KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Water Resources Authority (WRA) has reported a gradual decline in groundwater levels in Content, Manchester, following severe flooding triggered by Hurricane Melissa on October 28. The flooding, caused by significant rainfall before and during the hurricane, has been a major concern for the community. Geoffrey Marshall, Deputy Managing Director of the WRA, confirmed that on-site observations indicate a slow but steady reduction in water levels. However, he warned that the movement of groundwater is causing rising water levels in downstream areas such as Porus and Harmons, as anticipated by the authority. Similar trends have been observed in Comfort Hall and Evergreen. Marshall emphasized that the recession of water in Content could take up to four weeks, longer than the two-week period recorded during a similar event in 2002, due to the greater volume of water involved this time. The WRA has urged residents in affected areas to remain cautious, avoid contact with contaminated floodwaters, and take necessary precautions if their properties are at risk. Marshall also advised against consuming untreated groundwater, stressing the importance of boiling or purifying water before use. The WRA continues to monitor the situation closely and conduct assessments across other communities.
分类： society
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Paria stays in diver’s workmen compensation claim
In a significant legal development, the High Court has dismissed an application by state-owned Paria Fuel Trading Co Ltd to be removed from a workmen’s compensation claim filed by the widow of one of the divers who tragically lost their lives in the 2022 Paria incident. The decision, handed down by High Court Master Wrenerson Lochan on November 18, underscores the ongoing legal complexities surrounding the case. Master Lochan ruled that the request by Land and Marine Contracting Services Ltd (LMCS) to include Paria as a party to the claim was justified, citing unresolved serious issues between the two entities. He further ordered Paria to cover LMCS’s legal costs related to the application.
The tragedy occurred in February 2022 when five LMCS divers were fatally sucked into a 30-inch underwater pipeline during maintenance work at Paria’s Pointe-a-Pierre facility. Only one diver, Christopher Boodram, survived. The victims included Fyzal Kurban, whose widow, Celisha Kurban, initiated the compensation claim. Represented by attorneys Prakash Ramadhar, Saira Lakhan, and Devi Ramnarine, Kurban’s estate is seeking justice for the loss.
Paria argued in its application that it had no direct control over the divers’ daily activities, emphasizing that LMCS exercised sole authority over its employees and the work environment. The company also claimed that the divers were performing tasks in violation of Paria’s work-permit system, leading to the fatal incident. Paria further asserted that LMCS’s insurance policies with TRINRE Insurance Co Ltd should indemnify it against liability, suggesting that the estate should have already received compensation under these policies.
However, LMCS managing director Kazim Ali, whose son Kazim Jr was among the victims, countered these claims. He argued that LMCS operated under Paria’s overarching control, including a ‘stop work’ authority that allowed Paria employees to halt operations at any time. Ali also highlighted that Paria staff monitored the divers via live-feed video on the day of the incident, enabling immediate intervention. He attributed the Delta-P event—a sudden and dangerous pressure change—to Paria’s mismanagement of line content removal, which he claimed was entirely under Paria’s control.
Ali accused Paria of negligence, alleging that the company failed to assign competent staff, misled LMCS about the remaining line content, and failed to communicate critical changes that created a hazardous environment. He also claimed that Paria prevented LMCS and volunteer rescuers from initiating a timely rescue, asserting that the tragedy could have been prevented. Ali maintained that any indemnity should flow to LMCS, not Paria, given the latter’s alleged negligence.
The case remains ongoing, with LMCS’s claim against TRINRE Insurance adjourned to 2026. Ali also noted that similar indemnity issues are being contested in two other High Court cases stemming from the same incident, suggesting that the court stay the indemnity issue in the workmen’s compensation claim until these matters are resolved.
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Derek Walcott Library added to UNESCO world register
The Derek Walcott Library, located at the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College in St. Lucia, has been officially added to the UNESCO Memory of the World Regional Register for Latin America and the Caribbean. This prestigious recognition was announced during the program’s annual regional meeting held in Lima and Cusco, Peru. Among 71 nominations from 15 countries, 29 were approved, with the Derek Walcott Library standing out for its cultural and historical significance. The UNESCO Memory of the World Programme aims to protect documentary heritage at risk of being forgotten, damaged, or lost. The inscription highlights the profound value of Sir Derek Alton Walcott’s personal collection, offering a unique glimpse into the life, influences, and creative genius of the Nobel Laureate. The library houses Walcott’s original bookshelves, including works he authored, gifts from peers, and materials reflecting his engagement with Caribbean literature, art, theatre, history, and global cultures. Donated to the college in 2020 by Sigrid Nama, the collection serves as a preserved record of Walcott’s creative legacy and the broader literary conversations that shaped him. The Saint Lucia National Commission for UNESCO also acknowledged Kathy Birch-McDiarmed, head librarian of the Hunter J Francois Library, for her role as vice president of the Memory of the World Committee for Latin America and the Caribbean. Her efforts continue to support the protection and promotion of documentary heritage across the region. This recognition underscores the importance of preserving the Derek Walcott Library as a vital repository of Caribbean literary memory and cultural heritage.
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Florida carries out state’s 17th execution of the year
In a somber turn of events, Richard Randolph, a 63-year-old man convicted of the 1988 rape and murder of his former store manager, was executed by lethal injection on Thursday in Florida. The execution took place at 6:12 pm (2312 GMT) at a state prison in Raiford, as confirmed by the Florida Department of Corrections. Randolph was sentenced to death in 1989 for the brutal killing of Minnie McCollum, a 62-year-old convenience store manager. Court documents reveal that Randolph committed the heinous act after McCollum caught him attempting to break into the store’s safe. Florida has been at the forefront of executions in the United States this year, with 17 carried out so far, surpassing other states like Alabama and Texas, each with five executions. Randolph’s death marks the 44th execution in the U.S. in 2025, the highest number since 2010 when 46 inmates were executed. The majority of this year’s executions—36—were conducted via lethal injection, while three were carried out by firing squad and five by nitrogen hypoxia, a method criticized by United Nations experts as cruel and inhumane. The death penalty remains a contentious issue in the U.S., with 23 states having abolished it and three others—California, Oregon, and Pennsylvania—imposing moratoriums. President Donald Trump has been a vocal advocate for capital punishment, calling for its expanded use for the most severe crimes on his first day in office.
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The fight continues
The Jamaican Government is locked in a persistent struggle with the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) to obtain accurate and detailed information regarding the restoration of electricity following Hurricane Melissa. During a meeting of the Public Administration and Appropriations Committee at Gordon House on Wednesday, Permanent Secretary Carol Palmer of the Ministry of Transport, Telecommunications and Energy expressed frustration over JPS’s failure to provide parish-level and community-level updates. Palmer emphasized that broad percentage figures offered by JPS are insufficient and misleading, as they do not reflect the lived experiences of many Jamaicans still without power. MPs echoed these concerns, with St James Southern MP Nekeisha Burchell highlighting discrepancies in JPS’s claims of 79% restoration in her parish, noting that rural areas remain entirely without electricity. Palmer revealed that the Government has escalated the matter to the Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR) to ensure greater accountability. Additionally, the strained relationship between JPS and the Government, exacerbated by the impending renegotiation of JPS’s all-island licence, has further complicated recovery efforts. MPs also criticized the lack of structured communication from JPS, leaving them unable to address constituents’ urgent inquiries. Palmer assured the committee that the ministry is working to improve coordination and transparency, with the OUR tasked with verifying JPS’s cost estimates and supporting the Government’s push for clearer information.
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Sando mayor awards four with keys to the city
In a historic departure from tradition, San Fernando Mayor Robert Parris awarded four keys to the city during the 37th Anniversary Civic Awards and Reception held at the City Hall Auditorium on November 18. This unprecedented move was driven by the exceptional achievements of the honorees, who have significantly contributed to the city’s cultural, economic, and social fabric. Among the recipients was former San Fernando West MP Dianne Seukeran, a visionary leader battling cancer, whose work has reshaped the city’s landscape. Seukeran expressed profound gratitude, dedicating the honor to the collective efforts of her supporters and mentors, including the late Prime Minister Patrick Manning. Mayor Parris lauded her as one of San Fernando’s most defining voices, highlighting her pioneering role in community arts, scouting, and national projects. Also honored were sisters Beverly Guide-Williams and Lisa Guide-Tang How, third-generation stewards of the JE Guide Funeral Home and Crematorium, who viewed the recognition as a testament to their family’s resilience and commitment to the city. Cultural icon Imran ‘GI’ Beharry, the first chutney soca artiste to receive this honor, described the award as a profound affirmation of his roots and a reminder of his responsibility to uplift culture and youth. The fourth key was awarded to steelpan virtuoso Joshua Regrello, a Guinness World Record holder, who humorously inquired if the key granted him parking privileges. Regrello reflected on his deep connection to San Fernando, crediting the city for shaping his identity and achievements. Additionally, legendary mas band leader Ivan Kalicharan received a commemorative plaque, with a stand at Skinner Park to be named in his and his late wife Wendy’s honor. The event underscored San Fernando’s commitment to celebrating its own, recognizing individuals who have left an indelible mark on the city’s history and culture.
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Kevin Downswell says Jamaica will come back ‘stronger’ as gospel artistes rally for the cause after Melissa
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, Jamaican gospel star Kevin Downswell has spearheaded a remarkable humanitarian initiative, uniting fellow gospel artistes, volunteers, and everyday Jamaicans to aid those displaced by the storm. Over the past three weeks, Downswell and his team have been actively providing relief across western Jamaica, offering not just material support but also emotional and spiritual comfort.
Downswell recounted the immediate response to the disaster: ‘Right after the storm, I reached out to several gospel artistes, urging us to pool our resources and act swiftly. People needed more than food—they needed prayer, strength, hope, and solidarity.’ During the first week, Downswell, alongside gospel artistes John Mark Wiggan and Prince Saj, visited St. Elizabeth, distributing care packages and partnering with companies like KFC to amplify their efforts.
The second week saw the team in Montego Bay, St. James, where they addressed the aftermath in areas like Catherine Hall and Bogue Heights. ‘We listened, encouraged, and prayed with the affected families,’ Downswell shared. The mission continued into Westmoreland, where communities such as Baeston Springs and Paradise received much-needed support. Each trip ensured supplies for 250 people, including toiletries, cooked meals, and non-perishable goods, with significant contributions from Ziggy’s and KFC restaurants.
Downswell emphasized the importance of personal connection: ‘Listening to their stories and offering a hand to hold means the world to them. Even if we don’t pray, just being there to listen has been a special part of this journey.’ The initiative has been a collective effort, with gospel artistes like DJ Nicholas and Chevelle Franklyn contributing despite being unable to join in person.
‘This is a true collective effort,’ Downswell stated. ‘What one couldn’t provide, another did. We’re showing up week after week to ensure no one feels forgotten. We love our nation and its people, and we’ll keep going—one community, one family, one prayer at a time. Together, we’ll come back stronger.’
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Construction materials most needed in Trelawny
FALMOUTH, Trelawny — Hugh Gentles, the Custos Rotulorum of Trelawny, has called for a strategic shift in relief efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. Gentles emphasized that the immediate priority for the parish is the provision of building materials to aid residents in repairing and reconstructing their homes, which were severely damaged when the hurricane struck southwestern Jamaica on October 28. While the community has expressed gratitude for the initial humanitarian aid, including food, clothing, and care packages, Gentles stressed that the recovery process has now entered a critical phase focused on long-term reconstruction.
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Daughter’s murder ‘stole our world’
The parents of Paige Bell, a 20-year-old yacht stewardess found dead in the engine room of a Harbour Island yacht in July, are grappling with profound grief as the accused in her death prepares to face court. John and Michelle Bell, speaking emotionally to The Tribune, described the devastating moment they learned of their daughter’s untimely death, just 11 days before her 21st birthday. ‘Whoever did this stole our world,’ Mrs. Bell said, her voice breaking. Paige, described as a vibrant and determined young woman, had been eagerly anticipating her milestone birthday, planning a ‘Pearls and Prosecco’ celebration. Her parents, however, were left to mourn the life that was tragically cut short. The Bells first learned of the incident through Paige’s boyfriend, who was unable to reach her. Initial suggestions of suicide were swiftly dismissed by the family, who knew their daughter would never take her own life. The confirmation of her death left Mrs. Bell in such shock that she required sedation. Paige’s absence has left an irreplaceable void in their lives, compounded by the loss of other family members earlier in the year. The Bells have found solace in the support of their community, with friends organizing a vigil in Paige’s memory. As they await justice, the family remains determined to ensure that Paige’s life and legacy are honored. ‘This has destroyed us,’ Mr. Bell said, ‘but we will fight for her.’
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PM: Government will ensure children’s rights are upheld, protected
In a heartfelt statement commemorating World Children’s Day (WCD) on November 20, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar emphasized her government’s steadfast dedication to protecting the well-being, safety, and development of every child in Trinidad and Tobago. This year’s WCD theme, ‘My Day, My Rights,’ serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent dignity and rights of children, urging global and national efforts to ensure their voices are heard and their futures shaped. Persad-Bissessar invoked the words of former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, who once described the trust the world holds with children as sacred, underscoring the collective responsibility to create a society where every child feels valued and empowered. Since her government’s election victory in April, several initiatives have been launched to bolster children’s rights and opportunities. These include providing universal digital access through secure devices, distributing free laptops to secondary school entrants, enhancing school safety frameworks, and expanding paediatric mental health services. A landmark achievement is the upcoming opening of the Couva Children’s Hospital in December, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to paediatric and adolescent care. Persad-Bissessar called on the nation to amplify the voices of young people, whose creativity and courage, she believes, hold the key to Trinidad and Tobago’s future. She urged collective action to transform the WCD theme into a tangible reality, ensuring every child’s dreams and rights are upheld.