A regional economist suggests that bilateral double tax treaties are at the heart of the tax loss problem in Caribbean countries. Marla Dukharan says the more than 100-year-old, 3000-strong bilateral double tax treaty network allows for the legal avoidance of taxes by foreign companies in developing countries. Ms. Dukharan was delivering the 4th Owen S. Arthur Memorial Lecture at the Walcott Warner Theatre of the University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus. Furthermore, Ms. Dukharan says there will be no tax justice if all the so called tax havens are eliminated globally, unless the unfair double tax treaties that exist between EU and OECD member states, and specifically the global south are renegotiated. She says OECD members are responsible for 78%, or $378 billion US dollars in global tax losses annually according to the tax justice network.

A Flash Flood Watch is now in effect for some northern, northeastern, and central districts of Barbados. This as localised showers and thunderstorm activity are expected to affect those districts. The Barbados Meteorological Services states that unstable conditions and light winds along with daytime heating could trigger between 1 to 3 inches of rainfall and thunderstorm activity this afternoon. Instability is expected to persist into the night across the island therefore occasional showers are expected. As a result, the Flash Flood Watch was issued. A flash-flood watch is issued when heavy or excessive rainfall in a short period of time (generally less than 6 hours) could result in flash flooding within the watch area. It does not mean that flooding will occur, but it is possible. There’s the possibility of moderate to significant soil erosion on bared or scarred land surfaces, and water settlements on roads and fields which may lead to commuting delays and isolated diversions. There may also be increases in water levels of existing water bodies and marginally invasive excess water on roads, fields, storm drains/water canals and on property. BMS says the public should be aware that this alert level could elevate to red, and is encouraged to monitor official sources for further updates. The public is also encouraged to monitor official sources for further updates. This Flash Flood Watch will be terminated/updated at 6 p.m. October 7, 2024, or sooner if conditions warrant.

Retired Chief Justice Sir Patterson Cheltenham has told local engineers to ensure that they provide input to any legislation drafted, which will affect their profession. He was speaking at the Engineering Awards and Dinner of the Barbados Association of Professional Engineers, which is celebrating 60 years as an organisation. The issue of dispute resolution was also placed on the table, and Sir Patterson spoke to matter of arbitration in contracts related to the construction sector. He says there are cases which need not reach the appeal court.