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  • TAJ driver’s licence validation system temporarily offline, several services affected

    TAJ driver’s licence validation system temporarily offline, several services affected

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) has encountered significant technical difficulties with its driver’s license validation infrastructure, prompting a widespread suspension of multiple essential services across digital and physical channels. The agency confirmed that its core verification mechanism is currently inoperative, creating substantial disruptions for citizens attempting to complete various transportation-related transactions.

    The technological failure has particularly impacted digital services, rendering impossible the completion of driver’s license fee settlements, traffic violation fine payments, and private vehicle registration processing through online platforms. Concurrently, physical office operations have been similarly constrained, with TAJ locations unable to process driver’s license applications or accept traffic penalty payments due to the system-wide outage.

    Notably, standard motor vehicle registration services continue to operate without interruption at TAJ facilities, providing citizens with at least one unaffected channel for transportation documentation needs. The authority has extended formal apologies for the operational inconvenience and emphasized its collaborative efforts with technical partners to achieve rapid system restoration.

    TAJ has established dedicated communication channels for public inquiries, directing citizens to contact their Customer Care Center at 888-TAX-HELP (829-4357). Additionally, the administration encourages monitoring its verified social media accounts on Instagram, Facebook, Threads, and X for real-time updates regarding service resumption timelines.

  • Lord Coe to help high schools during visit to Jamaica

    Lord Coe to help high schools during visit to Jamaica

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — World Athletics President Lord Sebastian Coe has committed to prioritizing the restoration of Jamaica’s storm-ravaged athletic infrastructure following Hurricane Melissa’s devastation. Arriving on the island nation Sunday, the Olympic legend emphasized the critical role of school-level sports programs in nurturing Jamaica’s world-dominant track and field talent.

    During his third official visit to Jamaica since 2017, Lord Coe held high-level discussions with Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Sports Minister Olivia Grange. The meetings focused on recovery strategies for athletic facilities damaged by recent hurricane impacts, particularly school venues that serve as foundational training grounds for future champions.

    Coe specifically highlighted Jamaica’s prestigious High School Athletics Championship (known as ‘Champs’) as the unparalleled incubator of athletic excellence. ‘I’m always conscious that there is no coincidence between what goes on at the very highest level on the podium and the vibrancy and quality and health of your schools programme,’ Coe stated during a welcoming ceremony at Jamaica Pegasus Hotel Monday evening.

    The athletics president scheduled firsthand inspections of damaged facilities, including Tuesday’s visit to Montego Bay Sports Complex. His itinerary also included assessing reconstruction efforts at secondary schools whose athletic programs have been disrupted by hurricane damage.

    Coe expressed particular appreciation for coaches working at grassroots levels, acknowledging their indispensable role in maintaining Jamaica’s extraordinary pipeline of world-class athletes. His visit underscores international athletics’ commitment to preserving the developmental systems that have produced Jamaica’s remarkable succession of Olympic and World Championship medalists.

  • T&T police officer among three arrested on drug-related charges in the US

    T&T police officer among three arrested on drug-related charges in the US

    In a significant international law enforcement operation, three Trinidadian nationals—including an active-duty police officer—face serious charges in the United States for allegedly conspiring to import cocaine and commit firearms offenses. The accused individuals have been identified as Rafael Joseph, a serving member of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS), along with Michael McSween and Clevon Persad.

    The case stems from a comprehensive 2024 investigation led by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). On December 30, provisional arrest warrants were executed through coordinated efforts between multiple specialized units. The operation involved personnel from the DEA’s Vetted Unit working alongside Trinidad’s Special Investigative Unit (SIU) and Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU).

    U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Dr. Jenifer Neidhart de Ortiz characterized the operation as “a great example of bilateral cooperation” that delivers “a significant blow to not only drug and firearms trafficking, but also against public corruption.” She emphasized the multiplier effect created when agencies from both nations collaborate effectively.

    TTPS Police Commissioner Allister Guevarro confirmed the arrest and pending deportation of the police officer, stating the operation “reflects the strength of our international partnerships and our unwavering commitment to accountability at every level of the organisation.” He reaffirmed the TTPS’s dedication to upholding integrity standards and working with global counterparts to ensure those who betray public trust face justice.

    DEA Caribbean Division Special Agent in Charge Michael Miranda underscored the operation’s significance, noting it “sends a clear message: no one is above the law.” He emphasized that through united trusted partnerships, authorities are not only dismantling trafficking networks but also confronting public corruption directly, ultimately creating safer communities and ensuring justice prevails.

  • Trump considering military options to acquire Greenland

    Trump considering military options to acquire Greenland

    WASHINGTON — The White House has escalated geopolitical tensions by declaring the potential acquisition of Greenland a national security priority, with press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirming that military force remains “always an option” for the United States. This provocative stance comes despite urgent requests from both Danish and Greenlandic authorities for high-level diplomatic meetings to address what they term “misunderstandings.”

    The administration’s renewed interest in the autonomous Danish territory appears linked to recent military operations in Venezuela, reflecting a pattern of expansionist foreign policy maneuvers. Greenland’s strategic significance has grown substantially due to its vast untapped rare earth mineral deposits and emerging shipping routes created by melting polar ice caps.

    European leaders have responded with unprecedented unity, issuing a joint statement signed by seven NATO allies affirming their commitment to territorial sovereignty principles. The declaration specifically states that “Greenland belongs to its people” and that only Denmark and Greenland may decide matters concerning the territory.

    Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen reiterated that the island is “not for sale,” while Danish officials emphasized their substantial security investments totaling $14 billion annually. The diplomatic impasse continues as Greenland’s Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt revealed that requested ministerial-level meetings throughout 2025 have remained unscheduled.

    President Trump, who has periodically floated the Greenland acquisition idea since his first term, suggested a decision might emerge within “about two months” following stabilization of the Venezuela situation. Arctic security experts like Marc Jacobsen of the Royal Danish Defence College describe the recurring proposal as “like a broken record,” noting the administration’s persistent underestimation of Denmark’s security capabilities despite Copenhagen’s significant defense allocations.

  • Forest boost survival bid to leave West Ham in turmoil

    Forest boost survival bid to leave West Ham in turmoil

    LONDON, United Kingdom — Nottingham Forest dramatically overturned a deficit to claim a critical 2-1 Premier League victory over West Ham United on Tuesday, a result that intensifies the relegation fears at the London Stadium. The match, defined by contentious Video Assistant Referee (VAR) interventions, saw Morgan Gibbs-White convert a late penalty to secure three massive points for the visitors.

    The encounter began favorably for the hosts when Nottingham Forest defender Murillo inadvertently directed a header into his own net from a West Ham corner in the 13th minute. The Hammers believed they had solidified their lead early in the second half through Crysencio Summerville, but the goal was disallowed following a VAR review that identified a marginal offside in the attacking sequence.

    Capitalizing on the reprieve, Forest mounted a spirited comeback. Midfielder Nicolas Dominguez drew the sides level in the 55th minute with a precise header from a corner, exposing West Ham’s persistent vulnerability on set-pieces. The match’s decisive moment arrived in the 89th minute when West Ham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola collided with Gibbs-White while attempting to punch clear a aerial ball. After a lengthy VAR review, a penalty was awarded, which Gibbs-White calmly dispatched.

    The result propels Forest seven points clear of the relegation zone, placing significant pressure on a West Ham side now mired in a dire run of form. The Hammers have failed to secure a victory in their last ten league matches, accumulating a mere point from the last available eighteen. This dismal streak has plunged the club into 18th position, raising serious concerns about their top-flight status.

    Under intense scrutiny, West Ham manager Nuno Espirito Santo lamented the fine margins that decided the match but insisted the fight for survival is not over. Conversely, Forest boss Sean Dyche praised his team’s resilience and mentality in securing a win that halts a four-game losing streak and provides crucial momentum in their battle to avoid the drop.

  • Cornerstone secures key approvals for JNFM acquisition and Proven partnership

    Cornerstone secures key approvals for JNFM acquisition and Proven partnership

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant development within the Caribbean financial sector, Cornerstone Financial Holdings Limited has achieved two major strategic milestones. The company announced Tuesday that its subsidiary, Barita Investments Limited, has received full regulatory authorization to acquire JN Fund Managers Limited (JNFM) while simultaneously establishing a comprehensive partnership with Proven Management Limited.

    Barita, a publicly-traded investment banking and asset management entity, obtained formal no-objection from regulators to purchase the entire issued share capital of JNFM from Jamaica National Group. This acquisition represents a transformative move that will propel Barita’s assets under management beyond the $500 billion threshold. The transaction is projected to substantially expand the firm’s client portfolio while significantly enhancing its capabilities in pension and institutional asset management services.

    Concurrently, Cornerstone revealed it had established a strategic alliance in December with Proven Management Limited, the investment management arm of Proven Group Limited. This partnership creates a powerful synergy by merging Cornerstone’s established financial platform with Proven’s diverse investment portfolio spanning financial services, real estate, and private capital investments throughout the Caribbean and North American markets.

    Mark Myers, Director of Cornerstone and Chairman of Barita, emphasized the combined entity now oversees approximately $1 trillion in assets and invested capital across multiple sectors including banking, asset management, real estate, and financial technology. Myers attributed these achievements to the visionary leadership of Founder and Group CEO Paul Simpson, CD, whose disciplined execution and unwavering integrity were described as instrumental in building a platform designed to deliver intergenerational value.

    The group detailed its remarkable expansion trajectory since its establishment in 2013, which includes strategic acquisitions of MF&G Trust and Finance—now operating as Cornerstone Trust & Merchant Bank—and obtaining a controlling interest in Barita in 2018. Barita has successfully raised approximately $34.5 billion in permanent capital since 2019, facilitating its strategic pivot into investment banking and wealth management services.

    Cornerstone’s diversified portfolio currently encompasses five core business divisions: investment banking, alternative investments, wealth and asset management, banking services, financial technology, and real estate development. The group reported robust financial health with total shareholders’ equity reaching approximately $548 million as of September 2025.

    Myers expressed gratitude to various stakeholders including the Government of Jamaica, founding shareholders, funding partners, and the boards of both JN Financial Group and Proven. He additionally acknowledged the dedication of management and staff across the organization, as well as clients whose continued trust has been fundamental to the group’s success. Myers further indicated that an additional strategic partnership aimed at further diversification is anticipated to be announced in the near future.

  • Winston Dias releases cover of ‘Let’s Keep it That Way’

    Winston Dias releases cover of ‘Let’s Keep it That Way’

    After more than six decades in the music industry, Winston Dias continues to create meaningful art, now drawing inspiration from his closest family members. The veteran vocalist recently released a heartfelt cover of “Let’s Keep it That Way” following encouragement from his wife Kathleen and daughter Georgia, who recognized the song’s special resonance with his vocal style and personal story.

    Dias recorded the self-produced track at Willie Lindo’s Heavy Beat studio in South Florida, marking his first solo release in several years. The project represents a departure from his recent work as lead singer of the legendary rocksteady harmony trio The Melodians, returning to his roots as a solo performer.

    The musical journey to this release spans multiple genres and continents. Dias first established himself in the early 1960s with the ska hit “Cericy Tea” before migrating to Canada in 1968, where he became an integral part of Toronto’s reggae scene for a decade. His career also includes a tenure with the iconic soul group The Drifters before joining The Melodians alongside founder Trevor McNaughton and Taurus Alphonso.

    Dias’s connection to “Let’s Keep it That Way” runs deep, having admired the song since its original 1977 recording by American country singer Tanya Tucker. The ballad has since been interpreted by various artists including Mac Davis, Anne Murray, and reggae performer Boris Gardiner, but Dias brings his own distinctive interpretation to the timeless piece.

    The newly released recording, distributed by Tad’s International Record, stands as testament to Dias’s enduring musical passion and the supportive creative environment fostered by his family after 55 years of marriage.

  • Ian Alleyne gives Sando mayor deadline for apology

    Ian Alleyne gives Sando mayor deadline for apology

    Prominent television personality Ian Alleyne has initiated legal action against San Fernando Mayor Robert Parris following allegedly defamatory statements made on social media platforms. Through his legal representatives Saira Lakhan and Devi Ramnarine, Alleyne has issued a pre-action protocol letter demanding resolution by January 9 deadline.

    The dispute originates from a Facebook post published by Mayor Parris on December 11, 2025, which specifically referenced Alleyne during his legitimate journalistic coverage of a fire incident at Radica Trading Building on Cipero Street. The controversial post allegedly characterized the Crime Watch host as an ‘attention seeker’ and incorporated language described as derogatory slang within local vernacular.

    Legal counsel emphasizes that Parris, serving as both sitting mayor and ‘first citizen’ of San Fernando, possesses amplified influence that compounds the severity of such public statements. The attorneys contend that the mayor’s substantial social media presence across Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn significantly expanded the dissemination of the allegedly defamatory content.

    Although the original post was subsequently removed, attorneys confirm that screenshots were captured and redistributed by prominent social media accounts, generating thousands of interactions and extending the content’s reach to international audiences. This widespread circulation allegedly resulted in substantial professional and personal consequences for Alleyne.

    The legal filing details multiple damages including reputational harm, emotional distress, loss of business opportunities during critical Christmas programming period, and negative impact on Alleyne’s family members, particularly his teenage son. Additionally, the television host reportedly declined professional engagements and media appearances due to the resulting controversy.

    The pre-action letter demands immediate cessation of defamatory statements, public apology published on the original Facebook platform, and compensation for demonstrated losses. Should Mayor Parris fail to comply by the 4 pm January 9 deadline, attorneys confirm they will file formal defamation proceedings in the High Court seeking damages and injunctive relief.

  • TennisTT launches first coaching licensing programme

    TennisTT launches first coaching licensing programme

    In a transformative move for Trinidad and Tobago’s tennis landscape, the Tennis Association of TT (TennisTT) has unveiled a pioneering National Coaching Licensing Programme. This landmark initiative, announced on January 5, establishes the nation’s first structured coaching certification system designed to elevate professional standards across the sport.

    The comprehensive programme aligns with International Tennis Federation (ITF) global benchmarks while specifically addressing local developmental needs. TennisTT emphasizes this dual approach will create a consistent framework for coach education, licensing protocols, and ongoing professional development while ensuring accountability mechanisms throughout the tennis ecosystem.

    Prior to implementation, TennisTT will conduct extensive stakeholder consultations with coaches, club administrators, tutors, parents, and institutional partners. These collaborative sessions aim to foster transparency, build trust, and incorporate practical feedback to shape a truly inclusive and purpose-built system.

    A TennisTT representative highlighted the strategic significance: “This programme constitutes a critical investment in tennis future. Coaches form the cornerstone of player development, safeguarding, and performance excellence. Establishing clear standards strengthens our sport’s foundation for current and future generations.”

    The initiative promises multifaceted benefits including standardized coaching quality nationwide, defined career pathways for coaching professionals, enhanced focus on ethical practices and athlete welfare, and increased confidence among parents and institutional partners. The programme specifically emphasizes mentorship structures and continuing education components while balancing international best practices with local adaptability.

  • New cargo vessel to arrive in Trinidad and Tobago soon

    New cargo vessel to arrive in Trinidad and Tobago soon

    TOBAGO – In a significant development for inter-island connectivity, Trinidad and Tobago will soon deploy a state-of-the-art passenger and cargo vessel to enhance maritime transportation between the islands. The National Infrastructure Development Company Ltd (Nidco) confirmed on January 6 the acquisition of MV Blue Wave Harmony, which will replace the MV Cabo Star upon lease expiration.

    The new vessel represents the culmination of a meticulously planned procurement initiative designed to optimize operational efficiency at both Port of Spain and Scarborough harbors. According to official statements, MV Blue Wave Harmony is projected to arrive in Trinidad around January 18, subject to weather and maritime conditions.

    This strategic upgrade promises substantial improvements across multiple dimensions of sea transport. The vessel features enhanced cargo capacity with capability to accommodate approximately 125 freight units—a significant increase from the Cabo Star’s 90-trailer capacity—ensuring more consistent and reliable goods movement between islands.

    Passenger experience receives equal attention with the incorporation of 73 private cabins equipped with bedding and bathroom facilities, a 142-seat restaurant offering self-service dining, and dedicated lounge and entertainment spaces. Accessibility features include a passenger elevator, ensuring inclusive access for all travelers.

    Operational reliability marks another critical enhancement, with quadruple main engines providing redundant power systems that minimize service disruptions and improve voyage consistency. Hauliers and commercial transporters will benefit from both improved cargo handling and passenger comfort standards comparable to dedicated passenger ferry services.

    Nidco officials have characterized the MV Blue Wave Harmony as a ‘more capable and reliable vessel’ that will transform the sea bridge infrastructure through reduced transit times, heightened safety protocols, and superior operational performance.