作者: admin

  • Chinese Ambassador reaffirms China’s global economic leadership at 76th anniversary reception in Dominica

    Chinese Ambassador reaffirms China’s global economic leadership at 76th anniversary reception in Dominica

    Chinese Ambassador to Dominica, H.E. Chu Maoming, emphasized China’s pivotal role as the primary engine of global economic growth during a reception commemorating the 76th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China. The event, hosted on October 1 at the Chinese Embassy in Morne Daniel, gathered officials and dignitaries to celebrate the occasion and reflect on China’s expanding influence on the world stage. Ambassador Chu underscored China’s economic resilience and reform initiatives, particularly in the face of global challenges. He noted that China has pursued comprehensive reforms, advanced high-quality development, and expanded institutional openness, positioning itself as a key contributor to global economic expansion. Projections suggest China’s total economic output will reach USD 19.5 trillion by 2025, accounting for roughly 30% of global growth. The ambassador also highlighted China’s dominance in global trade and its advancements in emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, biomanufacturing, and quantum technology, which he described as critical drivers of future economic growth. On environmental policy, Ambassador Chu reiterated China’s commitment to green and low-carbon development, referencing President Xi Jinping’s updated climate pledges at the United Nations Climate Summit. These include ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, increasing renewable energy capacity, and promoting electric vehicles. The ambassador also expressed China’s readiness to collaborate with small island developing states, such as Dominica, in addressing climate challenges. He concluded with a message of optimism, emphasizing China’s willingness to share the benefits of its modernization efforts with global partners.

  • Caribbean Airlines CEO quits

    Caribbean Airlines CEO quits

    Garvin Medera, the long-serving Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Caribbean Airlines, has stepped down from his position after eight years at the helm. His resignation, reported by the Trinidad Express, follows a stern ultimatum issued earlier this year by Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister, Kamla Persad-Bissessar. In August, the Prime Minister warned the airline’s management that they would be replaced within two years if they failed to address the operational challenges plaguing the company. Medera’s departure comes in the wake of the airline’s board resigning after the country’s general elections in April. The airline has faced heightened scrutiny in recent months, leading to the dismissal or suspension of several high-ranking members of the finance team. Additionally, Caribbean Airlines has announced the discontinuation of its services between Kingston, Montego Bay, and Fort Lauderdale, effective November 2, 2025, as part of efforts to optimize its network. This move underscores the airline’s ongoing struggles and its attempts to streamline operations amidst financial and operational pressures.

  • Fond Cole landfill now accepting white goods and other metal items

    Fond Cole landfill now accepting white goods and other metal items

    The Dominica Solid Waste Management Corporation (DSWMC) has officially reopened the Fond Cole Landfill for the disposal of white goods, derelict galvanize, and other metal items. This announcement marks a significant shift from the temporary restrictions imposed earlier this year. The landfill will now accept these materials from Monday to Friday, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. White goods, which include large household appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, stoves, ovens, dishwashers, air conditioners, and water heaters, had been barred from disposal since July. This restriction was implemented following a fire at the Fond Cole Landfill on June 30, which caused thick smoke to engulf parts of the surrounding community. During the interim period, the landfill was restricted to accepting only general waste. Rhoda St. John, the DSWMC Public Relations Officer, emphasized the importance of responsible waste management in a previous statement, urging the public to adhere to proper disposal practices. The reopening of the landfill for these items is expected to alleviate the backlog of waste and improve community safety and environmental conditions.

  • Donacien re-signs with English League Two side

    Donacien re-signs with English League Two side

    Saint Lucia international Janoi Donacien is set to make his comeback after a year-long hiatus, primarily due to injury. The 31-year-old defender, who has previously played for Aston Villa and Ipswich Town, has re-signed with Chesterfield on a contract that extends through the end of the English football season. Born in Choiseul, Donacien joined Chesterfield in January on a short-term deal, making eight appearances before a hamstring injury in March prematurely ended his campaign. Over the summer, he returned to the League Two club to complete his rehabilitation. Donacien expressed his enthusiasm about the new contract, stating, ‘I’m delighted to have signed my new contract and I’m thankful to the club for their faith in me. I can’t wait to get back on the grass, get back in front of our supporters and show what I can do.’ With over 300 career appearances across various English clubs, Donacien is a seasoned player. He made his national team debut in 2023 and last played for Saint Lucia during the Concacaf Nations League in Grenada, where he started in central midfield in a notable victory over Curaçao. Donacien could also feature in the upcoming Concacaf Friendly Series. For Chesterfield, he may return to action as soon as this weekend, following a reserves game against Grimsby Town, where he played for over an hour. Chesterfield’s first team is scheduled to play away at Colchester United on Saturday.

  • Indecent Proposal handles serious business… with laughs

    Indecent Proposal handles serious business… with laughs

    Patrick Brown’s latest theatrical production, ‘Indecent Proposal,’ is currently captivating audiences at the Courtleigh Auditorium in New Kingston. While the play is laced with moments of humor, it delves deeply into the trials faced by single mothers, offering a poignant exploration of their struggles. Sharee Elise, a seasoned actress in Brown’s productions, takes on the role of Sarah, a waitress and mother of two children, who is desperately seeking stability in her life. Her character’s journey is further complicated by the arrival of Lenny, portrayed by Glen Campbell, a suitor who promises her a better life but soon discovers that his honorable intentions are met with unforeseen challenges. For Elise, embodying Sarah has been an enlightening experience. ‘Sarah has given me a unique perspective on the challenges that women in certain situations face,’ she shared with the Jamaica Observer. ‘As a single mother struggling to make ends meet, Sarah’s experiences have shown me how a lack of resources can lead to difficult choices that might otherwise be deemed unacceptable. This role has helped me understand the complexities of decision-making in the face of limited options.’ The cast is rounded out by Courtney Wilson, another regular in Brown’s plays, who plays Rex, Sarah’s ex and one of her delinquent babyfathers. ‘Indecent Proposal’ also highlights the breakdown of the nuclear family in Jamaica, once a cornerstone of the country’s society. ‘Too many households have been left on the backs of women who have to play the role of mother and father,’ Elise remarked. ‘In light of that, something must give, and unfortunately what ‘gives’ is a firm foundation for kids to thrive and grow into well-rounded individuals. Instead, a lot of them become victims of the circumstances of their surroundings.’ Elise, who hails from Falmouth, Trelawny, honed her craft as a member of the Ashe performing arts ensemble for 16 years before transitioning into acting. She has appeared in several of Brown’s plays, including ‘Windscream Posse,’ ‘Right Girl, Wrong Address,’ ‘Matey Chronicles,’ and ‘Duppy Whisperer.’ ‘Indecent Proposal’ premiered in July and is set to conclude its run on October 20.

  • West Indies bowling coach laments ‘tough day’ as India remain in control

    West Indies bowling coach laments ‘tough day’ as India remain in control

    In a commanding display of batting prowess, India seized control of the first Test against the West Indies in Ahmedabad, establishing a formidable lead of 286 runs by the end of day two. Dhruv Jurel and Ravindra Jadeja were the stars of the show, both scoring centuries in a marathon partnership of 206 runs. Jurel, a second-choice wicketkeeper playing in place of the injured Rishabh Pant, celebrated his maiden Test century with a boundary off West Indies captain Roston Chase, followed by a symbolic army-like tribute. Jadeja, meanwhile, notched his sixth Test hundred, marked by his signature sword celebration. KL Rahul also contributed significantly, scoring his 11th Test century before being dismissed shortly after lunch. India ended the day at 448-5 in response to the West Indies’ first-innings total of 162. The visitors, missing key bowlers Alzarri Joseph and Shamar Joseph due to injury, struggled to contain India’s relentless batting attack. With India now in a dominant position, they are strong favorites to secure a 2-0 series victory against a West Indies team that has significantly declined from its former glory.

  • Maresca denies Chelsea ‘discipline problem’ after spate of red cards

    Maresca denies Chelsea ‘discipline problem’ after spate of red cards

    Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has firmly denied that his team is grappling with a discipline crisis, despite a recent surge in red cards. The Blues have been reduced to 10 men in three of their last four matches, including defeats against Manchester United and Brighton. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez and defender Trevoh Chalobah were both sent off in those games, while forward Joao Pedro received a red card in Chelsea’s 1-0 Champions League victory over Benfica. Maresca emphasized the need to evaluate each incident individually, stating that not all red cards stem from poor discipline. He highlighted the split-second decisions players must make during high-pressure moments, which can lead to unfortunate outcomes. Despite these setbacks, Maresca remains optimistic about Chelsea’s trajectory, attributing their struggles to a combination of red cards and injuries, with eight players currently sidelined. Looking ahead to their Premier League clash with Liverpool, Maresca dismissed suggestions that the Reds are vulnerable following consecutive defeats. He praised Liverpool’s resilience in the wake of Diogo Jota’s tragic passing, calling their season performance ‘fantastic.’ Maresca is confident that Chelsea will regain their form and continue to progress.

  • Cash-strapped CWI scales back development programmes

    Cash-strapped CWI scales back development programmes

    Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced significant changes to its regional competitions for the upcoming year, citing severe financial constraints as the primary reason. The governing body revealed on Wednesday that several tournaments, including the Under-17 competition, will be scrapped, while others, such as the women’s tournaments, will be merged. Additionally, the Combined Campuses and Colleges (CCC) and the West Indies Academy have been removed from the men’s tournaments. These decisions were disclosed during CWI’s quarterly press conference by CEO Chris Dehring and Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe, who both acknowledged that 2026 will be a particularly challenging year for the organization due to a projected revenue decline. Dehring explained that the financial model of the International Cricket Council (ICC) does not favor the West Indies when hosting tours from countries like Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and Pakistan, which are scheduled for next year. He emphasized that the profits from co-hosting the 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup have already been depleted, necessitating tough decisions to ensure the organization’s sustainability. Dehring outlined a four-pronged strategy to address the financial issues, including lobbying the ICC for a revised financial model, restructuring domestic tournaments, collaborating with Caricom, and seeking increased financial support from Caribbean companies. Bascombe noted that while the changes are significant, they have been designed to ensure that players still have ample opportunities to showcase their skills and compete for spots in the West Indies teams. Despite the cutbacks, the organization remains committed to maintaining a robust player pool and fostering talent development across the region.

  • JTA rushes to the aid of critically ill educators

    JTA rushes to the aid of critically ill educators

    In response to the growing number of educators battling severe illnesses and facing financial hardships, the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) is intensifying its efforts to establish a robust Critical Illness Trust Fund. Newly appointed JTA President Mark Malabver emphasized the union’s commitment to this cause during a recent interview with the Jamaica Observer. Malabver highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting that the fund aims to provide financial support to teachers diagnosed with critical illnesses such as cancer or those requiring expensive surgeries. The JTA is hosting a wine and cheese fundraiser at Shortwood Teachers’ College in St. Andrew, with the goal of raising $3 million this year. Malabver revealed that the union has already set aside a portion of its internal funds for this purpose, with the long-term ambition of accumulating $1 billion. The fund, officially launched in 2019 by former JTA President Dr. Garth Anderson, is managed by a dedicated board that evaluates applications and allocates resources based on need and availability. Malabver acknowledged the alarming number of educators falling ill, citing at least four requests for assistance since he assumed office in August. He shared a poignant example of a veteran high school teacher facing blindness and requiring costly surgery. While the initiative is not a core JTA activity, Malabver stressed the union’s moral obligation to support its members. The fundraiser, patronized by Metry Seaga, President of the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica, requires a $15,000 contribution per attendee.

  • ‘SEIZE EVERY OPPORTUNITY’

    ‘SEIZE EVERY OPPORTUNITY’

    Despite the absence of major international athletics championships in 2026, Jamaica Olympic Association (JOA) President Christopher Samuda has called on the nation’s top athletes to embrace the opportunity to compete at the Commonwealth Games and the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games. The year 2026 marks a unique gap in the athletics calendar, following consecutive years of high-profile events such as the Olympic Games in 2021 and 2024 and the World Athletics Championships in 2022, 2023, and 2025. While some view this as a year for rest and recovery, Samuda emphasizes the importance of these regional competitions for athlete development and national pride. The Commonwealth Games will be held in Scotland from July 22 to August 2, while the CAC Games will take place in the Dominican Republic from July 24 to August 8. Although these events are not considered major championships, Jamaica has a strong history of participation, having secured 13 medals, including six gold, at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and seven medals, including one gold, at the 2023 CAC Games. Samuda stresses that athletes should seize every opportunity to represent their country, given the unpredictable nature of their careers. He highlights the value of national pride and the role of sport in showcasing Jamaica’s talent on regional and international stages. The JOA will oversee Jamaica’s delegations to both events, ensuring equal policy objectives and encouraging athletes to prioritize these opportunities as part of their self-development.