A devastating fire tore through Milk Lane in Denham Town, Kingston, on Tuesday afternoon, leaving several families homeless. The blaze, which erupted around 1:00 pm, originated from one of the houses and quickly engulfed surrounding structures. Fortunately, the swift intervention of the Jamaica Fire Brigade (JFB) contained the fire, preventing it from spreading further.
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Dr Dawes questions ministry’s capacity to confirm leptospirosis cases
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Dr. Alfred Dawes, the Opposition Spokesperson on Health, has expressed significant concerns regarding Jamaica’s capacity to accurately detect and monitor leptospirosis cases in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday at the Office of the Leader of the Opposition, Dr. Dawes emphasized the urgent need for a robust and multifaceted approach to address the rising infections.
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Golding says Opposition being excluded from national recovery process
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Mark Golding, President of the People’s National Party (PNP), has publicly criticized the Jamaican Government for allegedly sidelining the parliamentary Opposition in critical decision-making processes related to national recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa. Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday at the Office of the Leader of the Opposition, Golding emphasized that the exclusion of the Opposition threatens transparency and public confidence in the recovery measures. He clarified that the Opposition’s concerns are not politically motivated but aimed at improving the management and distribution of relief resources. Golding highlighted reports that government-funded and donor-funded relief supplies are being distributed through political representatives of the ruling party rather than through established legal channels. He argued that this practice lacks constitutional legitimacy and risks undermining equity in the response. Golding stressed the importance of including elected representatives in constituency-level decisions and called for collaboration across political lines to achieve effective solutions. He also revealed that repeated attempts to communicate with Prime Minister Andrew Holness regarding these issues have gone unanswered. Golding further commented on the Government’s introduction of legislation to establish the National Reconstruction and Resilience Authority (NaRRA), cautioning that bypassing normal procedures makes transparency even more critical. He expressed concern over the absence of the Opposition from all Cabinet-established committees, including those involving the private sector, and reiterated the Opposition’s willingness to contribute to the recovery process.
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Sleeping priest awakened and robbed
In the wake of a recent robbery at St Benedict’s RC Church in La Romaine, Trinidad and Tobago, Fr Jayson Grell has pointed to a deterioration in family values as a significant factor contributing to the surge in crime. The incident, which occurred on November 24, involved the robbery of Fr Derek Anton, 69, and a 22-year-old security guard. The criminals, dressed in dark clothing and masks, tied up both victims and ransacked the church premises, making off with cash and personal belongings. This event is part of a troubling pattern of crimes targeting clergy members in the region. Fr Grell emphasized the need for societal introspection and collective action to address the root causes of such crimes, stressing the importance of parental involvement in children’s upbringing and the reinforcement of gospel values. The Archdiocese of Port of Spain has confirmed the incident and is cooperating with the police investigation, urging prayers for the victims and all those affected by crime.
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Hadco Ltd commits to investing in local brands
In a significant move to bolster local manufacturing, Hadco Ltd has reaffirmed its dedication to distributing, supporting, and investing in homegrown brands. This commitment was formalized during a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony held on November 10 at Eyescream Animation, a local advertising agency. The event underscored Hadco’s ongoing partnerships with prominent local companies such as Halfmoon Ice Cream, Creamery Ice Cream, Novelties & Yogurt, Fresh Start Juices, Farm and Function, Adam’s Sauces, and Amare Probiotics. These brands have earned widespread recognition for their innovation, quality, and authenticity. Marc Clarke, Hadco’s marketing manager, emphasized the company’s unwavering support for local enterprises, stating, ‘At Hadco, we take great pride in being a champion for local innovation. Our commitment extends beyond distribution; it’s about investing in and nurturing brands that embody the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of Trinidad and Tobago.’ Dale Parson, president of the Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturers’ Association (TTMA), praised Hadco’s leadership in strengthening the local manufacturing sector, noting its role in providing critical distribution, marketing, and business development support. Marcus Sun Kow, managing director of Fresh Start Juices, expressed optimism about the renewed partnership, highlighting opportunities for growth and expanded production. Anastasia Pickering, brand manager for Creamery Ice Cream, Novelties and Yogurt, also emphasized the importance of Hadco’s investment in promoting locally made products. Hadco’s recommitment marks a pivotal step in empowering local producers, fostering innovation, and enhancing confidence in Trinidad and Tobago’s manufacturing potential.
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WI grouped with Bangladesh, England for T20 World Cup
The two-time ICC T20 World Cup champions, West Indies, have been placed in a challenging group for the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Group C includes formidable opponents such as Bangladesh and fellow two-time champions England, alongside Nepal and first-time qualifiers Italy. The tournament, scheduled from February 7 to March 8, will see the Windies kick off their campaign against Bangladesh at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, on February 7. They will then face England at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on February 11, followed by matches against Nepal on February 15 and Italy on February 19, both in Kolkata. The top two teams from each group will advance to the Super Eights phase, starting February 21. The 2026 edition will feature 20 teams, with co-hosts India and Sri Lanka leading their respective groups. India, the reigning champions, will face arch-rivals Pakistan in Group A, while Group B includes Australia and Sri Lanka. Group D features 2024 runners-up South Africa, Afghanistan, New Zealand, Canada, and the UAE. The West Indies, coached by Daren Sammy, had a strong group stage in the 2024 tournament but struggled in the Super Eights. Currently on a tour in New Zealand, the Windies have faced mixed results, losing the T20 and ODI series but securing a commanding T20 win in Bangladesh. Their recent encounters with Bangladesh and Nepal will be crucial as they prepare for the World Cup. Before the tournament, the Windies will play a three-match T20 series against Afghanistan in January. ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta and chairman Jay Shah have promised a thrilling spectacle, highlighting the tournament’s competitive nature and global appeal.
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TTR, Fire Services rescue injured hiker after complex operation
A challenging and intricate search and rescue mission culminated in the successful extraction of an injured hiker from the dense forests of Brasso Seco, Trinidad and Tobago. Fayyad Hosine, who sustained severe injuries during a hiking expedition, was rescued on November 24 after a three-day operation involving the Trinidad and Tobago Regiment (TTR) and the TT Fire Services (TTFS). The incident occurred near the Sombasson Waterfall, a location that posed significant challenges due to its rugged terrain and limited communication capabilities. Hosine, part of a group of five hikers, injured his left leg on November 21 during a demanding 19-pitch descent approximately 17 km inside Lalaja South Road. While the other hikers sought help, hike organizer Justine Ramdhanie remained with Hosine. The rescue operation, led by five soldiers from the TTR’s 1st Engineer Battalion, including a female medic, and supported by TTFS search and rescue specialist Joseph Mohanlal, involved navigating steep and treacherous terrain both day and night. The successful rescue highlights the effectiveness of Trinidad and Tobago’s multi-agency emergency response framework and the dedication of the TTR and TTFS in ensuring public safety.
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US to slap big surcharge on foreign visitors to national parks
The Trump administration has unveiled a new policy that will significantly increase costs for foreign tourists visiting some of the United States’ most iconic national parks. Effective from 2026, international visitors will be required to pay an additional $100 surcharge on top of the standard entry fees at 11 of the most popular parks, including the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone. Additionally, the annual pass for non-residents, granting access to all national parks, will more than triple in price, rising from $80 to $250.
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Senate pays tribute to late former senator Don Wehby
KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Jamaican Senate convened on Friday to honor the life and legacy of the late Don Wehby, former senator and Group Chief Executive Officer of GraceKennedy Limited, who passed away on July 26, 2025, at the age of 62. Wehby was celebrated as a visionary, patriot, and nation builder, leaving an indelible mark on Jamaica’s political and business landscapes. Senate President Tom Tavares-Finson led the tributes, describing Wehby as a “dear friend to all of us” and highlighting his distinguished service in the Senate for over a decade, including his tenure as Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service from 2007 to 2009. Tavares-Finson also emphasized Wehby’s transformative leadership at GraceKennedy, where he modernized the conglomerate and earned a place in the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica Hall of Fame. Acting Leader of Government Business, Senator Dana Morris Dixon, praised Wehby as “an exceptional man” and a “giant in Jamaican business,” noting his role in building global brands and businesses through GraceKennedy. Senator Abka Fitz-Henley, State Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, lauded Wehby’s strategic vision and unwavering patriotism, stating that his legacy would inspire future generations. Fitz-Henley also highlighted Wehby’s belief in the transformative power of sports and education, as evidenced by his pioneering work with the GraceKennedy Foundation. Acting Leader of Opposition Business, Senator Floyd Morris, acknowledged Wehby’s distinguished service to the Senate and the nation, describing him as a “giant in every sphere of his life.” Senator Lambert Brown echoed these sentiments, calling Wehby a visionary and patriot who served his country with dedication. The Senate observed a minute of silence in honor of Wehby and for the lives lost during Hurricane Melissa. Other senators who paid tribute included Kavan Gayle, Ramon Small Ferguson, Charles Sinclair, Alan Bernard, Sherine Golding Campbell, Keith Duncan, and Christian Tavares-Finson.
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OAS Secretary General calls for hemisphere to remain zone of peace
In a compelling address during the ‘Dialogue for the Americas: Conversation with OAS Secretary General,’ Albert Ramdin, the Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), emphasized the critical need for Venezuela and the United States to resolve their disputes through diplomatic channels rather than military confrontation. Ramdin, who assumed his role on May 26, 2023, stressed that the Americas must remain a ‘zone of peace’ and warned against the devastating consequences of war.
Ramdin’s remarks come amid escalating tensions in the Caribbean, where the US has significantly increased its military presence. President Donald Trump has deployed an amphibious squadron, a nuclear-powered attack submarine, P8 Poseidon reconnaissance aircraft, destroyers, and the USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier to the region, ostensibly to combat Latin American drug cartels. However, Venezuela perceives this buildup as a threat to its sovereignty, accusing the US of attempting to oust President Nicolas Maduro.
The US military has conducted airstrikes on vessels in international waters, claiming they were involved in drug trafficking, though no evidence has been provided. These actions have drawn sharp criticism from the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, who condemned the strikes as violations of international human rights law and called for their immediate cessation.
Ramdin acknowledged the global consensus on combating transnational organized crime but cautioned that the methods employed must align with international law and human rights standards. He highlighted the inherent imbalance in the fight against crime, where governments are bound by legal constraints while criminal organizations operate with impunity. Ramdin advocated for a new legal framework that empowers governments to tackle crime more effectively while respecting human rights.
The Secretary General also addressed the divided stance within the Caribbean Community (Caricom) regarding the US military buildup. While Caricom leaders have discussed the issue, no unified position has been reached. Ramdin expressed optimism that Caricom would eventually find common ground, emphasizing the importance of dialogue to prevent escalation and maintain regional peace.
In conclusion, Ramdin reiterated his commitment to fostering a safer hemisphere, urging all nations to prioritize diplomacy and unity. ‘We must keep the hemisphere as a zone of peace,’ he declared, warning that failure to do so could lead to dire consequences for the region.