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  • ‘No apologies’

    ‘No apologies’

    Jamaica’s Energy and Telecommunications Minister Daryl Vaz has issued a robust defense of his decision to authorize emergency procurement of Starlink satellite devices during Hurricane Melissa’s devastation in October 2025, directly challenging the Auditor General’s findings of procurement violations. The $12-million acquisition of 200 units has sparked a heated political confrontation regarding emergency protocols versus procedural compliance.

    Minister Vaz asserted that the catastrophic communications breakdown following the hurricane justified immediate action beyond standard bureaucratic channels. ‘I make no apologies for ensuring the Government could secure available devices rapidly for distribution to state agencies and recovery teams,’ Vaz declared, referencing official emergency procurement guidelines that permit extraordinary measures during genuine crises.

    The Auditor General’s compliance audit, however, determined that procurement procedures were circumvented. The report revealed that ministerial instruction rather than the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) director general initiated the process, with devices delivered before formal approval documentation was completed. Additionally, the audit found numerous units remained unused months after purchase, with inventory management deficiencies and compatibility issues involving European-style plugs.

    Opposition spokesman Phillip Paulwell has demanded transparency, highlighting contradictions in government statements regarding donated versus purchased units. ‘Jamaicans are entitled to clear and consistent answers,’ Paulwell stated, emphasizing that telecommunications decisions during emergencies ‘must be unimpeachable and fully compliant with the law.’

    Vaz countered by accusing the opposition of political opportunism, noting that opposition members themselves had requested and received Starlink devices during the crisis. ‘The accountability that Paulwell and the Opposition demand may therefore begin with the devices that they received,’ Vaz remarked, characterizing the criticism as disingenuous.

    The minister maintained that the moral imperative of saving lives outweighed procedural concerns during the national emergency. ‘If even one life was saved, or even one family rescued as a result of the decision taken then it would have been worth it,’ Vaz concluded, defending his actions as necessary during Jamaica’s ‘most vulnerable and fragile’ period.

  • School administrators urged to safeguard well-being of students during cold weather

    School administrators urged to safeguard well-being of students during cold weather

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—In response to unusually cold temperatures sweeping across the island, Jamaica’s Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information (MoESYI) has issued comprehensive guidance to school administrators to protect student welfare during this period of adverse weather conditions.

    An unseasonably strong cold front has brought significantly cooler temperatures and persistent gusty winds to Jamaica, creating potential health and comfort challenges within educational environments. The ministry emphasizes that these conditions could negatively impact students’ ability to concentrate and maintain overall well-being during school hours.

    Central to the ministry’s advisory is the immediate relaxation of uniform policies. School leaders are instructed to permit students to wear appropriate jackets and outerwear regardless of whether these items conform to standard uniform specifications. This flexibility ensures all children, including those without access to branded school apparel, can remain adequately protected from the cold.

    The guidance specifically highlights the vulnerability of students with pre-existing health conditions that might be aggravated by the temperature drop. Administrators are directed to maintain heightened awareness and provide necessary accommodations to support these at-risk individuals.

    Beyond clothing adjustments, the ministry recommends nutritional interventions to combat the chill. Schools are encouraged to incorporate warm beverages and soups into meal programs, served at safe temperatures to provide both nourishment and thermal comfort. Additionally, administrators are advised to permit more frequent bathroom breaks in recognition of increased physiological needs during colder weather.

    The ministry frames these measures within the broader context of institutional responsibility, referencing the legal obligations outlined in Jamaica’s Child Care and Protection Act. This weather event is characterized as both a challenge and an opportunity to demonstrate the education system’s commitment to creating nurturing environments where every child receives care comparable to what they would experience in a family setting.

    MoESYI concludes by calling for collaborative efforts among all educational stakeholders to ensure learning spaces remain warm, safe, and conducive to student development despite the challenging meteorological conditions.

  • Minister ends testimony in cops’ murder trial

    Minister ends testimony in cops’ murder trial

    In a significant development at the Home Circuit Court, defense attorneys aggressively challenged the credibility of Agriculture Minister Floyd Green’s eyewitness account regarding a fatal 2013 police shooting. The case involves six law enforcement officers—Sergeant Simroy Mott, Corporal Donovan Fullerton, and Constables Andrew Smith, Sheldon Richards, Orandy Rose, and Richard Lynch—who face murder charges for the deaths of Matthew Lee, Mark Allen, and Ucliffe Dyer on Arcadia Drive in St Andrew.

    During intense cross-examination on Wednesday, defense counsel Anthony Armstrong posited that the traumatic nature of the January 12 incident may have compromised Green’s ability to accurately perceive and recall events. The minister, who observed the shooting from his apartment window, conceded that extreme stress could indeed affect memory retention and detail recollection.

    The legal confrontation took an intriguing turn when Armstrong engaged Green in a philosophical discussion about vantage points, comparing courtroom testimony to premium event seating. Green countered that elevated perspectives sometimes provide superior visibility compared to ground-level observations, defending his aerial viewpoint from the multi-storey building.

    Further challenging Green’s testimony, defense attorney Althea Grant-Coppin established that the witness couldn’t identify specific physical characteristics of the involved officers or confirm details about the vehicle’s tinted windows beyond the front compartment.

    The prosecution’s case continues today with their second witness taking the stand, while prominent defense attorneys Hugh Wildman, Linda Wright-Ashley, and John Jacobs prepare for upcoming proceedings.

  • Doping chiefs vow to look into Olympic ski jumping ‘penis injection’ claims

    Doping chiefs vow to look into Olympic ski jumping ‘penis injection’ claims

    MILAN, Italy – Olympic anti-doping authorities have launched an investigation into extraordinary allegations that competitive ski jumpers are utilizing unconventional methods to gain aerodynamic advantages. The claims, which originated in German media reports, suggest athletes may be injecting hyaluronic acid into genital tissue to create enhanced body suit aerodynamics.

    The controversial practice allegedly aims to manipulate the fit of competition suits around the groin area, theoretically creating a sail-like effect that could add significant distance to jumps. This investigation emerges following previous sanctions against Norwegian athletes for suit manipulation violations.

    At a Milan press conference, World Anti-Doping Agency President Witold Banka acknowledged the unusual nature of the allegations while committing to thorough examination. “Ski jumping is very popular in Poland,” Banka remarked with visible amusement, “so I promise you I’m going to look at it.”

    WADA Director General Olivier Niggli adopted a more measured approach, stating: “I’m not aware of the details of ski jumping—and how this can improve performance—but if anything was to come to the surface we would look at anything if it is actually doping-related. Our list committee would certainly look into whether this would fall into this category.”

    The allegations follow previous competitive violations involving Norwegian jumpers Marius Lindvik, the defending Large Hill Olympic champion, and fellow medalist Johann Andre Forfang. Both received three-month suspensions after their team was found to have illegally adjusted suit seams around the crotch area during the 2025 World Ski Championships, though both athletes maintained the alterations occurred without their knowledge.

    Medical experts have expressed serious concerns about the alleged practice. Dr. Kamran Karim, a senior physician at Maria-Hilf Hospital in Krefeld, Germany, noted that while injections could create “temporary, visual thickening of the penis through injections of paraffin or hyaluronic acid,” he emphasized that “lengthening is not possible in this way” and warned that “such injections are not medically indicated and are associated with risks.”

  • Welcome to Paradise a love letter

    Welcome to Paradise a love letter

    Jamaican recording artist Naomi Cowan has revealed the profound intentionality behind her JUNO Award-nominated debut album ‘Welcome to Paradise,’ describing it as both a musical homecoming and a deeply personal journal set to music. The album represents a significant evolution from her previous releases, including the 2021 ‘StarGirl’ mixtape and her 2018 debut ‘Paradise Plum.’

    Cowan characterizes ‘Welcome to Paradise’ as a sonic bridge connecting the classic reggae foundations of her upbringing with contemporary R&B and pop energies. Unlike the experimental nature of her previous work, this cohesive collection serves as what she describes as “a love letter from start to finish” inspired by the biblical concept that “the greatest of these is love” (1 Corinthians 13:13). The album consciously challenges modern society’s productivity-based worth measurement by emphasizing intrinsic value and self-discovery.

    The artist received her first major nomination in the Reggae Recording of the Year category at Canada’s prestigious JUNO Awards, often considered the nation’s equivalent to the Grammys. She faces competition from notable acts including Jojo You Made That’s ‘Dagga Riddim Cypher,’ Samora and Ammoye’s ‘More Reggae/Funk it Up,’ Kirk Diamond’s ‘Deh Ya,’ and Exco Levi and Kheilstone’s ‘Ready For You.’

    Released independently on October 10, 2025, through Cowan’s own 7th C Records label, ‘Welcome to Paradise’ benefits from distribution partnerships with Easy Star Records and Dreamspace in Canada. The artist admitted to having forgotten the submission for consideration and is now embracing the honor of her first major nomination.

    Cowan’s upcoming performance schedule includes Protoje’s The Lost In Time Festival on March 1 at Hope Gardens in St. Andrew, where she will share the stage with Chronixx—notably significant as both artists released their albums on October 10. The festival’s first night (February 28) will feature Grammy-nominated acts Lila Iké and Mortimer alongside Tanya Stephens, Tessanne Chin, Yeza, Iotosh, and Joby Jay. Day two will additionally showcase Jesse Royal, D’Yani, Royal Blu, and David Slur.

    The artist expressed anticipation for multiple victories in the coming months, emphasizing her desire to celebrate these achievements with her entire creative team. Cowan views this period as an opportunity to fully appreciate the rewards of collective labor and artistic dedication.

  • In ‘most boring’ feat, Brazilian runs record 24h on treadmill

    In ‘most boring’ feat, Brazilian runs record 24h on treadmill

    RIO DE JANEIRO—In an extraordinary display of mental fortitude and physical endurance, Brazilian athlete Pepe Fiamonini has successfully completed a 24-hour treadmill run, covering an astonishing 188 kilometers (116 miles) along Ipanema beach. The grueling challenge, which equates to more than four consecutive marathons, was monitored via live stream by Guinness World Records officials for validation.

    The 35-year-old endurance specialist, who began his athletic journey during the COVID-19 pandemic, permitted himself only minimal breaks for essential needs such as footwear changes and restroom visits. Fiamonini described his motivation to AFP reporters as stemming from profound curiosity about human capabilities: ‘I define myself with one word: curious. I’m curious about my abilities.’

    This achievement marks what is expected to be Fiamonini’s third Guinness World Record. His previous accomplishments include a remarkable 170-kilometer crossing of Bolivia’s Uyuni salt flats in May 2023—completed in just over 33 hours at 3,600 meters altitude with temperature extremes from 30°C to -10°C—shattering the previous record by 22 hours. In October, he additionally set a 12-hour treadmill record of 110 kilometers as preparation for this ultimate test.

    Fiamonini’s athletic evolution began with an Iron Man triathlon, which he considered the ‘pinnacle of human capacity,’ before progressing to an Ultraman competition more than double the distance. His latest endeavor was specifically designed to conquer mental barriers by embracing what he found most tedious: ‘Running non-stop in the same place.’

  • Sagicor Foundation x Broken Plate Brunch Experience

    Sagicor Foundation x Broken Plate Brunch Experience

    The 2026 Sagicor Sigma Corporate Run campaign commenced with an exclusive gourmet brunch hosted by Broken Plate restaurant in partnership with the Sagicor Foundation. Held at the establishment’s Barbican location, the event featured Chef Damion Stewart’s innovative culinary creations while bringing together corporate sponsors and celebrity patrons for a cause-driven gathering.

    The collaboration emerged from the established relationship between Chef Stewart and Sagicor Group Jamaica’s Vice-President Nicole Campbell Robinson. “Nicole and I go way back. So when they reached out to partner on this, I thought, ‘Let’s have some fun with it,’” Stewart remarked, emphasizing the event’s dual purpose of exceptional dining and philanthropic support.

    Stewart’s menu demonstrated his signature approach of blending Jamaican ingredients with international techniques. The culinary offerings included inventive dishes such as ackee, shrimp, and callaloo stir fry, à la vodka pasta, Belgian chicken and waffles with hot honey drizzle, and innovative sushi rolls featuring oxtail. Particularly notable were the oxtail pizza and sushi variations, which Stewart described as embodiments of his creative philosophy: “I’ve prepared oxtail in countless ways, from sushi to wontons; that’s exactly the kind of creative energy I enjoy.”

    The dessert station presented an extensive selection including chocolate chip cookies, carrot cake, and piña colada cake, complemented by assorted candies from Candy Craze. Beverage offerings featured crafted cocktails, Cavicchioli Rosé, Santa Margherita Valdobbiadene Prosecco courtesy of Select Brands, and Grace Zesti sparkling beverages.

    Celebrity attendees included dancehall artist Kemar “Ding Dong” Ottey and World 100m champion Oblique Seville, who joined Sagicor executives and corporate representatives. The event served as a prelude to the main Sigma Corporate Run scheduled for February 15, 2026, which aims to raise $150 million for repairing five schools in western Jamaica damaged by Hurricane Melissa in October 2025.

  • Jamaican Josh Minott traded to Nets in NBA deal

    Jamaican Josh Minott traded to Nets in NBA deal

    Jamaican basketball talent Josh Minott has been acquired by the Brooklyn Nets from the Boston Celtics in a strategic trade finalized during the NBA’s transaction deadline on Thursday. Multiple American sports media outlets confirmed the move involving the 23-year-old forward, who saw action in 10 starting games for the Celtics.

    The trade represents one of several roster adjustments executed by the Celtics organization during a notably active trade period. Minott, who previously represented Jamaica in international junior basketball competitions, joined the Celtics franchise following their historic 2024-25 championship season where they secured a record-breaking 18th NBA title.

    This transaction marks a significant career development for the young athlete as he transitions to the Nets’ lineup, potentially offering fresh opportunities for professional growth and increased playing time. The move also reflects the dynamic nature of NBA team management strategies during trade windows, where franchises continuously optimize their rosters for competitive advantage.

  • Gov’t promises faster cyber reforms after Opposition criticism

    Gov’t promises faster cyber reforms after Opposition criticism

    Jamaica’s government has acknowledged significant delays in updating national cybersecurity legislation, with Minister Dr. Andrew Wheatley admitting the Opposition’s concerns about the country falling behind evolving digital threats were justified. The concession came as the House of Representatives approved amendments to the Cybercrimes Act on Tuesday, following criticism that the nearly three-year revision process had left the nation vulnerable to advanced cybercriminal activities.

    During parliamentary debates, Opposition members highlighted how rapidly advancing technologies—including artificial intelligence tools, sophisticated online fraud schemes, and digital impersonation tactics—had already outpaced the legislative provisions under review. They argued that criminal elements had adapted to new technologies while Parliament deliberated on outdated recommendations from the 2023 Joint Select Committee.

    Minister Wheatley, responding while closing the debate, recognized the validity of these concerns and pledged a fundamental shift in legislative approach. “The Government accepts the broader point. Technology moves quickly and the law must not be allowed to move slowly,” he stated, committing to more frequent and responsive review cycles rather than extended periods between updates.

    However, Wheatley also elaborated on the complexities involved in cyber legislation reform, explaining that effective measures require careful balancing of multiple factors beyond simply adding new offenses to statute books. “It requires careful alignment of enforcement powers, prosecutorial practicality, constitutional safeguards, and coherence with other laws, especially where amendments touch issues like consent, privacy, public interest and sensitive data,” he noted.

    The government’s new approach signals recognition that traditional legislative timelines are incompatible with the rapid evolution of digital threats, including AI-generated content, online extortion schemes, and anonymous smear campaigns that exploit legal loopholes.

  • Lower pollution during Covid boosted methane — study

    Lower pollution during Covid boosted methane — study

    PARIS — Scientific research published Thursday in the journal Science reveals an unexpected climate consequence of pandemic-era lockdowns: improved air quality inadvertently triggered the largest recorded surge in atmospheric methane levels during the early 2020s.

    The study demonstrates that reduced pollution during COVID-19 restrictions weakened Earth’s natural atmospheric cleansing mechanism, allowing methane concentrations to accelerate at unprecedented rates. This paradoxical outcome resulted from diminished nitrogen oxide emissions—primarily from transportation and industrial sources—which are essential for producing hydroxyl radicals (OH), the atmosphere’s primary methane-scrubbing agents.

    Lead author Philippe Ciais, associate director at France’s Laboratory of Climate and Environment Sciences, explained the counterintuitive finding: “We observe a clear paradox where reduced pollution unexpectedly harmed methane mitigation efforts. With less nitrogen oxide in the atmosphere, we essentially disabled the planet’s natural methane removal system.”

    The research attributes approximately 80% of methane’s dramatic accumulation during 2020-2021 to this hydroxyl radical reduction. Additional contributing factors included increased emissions from wetlands and agricultural activities driven by unusually wet conditions in tropical regions.

    Methane’s climate significance cannot be overstated. While shorter-lived than carbon dioxide, this potent greenhouse gas possesses 80 times the warming potential over a 20-year period, making it a critical focus for climate mitigation strategies.

    The study documents how methane growth rates peaked at 16.2 parts per billion annually in 2020—the highest recorded increase—before declining by approximately half by 2023 as economic activities resumed.

    Co-author Marielle Saunois characterized the phenomenon as “collateral damage” in environmental policy, emphasizing that “this research underscores the necessity of simultaneously improving air quality while aggressively mitigating greenhouse gas emissions to counterbalance these complex chemical-climate interactions.”

    The findings present policymakers with a formidable challenge: designing environmental regulations that reduce conventional pollution without compromising the atmosphere’s capacity to regulate potent greenhouse gases.