Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill, fears proposed fees on China-linked vessels will not only hurt domestic ship operators and seaports but will also equate to another increase in freight charges, impacting the cost of living. He says Barbados must utilise every lobbying means as it monitors the situation. Minister Gooding-Edghill’s comments came during debate on the Seaport Industry Management, Operations and Development Bill.

Government through the Seaport Industry Management, Operations and Development Bill is aiming to regulate and modernise Barbados’ seaport industry. Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill, in leading off Debate in the Lower House, thoroughly dissected the legislation. He says shipping and logistics are the lifeblood of global trade, and Barbados is working to be a transshipment hub. According to Minister Gooding-Edghill, other pieces of legislation have been introduced as the country complies with recommendations of a 2018 audit by the International Maritime Organisation. Minister Gooding-Edghill further revealed that a policy paper is being worked on as Barbados seeks to build on the linkages within the cruise sector.

A 36-year-old man has been remanded to the Barbados Prison Service (Dodds) following a court appearance in connection with several theft-related offences. Terry Anderson Cadogan, of Cane Garden, St. Philip, appeared before Magistrate Ian Weeks in the District ‘A’ Criminal Court #1, where he was not required to plead. He is scheduled to reappear at: District ‘A’ Criminal Court #1 on Friday, April 25, 2025, for District ‘A’ matters. District ‘C’ Court on Thursday, April 10, 2025, for District ‘C’ matters. District ‘B’ Court on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, for District ‘B’ matters.