On November 6, members of the TT Aggregate Producers Alliance (TTAPA) staged a protest at National Quarries Ltd in Turure, Sangre Grande, calling for urgent government intervention to address what they describe as a ‘crippling’ regulatory vacuum. The protest, closely monitored by police, saw the arrest of at least one individual for disorderly conduct. TTAPA President Nigel Tenia led the demonstration, accusing the state-owned National Quarries of operating without a valid processing licence under the Minerals Act of 2000. Tenia emphasized that the alliance’s 24 members unanimously decided to suspend operations earlier this week to raise public awareness and protect themselves from potential criminal charges. He highlighted the sector’s precarious position, noting that legitimate operators are technically in breach of the law due to the absence of processing licences. Tenia called on Energy Minister Roodal Moonilal, Works and Infrastructure Minister Jearlean John, and Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro to investigate National Quarries’ licensing status and enforce regulations uniformly across the industry. Moonilal later issued a statement acknowledging receipt of TTAPA’s October 28 letter but denied the group’s claim that no company has obtained a processing licence. The Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries (MEEI) asserted that it has granted numerous licences in recent years and has actively engaged with operators to address licensing concerns. However, the ministry did not specify which companies hold licences or address TTAPA’s allegation that National Quarries continues to operate without one. TTAPA warned that the licensing impasse threatens thousands of jobs and could delay national construction projects, as the sector remains ‘suffocated by bureaucracy.’ The protest is set to continue until the government resolves the 25-year licensing void.
分类： society
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Downsound Entertainment, D’Yani and Marcy Chin bring hurricane relief to western Jamaica
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a remarkable display of solidarity, Downsound Entertainment (DSE), renowned for organizing Reggae Sumfest and Freedom Street, collaborated with artists D’Yani, Marcy Chin, and YoungWildApache to deliver essential relief supplies to communities devastated by Hurricane Melissa. The initiative targeted areas severely impacted by the storm, including Santa Cruz and Middle Quarters in St. Elizabeth, as well as Dean’s Valley in Westmoreland. The relief effort aimed to provide immediate assistance to families struggling to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of the disaster. The care packages distributed by the team included non-perishable food items, baby formula, diapers, bottled water, tarpaulin, comforters, and mini tents, addressing both short-term and long-term needs of those who lost homes or suffered significant property damage. Joe Bogdanovich, CEO of Downsound Entertainment, emphasized the company’s unwavering commitment to supporting Jamaicans during times of crisis. “Music connects us, but community sustains us,” Bogdanovich stated. “Downsound has always believed in giving back, especially when our people are hurting. Witnessing the devastation first-hand was heart-breaking, yet it was also inspiring to see the resilience of Jamaicans. We’re proud to lend a hand and will continue supporting rebuilding efforts wherever we can.” The artists involved in the initiative shared their emotional experiences during the visit. D’Yani described the experience as heart-wrenching, expressing a newfound appreciation for life. “Seeing the devastation in person gave me a deeper sense of gratitude. The people were incredibly grateful and truly needed the help,” he said, acknowledging the efforts of DSE manager Dwight “Bub” James in coordinating the outreach. Marcy Chin found the journey eye-opening, particularly moved by the selflessness of a woman who, despite losing her own home, urged the team to assist her neighbor who had suffered a personal tragedy. YoungWildApache echoed these sentiments, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to contribute. “Being on the ground and witnessing the impact of Hurricane Melissa first-hand was overwhelming. I’m just thankful we could bring a bit of hope to those in need,” he said. In addition to the immediate relief efforts, DSE is collaborating with key agencies to identify further ways to assist affected communities. A clean-up team has also been mobilized in St. James, underscoring Downsound Entertainment’s dedication to leveraging music and community action to uplift Jamaica.
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After traumatic home invasion, Phillipine man wants a gun
A Philippine family of seven endured a harrowing ordeal when six armed men invaded their home in the early hours of November 4, just meters away from the Prime Minister’s residence. The attackers, who claimed to be police officers, tied up the family, beat them, and ransacked their property, leaving them traumatized and seeking justice. Vijay Ragoonanan, 53, the family patriarch, sustained severe injuries to his eye and lip during the assault. The incident has reignited discussions about the proposed stand-your-ground legislation, which the family now supports as a means of self-defense. Ragoonanan, a farmer who built his home through decades of hard work, expressed his shock and disbelief, stating that he had always felt safe in the community until this brutal attack. The family, now living in fear, has appealed for assistance to secure their home and recover from the financial and emotional toll of the invasion. Police investigations are ongoing, but the family remains hopeful for stronger legal protections and the ability to defend themselves in the future.
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ODPEM head pledges modern, efficient disaster-relief system
KINGSTON, Jamaica—Commander Alvin Gayle, the newly appointed Director General of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to bolster Jamaica’s disaster response capabilities. The initiative centers on the implementation of a cutting-edge logistics system designed to streamline the tracking, management, and distribution of relief supplies across the island, particularly as the nation continues its recovery from the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa.
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THA, NTA sign MOU on workforce competitiveness
In a significant move to bolster Tobago’s workforce, the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) and the National Training Agency (NTA) have formalized a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at equipping the island’s current and future workforce with globally competitive skills. The agreement was signed on November 6 at the Victor Bruce Financial Complex in Scarborough, Tobago, in a ceremony attended by key stakeholders, including NTA chairman Chandar Gupta Supersad, parliamentary secretary Hansen Narinesingh, and THA Secretary Petal Ann Roberts. The initiative, known as the Tobago Training Needs Assessment project, is set to conclude by October and is designed to identify skill gaps, prioritize economic sectors, and align training programs with labor market demands. Narinesingh emphasized the project’s importance in addressing the challenges posed by rapid technological advancements, artificial intelligence, and shifting global labor markets. He highlighted the need for purposeful skills, adaptability, and innovation to ensure Tobago’s workforce remains competitive. Roberts underscored the initiative’s role in preparing Tobagonians for future job markets, aligning training with economic opportunities, and fostering equitable development across Trinidad and Tobago. Supersad described the assessment as timely, stressing its potential to create responsive training programs and national occupational standards tailored to Tobago’s needs. The project aims to empower Tobagonians, particularly youth, by connecting them to meaningful training and real-world opportunities, ultimately driving economic growth and development on the island.
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Sykes commends court staff’s dedication amid Hurricane Melissa devastation
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Chief Justice Bryan Sykes has lauded court staff and managers across multiple parishes for their unwavering dedication and resilience in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which caused extensive damage to judicial facilities. During his visits to the Santa Cruz courthouse in St Elizabeth and other severely affected areas, including St James, Trelawny, and Hanover, Justice Sykes expressed his admiration for the commitment of court personnel who continue to report for duty despite personal hardships. He described the scenes of devastation as ‘distressing’ but emphasized the inspiring leadership and proactive efforts of senior judges and court operations managers. ‘What I am particularly pleased about is that in all the parishes, the senior judges and court operations managers have stepped up as leaders, which is what we expect of them,’ he remarked. ‘They have been strategizing on how to restore services, highlighting the importance of planning and risk mitigation.’ In parishes like Hanover and St James, staff have been actively cleaning up and preparing to reopen facilities. However, in St Elizabeth, the destruction was so severe that ‘there’s nowhere to clean up,’ Sykes noted. Despite losing homes and roofs, many staff members remain committed to their duties. Sykes called for collaboration among stakeholders to support the recovery of the justice system. His visits underscored the critical need for leadership training and disaster preparedness within the judiciary, as staff continue to demonstrate courage and service under challenging conditions. Justice Sykes is scheduled to visit the Westmoreland Parish Court next.
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Cabinet Reviews Enforcement of Rent Restriction Act Amid Rising Complaints
The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda is currently examining the enforcement of the Rent Restriction Act in response to escalating public concerns over soaring rental prices and unregulated evictions. During Thursday’s post-Cabinet press briefing, Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, emphasized that while existing laws are designed to safeguard tenants, there is a pressing need for more robust enforcement. ‘The laws are in place,’ Merchant stated. ‘However, it’s a matter of ensuring they are effectively enforced and that individuals utilize these legal provisions to address their grievances.’
Merchant urged tenants who feel unjustly treated to pursue legal recourse through the judicial system. ‘If you believe you’ve been wronged, take your case to the courts. The judiciary is equipped to handle such matters, as there are established regulations that can be enforced,’ he advised. When questioned about the operational status of the Rent Commission—a body mandated by law to oversee the rental sector—Merchant acknowledged the need for further investigation. ‘I will look into this and provide updates in future briefings,’ he assured.
The Cabinet’s review of the Rent Restriction Act coincides with a broader public discourse on housing affordability and tenant rights protection. As rental costs continue to climb, the government faces mounting pressure to address these issues and ensure equitable housing practices across the nation.
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UPP ‘Beach Case’ Adjourned Again
The high-profile legal matter known as ‘the Beach Case’ has been postponed once more following a hearing at the St John’s Magistrate’s Court. Defence attorney Mr. Boing raised significant concerns regarding what he termed ‘certain defects’ in the case file. Despite these objections, the magistrate opted to proceed with witness testimonies before addressing the alleged issues. Mr. Boing stated, ‘I highlighted specific flaws in the file, but the magistrate believes the witnesses’ accounts might resolve these concerns. A ruling on my submission will only occur after the evidence is heard.’ The case has now been adjourned until December 12, 2025, when the prosecution, led by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, is expected to present its witnesses and evidence. Outside the courtroom, political commentator George Wehner, who has been closely monitoring the case, voiced frustration over the repeated delays. Wehner also drew attention to broader systemic issues, referencing the Small Charges Act—a colonial-era law originally intended to control emancipated Africans post-slavery. ‘These laws criminalized everyday actions, such as walking on a neighbor’s land or picketing,’ he remarked. ‘Even after independence, they continue to oppress the same communities they were designed to target.’ The Beach Case, named for its alleged connection to an incident on a local beach, has garnered significant public attention, with advocates for the defendants demanding transparency and fairness in the judicial process. The next hearing is set for December 12, 2025, when witnesses are expected to testify.
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C.O. Williams workers walk off job over wage dispute
Hundreds of employees at C.O. Williams Construction have ceased work following a deadlock in salary negotiations. Dwaine Paul, Deputy General Secretary of the Barbados Workers’ Union (BWU), confirmed that the dispute has been escalated to the Chief Labour Officer, and the union is awaiting further instructions. Paul emphasized that all workers will remain off the job until they receive guidance from the Chief Labour Officer, citing widespread dissatisfaction over the stalled wage increase discussions. He also highlighted the broader challenges facing the construction sector, underscoring the necessity for comprehensive dialogue among industry stakeholders. Paul called for a national conversation involving workers across Barbados to address systemic issues within the construction industry. A meeting to discuss these concerns is reportedly scheduled for next week.
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National Cleanup to Continue Year-Round
In response to the overwhelming volume of waste and derelict vehicles collected during October’s National Cleanup Month, the Cabinet has approved the extension of the national cleanup campaign throughout the year. Maurice Merchant, Director General of Communications, announced that the initiative will now operate on a rolling basis across multiple communities to uphold the island’s cleanliness and public health standards. The National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA) and its service providers faced unprecedented challenges in managing the sheer quantity of garbage and abandoned vehicles, leading to delays in removal efforts. To address this backlog, the Cabinet has authorized the NSWMA to collaborate with private citizens and contractors equipped with specialized heavy-duty vehicles, such as flatbeds and lowboys, to accelerate the cleanup process. Prime Minister Gaston Browne underscored the campaign’s significance, emphasizing that maintaining a clean and healthy environment is essential for national pride, public health, and the tourism sector. The expanded initiative will focus on simultaneous cleanup operations across various zones, including the clearing of drains, verges, and overgrown areas.