分类： society

The Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) has emerged as a pivotal force in addressing homelessness in the Corporate Area, with its Poor Relief Department being hailed as a ‘beacon of hope.’ The department manages two key shelters: the Marie Atkins Night Shelter, operational since 1993, and the Desmond McKenzie Transitional Centre for the Homeless, which commenced operations in 2022. These facilities provide a structured and dignified environment, offering essential services such as meals, clothing, shelter, and comprehensive medical and mental health care. Donna-Gaye Brady, Acting Inspector of Poor at KSAMC, emphasized the department’s holistic approach, stating, ‘We not only provide meals but also develop rehabilitation programmes tailored to the needs of individuals in our facilities.’ The rehabilitation initiatives include customized treatment plans and upskilling programmes, facilitated through partnerships with organizations like HEART, which assists in job placements post-training. Additionally, KSAMC’s environmental warden programme employs homeless individuals to clean the streets of Kingston, providing them with a source of income and a sense of purpose. This multifaceted approach underscores KSAMC’s commitment to transforming lives and fostering community integration.

The Jamaican Bar Association (JAMBAR) has strongly criticized certain media outlets for violating the privacy rights of the late Judge Ruth Lawrence. JAMBAR has called for an investigation into how sensitive details about her death were leaked to the press. Judge Lawrence, 59, passed away on Tuesday evening at Falmouth Public General Hospital after being found unresponsive at her Trelawny home by her partner. A leaked police report, which circulated on social media, provided a detailed account of the events leading to her death, allegedly based on information shared by her spouse with law enforcement. JAMBAR, in a public statement, condemned the breach of dignity and data protection, emphasizing the importance of respecting privacy even after death. The association highlighted the provisions of Jamaica’s Data Protection Act, 2020, which safeguards personal data of both living and deceased individuals for up to 30 years. The Act mandates responsible handling of such information to prevent emotional distress, identity theft, and reputational harm. JAMBAR President Tenneshia Watkins expressed deep concern over the dissemination of intimate details without justification, urging authorities to investigate the matter thoroughly. She also called on media entities and the public to exercise compassion and restraint in handling sensitive matters. Meanwhile, JAMBAR paid tribute to Judge Lawrence, praising her integrity, compassion, and dedication to justice. Her passing has been mourned by various figures, including Chief Justice Bryan Sykes and Justice Minister Delroy Chuck, who acknowledged her significant contributions to the judiciary and the nation.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Authorities in Jamaica have issued an urgent appeal to the public for assistance in locating 22-year-old Nathaniel Green, a resident of Apopka, Florida, who has been reported missing. Green was last seen on Thursday, October 2, in the Grange Hill district of Glen Islay, Westmoreland. According to the Savanna-la-Mar police, he was spotted at approximately 9:19 am wearing a black and white t-shirt, black jeans, and black sneakers. Described as having a brown complexion, a slim build, and standing at 5 feet 7 inches tall, Green has not been in contact with anyone since his disappearance. The police are urging anyone with information regarding his whereabouts to immediately contact the Savanna-la-Mar police at 876-955-2536, the 119 emergency number, or the nearest police station. The case has raised concerns among local communities, and authorities are working diligently to ensure his safe return.

The search for 12-year-old Jayden Smith, a student at Manchester High School, has entered its sixth day, with over 100 classmates, teachers, and administrators joining law enforcement in a concerted effort to locate the missing boy. The search focused on the Wesley Road area following reported sightings of Jayden on Wednesday. Despite the use of a drone and hours of meticulous searching, the operation concluded without success. Karcia Beezer, a sixth-form student, expressed her sorrow and determination, emphasizing Jayden’s importance to the school community and his potential for excellence. She urged Jayden to return, assuring him of safety and support. On Wednesday evening, police responded to reports of a child matching Jayden’s description evading passers-by. An eyewitness recounted seeing the boy flee when approached. Manchester High School Principal Jasford Gabriel highlighted the school’s collective effort, with 102 students and 15 staff members participating in the search. He expressed optimism based on recent sightings, indicating that Jayden is alive and the search is nearing a breakthrough. The school community held a prayer meeting, reflecting their shared concern and hope for Jayden’s safe return. The search continues, with the community and authorities determined to bring Jayden home.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) has issued a stern condemnation following the discovery of a mutilated American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) near the Hellshire Bridge in St Catherine on October 1. The animal was found with its tail severed and a rope tied around its mouth, suggesting it had been illegally captured before being killed. This incident occurred just days after a similar case was reported near Spanish Town Road, raising concerns about a disturbing trend of cruelty toward this protected species.

Under the Wild Life Protection Act (WLPA), it is illegal to kill, capture, or harm crocodiles, with penalties including fines of up to $3 million or three years’ imprisonment. Leighton Mamdeen, an Environmental Officer in NEPA’s Fauna Unit, emphasized the ecological importance of crocodiles and dispelled myths about the supposed health benefits of consuming their meat.

‘We continue to hear troubling reports of people consuming crocodile meat for alleged health benefits, including claims that the tail acts as an aphrodisiac. There is no scientific evidence to support this; it is simply false,’ Mamdeen stated. ‘Crocodiles are not food; they are vital to our ecosystems. They regulate populations of other species and help keep our waterways clean by removing dead animals that could spread disease.’

Mamdeen also highlighted pollution as a growing threat to crocodiles, noting that necropsies have revealed plastics, cans, diapers, and even clothing inside dead animals. NEPA has launched a comprehensive investigation into the Hellshire incident and is collaborating with law enforcement to identify and prosecute those responsible.

The agency is urging the public to report any incidents of harassment, capture, or killing of crocodiles by contacting NEPA at 876-754-7540, toll-free at 888-991-5005, or emailing pubed@nepa.gov.jm. Reports can also be made to 119 or the nearest police station. NEPA is calling on Jamaicans to help safeguard the nation’s wildlife by discouraging acts of cruelty against protected species.