In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s catastrophic impact on western Jamaica, the Chinese business community has spearheaded a massive relief effort, mobilizing over $100 million in emergency supplies. The Category 5 storm, which struck on October 28, left widespread devastation, particularly in the southern regions of St Elizabeth, Westmoreland, and St James. Leading the charge, LCH Developments, in collaboration with its construction partner Brothers Concepts & Solutions Limited, swiftly deployed heavy machinery to clear blocked roads, ensuring critical access for aid distribution.
分类： society
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Redefining justice with prison plan
The Port of Spain Prison has long been labeled as a ‘university of crime,’ but a groundbreaking new initiative seeks to redefine its role in society. The recently unveiled prison plan envisions transforming correctional facilities into campuses for human development, where inmates can access rehabilitative and restorative programs. This transformative approach aims to reduce recidivism, lower prison populations, and foster societal reintegration. Central to this plan is the empowerment of prison officers, who will evolve into professional human development agents, gaining greater respect and job satisfaction in their roles. The initiative emphasizes maintaining family ties, equipping inmates with income-earning skills, and facilitating job placements post-release. Education, school policing, and efforts to curb narco-trafficking are also prioritized to redirect young people away from illegal activities and into legal networks. Drawing inspiration from the Abdullah Report (1980) and the Penal Reform and Prison Transformation Reports in Trinidad and Tobago (2003), this project aspires to redefine justice based on the lived experiences of those most affected by the system. Catherine Ali, in her letter to the editor, highlights the potential for this initiative to create a ripple effect across the Caribbean, the Commonwealth, and globally. Thousands eagerly anticipate the launch of this creative justice project, which could mark a historic first in defining justice from the perspective of the marginalized.
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High certainty that blood found in Maitland apartment was Donaldson’s – expert
In a dramatic turn of events at the Home Circuit Court in Kingston, a seven-member jury was presented with compelling forensic evidence on Tuesday. The court heard that blood samples discovered in Constable Noel Maitland’s Chelsea Manor apartment in St Andrew had a 99.9999% probability of belonging to his missing girlfriend, Donna-Lee Donaldson, a prominent social media influencer. Maitland is currently on trial for murder and obstructing the lawful burial of a corpse, stemming from Donaldson’s disappearance on July 12, 2022. She was last seen at the apartment complex where Maitland resided. A senior forensic science officer, testifying as a key witness, revealed that blood samples were collected from three items within Maitland’s apartment and subjected to DNA analysis. The results overwhelmingly indicated a match with Donaldson’s DNA. The case has drawn significant public attention, with further details expected to be disclosed in the Wednesday Observer.
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NPTA tells parents: Keep child in school until transfer is final
The Trinidad and Tobago National Council of Parent Teacher Associations (NPTA) has called on parents seeking school transfers for their children to adhere to the established procedures, despite the lengthy and bureaucratic nature of the process. NPTA President Walter Stewart expressed empathy for parents frustrated by the system, which has disrupted students’ education. This issue was spotlighted in a recent Newsday article, which detailed the case of a 14-year-old Arima teenager who had been out of school for two years due to transfer delays. The girl had been bullied by classmates in 2023, and her mother withdrew her from school after officials allegedly failed to intervene. Stewart emphasized that such cases are not isolated, citing another instance in September where a parent waited weeks for a transfer response. He urged parents to ensure their children remain in school while awaiting transfers, warning of potential legal consequences if they do not. Stewart advised parents to follow the proper channels, starting with the school supervisor, and escalating the matter to the Ministry of Education if necessary. He attributed delays to the manual processing of applications, which must physically move from district offices to the Ministry in Port of Spain. Stewart expressed hope that the Ministry’s ongoing digitization efforts would expedite the process. Addressing the persistent issue of bullying, Stewart cautioned parents against taking matters into their own hands, as such actions often exacerbate the situation. He recommended addressing concerns with school principals and following the chain of command. While acknowledging that the presence of police officers in schools has had some positive impact, Stewart stressed the need for stricter implementation of national discipline policies and codes of conduct to reduce violence and disorder. Meanwhile, former president of the TT Association of Psychologists, Kelly Mc Farlane, urged parents to remain attentive to their children’s emotional well-being. She highlighted that many bullying victims may conceal their experiences due to fear of parental reactions. Mc Farlane advised parents to listen to their children, validate their feelings, and collaborate with school officials to address bullying effectively. She also emphasized the importance of providing psychological support to both victims and bullies to tackle the root causes of such behavior.
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Fire destroys two buildings in Falmouth
In the early hours of Tuesday morning, a devastating fire of unknown origin engulfed two residential buildings on Cornwall Street in Falmouth, Trelawny. The structures, which also accommodated a daycare center and housed upholstery and technician operations, were completely gutted by the flames. Firefighters demonstrated remarkable bravery in their efforts to control the blaze, successfully preventing it from spreading to adjacent properties. This incident follows closely on the heels of another fire that destroyed a house on Queen Street just days prior. Authorities have launched investigations to determine the causes of both fires, though no definitive conclusions have been reached yet. The community remains on edge as they await answers and assess the damage.
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Former senior officer named in US cocaine indictment challenging RBPF over dismissal
A former senior officer of the Royal Bahamas Police Force (RBPF), Prince Albert Symonette, has been granted permission to challenge his dismissal following a Supreme Court ruling that Commissioner Clayton Fernander may have acted unlawfully. Symonette, who served for over 30 years, was discharged on December 12, 2024, after being implicated in a US federal indictment alleging cocaine trafficking and firearm-related offenses. The indictment accused Bahamian officials of facilitating drug smuggling operations, using The Bahamas as a transit point for cocaine destined for the United States. While former Royal Bahamas Defence Force officer Darrin Alexander Roker has pleaded guilty in the case, it remains unclear whether Symonette faces extradition proceedings. According to court documents, Symonette was summoned to a meeting at police headquarters, where he was stripped of his credentials and handed a discharge certificate dated ten days prior to the meeting. Commissioner Fernander claimed Symonette’s contract was not renewed due to the controversy surrounding the indictment, which had caused negative public perception. However, Justice Bazard ruled that Symonette was denied due process, as no hearing or opportunity to appeal was provided before his dismissal. Citing Regulation 42 of the Police Disciplinary Regulations, Justice Bazard emphasized that the Commissioner was required to follow a statutory procedure, including notifying the Secretary to the Cabinet and allowing the officer to respond before recommending dismissal to the Governor General. The judge referenced the landmark 1964 case Ridge v Baldwin, which established that dismissing an officer without a hearing violates natural justice. Justice Bazard also noted that the discharge certificate was pre-dated, suggesting the decision was made in advance. Government lawyers argued that Symonette should have appealed to the Governor General under Section 21(2) of the Police Act, but the judge found exceptional circumstances justifying judicial review. Symonette, who became pensionable in 2019, seeks declarations that his dismissal was unlawful and unconstitutional, along with compensation for lost salary since December 2024.
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BNU chief accuses Darville of hypocrisy on ministry’s handling of suspended nurses
Muriel Lightbourn, President of the Bahamas Nurses Union, has publicly accused Health and Wellness Minister Dr. Michael Darville of hypocrisy regarding the suspension of public health nurses. Since assuming office in 2023, Lightbourn revealed that over 30 nurses have been suspended, with some cases occurring as recently as three weeks ago. Although three nurses have since returned to work, Lightbourn criticized the Public Hospitals Authority (PHA) for what she described as excessive disciplinary measures. She specifically questioned Dr. Darville’s sincerity after he expressed concern over the suspension of veteran nurse Pearl Williams, calling his remarks ‘disingenuous’ given his silence in other cases. Lightbourn highlighted the flawed disciplinary system within the PHA and called for reforms to ensure fairness and efficiency. She emphasized the union’s intention to revisit its industrial agreement to address these issues and prevent future occurrences. The controversy stems from the suspension of Williams, a 44-year veteran, who was disciplined for recording a video exposing poor conditions at Princess Margaret Hospital, including leaking roofs, rodent infestations, and supply shortages. The PHA accused her of violating its social media policy and imposed strict restrictions, including surrendering her identification badge and limiting her hospital access. Lightbourn argued that such punishments are overly harsh and strain already limited hospital resources. She also criticized the prolonged investigation process, suggesting that warnings or relocations would be more appropriate than suspensions. Dr. Darville defended his ministry, stating that he is not directly involved in all human resources matters and that suspensions are necessary for policy violations. Lightbourn further called for greater transparency in disciplinary proceedings, noting that nurses are often left uninformed about investigation outcomes. She defended her leadership style, emphasizing that her preference for private negotiations should not be mistaken for inaction. Meanwhile, Williams expressed hope that her case would prompt authorities to address the systemic issues she raised, though she has no plans to pursue legal action.
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THA supports motion to improve men’s mental health in Tobago
In a historic and unanimous decision on November 10, the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) endorsed a private motion aimed at improving the mental health and overall well-being of men and boys on the island. The motion, introduced by stand-in Minority Leader Keigon Denoon, was deliberated during the THA’s inaugural International Men’s Day Debate held in Scarborough. This landmark event, commemorating International Men’s Day on November 19, featured young boys and men assuming the roles of assemblymen and councillors in a dynamic and insightful three-and-a-half-hour session, presided over by Akeil Andrews. The motion advocates for the creation of sustainable, multi-sectoral programs to tackle critical issues such as mental health, positive male identity, and the development of healthy coping mechanisms. It also emphasizes the need for collaboration between governmental and non-governmental organizations to strengthen Tobago’s social fabric. Denoon passionately urged members to prioritize the welfare of men and boys over political affiliations, warning of the dire consequences of inaction. He highlighted the systemic neglect of men, calling for gender-specific interventions, including district-based mental health clinics, community mentorship programs, and annual scorecards to track progress. Stand-in THA Chief Secretary Akinlabi Holder supported the motion, stressing the importance of public education campaigns to dismantle harmful societal conditioning and improve men’s mental health. Holder underscored the societal benefits of raising healthy boys rather than repairing broken men, citing international studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of such initiatives.
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Police constable killed in Moneague crash
The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) High Command is grieving the untimely death of Constable Christopher Condappa, who tragically lost his life in a motor vehicle collision on Monday afternoon. The incident occurred on Anglican Street in Moneague, St Ann, at approximately 2:30 pm. Constable Condappa, a 34-year-old member of the Moneague Traffic Department, was riding his service motorcycle when a Suzuki Swift, traveling in the opposite direction, collided with his vehicle. He sustained severe injuries and was rushed to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The JCF High Command has expressed profound sorrow and extended heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues, emphasizing the deep impact of this loss on the constabulary. In response to the tragedy, the JCF’s Chaplaincy Unit, Medical Services Branch, and Welfare Department are actively providing support to Constable Condappa’s loved ones and his team at the Moneague Traffic Department during this difficult time.
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‘Unbearable’ three years for family of missing woman
It has been three harrowing years since Rochellda “Dadah” Woodside vanished without a trace while walking home in August 2022. Her family, enduring an unbearable void, continues to seek answers, praying for her safe return or at least the chance to lay her to rest with dignity. Victoria Ferguson, Rochellda’s 35-year-old sister, describes the ordeal as an unhealed wound that has left their family shattered. “We hope she’s alive, but if not, we just want to give her a proper burial,” Ferguson shared with The Tribune. Rochellda was last seen on August 11, 2022, walking along Lincoln Boulevard toward Washington Street, where she resided. Witnesses reported seeing her enter a car with an individual who offered her a ride—a person Ferguson believes was not a stranger and may hold the key to her disappearance. The family’s frustration has grown over what they perceive as a lack of urgency from the Royal Bahamas Police Force. Despite multiple searches and tips, including combing empty lots and abandoned buildings, no trace of Rochellda has been found. Ferguson recalls her sister as educated, kind, and street-smart, someone who would not have accepted a ride from an untrusted individual. The family suspects jealousy or a personal dispute involving a friend or ex-boyfriend as possible motives. This tragedy is not the family’s first; in 2017, Rochellda’s brother was killed, leaving behind two children who still ask about their missing aunt. Ferguson, who returned to New Providence from the United States after her sister’s disappearance, remembers Rochellda’s aspirations—opening a clothing store, a car rental company, and returning to school. Each year, on the anniversary of her disappearance, Ferguson revisits her sister’s belongings and memories, keeping her spirit alive. Despite the silence and lack of progress, the family vows to continue their search, holding onto faith and the hope for eventual closure.