ST JAMES, Jamaica – Delroy Dove, a tour guide from Johns Hall in St James, narrowly escaped death during the devastating Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm that claimed two of his homes. Despite losing everything, Dove expresses gratitude for surviving the harrowing ordeal. One of the homes, a wooden three-bedroom structure, collapsed with Dove inside, leaving him with injuries to his head, back, and hand. Recounting the traumatic event, Dove described how the 185 mph winds shifted the house from its foundation, causing it to tumble downhill with him trapped inside. ‘I saw complete darkness and then light,’ he said, visibly shaken. Another caretaker, Devral, witnessed the house being lifted into the air but was unaware Dove was inside. The wooden house, which served as Dove’s temporary residence at Johns Hall Adventure Tours, was completely destroyed, along with all his belongings. Dove, now homeless after his permanent residence in Spring Mount was also destroyed, is living in an unfinished section of the property with minimal shelter. He is appealing for assistance to rebuild his life and secure a new home.
作者： admin
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Fyzabad family relocated amid hydrocarbon leak
Heritage Petroleum Co Ltd has taken swift action to address a hydrocarbon leak at a private residence in Massahood, Fyzabad, relocating a family as a precautionary measure. The incident, which occurred on November 7, prompted the company to dispatch its emergency response team to assess and manage the situation. Investigations by the company’s Incident Management Team (IMT) revealed a minor leak along a 12-inch trunk pipeline, partially located beneath an unauthorized, occupied structure. The pipeline has since been secured with plugs and clamps. In a statement, Heritage Petroleum emphasized that the family was relocated to a suitable and convenient alternate accommodation while cleanup and restoration efforts are underway. The IMT remains on-site, conducting air quality monitoring and additional assessments to ensure safety. Representatives from the company’s community relations team and the Fyzabad MP’s office visited the site to oversee the response. The Environmental Management Authority and the Ministry of Energy were also informed of the incident, with Heritage Petroleum committed to providing ongoing updates as necessary.
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Vybz Kartel, Jesse Royal, Lila Ike, Kezamdi and Mortimer to battle for reggae Grammy
The 68th Grammy Awards have unveiled their nominations, with Jamaican artists dominating the Best Reggae Album category. Vybz Kartel, Jesse Royal, Lila Ike, Keznamdi, and Mortimer have all earned nods for their exceptional contributions to the genre. Jesse Royal’s ‘No Place Like Home’ marks his second Grammy nomination, while Vybz Kartel’s ‘Heart & Soul’ also secures his second recognition. Mortimer and Lila Ike are celebrating their first-ever Grammy nominations, with Mortimer’s ‘From Within’ and Lila Ike’s ‘Treasure Self Love’ project gaining widespread acclaim. Keznamdi’s ‘Blood & Fyah’ rounds out the impressive list of nominees. Interestingly, four of the five nominated albums were accurately predicted in a recent edition of the Jamaica Observer. The prestigious awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on February 1, 2026, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
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Kendrick Lamar leads Grammy nominations with nine
The Recording Academy unveiled the nominations for the 2026 Grammy Awards on Friday, with Kendrick Lamar emerging as the frontrunner with an impressive nine nominations. This comes on the heels of his triumphant sweep at the previous ceremony, where he clinched five awards. Lamar is set to compete in major categories, including Album, Record, and Song of the Year, at the 68th Grammys, scheduled for February 1 in Los Angeles.
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Tribunal rejects claims of delay in reviewing SoE detentions
The State of Emergency Review Tribunal has firmly rebutted public criticism regarding its handling of Preventive Detention Order (PDO) reviews, labeling recent media reports as ‘misinformed’ and inconsistent with the legal procedures it is mandated to follow. In a statement issued on November 7, the tribunal addressed concerns raised by attorneys representing detainees under the state of emergency, who alleged delays or withholding of decisions on their clients’ detention. The tribunal expressed disappointment, particularly given that such claims originated from legal professionals expected to base their statements on factual and legal grounds. It emphasized that, under paragraph 8(1) of the Schedule to the Emergency Powers Regulations 2025, its role is strictly limited to reviewing detention upon request and submitting reports to the Minister of Homeland Security, not directly to attorneys or detainees. The tribunal clarified that its recommendations on whether detention should continue are exclusively provided to the minister, who is then responsible for sharing the relevant portions of the report with the detainee. The tribunal highlighted that it has already completed and forwarded reports on multiple cases, with submissions made on September 12, 19, 28, and October 6, 9, and 22. Additionally, a decision on a preliminary application in another matter was sent to the detainee’s attorney on November 1. These actions, the tribunal asserted, demonstrate its adherence to the Emergency Powers Regulations, countering claims of inefficiency or procedural lapses. The tribunal’s response comes amid escalating national debate over the prolonged detention of individuals under the state of emergency, with attorneys and rights advocates criticizing the review process for lacking transparency and violating fair hearing principles. The government, however, maintains that these measures are lawful and essential for public safety. Earlier this week, former national security minister and several defense attorneys urged the government to release individuals detained for months without charges, condemning the situation as a severe infringement of constitutional rights. Attorney Subhas Panday criticized the tribunal’s independence, arguing that its appointment by the Attorney General compromises its impartiality. Detainees have also reported dire conditions at the Arouca facility, including overcrowding, poor ventilation, and inadequate medical care. Attorneys Sanjiv Boodhu and Darren Mitchell, representing several detainees, claimed the review process has stalled, with their clients awaiting decisions months after appearing before the tribunal. They argued that the tribunal’s failure to provide reports directly to lawyers undermines natural justice. The tribunal was appointed by former Chief Justice Ivor Archie on July 21, in accordance with Section 11 of the Constitution and Paragraph 5(1) of the Emergency Powers Regulations, 2025. Attorney David Alexander serves as chairman, with retired Army Major Arden Williams and attorney Shivangelie Ramoutar as members. President Christine Kangaloo declared the state of emergency on July 18, and it was extended for a second three-month period on October 31.
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BNU chief expresses concerns over retention as 50 nurses have left over last four months
The Bahamas is grappling with a significant exodus of nurses from its public healthcare system, with approximately 50 nurses departing over the past three to four months. Muriel Lightbourn, president of the Bahamas Nurses Union (BNU), revealed this alarming trend as the union intensifies its push for enhanced benefits and improved retention strategies. While specific details of the new industrial agreement remain undisclosed, Lightbourn expressed optimism that the government will address the union’s demands. She emphasized that nurses are not only leaving for opportunities abroad but also transitioning to other professions that offer better prospects for personal and professional growth. ‘We cannot afford to lose more workers,’ she stated. The previous industrial agreement, signed in 2022 and expired in October, included salary increments, additional insurance benefits, and retention bonuses exceeding $3,000, depending on specific criteria. Entry-level salaries began at $26,000 annually, with potential increases up to $30,000. However, Lightbourn highlighted persistent delays in promotions and confirmations within the public healthcare system, citing the acting director of nursing, who has remained unconfirmed for over nine months, as a glaring example. She described the situation as ‘distasteful’ and ‘a slap in the face,’ questioning the prolonged delays in appointing key positions. Additionally, approximately 24 nurses are still awaiting confirmation and appointment, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the healthcare sector.
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Nurse suspended for speaking out on PMH
A veteran nurse with 44 years of service, known only as ‘Sister Pearl,’ has been suspended for ten days after publicly highlighting severe issues at Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) in a video. The nurse, a senior critical care professional, revealed problems such as leaking roofs, supply shortages, and rodent infestations, which she claims have worsened over time. Following the video’s release, she was subjected to restrictive measures, including being barred from traveling, entering the hospital except for medical care, and surrendering her ID band. She likened the treatment to being monitored with an ‘anklet bracelet,’ expressing feelings of being criminalized. The Public Hospital Authority (PHA) stated that the video violated its social media policies, prompting an investigation. However, the suspension has drawn widespread criticism, including from Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Michael Darville, who vowed to ensure fair treatment for the nurse. In an interview, ‘Sister Pearl’ criticized the PHA’s handling of her case, emphasizing the exhaustion and overwhelm among A&E nurses. She asserted that her video aimed to draw attention to longstanding issues rather than embarrass anyone. The PHA defended its actions, citing its social media policy’s emphasis on professionalism and confidentiality. Meanwhile, Bahamas Nurses Union president Muriel Lightbourn acknowledged the technical breach of the union’s contract but noted the nurse remains on paid leave. Former Health Minister Dr. Duane Sands condemned the suspension as an attempt to intimidate and silence a competent worker, highlighting the ongoing shortage of critical care workers and resource constraints at PMH.
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Planet Water Foundation and ISRATECH to deliver water filtration systems for Melissa relief
KINGSTON, Jamaica—In a significant humanitarian effort, ISRATECH Jamaica, in partnership with the global non-profit Planet Water Foundation, has introduced six advanced AquaBlock emergency water filtration systems to aid communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa. These critical systems, capable of producing up to 57,600 gallons of potable water daily, were transported from Phoenix, Arizona, to Kingston, Jamaica, aboard a Boeing 737 humanitarian relief flight. This marks the largest single aid flight to Jamaica since the hurricane struck. The systems will be accessible to the public, addressing one of the most pressing needs in the recovery process. Benjamin Hodara, CEO of ISRATECH, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, ‘Each AquaBlock system embodies innovation and hope, designed for rapid deployment and long-term impact, supported by our technical expertise on the ground.’ The systems arrived at Norman Manley International Airport on Thursday, where they will be installed and maintained by a joint technical team from Planet Water Foundation and ISRATECH Jamaica, in coordination with local disaster response agencies. Mark Steele, founder and CEO of Planet Water Foundation, expressed his commitment to the cause, noting, ‘Each system can provide safe water for up to 6,000 people, and we are dedicated to delivering them swiftly to the most affected communities.’ This initiative is funded by Planet Water Foundation’s corporate partners, underscoring the collaborative effort to restore essential water infrastructure in high-impact areas identified by national disaster response teams.
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Ansa Merchant Bank profit rises 40%
ANSA Merchant Bank Ltd (AMBL) has announced a remarkable 40% increase in profit before tax for the nine months ending September 30, 2025, reaching $180.9 million, up from $129.4 million in the same period last year. Chairman A Norman Sabga hailed the results as a testament to the bank’s robust financial performance, with group assets growing by 2.98% and earnings per share rising to $1.78 from $1.39 in 2024. The bank’s diversified operations, including banking, insurance, and mutual funds, all contributed to this impressive growth. In the banking sector, pre-tax profit rose by 12.2% to $85.8 million, while the insurance segment saw a 45% increase to $129.4 million, driven by improved underwriting and higher investment income. The mutual funds business also performed well, generating $16.4 million in pre-tax profit, up from $15.5 million in 2024. Net operating income for the period stood at $456.4 million, compared to $415.9 million the previous year, with operating profit at $180.9 million after $275.5 million in expenses. Profit attributable to shareholders surged by 33% to $152.5 million after tax. Total assets grew to $10.22 billion, with shareholders’ equity increasing to $2.74 billion and total liabilities at $7.48 billion. The group also reported net cash from operating activities of $279.8 million and held $538.9 million in cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period. Sabga attributed the strong performance to steady growth in the loan portfolio, expansion of private-wealth management services, and improved premium income in insurance operations. He expressed confidence in the bank’s continued success and commitment to delivering value to shareholders and customers.
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US kill three more in Caribbean airstrike
In its ongoing campaign against narcoterrorism, the US military conducted another airstrike in the Caribbean on November 6, resulting in the deaths of three individuals. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced the operation on X, emphasizing the US’s commitment to combating drug trafficking. The strike targeted a vessel operated by a designated terrorist organization in international waters, with no US casualties reported. This marks the tenth such attack in the Caribbean since September, totaling approximately 44 fatalities. Among the victims were two Trinidad-born men, Chad Joseph and Rishi Samaroo, who were feared killed in an October 14 strike. Two survivors from an October 26 attack were repatriated to Colombia and Ecuador. The Trinidad and Tobago government, led by Kamla Persad-Bissessar, has supported these operations, citing the nation’s struggle with narcotics and firearm smuggling from Venezuela. Concurrently, a US Senate motion to block President Trump from attacking Venezuela failed, despite concerns that his actions in the Caribbean could escalate tensions. Trump has denied intentions of war with Venezuela but hinted at the potential downfall of President Nicolas Maduro.