分类： society

Denise Daley, the Opposition spokesperson on gender, the elderly, and persons with disabilities, has issued a pressing call for the reform of Jamaica’s public sector pension system. Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, Daley highlighted the plight of retired Jamaicans who face prolonged delays in receiving their pension benefits, leaving many in financial distress and reliant on family, neighbors, or charity for survival. Her remarks followed a ministerial statement by Pearnel Charles Jr, Minister of Labour and Social Security, on the outcomes of Senior Citizens’ Month 2025. Daley emphasized the moral obligation of the State to ensure the financial and emotional well-being of the elderly, urging the government to implement timely pension processes and public education initiatives. She also called for a review of policies affecting seniors on fixed incomes, particularly property taxes, which have become a significant burden. While commending the Ministry and the National Council for Senior Citizens for their efforts in promoting active ageing, Daley stressed the need for practical measures beyond celebratory events. In response, Minister Charles Jr acknowledged the challenges and outlined ongoing efforts to modernize the pension system, including reducing processing times and introducing digital solutions like the ‘I’m Alive’ app for life certification. However, he noted that some seniors still prefer traditional methods, highlighting the importance of balancing modernization with the preferences of the elderly. Anthony Hylton, Member of Parliament for St Andrew Western, criticized the frequent life certificate requirement as outdated and burdensome, urging the government to streamline the process. Charles Jr defended the bureaucracy as a means of accountability but assured that alternative options are being introduced to cater to diverse needs.

In a tragic incident that has shaken the community, Suriname police have apprehended a suspect following the fatal stabbing of a one-year-old child during a domestic altercation on Thursday night. The incident occurred at Cocobiacoweg, a neighborhood on the outskirts of Paramaribo, the capital of Suriname. Authorities were alerted to the scene after receiving reports that a man, armed with a knife, was assaulting his wife and children. Upon arrival, officers and paramedics were met with a distressing scene: the infant had sustained severe stab wounds and, despite immediate medical intervention, succumbed to the injuries. The suspect, identified as a cousin of the child’s father, was arrested on the spot. The mother and other individuals involved in the incident received medical treatment from emergency services. Law enforcement officials have launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the child’s death, collaborating with multiple agencies, including Child Protection Services and Victim Support, to ensure a thorough examination of the case.

MANCHESTER, Jamaica — The search for Jayden Smith, a Manchester schoolboy who vanished two weeks ago, has intensified as law enforcement agencies expand their efforts to locate him. Jayden’s guardians, Ann-Marie Thompson and Omar Thompson, have expressed their willingness to cooperate with authorities, welcoming a thorough search of the vicinity surrounding their home in Wales, Newport, Manchester. The Thompsons have been deeply affected by persistent rumors and speculations regarding Jayden’s disappearance, which have escalated to threats against them. The Jamaica Constabulary Force has deployed multiple specialized units, including the Specialized Operations team, the canine unit, and the missing persons desk, alongside local Newport police, to meticulously comb the area. Despite the extensive search operations, Jayden’s whereabouts remain unknown, leaving the community anxious and hopeful for his safe return. The Thompsons have vehemently denied allegations of ill-treatment, dismissing them as baseless and harmful. As the investigation continues, authorities urge the public to provide any information that could aid in locating the missing child.

WESTMORELAND, Jamaica — The Westmoreland Municipal Corporation has honored the memory of Councillor Patrick Forrester, a dedicated representative of the People’s National Party for the Petersfield Division, who tragically passed away in a motor vehicle accident on September 17. The tribute was led by Mayor Danree Delancy of Savanna-la-Mar during the corporation’s regular monthly general meeting on Thursday. Mayor Delancy highlighted Forrester’s unwavering commitment to his community, noting that even before his official swearing-in, he had already begun drafting projects and programs aimed at benefiting his division. ‘Councillor Forrester served with passion, compassion, and humility,’ Delancy remarked. ‘He was never boastful, always striving to give his best.’ The mayor extended heartfelt condolences to Forrester’s family, constituents, and all those who mourned his loss. Councillor Michael Jackson of the White House Division, who had known Forrester for over three decades, praised his dedication to both his community and the traveling public, particularly in his role as president of the Petersfield Taxi Association. Councillor Ian Myles of the Little London Division echoed these sentiments. Forrester’s funeral is scheduled for November.

Reggae artist Jah Cure, legally known as Siccature Alcock, is at risk of a significantly extended prison sentence as Dutch prosecutors seek a 9.5-year term for attempted murder. The case stems from an incident in October 2021, where Cure allegedly stabbed Dutch concert promoter Nicardo “Papa” Blake over unpaid performance fees. Initially, in March 2022, Cure was sentenced to six years for attempted manslaughter but was acquitted of the more severe attempted murder charge. However, Dutch prosecutors have since appealed the acquittal, arguing for a harsher penalty. The Supreme Court is expected to deliver its final ruling in November. Meanwhile, Cure remains in pre-trial detention in Amsterdam. His legal team has also appealed the attempted manslaughter conviction, setting the stage for a high-stakes legal battle. The case has drawn significant attention, highlighting the complexities of international legal proceedings and the consequences of violent disputes in the entertainment industry.