标签: Jamaica

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  • First group of 2026 seasonal agricultural workers depart for Canada

    First group of 2026 seasonal agricultural workers depart for Canada

    Jamaica has commenced its 2026 seasonal agricultural program with the inaugural departure of 182 workers to Canada, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s overseas employment initiatives. The send-off ceremony, held at Kingston’s Overseas Employment Centre, was presided over by Minister of Labour and Social Security Pearnel Charles Jr., who emphasized the program’s transformative impact on Jamaican families and national economic resilience.

    Minister Charles characterized the event as more than a mere departure, describing it as ‘a continuation of a proud legacy built on discipline, integrity, and hard work.’ Official statistics reveal that since January 1, 2025, over 15,000 Jamaicans have secured overseas employment in Canada and the United States, exceeding previous annual figures.

    The current cohort includes 97 workers who departed Tuesday with an additional 85 scheduled for Wednesday travel. These agricultural specialists will be dispersed across multiple Canadian provinces—Ontario, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland—where they will dedicate eight months to greenhouse operations and fruit and vegetable cultivation.

    A noteworthy 90% of the group consists of returning workers, indicating strong employer satisfaction and the program’s sustained success. The ceremony was attended by Canadian High Commissioner Mark Berman, alongside senior ministry officials and media representatives.

    Minister Charles highlighted the program’s particular importance following Hurricane Melissa, which has compromised housing and livelihoods throughout Jamaica. ‘Overseas employment provides stability, dignity, and a pathway for families to rebuild during this recovery period,’ he affirmed.

    As Jamaica approaches the 60th anniversary of the Seasonal Agricultural Workers Programme in 2026, the government reaffirmed its commitment to both preserving the program’s integrity and implementing modernizations for future sustainability. Workers were urged to maintain health and safety protocols, support fellow team members, and uphold Jamaica’s reputation for excellence.

  • Sean Paul’s ‘Like Glue’ is platinum

    Sean Paul’s ‘Like Glue’ is platinum

    Music producer Tony ‘CD’ Kelly’s visionary 2001 ‘Buy Out’ rhythm project has achieved a monumental milestone with Sean Paul’s iconic track ‘Like Glue’ receiving platinum certification in the United Kingdom. The British Phonographic Industry officially certified the song last Friday after it surpassed 600,000 units in combined sales and streams.

    The certification marks an extraordinary journey for the rhythm track that Kelly originally created in 1996 but shelved for five years before its eventual release. ‘Like Glue’ emerged as the most successful single from the compilation, reaching #3 on the UK Singles Chart, #13 on the Billboard Hot 100, and achieving top-10 status across multiple international markets including Canada, Australia, and several European countries.

    Kelly revealed in an exclusive interview that the rhythm’s creation stemmed from his experimental approach with new equipment. ‘I love to experiment and go against the grain,’ Kelly explained. ‘When I get new equipment, I dive into the sounds to see what may stimulate me and give me a vibe.’

    The ‘Buy Out’ rhythm spawned numerous hits including TOK’s ‘Money to Burn’, Mr Easy’s ‘She Drives Me Crazy’ (the first song recorded on the beat), Beenie Man’s ‘Miss LAP’, and Notch’s ‘Nuttin Nuh Go Suh’. All tracks were recorded at Kelly’s Lounge studio and released through his K-Licious label.

    This platinum certification represents Sean Paul’s tenth in the United Kingdom, solidifying his status as the most certified Jamaican artist in UK history. Kelly attributes the enduring success to the timeless quality of the music, noting that ‘classics are just that, classics’ and that new generations continue discovering the rhythm through social media and its inherent feel-good quality.

  • 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.

  • Grenada PM says US invasion of Venezuela pushes the region ‘into more instability’

    Grenada PM says US invasion of Venezuela pushes the region ‘into more instability’

    ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada — Grenadian Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell has issued a stern critique of recent geopolitical developments in Venezuela, asserting that military interventions have exacerbated regional instability rather than resolving conflicts. Speaking on the Grenada Broadcasting Network’s ‘Beyond the Headlines’ program, Mitchell emphasized that sustainable resolutions can only emerge through diplomatic engagement and mutual compromise.

    The Prime Minister, a practicing attorney, articulated his government’s firm stance on respecting international norms and the sovereignty of all Western Hemisphere nations. His comments appeared directed at Washington’s recent actions in Venezuela, though he carefully avoided explicit confrontation. When questioned about the United States’ declaration to ‘run’ Venezuela following President Nicolás Maduro’s capture, Mitchell responded with diplomatic circumspection: ‘A country runs its own country. The only way you can run another country is if that territory belongs to that country or is its colony.’

    Simultaneously, Mitchell revealed ongoing discussions with the United States regarding a proposed memorandum of understanding (MOU) concerning third-country nationals. This initiative forms part of Washington’s broader strategy to relocate asylum processing away from American soil. While acknowledging receipt of detailed proposal documents, Mitchell clarified that Grenada has not committed to any agreement. The arrangement would involve Grenada potentially hosting deportees on a case-by-case basis when the United States cannot repatriate them to their countries of origin.

    The Prime Minister confirmed that technical officers and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have engaged with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the US Embassy, but stressed that ‘to date we have not agreed to accept.’ Mitchell declined to disclose specifics about Grenada’s counter-proposal, citing national security considerations.

    These developments follow the US military’s incursion into Venezuelan territory over the weekend, which resulted in the capture of President Nicolás Maduro. The Venezuelan leader and his wife appeared in a Federal Court in New York on Monday, pleading not guilty to charges involving alleged collaboration with drug cartels to facilitate cocaine shipments into the United States. The case has been adjourned until March 17, with defendants facing potential life imprisonment if convicted.

  • 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.

  • European leaders voice support for Denmark after Trump claims on Greenland

    European leaders voice support for Denmark after Trump claims on Greenland

    BERLIN, Germany — A coalition of European heads of state issued a resolute declaration on Tuesday, reinforcing their staunch backing for Denmark’s sovereignty over Greenland. This show of solidarity comes in response to renewed expressions of interest from U.S. President Donald Trump in the autonomous Arctic territory, which possesses significant strategic and economic value.

    The leaders of France, Britain, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Spain joined Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in a powerful joint communiqué. They collectively affirmed that principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the inviolability of borders represent ‘universal values that we will ceaselessly uphold.’ This statement serves as a direct rebuttal to speculative remarks from Washington regarding Greenland’s future.

    Geopolitical tensions have been amplified by recent U.S. military engagements in Venezuela, prompting concerns among European allies about potential expansionist ambitions. Greenland’s vast deposits of untapped rare earth minerals, coupled with its strategic position along emerging Arctic shipping lanes created by melting polar ice, render it a territory of immense global importance. Furthermore, its location places it on the critical shortest flight path for missiles between Russia and the United States, hosting an existing American military installation.

    The European leaders emphasized that Arctic security constitutes a fundamental priority for the continent, describing it as indispensable for international and transatlantic stability. They highlighted NATO’s designation of the Arctic as a priority region and noted the increased presence and investments from European member states aimed at ensuring regional safety and deterring potential adversaries.

    The statement explicitly confirmed that Denmark, inclusive of Greenland, is an integral member of the NATO alliance. Consequently, the leaders argued that any framework for Arctic security must be developed collaboratively with all NATO allies, including the United States, and must rigorously adhere to the tenets of the UN Charter. They concluded by unequivocally stating, ‘Greenland belongs to its people. It is for Denmark and Greenland, and them only, to decide on matters concerning Denmark and Greenland,’ while simultaneously acknowledging the U.S. as an ‘essential partner’ in broader Arctic security efforts.

  • 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.

  • Guyana holding talks with US on refugees

    Guyana holding talks with US on refugees

    GEORGETOWN, Guyana – The Guyanese government has confirmed ongoing diplomatic negotiations with the United States regarding the potential acceptance of third-country nationals from the North American nation. Foreign Secretary Robert Persaud disclosed that these discussions focus on establishing a mutually beneficial framework aligned with both national priorities and U.S. objectives.

    This development occurs within the broader context of the second Trump administration’s intensified efforts to redirect asylum processing away from American soil. Since early 2025, Washington has systematically approached numerous Caribbean nations and other global partners to establish migration transfer agreements. The U.S. strategy involves designating participating nations as ‘safe third countries’ for asylum seekers and deported migrants.

    Notably, the United States has secured cooperation from several nations including Belize, Ecuador, Honduras, Uganda, Ghana, and Rwanda. The arrangement typically includes economic incentives such as tariff reductions and immigration concessions, though concerns persist regarding human rights protections for relocated individuals.

    Recent developments show expanding regional engagement, with both Dominica and Antigua and Barbuda announcing separate understandings with Washington. Dominican Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit characterized the agreement as strengthening bilateral relations and demonstrating regional partnership. Conversely, Antigua and Barbuda clarified that their arrangement constitutes a non-binding memorandum of understanding rather than a formal agreement, emphasizing that the U.S. approached over one hundred governments worldwide including multiple CARICOM members.

  • 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.

  • ‘NO WAR ON ATHLETES’

    ‘NO WAR ON ATHLETES’

    Amid escalating geopolitical tensions between the United States and Venezuela, Jamaica Olympic Association President Christopher Samuda has issued a compelling appeal to international sporting federations, urging them to shield American athletes from potential sanctions resulting from political conflicts.

    The diplomatic crisis emerged following US military operations in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of President Nicolas Maduro, who subsequently appeared in New York courts pleading not guilty to unspecified charges. President Trump’s administration has since extended military threats toward multiple nations including Colombia, Mexico, Iran, and Greenland, drawing comparisons to Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

    This geopolitical landscape raises concerns about potential repercussions in the sporting world. Russia’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine prompted indefinite bans from international competitions including the Olympic Games, FIFA, and World Athletics. Historical precedents show that nations like South Africa, Iraq, Belarus, and Libya have faced similar sporting sanctions during periods of military aggression.

    Samuda articulated a principled stance emphasizing that athletes should never bear consequences for political actions beyond their control. “Athletes are not architects of war; they do not make war and therefore should never be considered as pawns in any political matrix of war,” he stated emphatically.

    The JOA president further emphasized the professional and personal dimensions of athletic careers, noting that competition represents both livelihood and national duty for competitors. “We must be sensitive to athletes who have families and responsibilities while representing their countries,” Samuda added, highlighting the human impact of potential sporting sanctions.

    Calling for stronger mechanisms to insulate sports from political interference, Samuda warned that increasing political intrusion requires developed frameworks at both national and global levels. His comments come as the United States prepares to host two premier international sporting events: the upcoming FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

    The sporting world now faces critical questions about maintaining the separation between athletic competition and geopolitical conflicts, with Samuda’s intervention adding weight to the ongoing debate about protecting athletes from political fallout.