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  • DCS refutes claims of preventing attorneys access to inmate clients

    DCS refutes claims of preventing attorneys access to inmate clients

    KINGSTON, Jamaica—Jamaica’s Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has formally rejected allegations that its electronic device restrictions are creating barriers to adequate legal representation for inmates. The controversy emerged amid claims that these restrictions contributed to procedural delays in the high-profile trial of alleged Clansman Gang leader Tesha Miller and two dozen co-defendants.

    The correctional authority issued a detailed statement affirming its commitment to upholding inmates’ constitutional rights to legal counsel. This position was reportedly established during February 2025 discussions with the Jamaica Bar Association (JBA) and further elaborated in a March 19, 2025 correspondence from Correctional Commissioner Brigadier Radgh Mason.

    According to released excerpts from the commissioner’s letter, the DCS acknowledges the fundamental nature of legal representation rights and emphasizes compliance with the Corrections Act of 1985 and subsequent Correctional Institution Rules from 1991. These regulations govern how legal visits and communications must be administered within prison facilities.

    The department outlined specific accommodations for legal professionals, including: reasonable scheduling of inmate interviews; weekday access to second-division inmates; discretionary Saturday visits depending on institutional circumstances; and the implementation of a contact matrix system to streamline visit coordination.

    Notably, the DCS stated that virtual consultation platforms and electronic devices such as laptops and tablets may be permitted when deemed “safe, reasonable, justified and practicable.” This conditional allowance represents a compromise between security concerns and legal access requirements.

    The department concluded by encouraging formal reporting of any alleged rights violations, promising serious investigation through appropriate legal and institutional channels.

  • Jamaica Coffee Exporters welcomes $120m allocation to resuscitate industry

    Jamaica Coffee Exporters welcomes $120m allocation to resuscitate industry

    Jamaica’s prestigious coffee sector is mounting a major recovery effort following devastating climate disasters, with industry leaders applauding government support while calling for sustained rebuilding initiatives. Dr. Norman Grant, Chairman of the Jamaica Coffee Exporters Association (JCEA), has endorsed the government’s intervention package including a J$120 million allocation for recovery, with J$35 million already distributed to affected stakeholders.

    The endorsement comes as Jamaica prepares to observe Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee Day on January 9, 2026, under the theme ‘Rebuilding a Climate Resilient Coffee Industry.’ This celebration occurs against a backdrop of unprecedented challenges that have plagued the sector over four consecutive years of extreme weather disruptions.

    According to industry assessments, Hurricane Melissa’s Category 5 impact proved particularly catastrophic during the 2025/2026 crop year, destroying approximately 100,000 boxes of coffee and causing farm-gate losses estimated at J$1 billion. Preliminary evaluations indicate 40% of mature crops ready for harvest were lost, accompanied by extensive damage to coffee trees, farm infrastructure, and critical access roads.

    Cumulative losses over the past four years have reached an estimated J$2.5 billion due to climate-related disruptions that have severely reduced production yields. Despite these setbacks, Jamaica’s coffee industry maintains its significant economic contribution and prestigious global market position, continuing to export millions of dollars worth of premium coffee annually.

    Dr. Grant specifically acknowledged Agriculture Minister Floyd Green for his responsive approach to addressing the plight of coffee farmers, their families, and affiliated businesses. The chairman emphasized that beyond physical damage, the industry requires mental health and psychosocial support for farmers dealing with hurricane-related trauma.

    ‘Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee remains a national treasure, a source of rural employment, and a symbol of Jamaica’s excellence on the world stage,’ stated Dr. Grant. He noted that resilience alone proves insufficient without coordinated, sustained support mechanisms.

    The JCEA continues advocating for urgent recovery measures including implementation of the Coffee Crop Resuscitation and Establishment Programme (CREP), enhanced farm road rehabilitation, and targeted assistance to help farmers resume production operations. Industry stakeholders emphasize that rebuilding a climate-resilient coffee industry requires comprehensive planning and continued investment to safeguard Jamaica’s iconic agricultural export.

  • AC Milan scrape a point with Genoa after late penalty howler

    AC Milan scrape a point with Genoa after late penalty howler

    In a heart-stopping Serie A finale at San Siro, AC Milan narrowly avoided a shocking defeat against Genoa on Thursday, securing a 1-1 draw after surviving extraordinary penalty drama in stoppage time. The result grants local rivals Inter Milan a crucial three-point advantage atop the league standings.

    The match reached its climax when Romanian midfielder Nicolae Stanciu sent a potential winning penalty soaring over the crossbar in the dying moments, squandering Genoa’s golden opportunity for a monumental upset. The penalty was awarded after Milan defender Davide Bartesaghi fouled Mikael Ellertsson, setting the stage for the dramatic conclusion.

    Milan’s equalizer came through Portuguese forward Rafael Leão, who powered home a decisive header during second-half added time, finally breaking Genoa’s resilient defense. The visitors had taken a surprise lead just before the half-hour mark through Lorenzo Colombo, a Milan academy product currently on loan to Genoa, who capitalized against his parent club.

    Despite extending their unbeaten league run to 17 matches, Milan’s dropped points proved particularly costly following Inter’s 2-0 victory over Parma the previous day. Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri emphasized the need for tactical maturity, stating his team should have created additional opportunities after their late equalizer without exposing themselves to counter-attacks.

    In parallel Serie A action, veteran striker Jamie Vardy contributed both a goal and an assist for Cremonese, yet his efforts weren’t enough to secure victory as the team surrendered a two-goal halftime advantage to draw 2-2 with Cagliari. The former England international now boasts five goals in Italian football since his transfer.

    The single point leaves Genoa just three points above the relegation zone as they prepare for critical matches against fellow strugglers Cagliari and Parma. For Colombo, the performance against his childhood club represented a positive step despite the heartbreaking conclusion, noting his team demonstrated character and competitive quality against one of Italy’s elite sides.

  • PSG beat Marseille on penalties to win French Champions Trophy

    PSG beat Marseille on penalties to win French Champions Trophy

    In a dramatic conclusion to the French Champions Trophy held in Kuwait City, Paris Saint-Germain emerged victorious against arch-rivals Marseille following a tense penalty shootout on Thursday. The match culminated in a 4-1 penalty decision after an electrifying 90 minutes concluded with a 2-2 deadlock.

    PSG’s goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier emerged as the definitive hero of the encounter, delivering two critical saves during the penalty phase against Matt O’Riley and Hamed Traore. The decisive moment arrived when Desire Doue confidently converted the final spot-kick, securing PSG’s record-extending 14th title in this competition.

    The match narrative unfolded with early dominance from PSG as Ballon d’Or recipient Ousmane Dembele exhibited exquisite technique to chip the ball over Marseille goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli. Both custodians demonstrated exceptional skill throughout the match, with Rulli preventing Nuno Mendes from extending PSG’s advantage and Chevalier making remarkable saves against Emerson’s powerful strike and Igor Paixao’s header.

    The momentum shifted dramatically in the closing stages when Chevalier’s challenge resulted in a penalty award after VAR intervention, which Mason Greenwood calmly converted. Marseille appeared destined for their first trophy since 2012 when William Pacho’s errant clearance confused his own goalkeeper, creating an unexpected opportunity.

    However, PSG demonstrated characteristic resilience with Goncalo Ramos delivering a crucial equalizer during injury time by deftly redirecting Bradley Barcola’s cross, ultimately forcing the match into penalties.

    The event was notably overshadowed by significant fan discontent regarding the overseas location, with Marseille supporters previously displaying a banner questioning the choice of Kuwait as host venue. The French Football Federation has historically moved the Super Cup internationally to promote Ligue 1 globally, with prior editions hosted across four continents.

    Both teams now return to domestic commitments with PSG pursuing leadership positions in both Ligue 1 and their Champions League group, while Marseille seek to improve their standing in both competitions.

  • Historic Manning’s School to benefit from 2026 National Leadership Prayer Breakfast

    Historic Manning’s School to benefit from 2026 National Leadership Prayer Breakfast

    The Manning’s School in Westmoreland, a historic Jamaican institution severely damaged by Hurricane Melissa in October 2025, will receive substantial reconstruction support for its wellness center through this year’s National Leadership Prayer Breakfast (NLPB) initiative.

    The 46th annual NLPB has designated western Jamaica as its primary focus area, specifically targeting the Thomas Manning Building structure – believed to be the earliest surviving section of the educational facility dating back to the early 1900s.

    Reverend Wayneford McFarlane, secretary of the NLPB Committee, confirmed during a Wednesday media briefing that both the VM Group and NLPB had jointly identified Manning’s School as this year’s charitable beneficiary. “We are concentrating our efforts on the sick bay facility which demands considerable rehabilitation,” McFarlane stated.

    Reverend Sam McCook, former NLPB Committee chairman, revealed the project carries an estimated value of $2.8 million Jamaican dollars. The undertaking will be executed in partnership with the Manning’s School Past Students Association. McCook elaborated: “The initiative allocates approximately $2.5 million for a modular structure with an additional $300,000 designated for ancillary components. This substantially exceeds our traditional fundraising scope, but the alumni association has welcomed our supportive participation.”

    VM Group President and CEO Courtney Campbell emphasized his organization’s commitment to the NLPB’s core principles: “We affirm the power of faith, the effectiveness of prayer, the necessity of unity, and share the conviction that righteousness elevates a nation.”

    In recognition of Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact on western parishes, the NLPB Committee additionally announced the 2025 National Week of Prayer will commence in that region. The inaugural service is scheduled at Montego Bay’s First Church of the Open Bible in St. James, culminating with the January 15th NLPB event under the thematic banner ‘Caring for our neighbour’.

  • KTHS students triumph at Project STAR Business Pitch Competition

    KTHS students triumph at Project STAR Business Pitch Competition

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – In a remarkable demonstration of youth innovation, two fifth-form students from Kingston Technical High School have claimed victory in Project STAR’s inaugural Business Pitch Competition. Jason Campbell and Nakeida Williamson captivated judges with their visionary proposal for EduConnect Centre, a comprehensive digital hub designed to bridge the technology gap for students.

    The winning concept addresses critical educational barriers by providing reliable internet connectivity, access to computing devices, printing services, and academic support for School Based Assessments. The initiative directly responds to the digital divide that frequently impedes academic achievement among Jamaican youth.

    Campbell revealed the project’s origins in personal experience: ‘Our proposal emerged from daily academic struggles. Many students lack basic technological resources—some don’t even own phones—and must depend on unreliable assistance. We’re creating a sustainable solution to improve educational outcomes.’

    Williamson emphasized the broader transformative potential: ‘Technical schools often face negative stereotypes. Through EduConnect Centre, we aim to enhance our institution’s reputation while helping students excel in Caribbean Secondary Education exams and vocational certifications. This victory validates our commitment to educational improvement.’

    The achievement proved particularly impressive given competition-day challenges, including technical difficulties and the unexpected withdrawal of a team member. Despite these obstacles, the duo’s compelling presentation and strategic vision secured top honors.

    As champions, each student received $25,000 in prize money, while the school was awarded a $100,000 implementation grant from Project STAR. The total startup costs are estimated at $48,000, with existing school infrastructure providing additional support.

    Both students view the experience as career-defining. Campbell anticipates pursuing real estate with renewed confidence, while Williamson aims to become a serial entrepreneur. Both intend to invest their winnings in future aspirations.

    Project STAR organizers celebrated the students’ innovative thinking and perseverance. Education Coordinator Myshka Allen noted: ‘We designed this initiative to provide practical, enduring skills aligned with business curriculum principles. These students demonstrated exceptional creativity in translating classroom knowledge into actionable solutions.’

    The competition culminated weeks of intensive training through business simulation bootcamps that equipped 75 participants with entrepreneurship skills, career readiness strategies, and professional development tools. Project STAR remains committed to supporting the actual implementation of EduConnect Centre as a sustainable school resource.

  • US plans to dictate Venezuela decisions and oil sales

    US plans to dictate Venezuela decisions and oil sales

    The Trump administration has declared its intention to maintain indefinite control over Venezuela’s oil exports and direct the decisions of the country’s interim leadership following the capture of President Nicolas Maduro. This bold assertion of hemispheric dominance represents a significant escalation in U.S. involvement in Venezuelan affairs.

    White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed Wednesday that Washington would continue dictating policy decisions to Venezuela’s interim authorities, stating that the U.S. maintains “maximum leverage” following Saturday’s military operation that extracted Maduro from Caracas. The deposed leader and his wife were transported to New York where they face narcotics trafficking charges.

    The administration’s strategy hinges on controlling Venezuela’s oil industry, with Energy Secretary Chris Wright announcing plans to market Venezuelan crude “indefinitely, going forward.” This includes immediate sales of 30-50 million barrels of stored oil and continued control over future production. The approach relies heavily on naval blockades to prevent Venezuela from selling oil to sanctioned allies including Russia, China, and Iran.

    In a demonstration of this maritime strategy, U.S. forces seized a Russian-linked oil tanker in the North Atlantic on Wednesday after pursuing the vessel from Venezuelan waters. The tanker, previously identified as Bella-1, had recently changed its registration to Russia.

    President Trump is scheduled to meet with U.S. oil executives Friday to discuss potential investments in Venezuela’s deteriorating energy infrastructure, though no firm commitments have been made amid the ongoing political instability. The administration’s comprehensive plan combines economic control, military pressure, and political oversight to reshape Venezuela’s governance and energy sector.

  • Take Trump seriously on Greenland, Vance warns Europe

    Take Trump seriously on Greenland, Vance warns Europe

    WASHINGTON—US Vice President JD Vance issued a stark warning to European allies on Thursday, emphasizing the need to treat President Donald Trump’s concerns regarding Greenland with utmost seriousness. The statement comes amid escalating tensions over US interests in the strategically vital Arctic territory currently under Danish administration.

    Speaking at a White House briefing, Vance criticized NATO partners, particularly Denmark, for what he characterized as insufficient efforts to safeguard Greenland against expanding Russian and Chinese military activities. The Vice President’s remarks follow recent White House confirmations that the administration is exploring options regarding Greenland, including potential acquisition, while not dismissing military contingencies.

    Vance specifically highlighted the growing importance of Greenland for US missile defense infrastructure, citing increased foreign military presence in the Arctic region and the strategic implications of receding polar ice due to climate change. “We’re asking our European friends to take the security of that land mass more seriously,” Vance stated, adding that the United States would “have to do something about it” if allies failed to respond adequately.

    The diplomatic friction has triggered urgent consultations across European capitals. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has reportedly discussed the Greenland situation twice with President Trump this week, emphasizing enhanced cooperation for Arctic security. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to meet with Danish and Greenlandic representatives next week for direct negotiations.

    European leaders have responded with firm opposition to US assertions. France’s President Emmanuel Macron delivered unusually strong criticism, suggesting the United States was “turning away” from traditional alliances. Multiple European governments have issued joint statements affirming that Greenland’s sovereignty remains exclusively a matter for Denmark and the territory’s local government.

    The confrontation represents the latest manifestation of the Trump administration’s assertive national security approach, which has previously criticized European defense capabilities and migration policies. The administration’s December national security strategy document notably described Europe as facing “civilizational erasure” and advocated supporting right-wing political movements across the continent.

  • Vegas, Sly Dunbar, Leroy Sibbles to be honoured at Reggae Genealogy 2026

    Vegas, Sly Dunbar, Leroy Sibbles to be honoured at Reggae Genealogy 2026

    Plantation, Florida prepares to host an extraordinary celebration of Caribbean musical heritage as the Reggae Genealogy® Music Festival returns on February 7, 2026. Under the evocative theme ‘Lights. Camera. Reggae.’, Volunteer Park will transform into an immersive sound stage exploring reggae’s profound influence across film, television, gaming, and global popular culture.

    Produced by Island SPACE Caribbean Museum (Island Society for the Promotion of Artistic and Cultural Education), this large-scale outdoor production anticipates welcoming over 3,000 attendees for an evening of musical excellence and cultural storytelling. The festival serves as the official commencement of South Florida’s Reggae Month celebrations, representing the most ambitious production to date through its fusion of high production values and artistic tribute to reggae’s cross-generational impact.

    The event boasts an impressive lineup of reggae royalty. Clifford ‘Mr Vegas’ Smith, whose 1997 breakout hits ‘Nike Air’ and ‘Heads High’ propelled him to international stardom, brings his unique fusion of dancehall, reggae, and gospel influences. The MOBO Award-winning artist continues to push creative boundaries with his message-driven music and irresistible rhythms.

    Legendary drummer Sly Dunbar, half of the iconic production duo Sly & Robbie, brings over four decades of musical innovation. The two-time Grammy Award winner, widely regarded as reggae’s most recorded drummer, has fundamentally shaped the genre through his work with Bob Marley, Grace Jones, and countless other artists.

    Leroy Sibbles, celebrated voice and bassist of The Heptones, represents the foundational architecture of reggae music. As lead singer on classics like ‘Book of Rules’ and ‘Fattie Fattie,’ and as the session bassist who created enduring rhythms including ‘Full Up,’ Sibbles’ contributions to the evolution from ska to reggae remain unparalleled.

    Executive Director Calibe Thompson describes the production as ‘a love letter to the soundtracks of our lives,’ emphasizing the festival’s mission to honor cultural moments that brought reggae into global consciousness. The evening opens with a special tribute to film and reggae legend Jimmy Cliff, establishing the narrative tone for the musical journey ahead.

    Additional confirmed performers include Tifa, Phil Watkis, Roy G, and Bobby Rose, backed by the Code Red Band. The main stage will be hosted by acclaimed actress Audrey Reid of ‘Dancehall Queen’ fame, with musical support from Bigg G, DJ King Mega, and pre-show host Frank!e Red.

    Beyond the musical performances, the festival offers diverse cultural experiences including an intimate fireside chat with Leroy Sibbles, dedicated children’s play zone, culinary offerings from food trucks, artisan vendors, and a corporate circle designed to foster community engagement. Gates open at 4:00 PM for this comprehensive celebration of reggae’s enduring legacy.

  • Coffee farmers bat for climate resilient industry on Blue Mountain Coffee Day

    Coffee farmers bat for climate resilient industry on Blue Mountain Coffee Day

    The misty highlands of Guava Ridge in St. Andrew will serve as the backdrop for the eighth annual Blue Mountain Coffee Day celebration this Friday, centered on the critical theme of constructing a climate-resilient coffee industry. This significant event commemorates the historic January 9, 1967 shipment that saw 60% of Jamaica’s annual coffee harvest dispatched to Japan from Kingston’s port—a pioneering commercial endeavor executed by the late Keble Munn, founder of Mavis Bank Coffee Factory established in March 1953.

    Norman Grant, Chairman of the Jamaica Coffee Exporters Association and CEO of Mavis Bank Coffee Factory, emphasized in his anniversary address that this year’s observance occurs during a pivotal recovery period for the industry. Coffee growers are confronting multiple climate-induced challenges, most recently Hurricane Melissa, highlighting the urgent necessity for developing robust adaptive strategies within local coffee cultivation.

    The event will feature keynote addresses from Floyd Green, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, and Yasuhiro Atsumi, Japanese Ambassador to Jamaica, underscoring the bilateral importance of this agricultural partnership. The celebration is collaboratively organized by the Jamaica Coffee Exporters Association, 5,000 local coffee farmers, the Jamaica Agricultural Commodities Regulatory Authority, Jampro, and multiple government ministries alongside the All Japanese Importers of Jamaican Coffee.

    Renowned for its exceptional quality, Blue Mountain coffee thrives exclusively in the elevated regions of Jamaica’s Blue Mountains at altitudes ranging from 3,000 to 5,500 feet. The unique terroir—characterized by cool misty conditions and mineral-rich volcanic soil—produces beans with distinctive mild flavor, minimal acidity, and exceptionally smooth characteristics. This premium coffee commands global recognition as one of the world’s most exclusive and expensive varieties, with over 80% of exports destined for the discerning Japanese market where it holds revered status.

    The Blue Mountain Coffee Day tradition was originally established in Japan in 2018 by the All Japanese Importers of Jamaican Coffee under the thematic banner “Jamaica Blue Mountain, the King of Coffees and the Winning Bean,” celebrating both the product’s excellence and the enduring trade relationship between the nations.