Carib Scope

标签： Jamaica

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  • Unsafe to eat

    Unsafe to eat

    In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, which struck Jamaica on October 28, the Public Health Department has ordered the destruction of 5,661 kilogrammes of food deemed unsafe for consumption. The decision followed inspections of 5,052 food handling establishments, as disclosed by Minister of Health and Wellness Dr. Christopher Tufton in Parliament on Tuesday. The hurricane, a Category 5 storm, left several south-western parishes without electricity, severely disrupting food safety and public health systems.

    Dr. Tufton emphasized the government’s efforts to monitor large farms and food processing facilities to prevent unsafe food from entering the supply chain and to avert potential outbreaks of food-borne diseases. He assured that safety measures would be intensified as access to previously marooned communities improves. Opposition health spokesman Dr. Alfred Dawes echoed the need for vigilance, warning that diseases such as dysentery, dengue, and cholera could emerge in the aftermath of the disaster.

    The hurricane caused catastrophic damage to health infrastructure across the island, particularly in the southern and western regions. Seven hospitals, including Black River, Noel Holmes, and Cornwall Regional, suffered extensive roof and structural damage. A field hospital has been established in Black River, with plans for additional facilities in Falmouth and Savanna-la-Mar. Over 100 health centres also reported damage, severely impacting primary care services.

    Despite these challenges, the Ministry of Health has initiated a three-phase recovery plan. The first phase focuses on restoring basic health services, preventing disease outbreaks, and addressing staff welfare. Dr. Tufton highlighted that 79% of healthcare professionals have returned to work, enabling the resumption of critical services such as maternal and child health care, HIV treatment, and immunizations in 30% of damaged facilities.

    The government’s response also includes mass environmental health actions, psychosocial interventions, and infrastructure repairs. Dr. Tufton stressed the importance of rebuilding the health system to be more resilient, stating, ‘We must build back better.’ The Ministry continues to urge citizens to practice proper hygiene, use safe water sources, and report any illness symptoms promptly.

  • OECS launches first of a kind student census in the region

    OECS launches first of a kind student census in the region

    The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) has initiated a pioneering region-wide student census, marking a historic milestone in educational development. This comprehensive initiative aims to directly influence the future of education by capturing the voices of every student from kindergarten to secondary level across the OECS member states. Dr Didacus Jules, the OECS Director General, emphasized the transformative potential of this effort, stating, ‘For the first time anywhere in the world, every student will participate in a single, region-wide census. This is not a sample or a survey of a few, but a true census ensuring every child is heard.’

    The census, described as a ‘student-voice census,’ is designed to provide accurate, up-to-date insights into the needs and aspirations of students. Sisera Simon, head of the Human and Social Division at the OECS Commission, highlighted its significance, noting, ‘This initiative empowers us to make informed decisions, close gaps, and unlock the full potential of our young people.’ The data collected will directly inform the new 10-Year OECS Education Sector Strategy (2027-2037), ensuring it is grounded in the lived experiences of students.

    Students from Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Kitts-Nevis, Montserrat, the British Virgin Islands, and Anguilla are invited to participate anonymously. Their honest feedback on learning, teaching, and school life will provide critical insights for education leaders to improve classroom environments, teaching methods, and overall education systems. The OECS Commission has assured that all data will remain confidential, enabling students to express themselves freely and safely.

    This initiative represents a bold step toward creating more inclusive, equitable, and student-centred education systems across the region. By amplifying the voices of over 100,000 learners, the OECS Student Census aims to address the true realities of students today and shape a brighter future for education in the Eastern Caribbean.

  • St Vincent PM promises lawsuit over Opposition candidates’ Canadian citizenship

    St Vincent PM promises lawsuit over Opposition candidates’ Canadian citizenship

    In a significant development ahead of St Vincent and the Grenadines’ November 27 general election, Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves has announced plans to challenge the eligibility of opposition candidates holding dual citizenship in court. Addressing supporters of the ruling Unity Labour Party (ULP) on Tuesday, Gonsalves, who is seeking a historic sixth consecutive term, revealed that the ULP had attempted to block the nomination of New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Dr Godwin Friday and East Kingstown candidate Fitz Bramble due to their Canadian citizenship. Both candidates, born in St Vincent and the Grenadines, acquired Canadian citizenship as adults. Gonsalves cited Section 26 of the Constitution, which disqualifies individuals who voluntarily acknowledge allegiance to a foreign power, emphasizing that this provision was reinforced by a 2020 Court of Appeal ruling. He highlighted that Friday had publicly admitted to possessing a Canadian passport, while Bramble reportedly acknowledged his Canadian citizenship during his nomination interview. Despite these challenges, Friday confirmed his successful nomination in a social media video, vowing to proceed with the election. Gonsalves, a seasoned attorney, stressed the need for concrete evidence to support the legal challenge, signaling a contentious battle over constitutional interpretation in the lead-up to the polls.

  • Solar storm brings new chance of vivid auroras, signal disruptions

    Solar storm brings new chance of vivid auroras, signal disruptions

    Unprecedented auroral displays, typically confined to polar regions, have illuminated skies at unusually low latitudes this week, captivating observers worldwide. The phenomenon, driven by intense solar activity, is expected to persist into Thursday, according to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). These breathtaking light shows are the result of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) — massive bursts of solar particles that trigger geomagnetic storms upon reaching Earth. On Tuesday, a level four geomagnetic storm (on a scale of five) occurred, with another CME potentially causing a repeat on Thursday. Skies as far south as Mexico were adorned with faint pink and green hues, offering a rare treat for those who would typically need to venture closer to the poles to witness such spectacles. Last year, a level five geomagnetic storm — the first in two decades — produced similarly stunning views of the Northern and Southern Lights. However, these solar storms are not without consequences. They pose significant risks to communication systems, satellites, and power grids, potentially causing widespread disruptions. The impact of this week’s solar event has already been felt, with Blue Origin, the space company founded by Jeff Bezos, postponing the launch of its New Glenn rocket on Wednesday. For those eager to witness the aurorae, experts recommend seeking darker skies away from urban light pollution and using cameras or smartphones to capture the lights through long-exposure photography, especially if they are not visible to the naked eye.

  • ‘It’s not a good picture’

    ‘It’s not a good picture’

    Jamaican Teas Limited is grappling with a significant downturn in its US market sales, a critical revenue stream for the company. CEO John Mahfood identified a ‘triple threat’ of challenges impacting consumer spending among the Caribbean Diaspora: increased tariffs, heightened immigration enforcement, and the suspension of food stamp payments. These factors have collectively dampened sales in key states like New York and Florida.

  • Pope Leo reels off four favourite films

    Pope Leo reels off four favourite films

    In a surprising and heartfelt revelation, Pope Leo XIV has disclosed his four favorite films just days before a unique gathering with Hollywood luminaries and acclaimed directors at the Vatican. The first American pope, known for his deep connection to art and culture, selected a mix of timeless classics that resonate with themes of hope, family, and resilience. His choices include Frank Capra’s 1946 masterpiece ‘It’s a Wonderful Life,’ starring James Stewart, a poignant tale of an angel aiding a despairing family man. The pontiff also highlighted Robert Wise’s 1965 musical ‘The Sound of Music,’ Robert Redford’s 1980 family drama ‘Ordinary People,’ and Roberto Benigni’s 1997 Holocaust-inspired film ‘Life Is Beautiful,’ which portrays a father’s efforts to protect his son from the atrocities of a WWII concentration camp. The Vatican emphasized that these films hold profound personal significance for Pope Leo. The event, scheduled for Saturday at the Apostolic Palace, will feature stars such as Cate Blanchett, Chris Pine, Viggo Mortensen, Dave Franco, and Monica Bellucci, alongside directors like Spike Lee, Judd Apatow, George Miller, and Giuseppe Tornatore. This initiative, part of the Catholic Church’s Holy Year celebrations, aims to foster dialogue between the Church and the cinematic world, exploring how artistic creativity can enhance the Church’s mission and promote universal human values.

  • More health centres opened in St Elizabeth post Melissa

    More health centres opened in St Elizabeth post Melissa

    In a significant move to enhance healthcare accessibility, the Southern Regional Health Authority (SRHA) has announced the reopening of multiple health centers across St Elizabeth, Jamaica. These facilities are now operational to provide essential primary care services to residents in the parish. The reopened centers include Junction, Portsea, Malvern, Santa Cruz, Pepper, Myersville, Lacovia, Balaclava, Maggotty (Holy Spirit Church), Elderslie (mobile unit), Southfield, Bellevue, Newell, Black River (tent), New Market (mobile unit), Gingerhill (medical outreach), and Middle Quarters. Operating hours are set from Monday to Thursday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, and on Fridays from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm. The SRHA has clarified that specific services will be available on designated days, ensuring a structured approach to healthcare delivery. This initiative aims to address the growing healthcare needs of the community, particularly in underserved areas, and marks a pivotal step in improving public health infrastructure in the region.

  • NWA urges caution on St Elizabeth main road following mudslides

    NWA urges caution on St Elizabeth main road following mudslides

    ST ELIZABETH, Jamaica — The National Works Agency (NWA) has issued a stern warning to motorists and pedestrians traveling through the main road near Lacovia, Newton, and Vauxhall in St Elizabeth. The agency highlighted that persistent rainfall over recent days has caused significant damage to sections of the roadway, with mud and debris posing serious hazards. The Rice Piece community has been particularly affected, with the NWA emphasizing the increased risks for those navigating the area. Authorities are urging the public to exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant while using these routes. The NWA is actively monitoring the situation and has pledged to address the issues promptly to ensure safety for all road users.

  • TJH in $3.8-m storm toll talks

    TJH in $3.8-m storm toll talks

    As Jamaica assesses the economic fallout from Hurricane Melissa, TransJamaican Highway Limited (TJH) has initiated discussions with the government to address the significant revenue loss incurred during a 15-day toll suspension. The suspension, mandated by Transport Minister Daryl Vaz as the hurricane approached, resulted in an estimated $3.8 million loss for TJH, based on its average daily revenue of $254,000. Despite this setback, TJH reported a 27% increase in third-quarter net profit, reaching $10.3 million, highlighting the financial impact of the temporary halt.

  • InterEnergy to rebuild solar park

    InterEnergy to rebuild solar park

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the aftermath of the devastating Category Five Hurricane Melissa, InterEnergy Group has pledged to reconstruct the 52-megawatt (MW) Eight Rivers Solar Park in Westmoreland, which suffered extensive damage. The company has unveiled a detailed reconstruction strategy aimed at restoring the solar park’s energy generation capabilities, enhancing its resilience against future extreme weather events, and supporting Jamaica’s broader energy recovery efforts.

    Rolando González Bunster, Chairman and CEO of InterEnergy Group, emphasized the company’s dedication to the people and communities it serves. ‘In Jamaica, we have seen remarkable resilience in the face of adversity. We are determined to support the nation’s recovery through tangible actions,’ he stated. ‘The reconstruction of the Eight Rivers Solar Park will prioritize strength, safety, and sustainability, reaffirming our commitment to Jamaica’s and the Caribbean’s energy future.’

    Despite the hurricane’s destructive impact, InterEnergy’s thermal power plants—Doctor Bird I and II, West Kingston Power Partners (WKPP), and Jamaica Private Power Company (JPPC)—remain operational, supplying 250 MW of uninterrupted power to the national grid. Additionally, the company is assessing its wind farm in St Elizabeth, with plans to resume operations once safety conditions are met.

    As part of its humanitarian response, InterEnergy has coordinated the arrival of the International Medical Relief (IMR) team to Jamaica. IMR, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing medical care and support to vulnerable populations globally, will offer critical assistance. The company has also cleared vital access roads in Westmoreland to facilitate the delivery of relief supplies, initiated a nationwide donation campaign, and prepared 4,000 care packages for distribution to the most affected communities in western Jamaica.

    Dr. Wayne McKenzie, Country Manager of InterEnergy Jamaica, highlighted the broader mission of the recovery efforts. ‘Hurricane Melissa has left profound devastation, particularly in western Jamaica. Recovery is not just about restoring power but also restoring hope. Our teams are working tirelessly to clear access routes, organize relief logistics, and provide essential care packages to families in need. We remain steadfast in our commitment to helping Jamaica rebuild stronger,’ he said.