Efforts are on the way to make the Prison Service a green space, energy-efficient and self-sustaining entity. That’s according to Minister of Home Affairs and Information Wilfred Abrahams who says plans are being rolled out to enhance the farming programme at the prison. Minister Abrahams spoke about the initiative at the Barbados Prison Service Annual Church Service yesterday.
The Barbados Meteorological Services is closely monitoring the progress of an area of low pressure near 17N 39W, at 9:00 am LST. This is about 2180 km or 1354 miles to the east-northeast of Barbados. This feature is expected to track north of Barbados Thursday into Friday, as such, no direct impacts are likely. The public is encouraged to monitor the BMS, DEM and GIS websites and their respective social media pages along with the local media networks for further updates over the coming days. While environmental conditions are conducive to the slow development of the feature, some fluctuations in intensity are expected as it crosses the Atlantic basin. As the feature nears the island chain light wind speeds are anticipated on Wednesday and Thursday resulting in warm daytime temperatures and isolated localized shower activity into the afternoon. This information statement was issued at 9:00 am today, Monday, October 14, 2024. The next update will be at 11:00 am tomorrow, Tuesday, October 15, 2024.
A person found guilty of having sexual intercourse with a child under 16 could face life in prison if amendments to the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill 2024 become law. The bill was passed in the House of Assembly last week, and must now go before the Senate. Last night on CBC TV8’s The People’s Business Programme, Minister of Home Affairs and Information, Wilfred Abrahams, expanded on several aspects of the document. He explained under current legislation, the court would allow for the lesser charge of sex with a minor, rather than rape. In some cases where children age 14 or 15 willingly engage in a sexual act. The bill also addresses the matter of grooming, which involves a person meeting or communicating with a child with the intention of committing a sexual act. In this instance, the individual could be jailed for 20 years. Meanwhile, President of the Men Empowerment Network Support, Fabian Sargeant, has welcomed the proposed amendments. He believes public education and support for parents will be key.
