As the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) election approaches, Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander and Minister in the Ministry of Public Utilities Clyde Elder addressed critical Tobago-related matters in the Senate on November 14. The session also marked the appointment of former THA minority leader Ashworth Jack as a temporary government senator. Jack, who previously led the defunct Tobago Organisation of the People (TOP), played a significant role in the UNC-led People’s Partnership coalition government from 2010 to 2015. Responding to Opposition Senator Melanie Roberts-Radgman’s inquiry about fatal shootings in Tobago earlier this year, Alexander emphasized the importance of timely and transparent investigations, leveraging forensic tools, public communication, and investigator training. He also highlighted the role of body-worn cameras in aiding investigations into alleged police shootings. Additionally, Alexander noted the involvement of the Police Complaints Authority (PCA), use of force policies, and reviews by the National Security Council (NSC), chaired by the Prime Minister. Elder addressed concerns about low water supplies in Tobago during September and October, attributing the issue to funding shortages and neglect under the previous PNM administration. He assured that the current government would resolve the problem. The THA, dissolved on November 12, is set for elections between January 12 and February 12. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar promised Tobago would benefit from several initiatives before the assembly’s dissolution. Notably, while there is no formal coalition between the UNC and the Tobago People’s Party (TPP), the latter’s two MPs sit alongside government MPs in the House of Representatives. Before its dissolution, the TPP held 13 of the 15 THA seats, with the remaining two held by the PNM and Progressive Democratic Patriots (PDP). TPP leader and THA Chief Secretary Farley Augustine was previously a PDP member.
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19-year-old turns lunch money into boutique business
At just 19 years old, Dashia Moxey has already carved out a remarkable path as a multifaceted entrepreneur, balancing her growing clothing boutique, multiple side businesses, and law studies. Her journey began in high school, where she saved her lunch money to fund her first venture—a skincare line. This initial step laid the foundation for her entrepreneurial spirit, which later expanded to include locs hairstyling, candied fruit sales, and eventually the opening of Astra Boutique in February 2024, just months after graduating from Temple Christian High School.
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OPM rejects Pintard’s claim of passports found on Bahamasair flight
The Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) of The Bahamas has vehemently denied claims made by Free National Movement (FNM) Leader Michael Pintard regarding an alleged incident involving unaccompanied Bahamian passports on a Bahamasair flight. Pintard, during a political rally in Golden Isles, asserted that a package of passports was discovered on a flight “heading south,” prompting an investigation and resulting in dismissals. He questioned the silence of senior government officials and hinted at potential misconduct within the passport office. Pintard challenged the Prime Minister to address the issue directly, accusing the government of withholding information. In response, the OPM issued a statement categorically refuting Pintard’s allegations, labeling them as false and baseless. The statement emphasized that no such incident occurred, no investigation was conducted, and no staff were dismissed. The OPM accused Pintard of spreading misinformation for political gain, urging him to retract his statements and apologize to the relevant authorities. The government’s rebuttal underscores the escalating political tensions in The Bahamas, with both sides engaging in a war of words over the credibility of the claims.
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HerRelief to provide sustainable healthcare, supplies to Hurricane Melissa victims
In the wake of the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa, HerRelief Jamaica has announced a robust initiative to deliver urgent medical care to the most affected parishes. Founded by pharmaceutical executive and philanthropist Theresa White, in collaboration with Dr. Kerone Thomas, the organization is mobilizing a team of Jamaican-born female medical professionals to address the pressing healthcare needs of devastated communities. The initiative aims to provide coordinated, compassionate, and sustained medical support, reflecting the founders’ commitment to leveraging their expertise and resources for national recovery. The team, based across the United States, will commence operations on November 21, with Westmoreland being the first stop to assess and plan for residents’ needs. Beyond healthcare, HerRelief Jamaica will also distribute essential supplies such as water tanks, Starlink internet, and generators to parishes including Trelawny and St James. The organization will collaborate with established partners to ensure the efficient collection and shipment of critical relief supplies. Theresa White emphasized the dual focus of the initiative: providing immediate crisis-level medical care and establishing a long-term support framework for underserved and displaced individuals. HerRelief Jamaica will offer a wide array of services, including primary and acute medical care, mental health support, dental services, medication distribution, emergency interventions, and care for chronic illnesses and displaced patients. Through ongoing missions, the organization aims to restore access to essential healthcare services, strengthen community health, and rebuild medical capacity in the affected areas.
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Traffic pile-up on Kendal main road after crash
MANCHESTER, Jamaica — A significant traffic disruption has gripped the Kendal main road in Manchester following a collision between two heavy-duty vehicles on Friday. The accident took place near a sharp curve on the road, involving a truck and a trailer that was carrying a tractor at the time of the crash. The Kendal Road, known for its winding path, is currently serving as an alternative route due to the inaccessibility of the Content main road. The Content road has been submerged by groundwater that surged after the impact of Category Five Hurricane Melissa, exacerbating the transportation challenges in the area. Authorities are urging motorists to exercise caution and seek alternate routes to avoid further congestion.
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Al-Rawi, Alexander debate virtual hearings in police stations
A heated debate unfolded in the Senate on November 14 between Opposition Senator Faris Al-Rawi and Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander regarding the future of virtual court hearings in police stations. The discussion was sparked by Alexander’s claim that the media had misrepresented his comments on the matter following the April 28 general election. Alexander revealed that 13 out of 77 police stations, including San Fernando, Arima, Besson Street, Tunapuna, Chaguanas, and Scarborough, are currently utilized for virtual hearings. He emphasized that a comprehensive review is underway to assess the situation and determine a balanced way forward. Al-Rawi questioned Alexander about his alleged remarks on canceling virtual hearings at police stations, to which Alexander responded that the senator had misunderstood his statements. He clarified that his concern was about courts occupying police station spaces, which hindered police operations such as investigations and identification parades. Al-Rawi pressed Alexander on whether he was misquoted by the media, and Alexander reiterated that he had already addressed the issue. Leader of Government Business Darrell Allahar dismissed Al-Rawi’s call for Alexander to retract his statement, supported by Senate President Wade Mark. Alexander also noted that virtual hearings at police stations cover a wide range of offenses, from assault to murder.
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Ministers: People’s peace of mind trumps fetes
In a recent statement, Trinidad and Tobago’s government officials emphasized the importance of addressing noise pollution while promoting cultural events. Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander, Planning, Economic Affairs and Development Minister Kennedy Swaratsingh, and Housing Ministry Minister Phillip Alexander collectively stressed that cultural sustainability must not infringe on citizens’ constitutional rights. The ministers shared their views en route to the Senate’s Friday session at the Red House. Alexander, drawing from his experience as a police officer, highlighted the persistent issue of noise pollution, particularly from events that prioritize profit over community well-being. He underscored the government’s commitment to improving citizens’ quality of life through noise pollution legislation. The minister urged event promoters to consider the impact of their activities, especially during nighttime when residents seek tranquility. Earlier in the week, Prime Minister Keith Rowley imposed a ban on fetes at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy and other Udecott-managed venues, sparking backlash from promoters who argued it would stifle the event industry. Alexander defended the decision, stating that promoters often overlook the inconvenience caused to nearby residents. He emphasized the need for immediate action when noise disrupts vulnerable individuals, such as those recovering from illness. Swaratsingh called for a balanced approach, ensuring that events coexist harmoniously with residents’ right to peace. While some promoters have acknowledged the need for compromise, Alexander remains optimistic that the policy will not dampen the upcoming Carnival season, predicting it could be the largest in recent history.
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Scotiabank has new Caribbean head
Scotiabank has announced the appointment of Jabar Singh as the new Country Head for the Dominican Republic and the Caribbean, effective January 1. Singh, a seasoned leader with over two decades of experience, has held various senior roles within the bank since joining in 2009. His career spans corporate and investment banking, commercial banking, and wholesale banking across Canada, the Dominican Republic, Chile, and Colombia. Notably, as President and CEO of Scotiabank Colpatria, Singh played a pivotal role in driving growth, transformation, and client engagement excellence. Recognized for his customer-centric leadership and inclusive culture-building, Singh has a proven track record in executing complex mergers and acquisitions, expanding market share, and strengthening governance. In his new role, Singh will oversee operations in the Dominican Republic and the broader Caribbean region, including The Bahamas, Barbados, Cayman, Guyana, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and Turks and Caicos. Additionally, he will manage Scotiabank’s equity interests and strategic partnerships with Davivienda in Colombia and Central America, and with Maduro & Curiel (MCB) in the Dutch Caribbean. Francisco Aristeguieta, Group Head of International and Global Transaction Banking, praised Singh’s leadership and strategic vision, emphasizing his commitment to community engagement and business performance. Singh expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, highlighting his focus on driving sustainable growth and building on the bank’s strong foundation. Scotiabank, with assets of approximately $1.4 trillion, is one of the largest banks in North America and has been a key player in the Caribbean since 1889, serving over 1.7 million customers with a robust infrastructure of 970 ATMs, 140 branches, and 7,000 employees.
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MoBay christmas tree-lighting ceremony to be scaled down
Montego Bay, Jamaica, will host a more subdued Christmas tree-lighting ceremony this year as the city continues its recovery from the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa. Mayor Richard Vernon announced the decision during the monthly meeting of the St James Municipal Corporation on Thursday. While the traditional event will proceed, it will be significantly scaled back, reflecting the parish’s focus on rebuilding and supporting affected communities.
Mayor Vernon emphasized that the usual festive concert will not take place this year. Instead, the ceremony will feature a solemn lighting and prayer vigil at Sam Sharpe Square. The event will also serve as a moment to honor those impacted by the hurricane and to celebrate the resilience of the community.
The mayor highlighted the municipality’s ongoing recovery initiatives, including the activation of a multi-agency task force dedicated to assisting vulnerable groups such as senior citizens, persons with disabilities, the homeless, and those in shelters. He noted that targeted support, outreach, and aid distribution are being prioritized to ensure no one is left behind.
Additionally, Mayor Vernon outlined operational efforts, such as night clean-up operations supported by the Jamaica Defence Force and the St James Municipal Corporation. He praised the resilience of Montego Bay’s residents, stating, ‘Hurricane Melissa has tested our resolve, but Montego Bay is not broken. Our municipality is battered, but still beautiful.’
Concluding his remarks, the mayor called for unity and determination, urging the community to transform the devastation into a collective effort to build a stronger, safer, and more united city. ‘Let this season of light begin with remembrance, power, and action,’ he said.
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Fitz-Henley, Crawford, Dalrymple-Philibert deliver thousands of relief supplies to Trelawny
In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s destructive path through Trelawny, Jamaica, state ministers Abka Fitz-Henley, Rhoda Crawford, and Marisa Dalrymple-Philibert took decisive action on Friday. They distributed thousands of care packages and housing relief supplies to the hardest-hit areas of the parish. The ministers visited Woodgrove in Trelawny South, where they engaged with the community and assessed the extent of the damage. Fitz-Henley emphasized that while Westmoreland, St. Elizabeth, and St. James have been the focus of national attention, Trelawny is equally in dire need of assistance. He highlighted the Prime Minister’s directive to ensure that no area is left without support. Crawford expressed her determination to contribute to the rebuilding efforts, stressing the importance of a collective approach to overcome the challenges posed by the hurricane. Both ministers praised Dr. Andrew Wheatley for his personal contribution of additional care packages, underscoring the need for individual efforts to complement government actions. Fitz-Henley reiterated the government’s commitment to providing comfort and aid to those affected by the disaster.