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  • Kamla slams ‘malicious’ PNM over Couva Hospital —  $100m in equipmentnow useless

    Kamla slams ‘malicious’ PNM over Couva Hospital — $100m in equipmentnow useless

    Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has publicly condemned the former PNM administration for what she characterized as “malicious neglect” regarding the Couva Children’s Hospital. Speaking at a re-dedication ceremony on Sunday, the Prime Minister revealed that the previous government maintained the state-of-the-art facility shuttered for an entire decade while allowing approximately $100 million worth of medical equipment to deteriorate into obsolescence.

    According to an initial assessment conducted after her administration assumed office, the squandered resources included 217 unused medical devices valued at over $20.68 million still confined to their original packaging. Additionally, ten major radiology systems—featuring advanced 3T MRI and 64-slice CT scanning technology—worth more than $33.5 million had expired beyond functionality. The inventory of losses further encompassed 45 medical items valued at $14.2 million that became obsolete and 225 critical diagnostic and sterilization systems valued at $31.9 million rendered non-functional.

    “This represents not mere bureaucratic delay but deliberate malicious neglect,” Persad-Bissessar asserted. “These resources, funded by taxpayers, could have provided life-saving treatment to countless children throughout these lost years.”

    The legacy of this neglect continues to burden the nation financially. A recent Urban Development Corporation (Udecott) assessment estimates that taxpayers must now allocate $78.2 million to repair and replace the compromised medical equipment and address structural deficiencies identified in a September 17 report. The facility requires comprehensive mechanical, plumbing, electrical, architectural, and structural remediation.

    Despite these challenges, the government has initiated partial operations at the 230-bed hospital. Since November 28, surgical teams from all four regional health authorities have performed 86 same-day procedures, including fistula repairs, varicose vein ablations, breast mass removals, lump extractions, and complex hernia repairs. These initial interventions begin addressing waiting lists that exceed 11,300 cases, including more than 4,600 delayed ophthalmology procedures.

    The hospital has also launched Paediatric Specialist Clinics since December 1, providing care to 16 children who otherwise would have required overseas treatment in specialties including neurology, rheumatology, neonatal care, endocrinology, and cardiology.

    In a significant regional development, Persad-Bissessar announced a partnership with Guyana’s government during the ceremony attended by Keoma Griffith, Guyana’s Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning. This collaboration will facilitate the recruitment of approximately 50 Trinidadian doctors to address staffing needs in Guyana’s expanding healthcare system.

    The South West Regional Health Authority has commenced recruiting 40 additional nurses specifically for the Couva facility. The government plans to gradually introduce full MRI and CT imaging services, cataract and ophthalmology surgeries, and expanded endoscopies in coming months while continuing specialist staff recruitment.

    The re-dedication ceremony also featured acknowledgments of corporate and individual donors, including Trinclean Ltd’s contribution of 60 wheelchairs and Inovaar Marketing Consultancy Agency Limited’s donation of 58,000 medical-grade masks with an additional 8,000 pledged.

    This development occurs against the backdrop of recent revelations before a parliamentary committee that $80 million worth of pharmaceutical drugs expired at Nipdec’s central stores over the past decade, further highlighting systemic issues in the nation’s healthcare infrastructure management.

  • Nicholas Romany dominates in Barbados with 10K, mile titles

    Nicholas Romany dominates in Barbados with 10K, mile titles

    Trinidad and Tobago’s distance running sensation Nicholas Romany achieved an extraordinary sporting milestone at the 2025 Run Barbados Marathon and Wellness Weekend, securing his third consecutive double victory in both the Casuahina 10K Run and PWC Fun Mile events. The spectacular performances unfolded on December 6th in Barbados, where Romany demonstrated world-class endurance and strategic brilliance.

    Romany’s 10K triumph came in a blistering 31 minutes and 20 seconds, narrowly defeating four-time Run Barbados marathon champion Alex Ekesa (31:22), the Kenyan runner based in Trinidad and Tobago. Colombian athlete Sergio Lopez completed the podium with a time of 32:27.

    In a post-race analysis, Romany revealed his winning strategy: ‘The competition unfolded exactly as anticipated—extremely challenging due to the caliber of athletes. While this year’s course was flatter, the headwinds presented significant difficulties. I maintained pace with Alex throughout the race and deployed my finishing speed in the final stretch to secure victory.’

    The champion emphasized the psychological aspect of his performance, noting: ‘Mental resilience and determination were crucial in pushing through to the finish. I’m particularly grateful for the tremendous support from my teammates and compatriots.’

    Romany praised the event organization, highlighting the exceptional international camaraderie and vibrant atmosphere that characterizes the Run Barbados experience.

    Looking forward, the champion plans brief recovery before resuming training with ambitions to achieve Commonwealth Games qualification standards in the 1500-meter event.

    Other notable performances included Colombian Palmenia Berrio’s gold medal in the women’s 10K (37:02), while Trinidad and Tobago’s Christopher Mitchell dominated the Sleeping Giant men’s 5K event with an impressive 15:28 finish. The Trinidadian contingent demonstrated remarkable depth with multiple podium finishes across various events, including April John’s bronze in the women’s 5K and a complete sweep of the top four positions in the PWC Fun Mile event.

    The 2025 edition solidified Run Barbados’s status as a premier international running festival, attracting elite athletes from across the Americas and showcasing the growing dominance of Caribbean distance runners.

  • Hello World demolishes rivals in Santa Rosa

    Hello World demolishes rivals in Santa Rosa

    In a dramatic showcase of horseracing excellence, the 2025 local racing season approached its conclusion with the Stewards Cup at Santa Rosa Park in Arima on December 6. The grade one feature event, contested on a wet but rapid main track, unfolded as a captivating battle among five elite thoroughbreds racing over 1,200 meters.

    The competition, open to West Indian-bred three-year-olds and above plus imported two-year-olds and older horses, began with an even break when starter Wayne Campbell dispatched the field at 3:57 PM. Early positioning saw Hello World and stablemate Headliner establishing dominance at the 1,100-meter mark, with Hello World securing a slight advantage by the 800-meter pole.

    The race dynamics shifted dramatically as filly Sneaky Cheeky mounted a formidable challenge from fourth position, systematically overtaking competitors approaching the 600-meter marker. By the 400-meter point, Sneaky Cheeky had captured second place, though favorite Hello World had simultaneously extended his lead to two lengths.

    As the field turned toward the final stretch, Hello World maintained a commanding advantage while the battle for second intensified dramatically. In a stunning development, Headliner discovered extraordinary late-race speed, reclaiming second position with just 200 meters remaining and launching a serious challenge against his stablemate for the lead.

    Champion jockey Dillon Khelawan, recognizing the imminent threat, expertly urged Hello World to produce one final burst of effort, securing both the victory and the $42,435 prize. The win highlighted an exceptional day for Khelawan, who achieved four victories, while jockey Andrew Poon recorded a double. Champion trainer John O’Brien dominated the training ranks with three winners, with trainers Ramesh Ramroop, Glenn Mendez, and Johnathan Lyder each saddling one victorious horse.

    Racing action will continue on December 26 with the prestigious Gold Cup as the centerpiece event, contested over 2,000 meters on the main track. The co-feature will be the Juvenile Championship, a grade-two race covering 1,200 meters on the same course.

  • Ready for rush

    Ready for rush

    Despite the devastating impact of Category 5 Hurricane Melissa, western Jamaica’s freight forwarding sector demonstrates remarkable resilience with sustained shipping volumes and record-breaking Black Friday performance. Major logistics providers and customs authorities report operational stability amid Christmas season demands, signaling economic recovery in the hardest-hit regions.

    ipCourier CEO Gavin Lindsay reveals unprecedented Black Friday shipment numbers from western parishes, indicating a rapid return to pre-hurricane consumer patterns. Meanwhile, AirDrop Shipping maintains shipment volumes comparable to last year despite infrastructure challenges, with minimal delivery delays reported across their St. James and Westmoreland operations.

    The Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) confirms operational readiness for seasonal demands, implementing extended working hours and staff reinforcements at western facilities. While acknowledging occasional clearance delays due to external factors like vessel scheduling and documentation errors, JCA emphasizes maintained processing efficiency for properly submitted goods.

    Post-hurricane shipping trends reveal significant shifts in consumer behavior, with substantial increases in generator imports and solar equipment following government tax waivers for recovery items. AirDrop’s customer service supervisor Ramiella Griffiths notes persistent e-commerce activity despite logistical constraints, with Christmas decorations and event-related shipments continuing alongside recovery-focused purchases.

    Logistics companies have adapted operations through data-driven capacity expansion and flexible storage policies, accommodating customers requiring extended collection deadlines due to displacement or communication challenges. The industry’s adaptive measures include temporary authorization protocol adjustments and promoted relief initiatives that have contributed to shipping volume recovery.

    While infrastructure limitations create space constraints for oversized items like generators, companies report innovative solutions through overseas warehouse coordination and prioritized air freight. The sustained online shopping trend reflects both necessity-driven purchasing and returning consumer confidence, with western Jamaican customers increasingly relying on doorstep delivery services where local retail options remain limited.

  • 6 qualities a man uses to measure a woman’s market value

    6 qualities a man uses to measure a woman’s market value

    Conventional wisdom often reduces male attraction to mere physical appearance, but a deeper analysis reveals a far more complex evaluation process. When assessing a potential partner, men are subconsciously analyzing a suite of profound qualities that signal long-term compatibility and value, moving well beyond initial looks. This nuanced appraisal focuses on traits that promise a stable, resilient, and fulfilling partnership.

    The foundation of this evaluation is emotional fortitude. Men are instinctively drawn to women who demonstrate grace under pressure and the capacity to navigate life’s inevitable turmoil without excessive reactivity. A history of overcoming adversity—be it divorce, heartbreak, or the challenges of single motherhood—is not a liability but a testament to proven resilience. This ability to carry responsibility and emerge with an intact spirit is perceived as a prime indicator of maturity and a cornerstone for a stable future together.

    Closely linked is the undeniable power of self-worth and authentic confidence. A woman who possesses a clear sense of her own value and refuses to settle communicates a powerful message of self-respect. This is manifested not through arrogance, but through the establishment of healthy boundaries, clear communication of needs, and a purposeful direction in life. Such traits significantly elevate a woman’s perceived value far beyond any transient superficial attribute.

    Furthermore, life experience, often misconstrued as baggage, is reassessed as a badge of honor. The depth of responsibility demonstrated through raising children, managing a household, or building a career while healing from past wounds showcases capability, dependability, and strength. For a man seeking a true life partner, these are prized assets that signal a proven ability to handle real-world challenges.

    At the core of a serious commitment lies the non-negotiable element of character and spiritual alignment. A man with intentionality will meticulously measure a woman’s integrity, values, and inner maturity. He seeks a partner whose life reflects essential virtues like kindness, honesty, and patience—a true equal who can walk beside him in interdependence, not neediness.

    Contrary to the stereotype of stoic independence, men deeply desire emotional connection. They value a woman’s capacity for balanced love, care, and empathy—a nurturing spirit that provides support and encouragement while standing firm during difficult seasons. This is complemented by an appreciation for practical life management skills. A woman’s competence in handling finances, domestic affairs, and interpersonal relationships signals an ability to foster stability and adeptly solve problems, making her an invaluable partner.

    The ultimate conclusion is that while some may be deterred by a complex past, the right man will see beyond historical circumstances. He will measure the strength of character over the existence of scars, and the depth of person over any prior drama. A woman who truly understands her own worth does not seek validation; she embodies it, and in doing so, naturally attracts a partner who will not only recognize but fully invest in her immense value.

  • Can a married parent add a child to their title?

    Can a married parent add a child to their title?

    Legal expert Margarette Macaulay has provided authoritative guidance on property ownership rights for married women in Jamaica, addressing a common inquiry about transferring property to children without spousal consent. The clarification comes in response to a reader’s question regarding whether a married woman can add her child’s name to a property deed where the husband holds no financial interest.

    According to Macaulay, a married woman who is the sole legal proprietor of a property—having purchased it independently with personal funds—retains the legal right to execute a transfer to herself and her child as joint proprietors. This transfer can be structured either as joint tenancy or tenancy-in-common, provided the property does not qualify as the ‘family home’ under Jamaica’s Property Rights of Spouses Act.

    The critical distinction lies in the property’s classification. The Act defines ‘family home’ as property wholly or partially owned by either spouse and habitually used as the principal family residence. Properties acquired before marriage, inherited assets, gifts intended for sole benefit, or properties obtained during short-term marriages typically fall outside this definition. If the property qualifies as the family home, the spouse’s agreement would be mandatory for any title changes.

    Macaulay recommends joint tenancy arrangements for parent-to-child transfers, explaining that this structure automatically passes full ownership to the surviving joint tenant upon death without probate complications. Alternatively, tenancy-in-common allows separate ownership interests but requires precise percentage definitions and involves more complex estate administration processes.

    The legal expert strongly advises consulting with an attorney-at-law before proceeding with any property transfer. Professional legal consultation ensures full disclosure of relevant facts and prevents potential future litigation from spouses claiming violations under the Property Rights of Spouses Act. This precautionary measure can save significant time, financial resources, and emotional distress in the long term.

    Margarette Macaulay, the responding expert, is a qualified attorney-at-law, Supreme Court mediator, notary public, and prominent advocate for women’s and children’s rights in Jamaica. Her response was published through the All Woman advisory column of the Jamaica Observer newspaper.

  • Fiancé left after I gave in

    Fiancé left after I gave in

    A relationship expert has responded to a poignant reader letter highlighting the emotional dangers of premarital intimacy testing, drawing from both personal testimony and psychological insight. The discussion emerged after a female reader recounted her traumatic experience with a former fiancé who insisted on testing sexual compatibility before marriage.

    The woman described how she reluctantly acquiesced to her ex-fiancé’s demands, subsequently became pregnant, and was abandoned when he declared them ‘incompatible.’ The situation escalated into personal devastation and community scandal, particularly when he married another woman. Though she eventually found love and marriage herself, the memory resurfaced painfully upon reading a similar contemporary query.

    The counselor acknowledged that men proposing such ‘tests’ often demonstrate selfishness and poor judgment while failing to comprehend the profound emotional consequences. However, he cautioned against blanket characterizations of all men as ‘users,’ noting the complex social pressures men face regarding sexual expectations. Peer pressure from friends and family—often expressed through mocking commentary—can create significant dilemma for men choosing abstinence.

    Additionally, women may inadvertently contribute to this dynamic by questioning a man’s devotion or health if he doesn’t initiate sexual activity. The counselor cited Dr. Myles Munroe’s observation that sexual drive represents humanity’s most powerful biological force, frequently compelling unwise decisions as evidenced by high-profile cases like Jeffrey Epstein and Harvey Weinstein.

    Globally, statistics indicate an average of nine sexual partners per individual according to World Population Review data, highlighting widespread promiscuity challenges. The emotional, physical, financial, and spiritual consequences can be devastating without proper desire management.

    The expert referenced biblical wisdom from Romans 7:15, where Apostle Paul describes the human struggle between intention and action, ultimately finding strength through spiritual conviction. The counselor advised the reader to pursue forgiveness, recognize her gained wisdom, and appreciate her current life including her child. He offered continued support through convenient online sessions, praying for her emotional healing and liberation from past trauma.

    Readers seeking guidance may contact Reverend Christopher Brodber via The Counsellor’s Couch column at the Jamaica Observer.

  • Monday, December 8, 2025

    Monday, December 8, 2025

    The Summit in New Kingston transformed into an epicenter of sophisticated musical artistry last Thursday evening as vocalist Apryl Jaye headlined the second annual ‘Jazz Must Be: A Night of Jazz Fusion, Tribute and Community Giving’. The culturally significant event, operating under the official patronage of Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Olivia Grange and presented by Island Car Rentals, delivered an immersive auditory experience that masterfully intertwined jazz, reggae, and R&B influences.

    Attendees, elegantly adorned in all-white or predominantly white attire in accordance with the dress code, were treated to a dynamically curated two-hour performance. The setlist featured profound musical homages to legendary reggae icons including Dennis Brown, Gregory Isaacs, Delroy Wilson, and John Holt, alongside soulful nods to R&B powerhouses Angie Stone and D’Angelo.

    Jaye’s artistic vision was brought to life by an ensemble of exceptionally talented musicians: percussionist Keniel Delisser, bassist Dale Brown, trumpeter Okiel McIntyre, guitarist Lamont Savory, and keyboardist Gregory Palmer. The evening was further elevated by a special guest appearance from acclaimed reggae artist Duane Stephenson, adding another layer of musical depth to the proceedings.

    In a heartfelt post-performance reflection, Jaye expressed profound appreciation for the overwhelming public support and the full venue. ‘Witnessing a completely packed house left me absolutely awestruck. I’m immensely grateful that annually, I continue to find an audience that genuinely values my artistic contributions—it means everything,’ the vocalist shared.

    The event transcended mere musical performance, serving as a gathering point for Kingston’s diverse professional and social circles. Notable attendees included Red Stripe Brand Manager Amoye Phillpotts-Brown, financial advisor Theodore Williams with technology consultant Olivia Leslie, and fashion standout Joamie Tweed of Tweed Business Solutions, who showcased a sophisticated short suit ensemble from Zara.

    Adding to the evening’s significance, firefighter Joseph Thomas and his wife Kaydian, a payroll officer, selected the jazz concert as the perfect backdrop to commemorate their 20th wedding anniversary. Meanwhile, Administrative Assistant Marlene Thorpe attended with her daughter Abigail, sisters Almarie Fuller and Annette Harris, alongside Councillor Andrew Harris of the Jamaica Labour Party, representing the Hughenden Division, demonstrating the event’s broad community appeal.

  • Struggle love

    Struggle love

    The romanticized concept of ‘struggle love’—relationships characterized by intense passion but severe financial hardship—is facing renewed scrutiny from counseling professionals and women sharing their lived experiences. This dynamic often sees one partner, typically the woman, making extreme sacrifices to sustain the relationship amidst poverty.

    Counselor David Anderson challenges the popular notion that financial strife strengthens relationships. “While some believe true partnerships are forged through mutual building, this premise only holds when there’s little to no actual struggling involved,” Anderson explained. “The trauma associated with persistent poverty often undermines relationship foundations rather than strengthening them.”

    Five women shared their powerful testimonies about the reality of struggle love relationships:

    Kym, now 33, reflected on her teenage relationship where she became a live-in housekeeper for her boyfriend’s extended family of eleven. “At 19, I mistook attention for love,” she recalled. “It took three years to realize I had become an unpaid domestic servant to his entire household.”

    Andrene, 27, described taking out a high-interest loan to finance her partner’s taxi business, only to find herself solely responsible for both household expenses and debt repayment. “He operated the taxi while I worked multiple jobs to cover our bills and the loan payments,” she revealed.

    Terika, 30, supported her partner’s music career through extreme deprivation. “He praised my ability to ‘hold it down’ with minimal resources,” she said. “The reality was constant hunger and weight loss until his success led him to abandon me for groupies.”

    Joette, 35, endured years of financial instability exacerbated by her partner’s gambling addiction. “We survived primarily through his mother’s support from England,” she shared. “After her passing, his immediate suggestion that I seek help from my parents revealed his perpetual dependency mindset.”

    Nita, 29, a single mother, briefly entertained a mechanic’s promises of support before recognizing the pattern. “He expected me to fund our household while his earnings disappeared mysteriously,” she stated. “I chose purposeful single motherhood over subsidizing a partner’s irresponsibility.”

    These accounts collectively demonstrate how struggle love frequently becomes a one-sided arrangement where women bear disproportionate financial and emotional burdens, often mistaking sacrifice for romantic commitment.

  • Lando Norris pakt eerste wereldtitel na zinderende finale

    Lando Norris pakt eerste wereldtitel na zinderende finale

    In a spectacular climax to the Formula 1 season, British racing driver Lando Norris has secured his maiden World Championship title following an extraordinary campaign of consistent excellence. The 26-year-old McLaren driver clinched the championship with a second-place finish in the season’s final Grand Prix, outperforming defending champion Max Verstappen in a dramatic points battle that culminated in Abu Dhabi.

    The 2025 season witnessed intense on-track rivalries, variable racing conditions, and high-stakes strategic gambles throughout the calendar. Norris demonstrated remarkable composure and maturity under pressure, delivering podium finishes with unwavering consistency that ultimately secured his championship victory.

    McLaren team principal Andrea Stella hailed the achievement as “a historic milestone for our organization and a thoroughly deserved culmination of Lando’s exceptional performance this season. His driving has been phenomenally strong, remarkably consistent, and mentally razor-sharp throughout the championship campaign.”

    Norris, who made his Formula 1 debut in 2019, has long been recognized for both his raw speed and immense popularity among motorsport enthusiasts. Visibly emotional after securing the title, the young champion reflected: “I’ve dedicated my entire life to this moment. It still feels completely surreal.”

    This championship marks McLaren’s first drivers’ title since Lewis Hamilton’s victory in 2008, signaling the team’s remarkable resurgence in Formula 1. Through meticulous technical development and strategic excellence, the Woking-based outfit has methodically rebuilt its competitive capabilities to return to the pinnacle of motorsport achievement.