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  • SHOWDOWN OVER KINGSTON’S SKYLINE

    SHOWDOWN OVER KINGSTON’S SKYLINE

    Jamaica’s National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) has significantly intensified its regulatory oversight, rejecting seven multi-storey residential proposals throughout 2025 amid growing concerns about excessive urban density and environmental compliance. This represents a notable increase from the five refusals recorded in 2024, with the majority concentrated in Kingston and St. Andrew where land scarcity continues to drive developers toward increasingly intensive projects.

    The agency’s decisions reveal a pattern of rejecting developments that exceed established planning thresholds rather than merely addressing procedural deficiencies. In Kingston 6, NEPA dismissed two high-density housing proposals containing 78 and 82 units respectively at Dillsbury Avenue locations, declaring them ‘premature and overintensive’ for the Jack’s Hill area. The agency determined that both projects surpassed approved density levels and plot area ratios for the locale.

    Critical examination of refusal notices indicates NEPA’s heightened focus on substantive planning violations including excessive densities, inadequate sewage treatment solutions, and unsuitable site conditions. A Russell Heights development was rejected for proposing 50 habitable rooms per acre where only 30 were permitted, while a Barbican Heights project faced refusal due to steep slopes and unstable limestone formations that rendered the site inappropriate for intensive construction.

    Wastewater management emerged as a decisive factor in multiple rejections. Proposals in Arlene Gardens and Pigeon Valley were refused primarily due to absent or inadequate sewage treatment plans, with NEPA warning of potential environmental and public health risks. A Westmoreland project met similar resistance on sewage-related grounds.

    This regulatory hardening occurs against a backdrop of significant legal challenges that have exposed weaknesses in Jamaica’s development approval framework. The protracted legal battle over the Birdsucker Drive apartment complex resulted in the Supreme Court overturning permits granted by both NEPA and the Kingston and St. Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) in 2020, though the Court of Appeal partially reversed this decision in June 2025. The case prompted KSAMC to implement procedural reforms aimed at preventing future legal challenges and ensuring proper community consultation.

    NEPA’s stringent approach extends beyond residential projects. The agency refused a commercial subdivision in St. Catherine for violating agricultural zoning regulations and rejected a slaughterhouse operation in St. Elizabeth due to inadequate effluent treatment and odor control measures, citing environmental safety concerns.

  • Dwight Smith takes over as head coach of Spanish Town Police FC

    Dwight Smith takes over as head coach of Spanish Town Police FC

    In a strategic move to revitalize their faltering campaign, Spanish Town Police FC has announced the appointment of Dwight Smith as their new head coach for the remainder of the Wray and Nephew Jamaica Premier League season. The 39-year-old tactician, who currently manages Old Harbour United—the recent acquirer of Spanish Town Police—steps into the role following the departure of Brian Spencer.

    Smith brings a wealth of coaching experience and a proven track record of success. He rose to prominence as the assistant coach to Vassell Reynolds during Kingston College’s triumphant 2024 season, where the team secured both the prestigious Manning Cup and the all-island Olivier Shield titles. His coaching credentials are further bolstered by his possession of CONCACAF B and C licenses, and he is nearing completion of his UEFA C License, demonstrating a commitment to professional development.

    The challenge ahead is significant. Smith takes command of a squad entrenched at the bottom of the 14-team league table. Spanish Town Police has managed a mere eight points from 14 matches, a record marred by 10 defeats and only two victories. Smith’s extensive background, which includes roles as assistant coach at Vere United (Jamalco), head coach of the Vere Women’s team, head coach of Clarendon Under-15, and a lengthy tenure as head coach at Kemps Hill High School from 2012 to 2023, will be crucial in orchestrating a turnaround for the beleaguered club. The appointment is effective immediately as the team seeks to climb from its current position.

  • STEAM gifts for children in the west

    STEAM gifts for children in the west

    In a significant educational outreach effort, Jamaican authorities have distributed approximately 1,400 STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) educational kits to children across hurricane-impacted regions of Montego Bay, Negril, and Black River. The initiative, spearheaded by Minister Andrew Wheatley from the Office of the Prime Minister with responsibility for Science, Technology and Special Projects, represents a strategic shift from traditional Christmas gift-giving toward substantive educational support.

    The distribution occurred during the inaugural Black River Fireworks Festival’s Kiddies Treat segment on December 31, an event specifically designed to boost community morale following Hurricane Melissa’s devastation. Minister Wheatley emphasized that these carefully selected gifts—including science kits, biological kits, Lego sets, and chess boards—aim to stimulate cognitive development, creativity, and problem-solving skills among children aged 0-13.

    This comprehensive program operates through a collaboration between three key institutions: the International Commission on Science and Technology, the Scientific Research Council, and the National Foundation for Scientific Development. The minister highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by communities, noting that numerous schools sustained damage and many families remain displaced following the hurricane’s impact.

    The Black River Fireworks Festival itself, themed ‘Life, Love and Recovery,’ provided a family-oriented celebration to welcome the new year while addressing the psychological and educational needs of affected children. This initiative represents a dual approach to post-disaster recovery, combining immediate festive enjoyment with long-term investment in Jamaica’s future technological and scientific capabilities through youth engagement.

  • Fortuna Belle the top pick in Security Department Trophy

    Fortuna Belle the top pick in Security Department Trophy

    Caymanas Park prepares to host the prestigious $1.25-million Security Department Trophy this weekend, featuring an elite field of eleven thoroughbreds competing over the challenging 5-furlong straight course. The Overnight Allowance contest for three-year-olds and upward highlights Saturday’s nine-race card, drawing particular attention to several standout performers based on recent form and training patterns.

    Among the top contenders, Zulu Warrior demonstrates remarkable consistency with consecutive second-place finishes in his previous outings. The five-year-old chestnut horse, sired by Soul Warrior out of Lookatmenow, appears perfectly suited to the distance and is expected to mount a serious challenge for the championship title.

    Fortuna Belle (USA) presents another compelling case for victory following an impressive third-place debut behind California Crown at 5.5 furlongs last November. The dark bay/brown mare, descended from Uncaptured and Double Seven, has shown exceptional training form and possesses the pedigree to potentially lead the field.

    Champion Bubbler (USA) merits consideration despite a disappointing performance in the Mouttet Mile. The seven-year-old bay mare has since dropped in class and demonstrated significant improvement during training sessions, positioning herself as a legitimate threat for top honors.

    Norblar brings proven experience at this distance, having secured third place behind Mighty Gully in previous competition. The six-year-old bay horse continues to show competitive form and should deliver another solid performance.

    Another One emerges as an interesting prospect following his recent victory at identical distance, clocking an impressive 58.3 seconds. The four-year-old bay colt represents a genuine contender based on his demonstrated speed capabilities.

    The remaining field includes several runners facing significant challenges: Laban struggles with inconsistent form, Major Danger (USA) seeks to break a ten-race winless streak, while A Gift From Ben, Divine Force (USA), Smart Trick, and Cookie Day N Night appear unlikely to challenge the established favorites based on current assessments.

  • Holness touts economic resilience and crime reduction, defends JPS loan

    Holness touts economic resilience and crime reduction, defends JPS loan

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Prime Minister Andrew Holness has declared Jamaica’s robust entry into 2026, highlighting exceptional economic resilience, historic crime reduction, and accelerated post-hurricane recovery efforts. The announcement came during a ceremonial equipment handover at the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) Hunts Bay Station in Kingston on Friday, where recovery crews were dispatched to western regions as part of a strategic national restoration initiative.

    Holness emphasized that Jamaica’s disaster response has outperformed many nations facing comparable hurricane impacts, with approximately 90% of national electricity restored and nearly 70% recovery achieved in the most severely affected parishes. The government’s recovery philosophy centers on ‘building forward’ rather than merely restoring damaged infrastructure, with plans deploying hurricane-rated poles, microgrids, underground lines, and resilient corridors to protect critical infrastructure including airports and medical facilities.

    A pivotal US$150 billion financing facility enabled JPS to deploy unprecedented resources—270 trucks and approximately 470 additional workers—bringing total manpower to nearly 900 line workers. Holness clarified this financing was deliberately separated from ongoing license negotiations to prevent delays in restoration, noting that JPS’s public service mission justifies government support despite its private ownership structure.

    Beyond infrastructure achievements, Holness pointed to two transformative national successes: economic vitality and public safety. The Planning Institute of Jamaica reported over 5% growth in Q3 2025, demonstrating remarkable economic rebound capacity following Hurricane Beryl’s devastation in 2024. This resilience, attributed to deliberate government policies, enabled recovery within the same year of impact—a historically unprecedented achievement.

    Simultaneously, Jamaica recorded its lowest murder rate in 31 years with 673 homicides, representing a 40% decline and third consecutive year of reductions. This breakthrough places Jamaica on trajectory toward the regional average of 15 murders per 100,000 people, signaling a profound shift in public safety outcomes.

  • Magnitude 5.6 earthquake jolts St Lucia

    Magnitude 5.6 earthquake jolts St Lucia

    A significant seismic event measuring 5.6 on the Richter scale occurred near the eastern Caribbean nation of St. Lucia on Friday evening, according to regional monitoring authorities. The tremor, which struck at precisely 5:48 PM local time, originated at a substantial depth of 30 kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface.

    The Trinidad-based Seismic Research Centre (SRC) at the University of the West Indies confirmed the earthquake’s epicenter was positioned in proximity to multiple Caribbean territories. Residents across the region reported feeling the quake, including those in Fort-de-France, Martinique (65 kilometers northeast of the epicenter), Roseau, Dominica (87 kilometers southeast), and Castries, St. Lucia (114 kilometers north-northeast).

    This seismic activity follows a pattern of tremors observed across the Caribbean region during the initial days of the new year. The SRC had previously documented three separate earthquakes affecting various Caribbean territories earlier on Friday, though none resulted in structural damage or casualties. Seismologists continue to monitor the region’s activity closely, noting that the Caribbean’s complex tectonic environment makes it prone to such events.

    Emergency management officials across affected islands have confirmed no immediate reports of infrastructure damage, injuries, or tsunami alerts following the substantial tremor. The event serves as a reminder of the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity and the importance of robust disaster preparedness systems.

  • We Jammin dominates Wayne DaCosta Jamaica Two-Year-Old Stakes

    We Jammin dominates Wayne DaCosta Jamaica Two-Year-Old Stakes

    In a spectacular display of equine prowess, the chestnut colt We Jammin delivered a commanding performance to seize the $4-million Wayne DaCosta Jamaica Two-Year-Old Stakes on December 26, 2025. Trained by Peter-John Parsard and expertly ridden by jockey Omar Walker, the promising two-year-old dominated the one-mile Futurity contest at 1,600 meters, crossing the finish line with an impressive six-length margin in a time of 1:42.2.

    Parsard expressed no surprise at the emphatic victory, revealing his longstanding confidence in the colt’s exceptional abilities. “The horse is a very talented horse; he has a lot of heart and a lot of fight,” Parsard stated, referencing We Jammin’s previous maiden win at seven furlongs despite being short of work and running without Lasix medication.

    The victory strategy unfolded perfectly as We Jammin broke well at the start, settling behind Salute The Don (ridden by Dane Dawkins) for most of the race. As the field entered the final stretch, Walker positioned his mount for a decisive move, overtaking the leader with a powerful surge that secured an uncontested victory. Salute The Don maintained second position, followed by Fernando (ridden by Dane Nelson) in third.

    Parsard credited owner Paul Lumsden’s dedication to the sport, noting: “He has been in racing for so long and he has put so much into it—heart, sweat, blood, money, everything.” The trainer also highlighted the colt’s significant improvement since his debut and expressed optimism for the 2026 racing season.

    Jockey Walker echoed the confidence in the champion colt, stating: “I know this horse inside and outside. He stays forever; he is a very good horse. As long as he keeps sound and nothing goes wrong with him, he is going to be a tough nut to crack.”

    With this victory marking his second win from two starts, We Jammin has firmly established himself as a leading contender for the Champion Two-Year-Old title, signaling the emergence of a potentially dominant force in Jamaican horse racing.

  • PNP calls for independent probe after New Year’s triple deaths in St James

    PNP calls for independent probe after New Year’s triple deaths in St James

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica’s political opposition has intensified calls for an impartial investigation into a controversial security operation that resulted in three fatalities, including a four-year-old child, sparking public outrage and protests. The incident occurred in the early hours of New Year’s Day in Granville, St James, when security forces engaged in an operation that led to the deaths of two adult males and the young child.

    The People’s National Party (PNP), through its Shadow Minister of National Security Fitz Jackson, issued a formal statement expressing profound condolences to the bereaved families while demanding immediate transparency from authorities. While recognizing the challenging circumstances facing law enforcement personnel, particularly during holiday periods, the opposition emphasized that the child’s death warranted exceptional scrutiny and accountability.

    “The tragic loss of life, especially involving a minor, demands an immediate, independent, and transparent investigation,” Jackson stated. “Every Jamaican citizen deserves to feel secure and protected. We urgently call upon the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) and all relevant oversight bodies to conduct a comprehensive examination to establish factual accuracy and ensure accountability.”

    The PNP further advocated for a critical review of existing engagement protocols between security forces and communities, emphasizing the necessity of enhanced dialogue with community leaders to prevent recurrence of such incidents. The party maintained that sustainable reduction in violent crime fundamentally depends on establishing trust between citizens and the security apparatus designed to protect them.

    Public confidence in law enforcement agencies hinges on demonstrated professionalism, adequate training, and transparent oversight mechanisms, particularly during operations that potentially endanger civilians, Jackson added. The incident has triggered significant community protests in Granville, with residents demanding justice and systemic reforms in security operations.

  • UDC fireworks festival signals renewal for Black River

    UDC fireworks festival signals renewal for Black River

    The historic town of Black River in St Elizabeth parish has staged a triumphant comeback with its inaugural fireworks festival, serving as a powerful symbol of community resilience following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa. Organized by the Urban Development Corporation (UDC), the event formed part of nationwide New Year’s celebrations across five Jamaican locations including Kingston, Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, and Negril.

    UDC General Manager Robert Honeyghan characterized the festival as representing ‘renewal and rebirth’ for a community that has demonstrated remarkable fortitude. ‘We’ve gone really big and really broad this year,’ Honeyghan told journalists during Wednesday’s festivities. ‘Everyone has come out in renewal and rebirth after transcending significant challenges.’

    The family-oriented celebration featured dedicated children’s areas, amusement rides, and a vibrant food village while stimulating economic activity along the Black River waterfront. The strong turnout particularly impressed officials given the category-five hurricane’s severe impact on the region just months earlier.

    Local leaders emphasized the psychological significance of the event. Floyd Green, Minister of Agriculture and MP for St Elizabeth South West, noted: ‘Nothing can stop the people of St Elizabeth. The hurricane might’ve taken houses and businesses, but it cannot take our spirits.’

    Black River Mayor Richard Solomon described the festival as a ‘phoenix rising from the ash’ moment for the historic community. He commended the collaborative efforts between UDC, the St Elizabeth Municipal Corporation, and essential agencies that made the event possible while acknowledging first responders’ continued service throughout the hurricane crisis.

  • DaCosta secures fourth-consecutive trainers’ championship in thrilling finish

    DaCosta secures fourth-consecutive trainers’ championship in thrilling finish

    In a dramatic conclusion to Jamaica’s horse racing season, Jason DaCosta secured his fourth consecutive trainers’ championship despite facing a formidable challenge from rival Anthony Nunes. The championship hung in the balance during the prestigious US$300,000 Mouttet Mile on December 6, where Nunes needed only a victory to overtake DaCosta’s nearly $15 million lead.

    The race unfolded with unexpected results: DaCosta’s horse Funcaandun captured third place, earning $4 million, while Nunes’ contenders Nautical Star and Tiz Tok failed to deliver strong performances. This outcome expanded DaCosta’s post-race advantage to $11 million, ultimately securing his championship victory by a final margin of $6,142,250.

    Reflecting on his hard-fought victory, DaCosta expressed gratitude to his supporters: ‘I’m feeling good. It was a lot of hard work, it was a tough year, but I’m glad I got it done. I have to give thanks to all the owners who supported me and my crew, my team, everybody who worked hard all year.’

    The final statistics revealed DaCosta’s exceptional season performance: 75 winners, 64 second-place finishes, and 56 third-place results from 460 starts, accumulating $83,980,350 in stakes. Nunes concluded with 72 winners, 63 seconds, and 58 thirds from 466 starts, earning $77,838,100.

    Despite his victory, DaCosta raised concerns about the championship format, questioning whether a single race should determine an entire season’s outcome. ‘I don’t think it is fair. I mean, it is too large of a gap. One race can erase an entire year’s work,’ he stated, suggesting promoters consider eliminating such high-stakes races from championship calculations.

    This fourth consecutive title solidifies DaCosta’s dominance in Jamaican horse racing, extending his winning streak through 2022, 2023, 2024, and now 2025, establishing him as one of the nation’s most accomplished trainers.