Members of Jamaica’s Infrastructure and Physical Development Committee expressed deep skepticism on Wednesday over the National Water Commission’s (NWC) optimistic recovery figures following Hurricane Melissa. Despite NWC’s claim that 75% of its systems had been restored islandwide, MPs highlighted the stark disparity between these numbers and the ongoing water shortages in severely affected western parishes. Acting NWC Vice President of Operations, Dr. Phillipa Campbell-Francis, explained the complexity of the recovery process, citing 1,000 water systems dependent on electricity, many of which remain damaged or inoperable. However, MPs like James Robertson of St Thomas Western and Heroy Clarke of St James Central argued that the NWC’s data failed to reflect the dire reality on the ground, where communities still lacked piped water weeks after the storm. Clarke criticized the inefficiency of water trucking operations, noting that logistical delays left many areas underserved. MPs also questioned the methodology behind the NWC’s figures, with Richard Azan of Clarendon North Western quipping that the numbers seemed “drone-generated.” NWC officials acknowledged challenges, including power outages, siltation, and pipeline leaks, but assured that efforts were underway to restore full service. Despite support from Global Support and Development, which provided emergency water supplies, parishes like Westmoreland and St Elizabeth remain far from full recovery. The committee urged the NWC to provide clearer data and realistic timelines to address the crisis effectively.
分类： society
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Heavy traffic in Linstead following alleged shootout
ST CATHERINE, Jamaica — A violent confrontation between law enforcement and alleged gunmen has resulted in significant traffic disruptions in Linstead. The incident, which unfolded overnight on the Linstead Bypass, led to the deaths of four individuals. Witnesses reported that vehicles were immobilized near the Rosemount roundabout, causing gridlock in the area. Authorities have cordoned off a section of the road to facilitate an investigation by the Independent Commission of Investigation. The scene was marked by numerous yellow police indicators, typically used to identify spent shell casings, while one of the vehicles involved bore multiple bullet holes. Preliminary reports suggest that the deceased were suspects in a prior shooting in Guys Hill, which claimed one life and left another injured. The community remains on edge as investigations continue.
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‘Restraint will be tested’
The Bahamas Department of Correctional Services is grappling with an unprecedented emotional challenge as its officers are now tasked with guarding the man accused of murdering their colleague, Ashantino Johnson. Commissioner of Corrections Doan Cleare acknowledged the difficulty of the situation during a heartfelt healing session for Johnson’s co-workers. The session, filled with tears and hymns, underscored the deep bond among the officers, particularly Johnson’s 2024 squadmates, who are described as one of the most cohesive groups in the department’s history. Johnson, a 23-year-old officer from Lower Bogue, Eleuthera, was fatally stabbed in a violent altercation at Blu Ice Restaurant & Bar on November 5, just months after graduating from the department’s training program. Two other officers were injured in the incident but are recovering well. Commissioner Cleare emphasized the department’s mandate to rehabilitate even the most challenging individuals, urging officers to exercise restraint and professionalism despite the emotional toll. The government has also directed the department to enhance training for new recruits to better prepare them for the dangers of the job. Johnson’s family and colleagues remember him as a dedicated and joyful individual who was proud to serve his country.
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WATCH: Fury over frogs in tank
In a heated monthly meeting of the St Ann Municipal Corporation, Councillor Ian Bell of the People’s National Party (PNP) for the Beecher Town Division took a firm stance, refusing to proceed with the agenda until he received a satisfactory update on the refurbishment of a contaminated water tank in Epworth. The tank, the sole water source for the community, has been tainted with frog remains, a critical issue Bell raised during the previous month’s meeting. Despite assurances that the superintendent had been instructed to address the problem, Bell expressed frustration over the lack of progress, stating, ‘Today, nothing has been done at that tank.’
Mayor Michael Belnavis of St Ann’s Bay attempted to calm the situation, but Bell’s concerns were only partially addressed when Saad Williams, the corporation’s chief engineering officer, provided an update. Williams revealed that a second assessment of the tank had determined the allocated budget was insufficient for temporary repairs. A revised estimate is now being prepared, and the project awaits additional funding before any action can be taken. The delay has left the Epworth community without access to clean water, highlighting ongoing challenges in local infrastructure management.
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Princes Town man dead, woman injured in crash
A tragic accident on the Solomon Hochoy Highway has resulted in the death of one individual and left another severely injured. The incident occurred in the early hours of November 13, when a white Nissan Versa veered off the road and landed in a ditch near Indian Trail. The deceased, identified as 34-year-old Paul Nanan from Princes Town, was a front-seat passenger in the vehicle. The driver, a woman from Guanapo Estate in Rio Claro, reported losing control of the car while heading south shortly before 5 am. Both occupants sustained serious injuries and were rushed to Couva Hospital by Emergency Health Services (EHS) personnel. Despite medical efforts, Nanan succumbed to his injuries during treatment. The Highway Patrol Unit, including PCs Boodoo and Bridgemohan, were among the first responders, arriving approximately ten minutes after the crash. Additional support came from the Couva Fire Station and Couva Police Station. Cpl Boodlal is leading the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident.
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Mitchell slams fete ban at cricket academy, Hasely Crawford stadium
Former Minister of Tourism, Culture, and the Arts, Randall Mitchell, has voiced strong opposition to the Urban Development Corporation’s (Udecott) decision to prohibit fetes and cultural events at facilities under its management, including the Brian Lara Cricket Academy and Hasely Crawford Stadium. Mitchell emphasized that Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural expression should not be dismissed as mere ‘noise,’ a term he believes undermines the nation’s rich cultural heritage. He argued that the cultural economy, driven by creatives and event organizers, plays a vital role in the country’s economic and social fabric. While acknowledging the issue of noise pollution, Mitchell asserted that outright bans are not the solution. Instead, he called for a balanced approach, leveraging existing frameworks like the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) and noise pollution regulations to address concerns without stifling cultural activities. Mitchell highlighted the economic impact of events, which employ hundreds of individuals, from sound engineers to artists, and contribute significantly to tourism and creativity. He urged for stricter enforcement of decibel limits and event hours rather than blanket prohibitions. Mitchell also expressed hope that Prime Minister’s policies would support the cultural economy equitably, without favoring one demographic over another.
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Fourteen young Bahamians graduate the government’s 2025 National Lifeguard Certification Programme
In a landmark achievement for water safety and youth employment, fourteen young Bahamians have successfully completed the 2025 National Lifeguard Certification Programme, becoming fully certified lifeguards. This pioneering initiative, the first of its kind in the country, was designed to enhance water safety while creating sustainable career opportunities for Bahamian youth. The certification ceremony, themed “The First Wave: Building a Safer Bahamas,” was hosted by the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture at Pelican Bay Resort’s Delphine Room. Launched in 2024 through a collaboration between the Ministry, the YMCA Family Centre, and Bahamas Swim and Scuba, the programme equips participants with life-saving skills and Caribbean-standard aquatic training. Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Mario Bowleg emphasized the government’s commitment to investing in programmes that foster confidence, discipline, and opportunities for Bahamians of all ages. He highlighted the transformative power of sports and education in empowering and uplifting lives. Karon Pinder-Johnson, Executive Director of the YMCA Family Centre, lauded the initiative as a model of national collaboration, describing it as a strategic investment in human capacity, youth empowerment, and life preservation. All graduates have secured employment in the lifeguard field, fulfilling the programme’s objective of creating direct career pathways. The ceremony also recognized exceptional participants with awards such as the Rising Star Trainee Award, Most Improved Lifeguard Award, and Leadership & Training Award. Officials announced that this initiative is the first step in a broader effort to expand lifeguard training and strengthen national water safety standards across The Bahamas.
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Work continues on site for roadside garage relocation
The Bahamian government has initiated infrastructure work at the Gladstone Road site, designated for relocating New Providence’s problematic roadside garages. Zane Lightbourne, the newly appointed Minister of Environment and Natural Resources, announced the development, emphasizing the urgency of resolving this decades-long issue. ‘Infrastructure work must be completed before the property can be utilized,’ he stated, noting collaboration with the Ministers of Works and Urban Renewal and Housing. The initiative aims to address public grievances over garages operating in residential areas and along major roads, where mechanics have conducted repairs, bodywork, and car stripping on sidewalks and verges. Several fires at these sites have further fueled calls for government intervention. Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis has acknowledged the complexity of the issue, warning that without a designated space, the problem could persist elsewhere. An inter-ministerial committee, formed by the Prime Minister, has been consulting with garage owners to design a relocation plan. Funding for the project was included in the current national budget. The late Minister Vaughn Miller, who championed the initiative before his passing in September, had secured agreements from major garages on Joe Farrington Road, Soldier Road, and Augusta Street to relocate to Gladstone Road. Mr. Lightbourne, who succeeded Mr. Miller, expressed determination to resolve the issue and paid tribute to his predecessor’s mentorship and dedication. He also outlined broader priorities, including improving waste collection, expanding recycling, beautifying New Providence, and promoting environmental education.
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Dangerous holes form along highway walkovers
Two pedestrian walkovers along the Churchill Roosevelt Highway have deteriorated significantly, with gaping holes now exposing the speeding traffic below. This alarming situation has raised concerns among daily commuters and pedestrians who rely on these structures. A Newsday team inspected the walkovers on November 12 after receiving reports from concerned citizens. The first damaged structure, located near Xtra Foods in San Juan, revealed a large hole in its concrete floor, allowing a clear view of the highway beneath. Just meters away, another walkover in the same direction toward Port of Spain showed similar deterioration, with exposed steel reinforcement rods visible through the broken concrete. Further along the highway, near Courts Megastore, another pedestrian overpass appeared to be in better condition, with no visible cracks or damage. Works and Infrastructure Minister Jearlean John confirmed via WhatsApp that the matter has been forwarded to the ministry’s Chief Technical Officer for review. A subsequent email from the ministry’s communications division stated that the structures had been previously inspected and were scheduled for repair under the current fiscal year. The ministry emphasized that the repair works would be handled mainly with internal resources and assured the public that the structures remain safe for use, despite the visible damage. However, pedestrians and commuters were urged to exercise caution until the repairs are completed. The ministry did not provide an estimated cost for the repair works or details on a broader maintenance initiative to address walkover safety nationwide by the time of reporting.
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Sales clerk caught with expired food handler’s permit
In a recent enforcement operation in Four Paths, Clarendon, Jamaica, a 27-year-old sales clerk, Deandrea Dyer, was arrested and charged for selling baked goods with an expired food handler’s permit. The incident occurred on Wednesday when law enforcement officers visited the shop where Dyer was employed. Upon inspection, Dyer presented the necessary documents, including the facility’s certification and her food handler’s permit, as required by the Public Health Act. However, it was discovered that her permit had expired. Dyer, a resident of Howells Content, York Town, was informed of the violation and subsequently charged. She is scheduled to appear in the May Pen Court on January 15, 2025, to face the charges.