Charlestown, Nevis, September 1, 2025 (NCCU Communications) — He has officially retired after 30 years of service as the General Manager of the Nevis Co-operative Credit Union (NCCU) Limited, but Mr Sydney Newton’s legacy at the Charlestown-based financial institution will continue to flourish even after he would have left the scene.

“Mr Newton, as another token of our appreciation, it is with great delight that I announce that our Scholarship Programme will now be named in your honour,” revealed NCCU President Mr Kris Liburd at the 52nd Annual General Meeting held on Thursday August 28. 

The announcement took everyone at the Nevis Performing Arts Centre (NEPAC), St. Thomas’ Parish, where the 52nd Annual General Meeting was held, including the retiring general manager, himself an icon of the credit union movement in the region, by surprise as it was not part of the AGM’s agenda.  

“So later this year during International Credit Union Week (in October) we will see the recipients of the George Sydney Newton Scholarship Award,” said Mr Liburd.  “We thought that this was a very fitting gesture to celebrate your legacy, to celebrate your work, and as a way of showing our appreciation to you for all that you have done for our Credit Union and for the co-operative sector.”

The now renamed NCCU’s George Sydney Newton Scholarship Award, which began in 1986, provides support for students attending the Charlestown Secondary School (CSS), Gingerland Secondary School (GSS), Nevis Sixth Form College (NSFC), and the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College (CFBC).

As of 2024, the scholarship programme has provided financial support to seventy-nine students since its inception – 50 females and 29 males. There were twenty-one (21) students in the scholarship programme as of December 31, 2024, who received annual bursaries ranging between $700.00 and $800.00 per student during the first term of each school year, to assist with the purchase of textbooks and uniforms.

In addition, the NCCU continued to pay full cost of CXC, CSEC and CAPE examinations for all scholarship awardees in Form 4 and 5, Nevis Sixth Form College, and the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College.

“I am pleasantly surprised – I did not expect all that I heard this evening, but I am truly grateful,” remarked an elated Mr Newton. “What can I say? It was Mr Warner Riviere and Ms Ann Marie Caines (pioneers of the credit union movement in Nevis) who got me into the credit union’s active movement back in 1983, and I am truly grateful to them for seeing in me, a 21-year old, some potential which has bloomed and blossomed into what has happened this day and age.”

In reminiscing the history of the Nevis Co-operative Credit Union Limited, President Liburd recalled the days when he worked at the Credit Union under Mr Newton, but tables turned and he became Mr Newton’s boss after he was elected the President. 

“But throughout our working relations I always found you to be a very hard worker, someone who genuinely cares about people, and someone who was genuinely interested in seeing the growth and upward development of the co-operative sector, and your contribution has not gone unnoticed,” underscored President Liburd. 

While earlier delivering his remarks at the opening of the meeting, President Kris Liburd, in acknowledging the retiring general manager, said: “Through sound leadership, a commitment to excellence and a heart for humanity, Mr Newton helped to propel the NCCU on a path of sustainable growth in the face of natural disasters, economic recession and a global pandemic.

“With an enviable credit union career spanning thirty (30) years, (the second longest tenure of a credit union general manager in the OECS sub-region), Mr Newton’s contribution to the credit union movement is seen and felt locally, nationally, regionally and globally.”

Also honouring Mr Newton was Mr Melvin Edwards (CSM), former President, Caribbean Confederation of Credit Unions (CCCU); Chair Emeritus, World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU); Programme Director, Caribbean Development Education Program (CaribeDE); and CCCU Hall of Famer.

On presenting a gift to Mr Newton in the presence of NCCU President, Mr Kris Liburd, Mr Edwards said: “The gift on behalf of the Irish League of Credit Unions is both in honour of Sydney’s 30 years of dedicated service to the NCCU and the Caribbean Credit Union System.”

Expressing gratitude to his family for the support it has accorded him, Mr Newton called his wife Catherine and ‘the live wire in our home’ granddaughter Miss J’Niyah Newton to the podium, and announced that while it was the last AGM he was attending as general manager, it was the first his granddaughter was attending. 

“And so as I say special thanks to the various boards, the presidents – if I was to count how many presidents I have worked with, they are definitely more than my ten fingers – and various board members and committee members,” said Mr Newton. “It has been a really interesting journey, challenging sometimes, and enjoyable all of the times, and persons like Mr (Melvin) Edwards, and my friends across the Caribbean, some of who might still be on the meeting virtually, I want to say thanks to every one of you for the support over the years.”

The meeting was however spectacularly left in suspense when President Kris Liburd announced: “I am also happy to announce that the Board has identified a suitable replacement for Mr Newton, but that announcement will be made in the not too distant future. So we will not make that announcement tonight, but once the time is ripe, you will know who the replacement is.”

By: Spokesman Newsroom

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Thursday 28th August 2025)-Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Dr. Terrance Drew has highlighted the role of the recent minimum wage increase in improving the lives of workers linked to three areas namely immediate ‘money in pockets’ benefit, improved financial standing and retirement security.

He expressed such sentiments while appearing on the popular Freedom FM Issues programme on Thursday 28th August 2025 hosted by Juni ‘Big JL’ Liburd.

Dr. Drew who also serves as National Leader of the St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party (SKNLP), applauded his government’s commitment to advancing the working class.

“When we came into office… it was at $9 per hour, which was $360 per week,” he said whilst adding “Since we have been here… we have gone from $9 per hour to $12.50 per hour.” 

Explaining the significance of the wage hike, he noted: “Why is a minimum wage increase so important? One, it says that persons who work shouldn’t work for less than a particular amount. Secondly, you put money in people’s pocket, when you increase the minimum wage from $9 per hour to $12.50 per hour, that’s going from $360 per week to $500 per week, which equates to over $500 extra per month, and that goes to thousands of people and that is why I say that this has put more money in people’s pocket.”

The Prime Minister further emphasized the broader social and economic impact of such policies.

“…the reason why a wage is so important-an increase in wage-one, you cover thousands of people. Secondly, it empowers people because people will have more money in their pocket so the spending power goes up. This has benefits socially even psychologically when a worker will work for more. In addition to that it means that if someone with an increased minimum wage were to go to a bank, their standing before the financial institution in this case, a bank is much better and it gives them an opportunity to be able to have a mortgage, whereas before it might have been more challenging. Not that you wouldn’t have any challenge but increasing your income going before a bank increases your chances,” he said.

PM Drew, the Minister with responsibility for Social Security, also pointed to the long-term benefits for workers’ retirement security.

“Thirdly, when you reach the age of retirement, your social security would be higher. So this is not just putting money in people’s pockets now. It’s money being put in people’s pockets now and money being put in people’s pockets later on when they retire. That is why an increase in minimum wage is so significant and so powerful.”

Contrasting the wage increase with temporary social programmes, Dr. Drew explained why legislative changes hold more weight: “Let’s say you were to have a programme where it is not linked to wage. One that can be cut at any time because it’s not in law that you must receive it. Secondly, when you come to retirement, your retirement is not based on those things; it’s based on your wage income or your salary income, how much ever you bring in. And thirdly, when you go before a financial institution, they would not count any other income outside of what they would consider to be a wage, a salary, or from a business, they would just think it’s a passive transfer; it would not go towards your standing before a financial institution.”

He concluded by stressing the far-reaching benefits across society.

“So on those three things, that is why a St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party always seek to increase people’s wages and salaries, and that is why the St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party must be commended for this tremendous, tremendous policy position in terms of empowering our people. Since more money is in people’s pockets now, because it’s over $500 per month for thousands and thousands of workers. Secondly, when you go before a financial institution, your position is stronger, and thirdly when you retire you get a larger social security, larger pension. Now as a result now in addition to all of this because there is more money in people’s pockets spending goes up and this can help local businesses as there will be faster turnover of goods moving through the economy and as a result of that you will see the benefit there as well, and so I want to say that this really is a tremendous, tremendous achievement to have this minimum wage to impact the lives of so many thousands of workers here in St. Kitts and Nevis.”

Liburd pointed out that “the government of the Labour Party must take credit for this because in your term in office, every Labour Party has successfully increased the minimum wage…Five times …and that’s a good record.”

PM Drew agreed, noting: “That’s a good record because it’s part of our principle.”

He linked the policy to the historic struggles of workers in St. Kitts and Nevis. 

“If you remember clearly the Buckley’s uprising was about wage increase and that has been a founding principle of the Labour Party back then… and just to add we are the oldest political Labour Party in the region and I think it’s because we have stuck to principles like this, like seeking to improve workers’ conditions, and wage and wage increase is one of the most significant ways in which you can do that.”

Experienced Caribbean Tourism Strategist to Lead Nevis into a New Era of Sustainable Growth

Charlestown, Nevis – August 27, 2025 – The Nevis Tourism Authority (NTA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Andia Ravariere as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective September 1, 2025. Ravariere brings more than a decade of experience in sustainable tourism development and destination marketing across the Caribbean, making her uniquely positioned to lead Nevis into its next chapter of growth.

Ravariere joins the NTA after seven years with the Ministry of Tourism in Anguilla, where she played a pivotal role in guiding the island’s tourism rebound following the COVID-19 pandemic. Most recently, she served as Destination Marketing Manager for Discover Dominica Authority, spearheading initiatives that achieved a recorded increase in visitor arrivals and expanded the country’s reach into niche markets.

Her career has been defined by a passion for sustainable, community-driven tourism. In 2013, Ravariere founded the Colihaut Community Tourism Development group in Dominica, launching the celebrated Colihaut Fish Lime event. This initiative not only strengthened local industries but also empowered women entrepreneurs, leaving a lasting economic impact on the community.

“We are delighted to welcome Andia Ravariere as the new CEO of the Nevis Tourism Authority,” said Honourable Mark Brantley, Premier of Nevis. “Her proven track record in sustainable tourism and her deep understanding of Caribbean destination marketing make her uniquely qualified to guide Nevis into its next chapter. As we continue to position Nevis as a beacon of barefoot luxury and authentic Caribbean culture, I am confident that her leadership will help us expand our reach, strengthen our community, and deliver a world-class tourism product that reflects the very best of who we are.”

The appointment of Ravariere marks an important milestone for the Nevis Tourism Authority. “Andia’s experience in guiding destinations through both growth and recovery, along with her passion for community-driven tourism, perfectly aligns with our vision for Nevis,” said Pamela Martin, Chairperson of the Board of the NTA. “We look forward to working closely with her to build on our momentum, strengthen relationships with global partners, and ensure that Nevis continues to stand out as one of the Caribbean’s most unique and sustainable destinations.”

With a career defined by strategic innovation, Ravariere brings expertise in comparative analysis, product development, and destination marketing. She believes in focusing on differentiation rather than competition among Caribbean islands, emphasizing the importance of identifying and amplifying each destination’s unique offerings. Her approach centers on positioning Nevis to stand out in the global marketplace while fostering collaboration, avoiding silos, and ensuring that all stakeholders are engaged and aligned. This inclusive, forward-thinking leadership style will be instrumental in driving Nevis’ tourism growth and long-term sustainability.

“My vision is to position Nevis at the forefront of Caribbean tourism by strategically redefining luxury through nature, culture, sustainability, and innovation,” said Andia Ravariere. “With the goal of delivering world-class experiences to discerning travelers, empowering our people, and safeguarding the island’s heritage. Nevis is committed to tourism that protects our environment, celebrates our culture, and empowers our people, ensuring that growth today secures a thriving island for generations to come.”

Ravariere holds both a Master’s degree in Tourism Development and Management and a Bachelor’s degree in International Tourism Management from the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine.

BASSETERRE, Saint Kitts, August 25, 2025 (SKNIS): The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis is pleased to announce the appointment of Carlton Pogson as Acting Financial Secretary in the Ministry of Finance.

Mr. Pogson is a distinguished banking and finance professional with over 20 years of experience spanning corporate banking, strategic planning, and organisational development. He brings a wealth of expertise to the role, having successfully led high-impact initiatives across the public and private sectors.

Prior to his appointment, Mr. Pogson served as Senior Manager and Team Lead at Republic Bank (EC) Limited, where he oversaw the bank’s Commercial, and Corporate Banking operations in Saint Kitts and Nevis.

During his banking career he held senior leadership positions at the Bank of Nova Scotia in both Saint. Kitts and Dominica, and at the Development Bank of St. Kitts and Nevis. Some of his many accomplishments include restructuring multimillion-dollar debt portfolios, enhancing compliance frameworks, and driving strategic transformation. In addition to his banking career, Mr. Pogson served for several years as Chairman of Caribbean Wesleyan College Board of Governors (based in Jamaica). He has been involved with a few charitable organisations and also plays a pivotal role in the church (Wesleyan Holiness Church).   

Mr. Pogson holds a BA in Accounting with a minor in Economics, a MBA and a MA in Ministry concentration in Christian Theology, reflecting his commitment to academic excellence and lifelong learning. He is widely respected for his results-driven approach, strategic insight, and dedication to professionalism, customer service and capacity building.

As Financial Secretary(Ag), Mr. Pogson will lead fiscal policy development, budgetary planning, and financial governance, ensuring the continued stability and growth of the national economy.

The government extends its congratulations to Mr. Pogson and looks forward to his leadership in advancing the financial and economic priorities of Saint Kitts and Nevis.”

Basseterre, St. Kitts (28 August 2025) — With over 300 travel professionals in attendance, St. Kitts continues to amplify its presence in the global travel community at the fourth annual American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) Caribbean Showcase, held in Jamaica from 23-27 August 2025.

ASTA is the world’s leading travel association, and as the Caribbean grows in popularity as a premier global travel destination, hosting prestigious conferences such as this has significantly boosted the region’s appeal.

The showcase offered a valuable platform for travel advisors to network and engage in meaningful discussions with the region’s tourism experts. Over the four-day event, key topics included airlift, experiential travel, sustainability, and tourism’s economic impact across the region.

The Hon. Marsha T. Henderson, Minister of Tourism, participated in a panel discussion alongside esteemed Caribbean tourism ministers. She offered insights into St. Kitts’ progress and its role in positioning the Caribbean as a leading destination.

“The Caribbean is ideal for experiential travel; each island offers unique charm and cultural richness. It is important that we collectively promote our region. Our proximity presents an opportunity to foster intra-regional travel and encourage multi-destination experiences,” stated Minister Henderson.

The St. Kitts Tourism Authority also participated in the ASTA trade show, facilitating direct engagement with travel advisors and generating interest and bookings for the destination.

Brand awareness and travel trade engagement remain central to the Authority’s overall marketing and promotional strategy. By building relationships and strengthening ties with the global travel industry, the Authority continues positioning St.Kitts as one of the most sought-after destinations in the Caribbean.

By: Spokesman Newsroom

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Thursday 28th August 2025)-Motorists going about Basseterre are being urged to exercise caution as the traffic lights at the busy Fort Street and Cayon Street junction are malfunctioning.

Police announced on Thursday 28th August 2025 that the signals have been temporarily switched off and are expected to be restored by Tuesday 2nd September.

Of note, those lights are critical for managing the heavy flow of vehicles and pedestrians in the town’s centre.

Drivers are therefore being advised by police to proceed with extra vigilance and caution, reduce speed, and maintain safe following distances. Officers stressed that all road users must also give way to pedestrians who are crossing and obey any directions issued by police officers stationed in the area.

In terms of traffic flow, the guidance is as follows:

•         Vehicles on Fort Street and Victoria Road must stop before entering Cayon Street.

•         Traffic on Cayon Street has the right of way.

•         Pedestrians should always be given priority.

 “Our teams expect the issue to be remedied by Tuesday (Sept. 2, 2025). If there is any further delay, we will update the public immediately. Thank you for your patience and cooperation as the Public Works Department works to restore normal operations,” a police statement on the matter read.

Basseterre: St. Kitts, Tuesday, August 26, 2025: The Ministry of Education officially launched the new academic year with a back-to-school ceremony held under the theme “Transforming Education Through Self-Renewal, Holistic Partnership and Digital Solutions on Monday, August 25. The event dedicated to teachers and educators served as a moment of reflection, motivation, and preparation for the year ahead.

Mr. Francil Morris, Chief Education Officer in the Ministry of Education, reflected on the achievements of each sector and praised them for their hard work during the past school year. He further encouraged them to remain dedicated during the new academic year.

“Be proud of the role each of you play within the Ministry of Education. Every achievement, no matter how small, is a reflection of your dedication and resilience. Hence, as we step into the 2025–2026 school year, let us continue to take bold strides, empowering our learners, supporting one another, and shaping a school year defined by progress, purpose, and endless possibilities.”

Featured Speaker, Dr. Nigel Brown, Senior Corporate Relations Officer, Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB), reminded educators to approach the new school year with renewed purpose and adaptability, stating,

“As we embark on this new school year, let us embrace self-renewal, and that is committing to becoming the best version of ourselves. Let us strengthen holistic partnerships because together we are stronger, and let us boldly harness digital solutions, not as a threat but as an ally in shaping tomorrow’s leaders.”

Marking the beginning of a new school year, Hon. Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, Minister of Education, highlighted the significance of the annual back-to-school ceremony as a moment of recognition and renewal, noting, “I deem it a privilege and honour to officially open the 2025-2026 school year. This exercise is more than a tradition. It is a celebration of your dedication, resilience, and unwavering belief in the transformative power of education. Each year is like a fresh canvas, waiting to be filled with curiosity, courage, and connection.”

Minister Hanley thanked educators for their contributions to the success of the 2024-2025 school year and challenged them to uphold key values moving forward.

“As we step into this new academic year, I invite all of us to center our work around three guiding principles: safe spaces, partnerships, and shared responsibility. These are the foundation of a thriving school culture, and they begin with us.”

The ceremony not only underscored the invaluable contributions of educators but also charted a clear course for the 2025–2026 academic year, one defined by resilience, collaboration, and a steadfast dedication to excellence in teaching and learning.