Maurice Moore, a founding member of the Free National Movement (FNM), has emphasized the importance of the opposition party contesting the upcoming Golden Isles by-election. Speaking to The Tribune, Moore warned that allowing the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) to run uncontested would be a strategic misstep. He argued that the FNM must remain in the political fray, even if the odds are stacked against them. While some believe the FNM could leverage the late Vaughn Miller’s limited popularity in the area, Moore acknowledged the PLP’s significant financial and organizational advantages, describing the race as challenging but not unwinnable. ‘We’re one of the two major parties, so we have to contest it,’ Moore stated. ‘Even if we win by a narrow margin, it demonstrates the FNM’s potential to secure victory in a general election.’ Moore also stressed that the party’s success will hinge on its candidate selection process. The FNM has yet to confirm whether it will field a candidate for the by-election, with party insiders divided on the issue. Some advocate for conserving resources for the national campaign, while others view the by-election as an opportunity to rally supporters and attract new funding. FNM leader Michael Pintard has remained noncommittal, reiterating his call for Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis to call an early general election instead. The party’s hesitation follows a recent defeat in the West Grand Bahama and Bimini by-election, where the FNM ignored advice from former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham to avoid the race. Despite the setback, Moore insists that the FNM must not signal retreat. ‘If we don’t run, it gives the impression that we’ve given up,’ he said. ‘The FNM must always be in the fight.’
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Pickstock expected to be ratified for Golden Isles
The Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) is poised to finalize its roster of candidates for the forthcoming general election, with a significant focus on the Golden Isles constituency, where a by-election is anticipated. Senator Darren Pickstock is expected to be ratified as the candidate for Golden Isles, following the recent passing of area MP Vaughn Miller. House Speaker Patricia Deveaux has officially notified the Governor General of the vacancy, triggering the constitutional requirement for a by-election within 60 days of the vacancy, with the vote to follow within 21 to 30 days after the writ is issued. Golden Isles, a pivotal swing constituency, has seen voter dissatisfaction due to inconsistent representation in recent years. PLP insiders revealed that several incumbents, including Seabreeze MP Leslia Miller-Brice, Garden Hills MP Mario Bowleg, and Golden Gates MP Pia Glover-Rolle, are also set to be confirmed. These decisions follow thorough interviews conducted by the PLP’s Candidates Committee, which has endorsed several hopefuls. Videos circulating on social media last week depicted Mrs. Miller-Brice, Mr. Bowleg, and South Beach MP Bacchus Rolle celebrating their re-nominations with supporters. Mrs. Miller-Brice expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to continue serving her constituents. Additionally, broadcaster and former government press secretary Clint Watson, the frontrunner for the Southern Shores seat, is expected to face the committee this week. PLP officials emphasized that the final approval lies with the party’s National General Council, which convenes on Thursday to formalize nominations. PLP Chairman Fred Mitchell urged reporters to await the outcome, while Deputy Chairman Obie Roberts highlighted the dual process of recommendation and ratification. The Candidates Committee may endorse nominees, but the council, comprising stalwart councillors and senior members, must approve each candidate by vote. Branch chairman Henrico Ellis expressed high anticipation for Thursday’s meeting, noting that a candidate has already been identified but stressing that the final decision rests with the council. “It’s going to be an exciting night,” he remarked.
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Plea for the homeless
Human rights advocate Carla Gullotta is urging Jamaica’s Ministry of Local Government and Community Development to prioritize the establishment of more transitional facilities for the homeless, arguing that the current reliance on drop-in centres is insufficient to address the root causes of homelessness. Gullotta, who operates the Portland Rehabilitation Management Homeless Shelter in Port Antonio, highlighted the limitations of drop-in centres, which provide temporary shelter but fail to offer long-term solutions or professional support for mental health issues often linked to homelessness. She emphasized that transitional facilities, like her shelter, have proven more effective in helping individuals regain stability and reintegrate into society. Gullotta also underscored the alarming prevalence of mental health challenges in Jamaica, citing Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton’s revelation that 40% of Jamaicans experience mental health issues at some point in their lives. Meanwhile, Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie announced plans to conduct a nationwide survey on homelessness and build 14 new shelters across the island, aiming to address the growing crisis more comprehensively.
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‘Unacceptable!’
Kingston Mayor Andrew Swaby expressed deep frustration during the monthly meeting of the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) on Tuesday, addressing the ongoing garbage collection crisis plaguing several communities. Residents have reported domestic waste remaining uncollected for up to two months, creating significant health and environmental hazards. Mayor Swaby criticized the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) for its inconsistent service delivery, despite its mandate to handle waste management. He also highlighted the agency’s frequent excuse of rainfall hindering access to dumpsites, which he deemed insufficient to justify such prolonged delays. Furthermore, Swaby raised concerns about irregular street sweeping in downtown areas, including Parade, King Street, and West Queen Street, forcing the KSAMC to hire external contractors to maintain cleanliness. He also alleged that some NSWMA employees may be receiving pay without performing their duties. The mayor urged the NSWMA to take immediate action to resolve these issues and emphasized the importance of collaboration between the agency and the KSAMC. Additionally, Swaby called on residents to improve their waste disposal practices, stressing that maintaining clean streets is a shared responsibility. The KSAMC’s Public Health and Sanitation Committee has outlined several objectives, including quarterly reviews of reporting processes and enhanced oversight of sewer line blockages and road cuts, to improve service efficiency and accountability.
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BACK ON TOP!
The Jamaican national football team, affectionately known as the Reggae Boyz, have taken a significant step towards securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a commanding 4-0 victory over Bermuda in the Concacaf World Cup Qualifiers. The match, held at the National Stadium on Tuesday, saw goals from Bobby Reid, Shamar Nicholson, Dujuan ‘Whisper’ Richards, and an own goal from Bermuda’s captain Dante Leverock. This win not only mirrored their earlier 4-0 triumph over Bermuda in September but also marked their third consecutive victory in the campaign, bringing their total goals scored to 10. The result was further sweetened by Curacao’s 1-1 draw with Trinidad and Tobago (T&T), allowing Jamaica to reclaim the top spot in Group B with nine points, one ahead of Curacao. With only the group winner guaranteed a place in the 2026 World Cup, Jamaica now control their destiny as they prepare for their final two matches against T&T and Curacao in November. T&T, despite their recent draw, remain in contention with five points, while Bermuda have been eliminated from the race after losing all four of their matches. The Reggae Boyz displayed their dominance with over 70% possession and nearly 30 shots, bouncing back from a 2-0 defeat to Curacao last Friday. Midfielder Kasey Palmer, who missed the previous game, set the tone with a free kick that led to Leverock’s own goal in the 24th minute. Reid, Nicholson, and Richards added to the tally, with Richards’ electrifying performance off the bench showcasing his potential. Jamaica’s next match against T&T on November 13 will be crucial, followed by a potentially decisive clash with Curacao on November 18 at the National Stadium.
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Master Mac Food adds 15th store in latest round of expansion
Master Mac Food Store, a prominent grocery chain, is poised to open its 15th location and 5th supermarket on Thursday, October 16, marking a significant milestone in its expansion strategy. The new superstore, situated at 108-110 Constant Spring Road, spans approximately 40,000 square feet, making it the largest and most advanced outlet in the company’s 30-year history. Located near popular establishments like Furniture Land, Carmen’s Corner, and Taboo nightclub, the store is part of a larger commercial complex on a 2.5-acre property owned by the company for several years.
The superstore will feature unique additions such as a bakery and deli, alongside a wider variety of grocery items, enhancing the shopping experience for customers. Owner Raymond McMaster emphasized the strategic location and potential for strong returns, though he declined to disclose the exact investment cost. The development aligns with the increasing residential and commercial activity in the Constant Spring area, prompting the company to activate the property’s potential.
As the anchor tenant, the supermarket is surrounded by 20 other commercial units, many of which are already leased or preparing to open. These include retail shops, professional services, and eateries like the popular Mystic Thai, set to open in November 2025. The new store is expected to create 75 jobs, bringing the company’s total employment in Jamaica to approximately 600.
Founded in the late 1980s, Master Mac Food Store remains a family-run enterprise, with McMaster and his wife Wendy leading the business alongside their children, who are being groomed for future leadership. While there are no immediate plans for further expansion, the company remains open to opportunities, particularly in St Thomas, which is emerging as a new development frontier.
The Constant Spring superstore aims to cater to a diverse demographic, offering competitive pricing, a broad product selection, and a comfortable shopping environment. McMaster expressed optimism about the store’s potential to deliver value and a superior shopping experience, reinforcing the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction.
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Vacancy tax on idle properties proposed as part of waterfront’s economic revival
Renowned urban planner Brent Toderian has proposed a vacancy tax on unused properties as a potential strategy to stimulate economic activity in downtown Kingston, Jamaica. The suggestion was made during the fifth Maurice Facey Lecture, held at the Jamaica Conference Centre last week. Toderian, former chief planner for Vancouver, Canada, emphasized that while he is not advocating for immediate implementation, such a tax could incentivize property owners to repurpose derelict buildings and vacant lots for commercial or residential use.
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Margaritaville Caribbean’s IPO plans remain distant prospect
Margaritaville Caribbean Group has indicated that its plans for an initial public offering (IPO) of its Jamaica business remain uncertain, with Chairman Ian Dear declining to provide a specific timeline. The IPO, first proposed in 2023, was intended to raise between US$4 million and US$5 million for expansion through a listing on a major regional exchange. However, Dear emphasized that the IPO remains in the company’s “very near future” but offered no concrete updates.
Margaritaville Caribbean operates three flagship locations in Jamaica—Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, and Negril—which have faced significant operational challenges in recent years. These include pandemic-related disruptions and storm damage at the Montego Bay venue, which was temporarily out of commission but has since partially reopened. Dear expressed optimism, stating that the Montego Bay location is “back on track” and expected to be fully operational by the end of the year. Additionally, the damaged cruise pier in Ocho Rios, crucial for customer traffic, is anticipated to reopen soon, potentially boosting revenues.
Despite the IPO delay, Dear highlighted the group’s strong operational performance, particularly in its listed subsidiary, Margaritaville (Turks) Ltd. For the year ending May 31, 2025, the subsidiary reported a net profit of US$1.6 million, a 137% increase from the previous year, driven by a 22% revenue growth to US$9.6 million. The gross profit margin also expanded to 70.9%, reflecting improved financial management. However, cash flow challenges persist, with net cash from operations at just US$264,673, largely due to a US$2.43-million increase in the “Due from related companies” segment, now the largest asset on the subsidiary’s balance sheet.
Dear remains optimistic about the group’s prospects, stating, “We are very bullish on Jamaica. We see that our tourism product is growing… all of our locations in Jamaica are doing quite well now.” The focus remains on operational recovery and financial discipline as the group navigates its path forward.
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VMIL aims AI at cost and service goals in digital overhaul
VM Investments Limited (VMIL) is spearheading a digital revolution in its operations, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technologies to enhance efficiency and expand its regional footprint. Through a strategic partnership with overseas technology firm Abacus, VMIL is integrating AI into its call-center functions, research, and risk management teams, automating routine tasks to free up human resources for higher-value advisory roles. This initiative aligns with a broader industry trend, as global financial institutions like Citi are rapidly adopting generative AI to gain a competitive edge. Alison Mais, VMIL’s Chief Operating Officer, emphasized the importance of a digital-first approach, stating that 58% of clients now use the company’s core client management system, with 90% of equity transactions conducted on the J-Trader platform. These platforms provide real-time access to statements, rates, and transaction capabilities, replacing outdated manual communication channels. VMIL’s digital infrastructure is also facilitating its expansion into the Eastern Caribbean, with a recently approved investment advisory license in Barbados enabling virtual client onboarding. This strategy allows the company to serve regional clients efficiently without the need for physical presence, reducing costs while maintaining compliance and governance standards. Despite significant upfront investments in technology, VMIL views AI adoption as essential for long-term competitiveness. The company reported a 31.6% rise in second-quarter revenue to $653.8 million, driven by growth in fees and investment gains, though it posted a net loss of $6.7 million due to increased operating expenses from its digital transformation. CEO Rezworth Burchenson highlighted the importance of technology in product development and revenue diversification, pointing to the growth of VMIL’s asset management platform, which now includes unit trusts, mutual funds, private portfolios, and alternative investments like real estate and private equity. The company’s digital transformation is central to its strategy of building a scalable, modern financial services platform that meets the evolving needs of regional and diaspora clients. VMIL’s aggressive digital push positions it at the forefront of a transformative trend in the financial sector, mirroring the strategies of global institutions like Citi. By embedding AI and digital tools into its operations, VMIL aims to drive efficiency, manage risk, and ensure profitable growth in a rapidly changing market.
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Jamaica eyes new port in St Thomas to tap Guyana’s building boom
The Port Authority of Jamaica (PAJ) is actively considering the development of a new export port in St Thomas, a strategic move aimed at positioning Jamaica as the leading supplier of construction materials across the Caribbean. This initiative is particularly targeted at Guyana, where an oil-driven infrastructure boom has created unprecedented demand for aggregates, limestone, and cement. PAJ Chairman Alok Jain revealed these plans during a recent address at the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Jamaica (ICAJ) annual business conference, emphasizing the need for additional ports to meet regional demands. While a specific timeline remains undisclosed, Jain highlighted the importance of locating ports near mining sites to minimize transportation costs and logistical challenges. The St Thomas port is envisioned as a dedicated bulk export facility, designed to streamline the movement of heavy materials to regional buyers. This development aligns with Prime Minister Andrew Holness’s March 2023 call for local quarry operators to expand production to serve Caribbean markets, particularly Guyana. Guyana’s infrastructure projects have surged in recent years, driven by its oil wealth, leading to a 250% increase in gravel and crushed stone imports in 2023, totaling $47 million. While Suriname’s State-owned Grassalco has been a primary supplier, Guyana has also sought materials from Jamaica and other Caribbean nations. The proposed St Thomas port is part of a broader strategy to transform Jamaica into a global logistics hub, with Jain envisioning the island as the fourth global logistics node after Singapore, Dubai, and Rotterdam. This ambition is supported by significant investments in Jamaica’s port infrastructure, including over $400 million in the Kingston Freeport Terminal since 2016 and the development of the Caymanas Special Economic Zone, a modern logistics and light-manufacturing hub. Jain believes that shifting global trade dynamics, including tariff upheavals and supply chain disruptions, present a unique opportunity for Jamaica to leverage its geographic advantage and emerge as a key player in international trade.