KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaican law enforcement authorities have launched a comprehensive public safety initiative ahead of the Christmas holidays, emphasizing enhanced security measures for financial transactions and child protection in crowded spaces. The advisory comes from top-ranking police officials including Assistant Commissioner Dr. Gary McKenzie and Senior Superintendent Dahlia Garrick during a recent Jamaica Information Service forum. The initiative addresses growing concerns about criminal activities during peak shopping periods. Dr. McKenzie, overseeing the JCF’s Strategic Operations and Public Safety Branch, strongly advocated for electronic payment methods as a primary defense against theft. “We actively encourage citizens to utilize cards, wire transfers, and digital transaction platforms whenever feasible. Cash transactions inherently increase personal vulnerability, particularly when handled publicly,” he cautioned. The security experts specifically warned against discussing financial arrangements in public or via mobile devices, noting that such conversations potentially attract criminal attention. “Publicly announcing bank withdrawals or monetary meetings essentially invites potential theft,” McKenzie emphasized. Simultaneously, SSP Garrick highlighted the critical importance of structured planning for family shopping excursions. She recommended maintaining visual contact with children at all times and implementing standard safety protocols similar to school preparation guidelines. The security official further advised discreet handling of purchases, suggesting secured storage in vehicles and avoiding isolated areas. Garrick particularly emphasized collective shopping with companions and staying within well-lit, frequently traveled routes. Additionally, the police addressed the proliferation of seasonal scams, urging citizens to exercise heightened skepticism toward offers appearing excessively favorable. “When deals seem implausibly advantageous, they typically are. Rely on established businesses that provide consumer recourse mechanisms,” Garrick stated. The advisory specifically extended to displaced children integrating into new household arrangements, stressing the necessity of updating safety education regarding personal information sharing and stranger interaction. Both officials unanimously emphasized that strategic planning, sustained awareness, and informed judgment constitute fundamental components for ensuring holiday security.
分类： society
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Citing short notice on move to Skinner Park: Some north schools opt out of Schools’ Panorama 2026
Multiple educational institutions from northern Trinidad have officially withdrawn from the prestigious 2026 National Schools’ Panorama competition following what they describe as insufficient notice regarding the event’s relocation to Skinner Park in San Fernando. According to insider reports obtained by Newsday, approximately eight to ten schools have opted out of the musical championship.
The core issue, as explained by several anonymous musical directors and educators, revolves not around opposition to the southern venue itself, but rather the impractical timeframe for logistical preparation. The competition’s unexpected shift from its traditional home at Queen’s Park Savannah in Port of Spain to Skinner Park—coupled with its scheduling on Monday, January 19, 2026—has created insurmountable challenges for participating schools.
One musical director revealed that initial rumors about the venue change emerged approximately one month prior, but official confirmation from the Ministry of Education—which coordinates the event with Pan Trinbago’s assistance—remained ambiguous until recently. “When we did receive confirmation,” the director stated, “we were instructed to register despite our concerns, creating the false impression that northern schools accepted the southern venue without objection.”
The financial implications of the relocation have proven particularly burdensome. While the Ministry offered TT$3,000 in transportation assistance, directors estimate actual costs for traveling to San Fernando could reach TT$17,000—nearly double the TT$9,000 typically required for attending the Port of Spain event. This substantial increase renders participation economically unviable for many institutions, especially considering the competition’s top prize of TT$35,000 and overall preparation costs that can exceed TT$100,000.
Notable withdrawals include Bishop Anstey High School Port of Spain, Queen’s Royal College, and the 2025 champions Bishop Anstey East. Educators emphasize that with proper advance notice—ideally a full year—and adequate financial support, they would welcome the opportunity to bring the cultural event to Skinner Park. The current combination of short notice, inadequate funding, and problematic weekday scheduling has unfortunately made participation impossible for several northern schools.
Despite multiple attempts to contact Education Minister Dr. Michael Dowlath for comment, including WhatsApp messages and phone calls on December 22-23, Newsday received no immediate response from the Ministry regarding these concerns.
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Western families to be gifted $30 million in hardware vouchers by Digicel Foundation
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Digicel Foundation has launched a substantial humanitarian initiative, allocating $30 million in hardware and lumber vouchers to support western Jamaican families devastated by Hurricane Melissa during the Christmas season. This effort represents a critical component of the foundation’s comprehensive hurricane recovery program, which has maintained continuous operational presence since the storm’s passage.
The foundation’s teams have been actively delivering essential resources to severely affected households, educational institutions, and special needs facilities throughout the crisis period. Charmaine Daniels, CEO of the Digicel Foundation, emphasized the program’s seasonal significance: “Christmas embodies hope and collective solidarity. Our mission ensures that families experiencing extreme hardship from Hurricane Melissa receive meaningful support and recognition during this period.”
Daniels further explained the strategic value of the assistance: “These hardware vouchers symbolize our dedication to restoring fundamental human dignity, ensuring safety protocols, and reestablishing household stability for affected communities in their reconstruction journey.”
Beyond construction materials, the Foundation has significantly enhanced its care packages to include comprehensive hygiene kits containing soap, deodorant, toothpaste, and toothbrushes. Addressing infrastructure challenges, the organization has incorporated solar-powered lighting solutions to help families overcome persistent electricity disruptions.
These upgraded assistance packages continue to be distributed alongside nutritional support to communities still experiencing hurricane-related disruptions months after the initial disaster. Current statistics reveal the program’s substantial impact: relief operations have reached 35 communities and vulnerable groups island-wide, delivering over 6,000 food packages and 900 hygiene kits, with an additional 1,000 hardware vouchers scheduled for distribution in this recovery phase.
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St Mary’s gets a police station
The Trinidadian community of Moruga witnessed a significant law enforcement enhancement on December 24, 2025, as the St Mary’s Police Post was formally upgraded to a full-service police station. The ceremonial opening marked a substantial step in expanding policing capabilities for residents of St Mary’s and neighboring communities.
Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander presided over the inauguration event, joined by Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro, Works and Infrastructure Minister Jearlean John, and Moruga/Tableland MP Michelle Benjamin. The gathering included senior police officials and local government representatives, demonstrating cross-ministerial support for the infrastructure project.
Minister Alexander emphasized the government’s strategic commitment to strengthening law enforcement infrastructure in rural areas, characterizing the investment as vital to national security objectives. He praised the dedication of officers serving the Moruga district and called for continued collaboration between residents and law enforcement personnel.
Approximately 500 community members received what Alexander described as a ‘tangible, functional Christmas gift’—a completed police facility delivered through concerted efforts to meet the holiday 2025 deadline. The minister encouraged ongoing partnership between citizens and police to foster community resilience and enhanced public safety.
The Ministry of Homeland Security’s Facebook release confirmed the upgrade aligns with broader governmental initiatives to improve rural policing infrastructure and services across Trinidad and Tobago.
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Stakeholders slam 5-year delay for steelpan coat of arms: Upset over pan ‘disrespect’
Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural community has erupted in protest following the government’s controversial decision to postpone the implementation of the new national coat of arms featuring the steelpan until January 2031. The move, authorized through Legal Notice No. 468, has drawn fierce criticism from cultural organizations and political opponents who decry it as a betrayal of national pride and cultural progress.
Pan Trinbago, the international governing body for the steelpan, expressed profound disappointment with the five-year extension granted for continued use of the previous emblem displaying three ships. President Beverley Ramsey-Moore characterized the delay as contradictory to the spirit of unity demonstrated when Parliament unanimously approved the symbolic change earlier this year. “We are deeply disappointed,” Ramsey-Moore stated. “Both government and opposition stood shoulder to shoulder in full support of the amendment.”
The organization emphasized that the steelpan represents more than mere symbolism—it embodies national resilience, cultural identity, and serves as a global industry. Ramsey-Moore stressed that deferring implementation until 2031 undermines cultural progress and diminishes the instrument’s significance to national identity, noting that the decision sends an unfortunate message to citizens who celebrated this long-awaited moment of national pride.
Opposition leaders have condemned the timing and secrecy surrounding the decision. Chief Whip Marvin Gonzales questioned why the government published the legal notice quietly during Christmas preparations, asking pointedly: “Why did the national instrument offend this country’s leadership so deeply?” He described the action as a “blatant attack on a cultural symbol of our national community.”
Former government officials including ex-Prime Minister Keith Rowley and former Energy Minister Stuart Young joined the criticism, with Young accusing the current administration of acting without transparency and demonstrating “extremist hatred and dark revenge” toward cultural symbols. Young connected the emblem delay to a broader pattern of hostility toward pan culture since May 2025, including sponsorship withdrawals from steelbands nationwide.
The controversy extends to financial considerations, with questions raised about potential savings from the deferral and costs associated with updating national currency. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo defended the decision as “a simple matter of common sense,” noting that both emblems have been in use since approval and that the extension merely sets a definite transition deadline. However, the minister did not provide cost estimates for updating currency designs.
The sponsorship aspect gained particular attention following September incidents where state-owned National Gas Company (NGC) terminated support for multiple steelbands, citing contract re-evaluations. Termination letters gave bands just seven days’ notice, fueling perceptions of systematic cultural marginalization.
Former Culture Minister Randall Mitchell summarized the growing concern: “The steelpan and the steelpan movement are under attack by the Kamla Persad-Bissessar government.” Mitchell highlighted the historical significance of replacing Columbus’s ships—symbols of colonial brutality—with the indigenous steelpan, making the delay particularly symbolic.
The government maintains that the phased approach prevents waste by replacing items only as needed, similar to how existing passports remain valid until renewal. Yet critics argue the decision reflects deeper issues regarding cultural prioritization and transparent governance, with the Christmas timing and lack of public consultation intensifying suspicions of political motivation.
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Wendy’s Jamaica maintains Christmas tradition with visit to Wortley Home for Girls
Amid a year marked by significant disruption, Wendy’s Jamaica demonstrated unwavering commitment to its annual Christmas tradition at the Wortley Home for Girls in the Corporate Area. The fast-food chain’s visit carried profound significance this season, arriving just weeks after Hurricane Melissa’s devastating passage through the region.
Despite the altered holiday season experienced by communities across Jamaica, the Wendy’s team prioritized maintaining their long-standing tradition. The company’s representatives spent meaningful time engaging with residents through heartfelt conversations, shared laughter, and collaborative activities, creating an atmosphere of genuine connection and care during the festive period.
Tina Matalon, Marketing Director of Restaurants of Jamaica, emphasized the importance of preserving this tradition despite the year’s challenges. “Maintaining this visit on our calendar was essential,” Matalon stated. “The Wortley Home represents an integral part of our Christmas tradition, and we wanted the girls to experience the consistent care and familiarity that defines this annual event.”
The visit unfolded organically without rigid programming, allowing the girls to enjoy meals, gifts, and companionship at a relaxed pace. Clerine Smith, Administrator at the Wortley Home for Girls, highlighted the profound impact of these interactions, noting that the value extends far beyond material donations. “The time spent genuinely engaging with the girls—listening, talking, and sharing laughter—creates lasting positive effects that remain with them long after the visit concludes,” Smith explained.
The Wortley Home for Girls has historically provided crucial support for young girls in need, and Wendy’s Jamaica’s consistent Christmas visitation has become an anticipated component of the home’s holiday season, offering normalcy and joy during challenging times.
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Beyond the Classroom: Community clean-up project brings hope and healing to Logwood, Black River
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, the community of Logwood in St. Elizabeth witnessed an extraordinary display of unity as residents joined corporate volunteers for a comprehensive clean-up initiative. The collaborative project, branded as “Beyond the Classroom – Adopting a Community,” was orchestrated by the YeCats Mobile Classroom organization alongside Matthews and Clarke Limited, with additional support from A One Equipment and Rentals, Juici Patties, and Impact Multimedia.
The hurricane’s aftermath had left dangerous debris scattered throughout public spaces, creating hazardous conditions that demanded immediate attention. Volunteers from various organizations worked shoulder-to-shoulder with local residents, including children, to systematically clear the accumulated waste. The effort transcended mere physical cleaning, evolving into a powerful demonstration of community solidarity.
Corporate leadership played a remarkably hands-on role in the operation. Jeff Larmound, CEO of A One Equipment and Rentals, personally operated garbage trucks to transport waste to disposal sites. “This isn’t merely about equipment—it’s about people,” Larmound emphasized. “When communities undertake rebuilding, leadership must physically show up, not just delegate support.”
Similarly, representatives from Matthews and Clarke Limited participated directly in the labor-intensive work. Company members joined the heavy-lifting teams while other volunteers—described affectionately as the “dainty girls”—demonstrated exceptional determination in raking, shoveling, and packaging debris. One volunteer observed, “Working alongside residents and children reinforced that Jamaica’s reconstruction begins with fundamental acts of service.”
According to Sandie Saunders, Marketing Manager at Matthews and Clarke Limited, the initiative reflects the company’s profound commitment to holistic community development. “‘Beyond the Classroom’ embodies our corporate identity. Education, environmental stewardship, and empowerment are interconnected, and we take pride in supporting YeCats and the Logwood community,” Saunders stated.
The clean-up effort generated profound emotional resonance within the community. Charmine, a local resident, expressed, “This transcended mere cleaning. It demonstrated that we haven’t been forgotten.” Children participating in the effort shared similar sentiments, with one student joyfully noting, “I’m happy to help clean my community. It looks much nicer now.”
The initiative reached its emotional peak when Matthews and Clarke Limited presented volunteer teacher Natasha Headley with a commitment letter pledging $5 million for roof repairs to her hurricane-damaged home. Headley, among the first volunteers supporting the YeCats Mobile Classroom, expressed overwhelmed gratitude: “I never anticipated that while serving others, assistance would return to me. This signifies everything—not just for me, but for my family and community.”
The project concluded with an appreciation celebration for 35 registered students and four volunteers, hosted by a Matthews and Clarke contractor alongside Wake Up Jamaica and the Essena Family. The event featured food, music, and gifts, transforming the community center into a vibrant space of joy and recognition. Special “Purr-fect Attendance” awards were presented to Kaira (5) from the Kittens Classroom and Leo-Jordan (10) from the Lions Classroom, highlighting the program’s emphasis on consistency and commitment.
Stacey Robinson, Founder and Literacy Coach of YeCats, articulated the philosophical foundation underlying the initiative: “Education cannot exist in isolation. It must be lived, not merely taught. ‘Beyond the Classroom’ enables children to comprehend teamwork, responsibility, and community pride. Our message is straightforward: It’s not just READING…It’s LIFE.”
The clean-up project constitutes an integral component of the broader YeCats Mobile Classroom Initiative, delivering literacy, numeracy, and life skills education to communities affected by Hurricane Melissa. Each location benefits from structured community restoration efforts, reinforcing YeCats’ conviction that authentic learning must extend beyond conventional textbooks.
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No licenced firearms allowed at Junkanoo
Bahamian authorities are implementing extraordinary security measures for Friday’s Boxing Day Junkanoo Parade, including a groundbreaking prohibition on licensed firearm carriers bringing handguns into downtown areas. This marks the first time in history that the Royal Bahamas Police Force has explicitly banned legally permitted firearms from the cultural festivities.
Assistant Commissioner Earl Thompson announced the stringent protocols during a press briefing at Police Headquarters, revealing that designated zones surrounding Bay Street will be treated as “security restricted areas” to enhance operational efficiency and minimize violence risks. The comprehensive security strategy includes multi-layered screening checkpoints, specialized unit deployments, and coordinated patrols involving both uniformed and plainclothes officers working alongside private security personnel throughout the night.
Notably, even off-duty police officers will be subject to the firearm restrictions, with no provisions made for weapon storage at checkpoints. The only exemption applies to active law enforcement personnel performing official duties. Senior Assistant Commissioner Roberto Goodman confirmed joint operations between the Royal Bahamas Police Force and Royal Bahamas Defence Force to secure both the Boxing Day and New Year’s Day celebrations.
Additional preventive measures include mandatory weapon scanning for all attendees, restrictions on selling alcoholic beverages in bottles or cans, and recommendations for merchants to serve drinks exclusively in cups. Authorities have also issued parking advisories, urging spectators to utilize designated parking areas while avoiding vulnerable locations and removing valuables from vehicles.
Road closures affecting multiple downtown arteries are already in effect, including sections of Shirley Street, Navy Lyon Road, Bay Street, Parliament Street, and Prince George Wharf, with surrounding areas also subject to transportation restrictions as parade preparations intensify.
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WATCH: Citizens commend St Elizabeth police
ST ELIZABETH, Jamaica — The St Elizabeth Police Division, under the leadership of Superintendent Coleridge Minto, has received widespread commendation from community members for its exceptional outreach initiatives and enhanced security measures during the festive season. This praise emerged during a public walkthrough in Santa Cruz where citizens spontaneously approached the police chief to express their appreciation.
The annual ‘Shop with a Cop’ program, designed to foster positive police-community relations, was particularly highlighted as a successful initiative that brought Christmas cheer to approximately 200 local children. Karen Jack, an educator at Pepper Primary, remarked, ‘Seeing Mr. Minto actively working alongside citizens brings us genuine happiness. His reputation as a dedicated officer precedes him wherever he goes.’
Reverend Arthur Grant echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the transformed community perception of law enforcement: ‘Since the hurricane, we’ve consistently felt the police presence and their compassionate approach. We’re truly grateful for the service being provided.’
In response to security concerns, Superintendent Minto outlined strategic deployments focusing on the commercial hubs of Santa Cruz and Junction. ‘Our officers will maintain continuous presence throughout the festive season to ensure safe shopping environments,’ Minto stated. ‘Due to Hurricane Melissa’s impact on Black River, we anticipate increased pedestrian traffic from western parish residents in these commercial districts.’
The security strategy includes a substantial contingent of officers specifically assigned to Santa Cruz to maintain law and order. Local councillors Karl Whyte (Pedro Plains) and Christopher Williams (Santa Cruz division) jointly endorsed the police division’s community engagement efforts and security preparations.
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Munro-Knight calls for unity, community values amid concerns over violence this Christmas
Amid growing concerns over social fragmentation and escalating youth violence, Barbadian Minister Senator Dr. Shantal Munro-Knight has issued a heartfelt plea for citizens to embrace traditional values of communal harmony during the holiday season. Serving as Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office with responsibility for Culture, Munro-Knight emphasized that the nation stands at a pivotal juncture requiring collective introspection and renewed commitment to interpersonal bonds.
In an official statement released ahead of Christmas and New Year celebrations, the minister highlighted Barbados’ ongoing social transition, particularly noting disturbing trends of violence among young people. She articulated that policy measures alone would prove insufficient in addressing these challenges, stressing instead the fundamental importance of everyday relationships, intergenerational respect, and shared community responsibility.
Munro-Knight nostalgically recalled the traditional Barbadian ethos where love and mutual care defined community interactions. “I genuinely hope we can rediscover the Barbados where we cherish one another and recognize the inherent value of community,” she stated. The minister specifically pointed to the vital role of elders, aunties, and extended family networks in providing guidance and stability for younger generations.
Her message arrives as Barbados continues to redefine its national identity following its transition to a Republic, making social cohesion an increasingly urgent priority. Munro-Knight framed the holiday period as an ideal opportunity for citizens to pause, reconnect with neighbors, and actively participate in strengthening community frameworks. She concluded that meaningful, sustainable change would require unified national effort rather than governmental intervention alone, calling for peace, love, and unity to become renewed societal cornerstones.