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  • Road patching begins in Kingston under GO programme

    Road patching begins in Kingston under GO programme

    The Jamaican Ministry of Works has officially initiated its comprehensive GO Road Rehabilitation Programme, commencing critical road patching operations across key Kingston corridors. This targeted intervention aims to address immediate infrastructure deterioration and improve overall road safety conditions for motorists.

    Initial construction activities are currently focused on high-priority thoroughfares including Waterloo Road, East Kings House Road, and Mandela Highway, with additional roads in Kingston and St. Andrew receiving urgent attention. The ministry’s technical teams are specifically addressing severe road surface failures, including dangerous potholes, scouring damage, and general pavement degradation that has compromised driving conditions.

    Robert Nesta Morgan, Minister with Responsibility for Works, confirmed the programme will adopt a phased geographical approach. “The GO Programme will expand beyond Kingston and move into other parishes in the coming days,” Morgan stated, emphasizing the government’s structured rollout strategy designed to restore vital transportation routes nationwide. The initiative directly supports Jamaica’s economic activity by facilitating safer daily commuting, commercial transportation, and public transit operations.

    The ministry has issued advisories urging motorists to exercise heightened caution when approaching active work zones, obey all posted traffic instructions, and anticipate intermittent delays during construction hours. Regular updates regarding the programme’s expansion schedule and subsequent target areas will be communicated to the public as rehabilitation work progresses across the island.

  • High Court stays indictment of man charged with baby’s murder

    High Court stays indictment of man charged with baby’s murder

    In a landmark judicial ruling, High Court Justice Nalini Singh has permanently stayed murder and related charges against Neville Junior Simon, also known as Allan Knott, from Ste Madeleine. The decision comes after the prosecution withdrew a previously accepted plea agreement, which the court deemed an abuse of process.

    The case stemmed from a violent September 2021 incident where Simon was charged with murdering one-year-old Sirah Williams, attempted murder and wounding with intent against the baby’s grandmother Michelle Jillian Williams, and common assault against Nikitak Williams.

    Justice Singh’s detailed ruling found that the State acted unfairly and unlawfully when it reversed its acceptance of a plea to unlawful act manslaughter after announcing that acceptance in open court and proceeding with sentencing preparations. The prosecution’s withdrawal occurred on the morning of the scheduled plea agreement hearing, with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions invoking Section 8 of the Criminal Procedure Act.

    The court determined that the plea process had advanced beyond preliminary discussions, creating a binding commitment. Justice Singh emphasized that the defense had relied on this acceptance to its detriment by signing agreed facts, disclosing mitigation material, and preparing for sentencing. The court itself had acted on the assurance by managing the case toward disposition.

    Justice Singh’s ruling stated that allowing the prosecution to proceed after such a withdrawal would undermine the integrity of the criminal justice system and erode public confidence in plea bargaining processes. The court ordered Simon’s immediate discharge and barred the use of any statements, documents, or admissions made during plea discussions in any future proceedings.

    The 2021 police report indicated that baby Sirah was in her grandmother’s arms when a man began arguing with family members, allegedly returning with a cutlass and striking both the infant and grandmother. Simon was represented by the Public Defenders’ Department, while the State was represented by a team of prosecutors.

  • APT James dry-docking extended

    APT James dry-docking extended

    Passengers relying on inter-island ferry services between Trinidad and Tobago face extended travel disruptions as maintenance work on the vessel APT James continues beyond its original schedule. The Trinidad and Tobago Inter-Island Transportation Company Ltd (TTIT) confirmed on December 18 that the ferry’s dry-docking period has been prolonged, necessitating operational adjustments across the fleet.

    The APT James was initially scheduled for its mandatory annual dry-docking program beginning November 4, with service expected to resume after approximately one month. However, technical requirements have extended this maintenance period, creating a cascading effect on maritime transportation schedules.

    To mitigate the service gap, TTIT has implemented contingency measures by repositioning available vessels. The Buccoo Reef will temporarily assume the APT James’s regular routes, while the TT Spirit will cover services typically handled by the Buccoo Reef. This vessel reshuffling aims to maintain connectivity between the islands despite the maintenance extension.

    The transportation company has issued amended sailing schedules specifically for December 19, 23, and 24 to accommodate holiday travel demands during the extended maintenance period. Travelers are advised to consult updated timetables and anticipate potential adjustments to their itineraries.

    This maintenance extension occurs during a peak travel period, potentially affecting holiday plans for residents and visitors relying on maritime transportation between Trinidad and Tobago. The inter-island ferry service represents a critical transportation link for commerce, tourism, and family connectivity between the two islands.

  • New online skills resource helps job seekers ace interviews

    New online skills resource helps job seekers ace interviews

    In response to mounting challenges facing job seekers in today’s intensely competitive employment landscape, the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) has introduced an innovative digital solution. The newly launched ACCA Virtual Skills platform specifically targets Generation Z professionals and career entrants seeking to distinguish themselves during application and interview processes.

    This comprehensive digital resource center provides ACCA members and affiliates with practical career preparation tools developed through professional expertise. Lindsay Degouve de Nunques, ACCA’s Director of Brand and Marketing, emphasized the organization’s commitment: ‘ACCA is dedicated to equipping our members and future members with the skills and knowledge essential for career success. This practical resource empowers new professionals to approach their futures with greater confidence.’

    The platform addresses identified gaps in practical career guidance through two primary components. First, a series of on-demand interview preparation videos cover critical career topics including CV crafting, creating impactful first impressions, optimizing LinkedIn profiles, appropriate interview attire, navigating compensation discussions, and formulating strategic questions.

    Second, visually engaging virtual flashcards distill key insights from ACCA’s research on artificial intelligence, technology, global economics, and sustainability. These downloadable resources serve as conversation starters during networking events and provide substantive talking points for interviews.

    Developed in direct response to employer expectations regarding candidates’ soft skills, the platform has already garnered positive feedback from recruitment professionals. This initiative represents ACCA’s ongoing investment in future-oriented employment capabilities and complements the existing career support services offered through ACCA Careers, the organization’s specialized accounting and finance recruitment platform.

  • LPIA braces for holiday travel surge

    LPIA braces for holiday travel surge

    Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) is implementing comprehensive operational enhancements to accommodate an anticipated massive influx of holiday travelers during the critical December 19-24 travel period. Airport authorities have activated their specialized holiday operations strategy, which includes significantly bolstered security patrols and stringent traffic management protocols.

    The Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD) has issued formal warnings that vehicles left unattended along terminal curbsides will be immediately towed to ensure uninterrupted traffic flow and maintain compliance with international aviation safety standards. This decisive action comes as passenger volumes are projected to reach or exceed the airport’s maximum operational capacity.

    Peak travel days are forecasted for December 19th with approximately 6,700 arriving passengers and December 20th with an estimated 7,600 arrivals. Elevated passenger numbers are expected to persist through Christmas Eve before surging again during the year-end travel period.

    To manage this unprecedented volume, NAD has implemented increased staffing across essential processing areas including security checkpoints, baggage handling systems, and passenger service departments. Travelers are strongly advised to adjust their arrival times significantly—three hours prior to US-bound flights and two hours for international and domestic departures. Additional time allowances are recommended for ground transportation due to anticipated heavy traffic congestion.

    The airport administration encourages those meeting arriving passengers to utilize the complimentary cell phone waiting lot or paid parking facilities, especially if requiring vehicle exit. Officials note that parking areas may also reach full capacity during peak operational periods.

    Airport management simultaneously highlighted growing infrastructure pressures resulting from sustained passenger traffic growth. With LPIA’s redevelopment initiative approaching its 19th anniversary and terminal facilities nearing 15 years of operation, the consistent upward trend in passenger volumes emphasizes the necessity for future expansion projects. Such development would support growing demand, improve passenger experience, and maintain operational efficiency standards.

    Travelers are recommended to monitor LPIA’s official website and verified social media channels for real-time updates throughout the holiday travel season.

  • Munroe: Keep prison bus out of rush hour

    Munroe: Keep prison bus out of rush hour

    Bahamas National Security Minister Wayne Munroe has issued directives to law enforcement agencies to avoid inmate transportation during peak traffic hours whenever possible. This decision comes in response to public outcry following a significant traffic incident on East Bay Street that involved a prison escort vehicle.

    The collision occurred on December 16 at approximately 5:30 PM when a police-escorted prison bus transporting inmates eastbound to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services collided with a red Honda Fit traveling north on Church Street. The impact resulted in substantial damage to both vehicles and necessitated hospital transport for two police officers and the 21-year-old civilian driver of the Honda Fit. While both officers were treated and released, the condition of the civilian driver remained undisclosed at the time of reporting.

    Minister Munroe firmly addressed mounting social media criticism alleging that prison transport vehicles routinely disregard traffic regulations. He characterized these vehicles as ‘rolling cell blocks’ and emphasized that government vehicles with activated lights and sirens legally require right-of-way under Bahamian traffic laws.

    ‘I’ve expressed to them that I would prefer they do that outside of rush hours, and that they arrange the security provisions to do it if they can,’ Munroe stated, noting that inmate transfers typically occur outside peak traffic periods according to standard protocol.

    Meanwhile, Deputy Chief of Corrections Bernadette Murray indicated that ongoing construction of new court facilities would ultimately alleviate public concerns regarding inmate convoys passing through residential areas. She emphasized that the new infrastructure would significantly enhance safety by reducing convoy distances and minimizing disruptions to residential communities.

    The incident has reignited previous calls for reform regarding prisoner transportation practices, echoing a Tribune editorial from October that described the current system as ‘dangerous in the extreme’ and ‘an inconvenience to other road users.’

  • Rise Up Jamaica concert in Germany raises €45,000 for Hurricane Melissa recovery efforts

    Rise Up Jamaica concert in Germany raises €45,000 for Hurricane Melissa recovery efforts

    COLOGNE, Germany—An evening of powerful musical solidarity culminated in a significant humanitarian achievement as the Rise Up Jamaica benefit concert generated €45,000 (approximately J$8.5 million) for hurricane recovery efforts. The event, held at the Live Music Hall in Cologne, demonstrated the profound capacity of music to mobilize support for global causes.

    Organized by the Summerjam Festival, the concert assembled an impressive roster of internationally acclaimed artists with strong musical and cultural ties to Jamaica. The initiative was conceived as a direct response to the devastation wrought by Hurricane Melissa, with a designated focus on supporting the hardest-hit community of St Elizabeth.

    In a remarkable display of commitment, the Summerjam Festival implemented a dollar-for-dollar matching strategy, effectively doubling every contribution made throughout the evening. Marius Brozi, representing the festival, emphasized that this matching initiative symbolized their organization’s deep-rooted connection to Jamaica. He elaborated that Jamaica represents more than just musical inspiration for Summerjam—it is intrinsically woven into the festival’s cultural identity and core values, making the support effort both an obligation and an honor.

    The generated funds will be administered through Help Jamaica e.V., with primary allocation directed toward the comprehensive reconstruction of Black River High School in St Elizabeth. The educational facility suffered extensive structural damage during the hurricane, compromising safe learning environments. The infusion of capital will accelerate restoration efforts, prioritizing the prompt return to normal academic operations.

    Beyond the flagship high school project, a substantial portion of the raised proceeds will address needs at smaller educational institutions throughout affected districts, ensuring a coordinated recovery of the region’s entire educational infrastructure.

    The benefit concert featured electrifying performances by renowned artists including Gentleman, Bonez MC, Trettmann, Patrice, Kumar Fyah, Treesha, Inti, and Milaa. The event received additional support from key partners such as Live Music Hall, AVL, RAD, Ivan Backstage Catering, Gizeh, and numerous participating DJs and artists who contributed their talents pro bono.

  • Anthony Patrick architects two upsets almost simultaneously

    Anthony Patrick architects two upsets almost simultaneously

    Veteran football strategist Anthony Patrick achieved an extraordinary coaching double on Wednesday, securing two significant victories across different competitions within hours. The seasoned mentor first guided underdogs Racing United to a stunning 1-0 victory against Caribbean champions Mount Pleasant FC, marking the latter’s inaugural defeat this Jamaican Premier League season. Demonstrating remarkable tactical prowess, Patrick immediately traveled from Ferdie Neita Park to Anthony Spaulding Sports Complex to oversee St Catherine High’s dramatic 3-2 Walker Cup semifinal triumph over perennial champions Kingston College.

    Racing United’s remarkable ascent continues as the second-year top-flight club now occupies second position in the league standings with 25 points from 12 matches, trailing leaders Montego Bay United by a single point. The decisive moment arrived during stoppage time when Damion Herrera’s 93rd-minute strike penetrated Mount Pleasant’s previously unbreached defense.

    Patrick revealed his comprehensive preparation methodology: “We conducted extensive analysis of Mount Pleasant’s tactical system and individual tendencies, developing specific strategies to neutralize their strengths. Our players executed the gameplan flawlessly, denying them opportunities to implement their preferred style.”

    The coach particularly emphasized squad discipline: “During pre-match preparations, I randomly questioned players about their specific responsibilities, and their precise responses demonstrated complete understanding of our tactical approach.”

    Following his first victory, Patrick delegated initial Walker Cup sideline duties to trusted assistant Theo Brown—his former Bridgeport protege from their 2006 Manning Cup triumph—before arriving during the second half. With St Catherine protecting a narrow 2-1 advantage against relentless Kingston College pressure, Patrick’s tactical adjustments proved decisive as Dwight Gentles secured his second goal in the 69th minute, ultimately ensuring the semifinal victory.

    Patrick elaborated on their strategic approach: “Theo and I identified vulnerabilities in Kingston College’s wingback positioning and ball-handling capabilities. We implemented a false-nine formation to exploit transitional opportunities, which our players executed magnificently.”

    The coach specifically praised standout performers Gentles and Kedean Young—whom he described as among schoolboy football’s elite talents—while expressing optimism about securing silverware for both school and parish in the upcoming final.

  • Commerce ministry ramps up MSME recovery support

    Commerce ministry ramps up MSME recovery support

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—In a significant escalation of its post-hurricane economic rehabilitation strategy, Jamaica’s Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce (MIIC) is implementing a multi-faceted support program for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). This coordinated response addresses the persistent operational disruptions faced by businesses, particularly in the western regions of the island, despite progress in restoring essential utilities.

    Delano Seiveright, State Minister at the MIIC, emphasized that the recovery drive is being executed under the strategic direction of Minister Senator Aubyn Hill, prioritizing rapid, practical interventions. The core objectives are facilitating business reopenings, preserving employment, and stabilizing local economies. “Our approach is fundamentally centered on delivering tangible solutions with speed and precision,” Seiveright stated, highlighting the ministry’s commitment to removing obstacles for enterprise recovery.

    The ministry’s on-the-ground initiatives showcase a blend of immediate relief and long-term resilience building. Notable projects include the complete reconstruction of a cluster of 44 small shops in Border, St. Elizabeth, now engineered with enhanced hurricane and flood resistance. In Whitehouse, Westmoreland, commercial activity has been revived through the restoration of grocery operations and cold-storage capacity via targeted generator support.

    To date, direct assistance has reached over 600 MSMEs across the parishes of Trelawny, Hanover, St. Elizabeth, and St James. This support is being delivered through a combination of voucher systems and community-based measures designed to ensure the continued availability of essential goods.

    Spearheading the technical response, the Jamaica Business Development Corporation (JBDC) has amplified its islandwide engagement. Its efforts encompass comprehensive damage assessments, client reconnection services, and an emergency helpdesk, all informed by a national MSME survey to precisely tailor interventions. For medium-term recovery, the JBDC’s “Build Back Stronger” programme offers business coaching, product development, digital transformation support, and resilience planning.

    Concurrently, the National Export-Import Bank of Jamaica (EXIM Bank) has activated a suite of financial relief measures. These include moratoria on existing loans, reductions in associated fees, and expanded credit access for businesses impacted by the hurricane. This financial lifeline is specifically aimed at aiding working capital needs, equipment repairs, and supply-chain rehabilitation.

    Further facilitation has been rolled out across the Ministry’s portfolio agencies. The Jamaica Trade Board Limited has eased specific import permit and certification requirements to assist business retooling, while the Jamaica Special Economic Zone Authority has offered compliance flexibility and relocation support to sustain operations in manufacturing, logistics, and business process outsourcing.

    The Ministry confirms it is also collaborating with institutional partners, including the Development Bank of Jamaica, to channel recovery financing through dedicated initiatives like the M5 Business Recovery Programme, ensuring a cohesive and robust support ecosystem for Jamaica’s vital MSME sector.

  • Radioactive Nuclear marks 30 years with soundclash reunion at Sound Forge

    Radioactive Nuclear marks 30 years with soundclash reunion at Sound Forge

    Trinidad and Tobago’s iconic Radioactive Nuclear soundsystem is poised to commemorate three decades of profound influence on regional music culture with a landmark anniversary event at Sound Forge, St James, on December 19. The celebration will unite multiple generations of Caribbean sound pioneers, including both local legends and Jamaican stalwarts, in a historic gathering that highlights the enduring legacy of soundsystem culture.

    Founded in December 1995 by lead selector Hypa Hoppa (Kwesi Hopkinson) alongside core members DJ Dane (now Lord Hype), TC (now Jaiga), and John Boy, Radioactive emerged during a transformative period when Caribbean soundsystem culture was establishing its distinct identity. The collective began as an offshoot of rap group Masters of Creativity before discovering inspiration through veteran Jamaican soundsystems Killamanjaro and Stonelove via cassette mixtapes.

    Throughout its thirty-year journey, Radioactive has played an instrumental role in developing Trinidad and Tobago’s soundsystem ecosystem through innovative platforms including Full Loaded, 45 Shop Lock, and 45 Shootout. These events provided crucial spaces for artistic growth and community building within the dubplate and soundclash culture that was then gaining international momentum.

    The anniversary event will feature an impressive lineup of soundsystem royalty, including local contemporaries Mighty Jugglers, Sel Construction, and Matsimela—all homegrown TT sounds that have both collaborated and competed with Radioactive over the decades. Adding international prestige to the celebration, Jamaican powerhouses Bass Odyssey and Renaissance will join the proceedings, bringing their globally respected expertise in soundclash culture and special dubplate productions dating back to the early 1980s.

    Hypa Hoppa describes the soundsystem phenomenon as a ‘professional hobby’ where artistic passion frequently surpasses financial considerations. ‘Dubplate business is like a professional hobby. You probably spend more than you make on it,’ he notes. ‘It’s a creative art-form using songs, arguments, lyrics, and styles of playing—it’s an art form of deejaying with rivalry.’

    The upcoming celebration represents more than mere nostalgia; it serves as a vital bridge connecting musical generations. Hoppy emphasizes the importance of educating younger audiences about the cultural foundations that shaped contemporary Caribbean music scenes. With multiple heavyweight selectors sharing one stage, the event promises both competitive energy and collaborative excellence, offering attendees a comprehensive journey through three decades of sonic innovation.