Chief Justice Ian Winder has issued a stark warning about the potential risks of artificial intelligence (AI) in judicial processes, emphasizing that technology must never compromise the integrity of justice. Speaking at the opening of the Industrial Tribunal’s legal year, Justice Winder acknowledged the benefits of digital tools in enhancing efficiency and transparency but stressed the need for robust safeguards to prevent misuse. He highlighted the importance of maintaining judicial fairness, particularly in cases involving self-represented litigants, where AI can serve as a valuable aid when used responsibly. Justice Winder urged the tribunal to adopt guidelines recently issued by the Supreme Court on the ethical use of AI, ensuring that technological advancements do not undermine thoroughness or public trust. Industrial Tribunal President Indira Demeritte-Francis announced the launch of an AI pilot project aimed at assisting with legal research, judgment formatting, and case management. This initiative is part of a broader modernization effort, with its effectiveness set to be evaluated in 2026. The move follows a recent directive from the Supreme Court, prompted by an incident where an attorney submitted AI-generated “fake cases” in support of a legal argument. The directive underscores the need for accountability in AI usage, requiring court users to disclose AI involvement in document preparation and ensure the accuracy of submissions. Justice Winder also cautioned against inputting sensitive or privileged information into unsecured AI platforms, as such data could be inadvertently shared with other users. He emphasized that while AI can aid judicial processes, its deployment must never erode confidence in the impartiality and fairness of the courts.
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MBU returns to ‘iconic’ Jarrett Park as temporary home
Montego Bay United (MBU) has announced that it will temporarily host its home games at Jarrett Park for the upcoming months in the Jamaica Premier League. This decision comes after the Montego Bay Sports Complex, their usual venue, sustained severe damage during Hurricane Melissa on October 28th. The historic Jarrett Park, long celebrated as the spiritual home of football in western Jamaica, will serve as the interim home ground for MBU, starting with a match against Waterhouse Football Club on December 21st at 3:00 pm. The Montego Bay Sports Complex, which had been MBU’s home for the past two seasons, was devastated by the hurricane, with extensive damage to the football field and the 400m running track due to heavy clay soil deposits. Yoni Epstein, chairman of MBU, estimated that restoring the complex to its former state could cost approximately $300 million. Epstein emphasized that the move to Jarrett Park represents a significant step toward restoring normalcy and community spirit in Montego Bay after the hurricane’s destruction. Jarrett Park, a gift from the Kerr-Jarrett family to Montego Bay, has a rich history of hosting local, national, and international sporting events, including cricket and football competitions. Its reopening for Premier League football symbolizes resilience, unity, and the indomitable spirit of the community. The park has been the venue for legendary matches and unforgettable moments, including the finals of the daCosta Cup, Ben Francis Cup, and Olivier Shield, as well as home games for St James’ National Premier League champions Violet Kickers, Seba United, and Wadadah.
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Tunapuna man freed of gun charges
In a significant legal ruling, the High Court has dismissed all charges against Akim Jaggernauth, a Tunapuna man who spent five months in remand. The charges, which included shooting with intent, possession of a firearm, and possession of ammunition, were dropped after Master Rehanna Hosein found that the prosecution failed to establish a prima facie case against him. The decision followed a sufficiency hearing, where the court identified serious gaps in the evidence presented. The prosecution’s case relied heavily on a civilian witness who claimed to have seen Jaggernauth holding an object resembling a firearm before hearing explosions. However, the court noted that no firearm, ammunition, or spent shells were recovered, and there was no ballistic, medical, or forensic evidence to support the allegations. Additionally, a police search of Jaggernauth’s home yielded no weapons or clothing described in witness statements. Master Hosein emphasized that the witness’s account was inconsistent and lacked credibility, as he admitted to never seeing Jaggernauth fire anything. She concluded that the evidence, even at its highest, could not support a conviction. The court ordered Jaggernauth’s discharge on all counts under Section 24 of the Administration of Justice (Indictable Proceedings) Act. Defence attorney Yves Jacques Nicholson welcomed the ruling, stating that it reaffirms the importance of sufficiency hearings as a procedural safeguard in the criminal justice system. He emphasized that no one should stand trial based on conjecture or inference without a proper evidential foundation.
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Opposition demands clarity on Government’s US$150m loan to JPS
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The People’s National Party (PNP), Jamaica’s primary opposition party, has issued a stern call for the government to provide full transparency regarding a contentious $150 million (J$24 billion) loan extended to the Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS) and its handling of the company’s license negotiations. The PNP’s Spokesperson on Energy and Telecommunications, Phillip Paulwell, voiced significant concerns over the lack of critical details surrounding the loan in a statement released on Wednesday. Paulwell emphasized that the government has failed to address key questions, including the risks to taxpayers, the valuation of JPS assets, and the interest rate attached to the loan. He criticized the administration for committing such a substantial sum without disclosing terms that safeguard public interest. Paulwell further revealed that if the loan remains unpaid within two years, the government plans to convert the debt into equity, effectively acquiring JPS assets. He questioned the current valuation of these assets and whether such an assessment has been completed. Additionally, Paulwell raised concerns about JPS’s ability to secure the remaining $200 million of the $350 million it claims is necessary for full service restoration. He demanded clarity on which state agency will oversee the loan disbursement. The opposition also criticized the government for creating instability by sending JPS a letter hinting at a possible termination of its license in 2027. Paulwell urged the government to release the letter in full, asserting that Jamaicans deserve to understand the rationale behind such a destabilizing move. He highlighted the urgency of restoring power to thousands of Jamaicans and recommended leveraging the loan to secure concessions from JPS, including suspending its monopoly during national emergencies and allowing alternative energy sources to supply nearby households. Paulwell also warned of potential electricity price hikes and stressed the need for transparency on the restoration of liquefied natural gas (LNG) generation, which offers cost advantages over heavy fuel oil and diesel. The PNP reiterated its willingness to support responsible and transparent strategies to restore electricity and strengthen Jamaica’s energy resilience but vowed to oppose decisions that unduly burden taxpayers.
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Penal students to get government laptops on November 27
The Ministry of Education in Trinidad and Tobago is set to commence the distribution of laptops to students, starting on November 27. This initiative, announced in a media release on November 26, will first benefit students of Penal Secondary School. The distribution ceremony will be attended by Education Minister Dr. Michael Dowlath, senior ministry executives, and other government officials.
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Cops seize WiFi box, 62 phones, cocaine, cutlass in Arouca prison
In a meticulously planned intelligence-led operation, authorities uncovered a significant cache of contraband at the Maximum Security Prison in Arouca on November 25. The operation, which spanned from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM, was executed under the leadership of CoP Allister Guevarro, Acting Commissioner of Prisons Hayden Forde, DCP Suzette Martin, and Senior Superintendents Raymond Thom, Maynard-Wilson, and Gift. The contraband was discovered after officers navigated several meters through the prison’s ventilation system. The seized items included 62 cellular phones, 235 packs of cigarettes, three kilogrammes of marijuana, eight grammes of cocaine, a solar panel charger, wrapping paper, chargers, USB cords, tools such as screwdrivers and a hammer, a carving knife, a surge protector, a kettle, watches, a shortened cutlass, $2,012 in cash, electrical circuits powered by rechargeable batteries, headsets, digital scales, a WiFi box, power banks, men’s cologne, razor blades, and tattoo needles. The operation was supervised by Senior Superintendent Prisons Lee Davis, Superintendent Modestte, ASP Stanley, and included members of the Northern North Gang Unit, Northern North Task Force, DCP Operations Team, and the Prison Emergency Response Unit. Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
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UNC councillor’s family rejects ‘joint funeral’ offer
The family of Romona Victor, a 36-year-old UNC councillor from Siparia East/San Francique, has declined a proposal for a joint funeral with her common-law husband, Rodney Ramsumair. Victor’s decomposing body was discovered alongside Ramsumair’s on November 23, with investigators concluding that Ramsumair killed Victor before taking his own life. A note left at the scene, containing an apology from Ramsumair, suggested he could not live without her. Autopsies revealed Victor died from blunt-force trauma to her head and neck, while Ramsumair succumbed to poisoning. A bottle of herbicide was found at the scene. Victor’s funeral will be held on November 27 at Irwin Park, Siparia, with the Siparia Borough Corporation providing logistical support. Her father, Francis Victor, described the couple’s 16-year relationship as tumultuous, marked by frequent quarrels and reconciliations. The tragedy has sparked widespread grief and calls for greater protections for victims of domestic violence. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar praised Victor as a dedicated public servant, emphasizing the need for support systems for those facing silent struggles. Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles echoed these sentiments, urging bipartisan efforts to address gender-based violence.
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Sammy confident as WI seek to end 30-year drought in NZ
West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has expressed confidence in his team’s readiness as they prepare to face New Zealand in an upcoming Test series. Despite a challenging history in New Zealand, where the West Indies last won a Test match in 1987 and a series in 1995, Sammy remains optimistic about their prospects. The team’s recent performances in the T20I and One Day International (ODI) series against New Zealand, where they were competitive but fell short, have bolstered their morale. Sammy highlighted the team’s ability to create opportunities and their improved mindset as key factors heading into the Test series. The West Indies will play a two-day warm-up match against a New Zealand XI before the first Test begins on December 2. Sammy emphasized the importance of execution and the team’s determination to challenge New Zealand, aiming to end the year on a high note. Reflecting on their recent Test match against India, where they pushed the hosts into a fifth day, Sammy believes the West Indies have the potential to compete at the highest level. The three-match Test series presents an opportunity for the West Indies to rewrite their history in New Zealand and showcase their growing resilience and competitiveness.
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Former AG: By-Election a boost for Pintard, ‘knock in the head’ for PLP
The recent Golden Isles by-election has sparked significant political discourse, with former Attorney General Sean McWeeney, KC, offering a nuanced analysis of the results. While the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) emerged victorious with candidate Darron Pickstock securing 1,873 votes, the Free National Movement (FNM) led by Michael Pintard demonstrated notable strength by winning more polling divisions, capturing 1,636 votes. The Coalition of Independents (COI) trailed far behind with 348 votes, and independent candidate Karen Butler received a mere 16 votes. McWeeney highlighted that despite the PLP’s win, the FNM’s performance has bolstered Pintard’s leadership credibility, describing it as a political boost for the FNM leader. He emphasized that the FNM’s ability to secure a majority of polling divisions (8-6) underscores Pintard’s viability as a leader of a resurgent party. Conversely, McWeeney characterized the PLP’s narrow victory as a ‘knock in the head,’ particularly given the substantial resources deployed by the government. He cautioned the PLP against complacency, pointing to the national trend of one-term governments over the past two decades. McWeeney also critiqued the COI’s underwhelming performance, noting their failure to meet the legal threshold of 16.6 percent and their role as potential spoilers in future elections. He praised Pickstock’s campaign, acknowledging his rapid rise from a virtual unknown to a victorious candidate in just 41 days. Overall, McWeeney’s analysis suggests that the by-election results should serve as a wake-up call for the PLP while solidifying Pintard’s position within the FNM.
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Fire engulfs Hong Kong residential blocks, killing at least 13
A devastating fire broke out on Wednesday in the Wang Fuk Court residential estate in Tai Po, Hong Kong, claiming the lives of at least 13 people and injuring 15 others. The blaze, which began on bamboo scaffolding surrounding several high-rise apartment blocks, quickly spread, engulfing multiple buildings and sending thick plumes of smoke and flames into the sky. Witnesses reported hearing loud cracking sounds, likely from the burning bamboo, as the fire raged uncontrollably. By nightfall, the flames cast an eerie orange glow over the area, with firefighters struggling to contain the inferno. Authorities declared a five-alarm fire, the highest emergency level, as the situation worsened. Reports indicated that some residents were trapped inside the buildings, though rescue efforts were hampered by the intensity of the blaze. A 37-year-old firefighter lost his life while battling the flames, succumbing to severe burns. The government established temporary shelters for displaced residents and urged the public to avoid the area. This tragic incident has reignited concerns about fire safety in Hong Kong, particularly regarding the use of bamboo scaffolding, which has been linked to similar fires in recent months. While the cause of the fire remains under investigation, the event underscores the challenges of ensuring safety in one of the world’s most densely populated cities.