Canada–CARICOM Strategic Partnership. Local Governance & Justice: A Caribbean Court of Justice judge lamented that most CARICOM states still don’t accept the CCJ as final appeal court, citing trust concerns. Economy & Energy: Barbados opened offshore oil and gas direct negotiations, offering 19 ultra-deepwater blocks and requiring stronger climate and methane standards. Regional Mobility: A Barbados–Guyana deal will let citizens travel using official IDs from July, adding fresh momentum to wider Caricom free-movement talks. Sports: Barbados’ senior women’s netball team fell to 19th worldwide in the latest World Netball rankings. Business & Risk: Barbados insurers say motor claims are rising faster than premiums, warning of further premium pressure if driving habits don’t improve. Caricom & Finance: CDB president Daniel Best urged a “CDB Forward” reform push as the bank targets stronger, greener, more resilient impact across the region. Community & Culture: PickUp Barbados and PwC teamed up to expand blood donation efforts. Public Safety: A Barbados court case saw an American hotel guest plead guilty to cocaine possession and trafficking after a housekeeper found drugs in his room.

Offshore Energy Push: Barbados has officially launched its 2026 offshore petroleum direct negotiations, offering 19 ultra-deepwater blocks and requiring stronger climate and environmental standards, with acting PM Kerrie Symmonds citing potential reserves of up to 13 billion barrels of oil and 40+ trillion cubic feet of gas. Energy Transition Costs: Symmonds also said the full renewable transition could cost Barbados more than US$2 billion, while natural gas is framed as a “bridge” fuel during the shift. Regional Finance Pressure: CDB president Daniel Best urged faster, bolder action for a stronger, greener Caribbean as debt, climate shocks and shrinking development finance squeeze borrowing countries. Local Business & Tourism: Royalton Vessence Barbados has opened on the Platinum Coast, pitching Bajan culture and talent as the core of its guest experience, while Elite Island Resorts named Melissa Alexander director of group sales. Agriculture Support: In Christ Church, farmers are set to benefit from new water mains for irrigation, plus help targeting pests and farm theft. Community & Safety: Barbados is also moving to broaden disaster preparedness participation, including training for people with disabilities ahead of emergencies. Sports: Cricket West Indies confirmed the 2026 home season schedule, with Barbados co-hosting the final two ODIs of the New Zealand series. Public Health Watch: PAHO warned of a sharp rise in measles cases across the Americas ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Offshore Energy Push: Barbados has formally started direct negotiations for offshore oil and natural gas exploration, with acting PM Kerrie Symmonds saying seismic work suggests potential of up to 13+ billion barrels of oil and 40+ trillion cubic feet of gas, as the island aims to strengthen energy security while keeping renewables on track. Payments Upgrade: The Central Bank says BimPay will go live on June 12, enabling instant payments for people and businesses. Tourism & Jobs: Royalton Vessence Barbados has opened on the Platinum Coast, pitching Bajan culture and talent as the core of its luxury all-inclusive experience. Cricket Calendar: Cricket West Indies released its 2026 home season schedule, with Barbados co-hosting the final two New Zealand ODIs and hosting the concluding matches in the New Zealand and Pakistan series legs. Health Watch: PAHO warns measles cases are rising across the Americas ahead of the 2026 World Cup, urging vaccination and vigilance. Consumer & Energy Debate: BCEN is urging Barbados to look beyond short-term electricity stabilisation and focus on real energy transformation. Agriculture Support: In Christ Church, farmers are set to benefit from new water mains to tackle irrigation, pests and farm theft. Regional Youth Advocacy: Caribbean youth and civil society are calling for a ban on ultra-processed food marketing in and around schools. Sports/Local Loss: Former CBC programme manager Keith Foster has died.

Payments Upgrade: Barbados’ BimPay is set to go live on June 12, with the Central Bank describing it as the “payment rail” that will connect banks and payment providers so money moves faster and more safely for banked and unbanked users. Energy Push: 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 and aiming to boost energy security and revenue. Electricity Costs: BL&P says a Fair Trading Commission approval will mean a modest $1.25 rise in the average monthly bill, with the change not expected before September, and stresses temporary generators already in use won’t add sudden new costs. Regional Banking Deal: Antigua and Barbuda says it will approve Butterfield Bank’s planned acquisition of CIBC Caribbean, while hinting local banks may be invited to participate. Tourism & Hospitality: Royalton Vessence Barbados officially opens on the Platinum Coast as an adult-oriented all-inclusive with 220 suites and a new wellness-and-culture focused concept. Cricket: Cricket West Indies confirms the 2026 men’s home season schedule, with Barbados hosting the final two ODIs vs New Zealand on July 19 and 21. Local Politics: Friends of Democracy is urged to build trust through integrity and meaningful engagement as it seeks to turn its Senate breakthrough into lasting public confidence.

Local Economy & Energy Costs: The Fair Trading Commission has approved BL&P to recover the costs of temporary rental generators, with the utility saying the impact will be a modest $1.25 increase to the average monthly electricity bill, expected to take effect no earlier than September. Payments Modernisation: Central Bank Governor Dr Kevin Greenidge says BiMPay will modernise Barbados’ payment “rail” so money moves faster, safer and more accessibly for both banked and unbanked users, with a public launch set for June 12. Tourism & Connectivity: Royalton opened its first Barbados resort, Royalton Vessence Barbados (adult-oriented), on the Platinum Coast, while LIAT and Air Caraïbes signed an interline agreement to make multi-carrier trips easier with single-ticket booking and through-checked luggage. Sports & Regional Spotlight: Cricket West Indies unveiled the 2026 Men’s International Home Series schedule, with Barbados hosting the ODI series against New Zealand as part of a Guyana-Barbados cost-sharing arrangement. Governance & Labour Planning: Opposition Senator Ryan Walters urged Government to publish where Barbados faces labour and skills deficits to improve decisions on imported labour under the Immigration Bill 2026 and Citizenship Bill 2026. Culture & Heritage: Heritage Month 2026 was launched with awards, with Minister Trevor Prescod stressing heritage as stories, music, food and values that should unite communities. Entertainment (Barbados in the Spotlight): Barbadian student Mica Harris has been announced as a Love Island UK 2026 contestant, bringing local representation to the ITV2/ITVX villa. Public Safety: A High Court judge urged people drawn to firearms to join lawful security forces, warning the country is reaching “national exhaustion” over firearm offences.

Tourism & Hospitality: Royalton Hotels & Resorts has officially opened Royalton Vessence Barbados on the Platinum Coast, its first Barbados property and the global debut of the Vessence brand, with 220 suites, 17 dining options, a spa, swim-out categories and local-artist programming at The Studio. Regional Connectivity: LIAT (2020) and Air Caraïbes launched an interline agreement, letting travellers book combined itineraries on one ticket with baggage checked through across their networks, including routes linking Barbados and the wider region. Business & Finance: Butterfield has agreed to acquire control of CIBC Caribbean in a US$1.8 billion deal, with assurances that staffing and employment obligations will be handled responsibly and that CIBC’s Barbados-based headquarters will be maintained. Public Health: A World No Tobacco Day warning highlights a growing youth vaping problem across the Caribbean, urging policymakers and families to counter the appeal of nicotine and “nicotine-free” devices. Sports & Culture: Live & Louder will stage a world-class CPL Finals Week concert at Barbados’ National Botanical Gardens on 19 September 2026, with headline acts to be announced. Local Prep: Home Affairs Minister Gregory Nicholls urged Barbadians to prepare early for the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, stressing individual readiness alongside government planning.

CPL Finals Week in Barbados: Live & Louder will stage a world-class mega concert at the National Botanical Gardens on Saturday, 19 September 2026—set for the night before the CPL Final, with headline acts to be announced. Tourism leadership: Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. has named businessman Peter Harris as its new chairman, pledging to build on Shelly Williams’ work and make Barbados “a Standard.” Caribbean Week in New York: CTO’s Caribbean Week in New York 2026 kicks off today under “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences,” with Barbados tourism minister Ian Gooding-Edghill among key figures and major industry sessions planned. New resort opening: Royalton Vessence Barbados is now open on the Platinum Coast, bringing an adult-oriented all-inclusive concept with 220 suites, multiple dining options, spa and cultural programming. Youth health warning: Caribbean policymakers are being urged to move faster on the teen vaping crisis, as youth advocates warn of nicotine addiction risks and youth-targeted flavours/marketing. Education integrity alert (GTEC): Ghana’s tertiary regulator has warned the public about 70 unrecognised institutions, urging due diligence before accepting certificates. Weather: Barbados faces sunny and hazy conditions with a dust haze advisory, plus fresh easterly breezes and moderate, building swells.

Caribbean Week in New York: Tourism ministers and commissioners from across the region are set to converge in Manhattan from June 1 for Caribbean Week 2026, with Barbados Tourism Minister Ian Gooding-Edghill leading the delegation and a keynote from airline analyst Henry Harteveldt on June 3. Barbados Tourism Push: With the island gearing up for its 60th anniversary, Barbados is being marketed as a top summer escape—made easier by nonstop flights from New York on JetBlue and American Airlines. Heritage Recognition: Fielding Babb Heritage awards honoured Sir Paul Altman, Celia Toppin and Ronnie Carrington, while plans were announced to preserve the homes of cricket legends Sir Gary Sobers and Sir Frank Walcott. Community & Youth: The Division of Youth Affairs launched a mobile outreach bringing programmes to neighbourhoods, and PM Mia Mottley urged stronger community engagement by police. Health & Safety: A magnitude 6.0 earthquake shook Barbados and parts of the eastern Caribbean; officials say there’s no tsunami threat. Vaping Warning: A youth advocate says Caribbean governments are moving too slowly on teen vaping, citing easy access and targeted marketing. Business & Security: Barbados Port Inc. says hackers have repeatedly targeted the seaport, warning ports are attractive cyber targets. Aviation Watch: Commentary and regional updates point to major shifts in Caribbean airline connectivity as route cuts and new interline links reshape travel.

Port Security: Barbados Port Inc. says hackers have repeatedly targeted the Port of Bridgetown, warning that ports are “attractive cyber targets” as the island’s main seaport runs on digital systems. Earthquake Update: A magnitude 6.0 quake struck the Southern Caribbean at about 5:27 p.m., with tremors felt in Barbados and across nearby islands; Barbados’ Met Office says there’s no tsunami threat. Tourism & Airlift: St Kitts and Nevis tourism officials say Caribbean Airlines withdrew from the St Kitts route without consulting government, and the federation is now in talks with another airline to plug the gap. Business & Energy: The Fair Trading Commission approved BLPC’s request to recover costs for temporary rental generators via the Fuel Clause Adjustment, meaning higher electricity bills for customers. Economy & Growth: Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley urged Barbados to push harder on resilience and inclusive growth, challenging the business community to lead the next phase. Regional Spotlight: Caribbean Week returns to New York from June 1, with Barbados Tourism Minister Ian Gooding-Edghill leading the delegation. Remembering George Hall: Former Barbadian journalist George Hall has died at 85.