In a landmark move towards regional integration, the free movement of nationals among St Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG), Barbados, Dominica, and Belize officially commenced on October 1. This initiative, facilitated by recent legislative amendments in SVG, marks a significant step in the Caribbean Community (Caricom) Single Market and Economy (CSME) framework, which aims to promote the unrestricted flow of goods, services, labor, and skills across member states. The new policy allows citizens of these four nations to travel, reside, and work indefinitely in each other’s territories without requiring work permits or CARICOM Skills Certificates, previously mandated for such movements.
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Legal fraternity in western Jamaica mourning passing of two in two days
The legal community in western Jamaica is in mourning following the sudden deaths of two distinguished members within a span of two days. The Cornwall Bar Association, led by attorney-at-law Michael Hemmings, expressed profound sorrow over the loss of Parish Court Judge Ruth Lawrence and attorney Denley Saddoo. Judge Lawrence, who passed away on Tuesday evening, was remembered for her dedication and service to the judiciary. Her death is currently under investigation by the Trelawny police as a suspected suicide. Just a day prior, the legal fraternity was struck by the untimely demise of Denley Saddoo, a respected defense attorney primarily practicing in Westmoreland. Hemmings, speaking at the Trelawny Parish Court in Duncans, described the losses as a ‘tragic moment’ for the association. Tributes were paid in both the St. James and Trelawny Parish Courts, with moments of silence observed to honor their contributions. The Cornwall Bar Association has called for support and kind words for the bereaved families during this difficult time.
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Man charged after $147,000 theft incident
In a recent development in Kingston, Jamaica, Fredrick Wizzard has been formally charged with receiving stolen property. The case revolves around a bag containing $147,000, which was reportedly stolen from a local shop. Wizzard appeared in the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court on Tuesday, where he vehemently denied the allegations, stating, ‘untruth them telling.’
According to reports, the bag was discovered by a witness shortly after the theft. The witness allegedly entrusted the bag to Wizzard, who purportedly promised to return it to its rightful owner. However, the money was never delivered, leading to Wizzard’s arrest and subsequent charges.
The court has granted Wizzard bail under specific conditions, requiring him to report to the Lawrence Tavern Police Station three times a week—on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The case is scheduled for trial on November 27, where further details are expected to emerge.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about property crimes and the challenges in ensuring justice in such cases. The community awaits the trial’s outcome to see how the legal system addresses this alleged breach of trust.
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Chief Justice pays tribute to late Judge Ruth Lawrence
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican legal community is in mourning following the passing of Judge Ruth Lawrence, a revered figure whose career was defined by unwavering integrity, profound compassion, and an unyielding commitment to justice. Chief Justice Bryan Sykes, in a heartfelt statement issued on Wednesday, expressed profound grief over her death, calling it “a profound loss to our judicial system and to all who had the privilege of knowing her.” Sykes also conveyed his deepest condolences on behalf of the judiciary to Lawrence’s family, colleagues, and friends.
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US shutdown frustrates tourists in Washington
A group of enthusiastic 10- and 11-year-old students from Georgia faced disappointment on Wednesday as their much-anticipated tour of the US Congress was abruptly canceled due to a government shutdown. The shutdown, which began at midnight, has led to the closure of numerous federal departments and agencies, leaving thousands of public sector workers furloughed. This occurred after lawmakers failed to reach an agreement on a funding deal to sustain government operations.
Cami Hamlin, the principal of Springdale Elementary School, expressed her frustration, noting the irony of the situation. ‘It’s unfortunate as we’ve been teaching the kids they’ve got to manage their own budget,’ she remarked, standing in front of the Congress building with dozens of other tourists. The shutdown, triggered by a political deadlock between President Donald Trump’s Republicans and opposing Democrats, has particularly impacted Washington, D.C., where the federal government is the largest employer and operates many popular tourist attractions.
Key landmarks such as the Washington Monument were closed to visitors on Wednesday due to staff shortages. However, institutions like the Smithsonian, which manages museums and the National Zoo, will remain open until Monday using prior-year funds. Tourists like Martine Ruaud from Bordeaux, France, expressed their disappointment. ‘There is so much to see and it’s annoying if tourists can’t come because there’s no staff,’ she said, adding, ‘It would be a shame if the country closed itself off.’
This shutdown marks the first since a record 35-day stalemate in 2019 during Trump’s first term. It comes as the president seeks to advance a hard-right agenda opposed by Democrats, particularly focusing on expiring healthcare subsidies that Democrats want reinstated in the federal budget. Visitors like Terese Johnston from California voiced their frustration with the political impasse. ‘I think our government needs to learn how to work together for the people,’ she said. ‘This should have been resolved a long time ago, and we should never come to this position.’
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32-y-o appeals for help with US$32,000 for urgent life-saving kidney transplant
Andrew Whyte, a 32-year-old LED technician from Mitchell Town, Clarendon, is urgently seeking public assistance to raise US$32,000 (approximately J$5 million) for a life-saving kidney transplant. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help cover the costs of his medical treatment. Whyte, who lives alone, is currently only able to work once or twice a week due to his debilitating symptoms, which include weakness, lightheadedness, and severe pain. His condition has worsened over the past two to three years, transitioning from hydronephrosis, a kidney infection, to complete kidney failure. Whyte now requires two weekly dialysis treatments, costing J$120,000 per month, which has placed a significant financial burden on him. Despite these challenges, he remains optimistic and encourages others to prioritize their health. ‘I would want everyone to pay keen attention to their health and get regular check-ups,’ he said. Those who wish to contribute to his GoFundMe campaign can do so via the provided link.
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Jamaica’s unemployment rate drops to 3.3 per cent in July 2025 — Statin Report
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Statistical Institute of Jamaica (Statin) unveiled encouraging data on Tuesday, revealing significant advancements in the nation’s labour market for July 2025. Compared to the same period in 2024, employment surged by 32,100 individuals, pushing the total employed labour force to 1,441,100. Notably, youth employment experienced a 7.2% rise, equating to 12,200 additional jobs. The wholesale and retail trade, along with motor vehicle and motorcycle repair sectors, emerged as the primary contributors to this growth. Simultaneously, underemployment—defined as part-time workers seeking more hours—declined by 5,400 to 25,400. Labour force participation also saw a notable uptick, increasing by 28,700 to 1,490,300, with males accounting for two-thirds of this rise. The overall participation rate stood at 69.1%, with males at 75.0% and females at 63.4%. Unemployment rates dropped from 3.6% in July 2024 to 3.3% in July 2025, driven largely by reductions among males and the prime working-age group (25-54 years). However, female unemployment saw a slight increase from 4.0% to 4.4%. Additionally, fewer individuals were outside the labour force, with the number decreasing from 694,200 to 665,500, particularly among males and prime working-age individuals. Statin emphasized that these findings underscore sustained positive momentum in Jamaica’s labour market, fostering economic stability and inclusive growth.
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White House says firings ‘imminent’ as plan to reopen govt collapses
The United States government shutdown intensified on Wednesday as congressional Democrats departed without resolving a funding impasse with President Donald Trump, while the White House hinted at potential mass layoffs in the public sector. The stalemate began after federal funding expired at midnight, forcing agencies to scale back operations. The White House issued warnings of “imminent” job cuts, heightening tensions. Senate Democrats, advocating for extended health care subsidies for low-income families, rejected a House-approved bill that would have temporarily reopened the government. With Senate voting adjourned until Friday, hopes for a swift resolution have dwindled. Approximately 750,000 federal employees face furloughs, a form of unpaid leave, while essential workers like military personnel and border agents may work without pay. The National Air Traffic Controllers Association raised concerns over air safety as over 2,300 members were sent home. This shutdown carries higher stakes than previous ones, as Trump pushes for hard-right policies, including significant government cuts and potential mass firings. White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt stated that the administration is identifying areas for layoffs. House Republicans passed a stop-gap funding measure to sustain federal operations through late November, but Senate Democrats refuse to support it without compromises on spending cuts, particularly in health care. Senate Republican leaders, needing eight Democratic votes to pass the bill, managed to sway three moderates in an initial vote but failed to secure additional support. Congress will not vote on Thursday due to the Jewish Yom Kippur holiday, but the Senate will reconvene on Friday, potentially working through the weekend. The House is not scheduled to return until next week.
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Buchanan’s bid to void St Andrew West Central election rejected
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Constituted Authority has dismissed a petition by Paul Buchanan, the defeated candidate in the St Andrew West Central constituency, seeking to nullify the results of the September 3 general election. Buchanan, representing the People’s National Party (PNP), lost to Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) leader and Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness, who secured 7,054 votes compared to Buchanan’s 4,953.
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World Championship medallist Stacey-Ann Williams gets grand welcome home
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Stacey-Ann Williams, the World Championship silver medallist, was warmly celebrated upon her return to Jamaica. The elite jewellery company Artwell and Co. hosted a special event to honor her remarkable achievements in athletics. Williams, who was part of the quartet that secured silver in the 4x400m relay at the 2025 World Athletics Championships, was presented with a custom gold and diamond pendant during the ceremony. Her boyfriend, Olympic bronze medallist Rasheed Broadbell, joined her in this moment of recognition. Andre Artwell, director of Artwell and Co., emphasized the importance of celebrating Jamaica’s talented individuals, stating, ‘Jamaica is blessed with colourful and talented people who often don’t get their flowers while they are alive. I want to be an agent of change in that regard. Stacey has done so much for Brand Jamaica, so I definitely think she truly deserves to be honoured. This is just Artwell and Co’s way of saying thank you, we are proud of you.’ Williams expressed her gratitude for the love and recognition she received, sharing the special moment with Broadbell, who is also an accomplished athlete in the sprint hurdle event.