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KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican government has introduced a landmark initiative to formalize and expand the nation’s cultural and creative industries, garnering bipartisan approval. The Green Paper on the National Policy for Culture, Entertainment, and the Creative Economy 2025–2035 was presented in Parliament on Tuesday by Culture Minister Olivia “Babsy” Grange. This comprehensive 10-year strategy aims to bolster a sector that already contributes over five percent of Jamaica’s GDP and nearly three percent of national employment. The policy outlines plans to establish new institutions, enhance intellectual property protections, and develop sustainable funding mechanisms to support artists, entertainers, and cultural practitioners. Minister Grange emphasized that the policy is a transformative framework designed to preserve Jamaica’s rich cultural heritage while unlocking the full potential of its creative sectors. She highlighted that the document was crafted after extensive consultations with cultural experts and industry stakeholders, aiming to place people and culture at the core of economic and social development. Opposition Spokesperson Nekeisha Burchell praised the initiative as a timely and necessary step, though she stressed the importance of including voices from smaller communities and traditional practitioners in the consultation process. Opposition Leader Mark Golding also commended the policy but called for a clear implementation blueprint, including timelines and governance structures. Meanwhile, MP Damion Crawford raised practical concerns, such as the low uptake of the entertainment registry and the need for stronger protections against the international exploitation of Jamaican cultural expressions. The policy has been widely welcomed as a critical step toward fostering national pride, social cohesion, and economic growth through Jamaica’s vibrant creative industries.

In a landmark decision, the European Parliament has voted to prohibit the use of meat-related terminology such as ‘burger’ and ‘steak’ for marketing plant-based food products. The vote, held during a plenary session in Strasbourg, France, saw 355 lawmakers in favor and 247 against the proposal. The measure, championed by French right-wing lawmaker Celine Imart, aims to address concerns over consumer clarity and protect the interests of the livestock farming sector. Imart emphasized that while alternative proteins should remain accessible, labeling plant-based products with meat-related terms is misleading. The proposal, which must still be negotiated with the EU’s 27 member states, has sparked debate. Critics, including the Greens and left-leaning lawmakers, argue that the ban is unnecessary and could stifle innovation in the growing plant-based food industry. Meanwhile, the livestock sector, particularly in France, has welcomed the move as a safeguard against competition. The decision highlights the ongoing tension between traditional agriculture and the rising demand for sustainable, plant-based alternatives.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant boost to their academic pursuits, nursing students at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona have been gifted new laptops by the Richard and Diana Stewart Foundation. The donation ceremony was held at the Faculty of Medical Sciences on Monday, marking a pivotal moment in the students’ educational journey. Diana Stewart, head of the foundation, lauded the students for their unwavering dedication and service, hailing them as ‘quiet heroes in moments of crisis.’ She highlighted the evolving role of technology in healthcare, stressing its importance in modern nursing practices. ‘Technology is now an essential part of patient care, from digital health records to telemedicine,’ Stewart remarked. She emphasized that access to such tools is critical for learning, research, and professional preparation. The donation, she noted, is not merely a contribution of equipment but an investment in the future of Jamaica’s healthcare sector. Stewart expressed her hope that the laptops would enable students to conduct research, complete assignments, and collaborate effectively, fostering the efficiency and flexibility required in today’s world. The gesture underscores the foundation’s commitment to education and its mission to empower the next generation of healthcare professionals. ‘May these laptops serve you well, and may you continue to serve with excellence, compassion, and pride,’ Stewart concluded.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — A shocking drive-by shooting in Kingston Central on Tuesday night left six individuals injured, including two nine-year-old children and two teenagers. The violent incident unfolded at the intersection of Text Lane and Charles Street, where a group of people were reportedly targeted by armed assailants in a vehicle. The attackers opened fire indiscriminately before swiftly fleeing the scene. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported thus far. Beresford Williams, Head of the Kingston Central Police Division, confirmed that law enforcement officers are actively monitoring the area to prevent potential reprisals. ‘We are taking a pre-emptive approach to secure the place and ensure public safety,’ Williams stated in an interview with Observer Online. The police have launched a thorough investigation into the incident, though no suspects have been identified as of yet. This brazen act of violence has raised concerns about public safety in the region, prompting calls for increased security measures.