BELMOPAN, Belize (CMC) — The Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism (CRFM) has announced that four Caribbean nations—Anguilla, The Bahamas, Dominica, and Montserrat—have officially formalized their membership in the 22-year-old organization. The signing ceremony took place during the Caribbean Week of Agriculture held recently in St Kitts and Nevis. Established in March 2003 in Belize, the CRFM now boasts 17 member states actively engaged in the sustainable management of regional fisheries. Dr. Marc Williams, CRFM Executive Director, emphasized the organization’s commitment to meeting member needs with available resources while addressing governance and financial challenges. He highlighted key policies such as the Caribbean Community Common Fisheries Policy (CCCFP), which facilitates collaborative scientific research, fish stock assessments, and sustainable fisheries management. Additionally, the CRFM has implemented policies like the Personal Data Protection Policy, Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption Policy, and Whistleblower Policy to enhance governance and transparency. Dr. Williams also noted the CRFM’s focus on gender sensitivity and inclusivity, ensuring that initiatives consider the needs of youth and indigenous communities.
标签： Jamaica
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Gray could miss World Cup qualifier against Curacao
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Observer has received credible information indicating that Demarai Gray, a pivotal winger for the Reggae Boyz, might be sidelined for Friday’s crucial Concacaf World Cup qualifier against Curacao. Gray sustained an injury during a training session at Sabina Park on Tuesday, casting uncertainty over his participation in the upcoming match. While the severity of his injury remains unclear, his absence would be a significant blow to the team. Gray previously missed September’s fixtures against Bermuda and Trinidad and Tobago due to injury. Speculation has arisen that Chelsea’s Dujuan “Whisper” Richards could step in as a replacement, though reliable sources have tempered such claims for now. Currently, the team faces no additional injury concerns, with only Kasey Palmer and Isaac Hayden ruled out due to suspension. Jamaica, leading their group with six points, will face Curacao, who have four points, at the Ergilio Hato Stadium on Friday at 6:00 pm. The stakes are high, as only the group winner will secure a spot in next summer’s FIFA World Cup.
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Man arrested over deadly January fire in Los Angeles — authorities
LOS ANGELES, United States — A significant breakthrough has been made in the investigation of the devastating Palisades Fire that ravaged an upscale Los Angeles suburb earlier this year. Authorities announced on Wednesday the arrest of a 29-year-old man, Jonathan Rinderknecht, who is suspected of igniting the blaze. Rinderknecht was apprehended in Florida and faces charges of destruction of property by means of fire. Acting United States Attorney Bill Essayli emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, ‘The complaint alleges that a single individual’s reckless actions led to one of the most catastrophic fires in Los Angeles history, causing loss of life and extensive damage in Pacific Palisades.’ The fire, which erupted in January, left a trail of destruction in its wake, highlighting the severe consequences of such incidents. The arrest marks a critical step in holding those responsible accountable and providing some measure of justice to the affected community.
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Canadian visitors to top 600,000 with US$750m revenue, says Bartlett
Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, has unveiled an ambitious vision to attract 600,000 Canadian visitors annually and generate US$750 million in tourism revenue by 2030. This announcement comes as the Caribbean nation experiences a significant 22% increase in airlift capacity from Canada for the upcoming winter season, signaling growing confidence in Jamaica’s appeal as a premier travel destination. Bartlett shared these key performance indicators (KPIs) during his address at the Edith Baxter Memorial Award ceremony, which honors outstanding contributions to Jamaica’s tourism sector. He emphasized Canada’s role as a vital and rapidly expanding source market, attributing the surge in airlift capacity to the strong trust placed in Jamaica by airline partners. Donovan White, Director of Tourism, echoed this optimism, highlighting the importance of strengthened trade partnerships in achieving these targets. The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) noted that the island’s diverse offerings—ranging from all-inclusive resorts and boutique accommodations to cultural experiences and adventure tourism—continue to resonate deeply with Canadian travelers. Bartlett underscored that these goals are not merely aspirational but achievable, citing expanded airlift, ongoing infrastructure investments, and Jamaica’s unique appeal as key drivers of success. To support this vision, the JTB plans to intensify its marketing efforts in Canada, leveraging digital engagement, travel trade collaborations, and consumer-focused campaigns to showcase the island’s authentic experiences and value. While Jamaica has welcomed 485,000 visitors so far, slightly below the 500,000 target for 2025, the tourism sector remains optimistic. With enhanced connectivity and a strong winter season anticipated, Jamaica is poised to lay a solid foundation for sustained growth toward its 2030 objectives.
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Jamaica looks to host matches in 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup
Jamaica is poised to make history by potentially hosting matches during the 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup, which will be jointly staged in the United States and Mexico. Michael Ricketts, President of the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), confirmed the island’s bid during an interview with Observer Online, revealing that an official announcement will be made in New York on October 20. This development underscores Jamaica’s growing influence in international football, particularly in women’s sports. Ricketts highlighted the remarkable progress of the Reggae Girlz, Jamaica’s national senior women’s team, which rose from a 119th global ranking to the top 40 under his leadership. The team has qualified for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2019 and 2023, with their 2023 campaign marking a historic advancement to the Round of 16. The bid is supported by the Jamaican government and aligns with plans to renovate the National Stadium in Kingston by 2029. The upgrades will include enhanced facilities, increased seating capacity, and improved accessibility for all spectators. If successful, Jamaica would become the first Caribbean nation to host a senior World Cup match, further cementing its legacy in global football.
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eNGee Dadon pushes social commentary
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Dancehall artist eNGee Dadon is making waves with his latest tracks, ‘Crocodile Masicka’ and ‘Is Masicka A Nanny?’, which blend social commentary with musical artistry. Formerly known as Pickney, the artist explained that these songs are inspired by observations within the dancehall industry. ‘Crocodile Masicka,’ released on August 9, critiques the current state of dancehall, using the metaphor of a crocodile to symbolize fear and pride concealed behind silence. The track has garnered thousands of streams and sparked discussions among fans and analysts alike. The second release, debuting in early October, employs satire and wordplay to question the ego-driven titles prevalent in the genre. eNGee Dadon emphasized that there is no animosity between him and Masicka, hoping listeners will appreciate the artistry and cultural relevance of his music. He also celebrated his second-place ranking on the Brando Music Review Show’s weekly chart for ‘Dancehall Jealousy,’ viewing it as a testament to the potential of independent artists. Currently, eNGee Dadon is working on multiple projects under New Generation Music Entertainment, including ‘Venus Inna Vans,’ ‘Christian Girl Gone,’ and ‘Thanks You.’
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Trump calls for jailing Democratic Chicago mayor, Illinois governor
In a dramatic escalation of his ongoing political confrontations, US President Donald Trump has publicly demanded the imprisonment of Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker. Trump’s incendiary remarks were made via his social media platform, where he accused the Democratic leaders of failing to protect Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers. This latest outburst comes amid Trump’s broader campaign to enforce aggressive ICE raids in Democratic-led cities, including Chicago, Los Angeles, and Washington, DC.
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World economy not doing as badly as feared, says IMF chief
The global economy is demonstrating unexpected resilience despite facing prolonged uncertainties and subdued medium-term growth prospects, according to Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Speaking in Washington on Wednesday, Georgieva noted that while the global economy is performing ‘better than feared, it remains worse than necessary.’ The IMF now anticipates only a slight slowdown in global growth this year and next, buoyed by stronger-than-expected conditions in the United States and several advanced and emerging economies.
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JUTC confirms driver found unresponsive in ditch has died
ST CATHERINE, Jamaica — A tragic incident unfolded on Wednesday when a Jamaica Urban Transit Company Limited (JUTC) bus driver lost his life after his vehicle veered off the road and plunged into a ditch. The accident occurred in the Dunbeholden area of St Catherine, marking a somber day for the transportation company and the local community. According to initial reports, a police officer discovered the bus off the Salt Pond roadway, with the driver unresponsive. Immediate assistance was provided, and the driver was rushed to Spanish Town Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Authorities confirmed to Observer Online that the 39-year-old driver succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash. Notably, the bus was empty at the time of the accident, averting further casualties. The JUTC has extended heartfelt condolences to the driver’s family and announced plans to offer grief counseling to his colleagues during this difficult time.
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KSAMC pledges support to Trafalgar Park flood victims
In response to severe flooding in Trafalgar Park, St Andrew, caused by heavy rainfall in September, the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) has committed to assisting affected residents. During a recent visit to the area, Terry Forrester, the parish disaster coordinator at KSAMC, assured residents that the corporation, in collaboration with partner agencies, would provide essential comfort items to those impacted. Forrester emphasized the role of the welfare health committee in coordinating these efforts.