St. Lucia Government Signs Milestone Salary Agreement with Public Sector Unions
The Government of St. Lucia has signed collective bargaining agreements with seven of nine public sector unions and staff associations, paving the way for annual 2% salary increases between 2022 and 2025, and a 3% hike in 2028.
The agreements, signed Monday, were hailed as a “milestone” in strengthening fair labor relations and reflect the government’s ongoing commitment to the well-being of public servants. Additional benefits include payments for marking Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) assessments and compensation for temporary teachers during preparatory weeks.
“This is a significant step toward fostering a resilient and prosperous St. Lucia,” the government stated.
Jamaica Records 45% Decline in Murders in 2025
Jamaica is experiencing one of its most promising years in crime reduction, with the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) reporting a 45% drop in murders so far in 2025. As of June 14, the country recorded 303 murders, down from 543 in the same period last year.
The decline has been most notable in Westmoreland, Hanover, St. James, Manchester, and parts of Kingston. Shootings have also dropped by nearly a third, from 492 to 332, and rape cases are significantly down.
In April, National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang expressed optimism that Jamaica may close 2025 with fewer than 800 murders—a historic low compared to the 1,141 murders in 2024.
Russian Drone Strikes Hit Kyiv, Injuring 16 Amid Ongoing Conflict
In international news, Kyiv, Ukraine, was rocked early Tuesday by a wave of Russian drone and missile strikes that damaged residential buildings and left at least 16 civilians injured, according to local officials.
Despite limited progress in recent peace talks, including prisoner exchanges and body returns, hostilities remain high. Ukrainian officials, including President Volodymyr Zelensky’s Chief of Staff, condemned the attacks.
“Russia is continuing its war on civilians,” said Andriy Yermak via Telegram.
