The Government recently unveiled ‘cottage’ homes built by HAJ in the hills of St James and announced improved National Housing Trust (NHT) financing While visually appealing and a welcome step The NHT estimates an effective demand for 191,000 homes only about 2,200 units have been built annually over the past decade leaving tens of thousands still priced out of home-ownership and without affordable housing options Jamaica’s housing demand is rooted in urban growth About 60 per cent of demand is concentrated in Kingston where limited stock faces growing pressure and rising prices Most Jamaicans prefer two- or three-bedroom homes but about 60 per cent can only afford a 400-square-foot starter home or serviced lot Successful projects like Duncan Hill in Trelawny and Belle Aire in St With 80 per cent of rural demand for serviced lots Jamaica urgently needs large-scale projects that support affordable expansions strategies Government sponsored housing starting at $20 to $30 million does not address the housing problem and is more of a vanity project for politicians Targeted affordable housing solutions are needed most government housing programmes and policies have fallen short Portmore Land Development (1967–1975): A public-private partnership delivering 13,000 plus homes and infrastructure in a sub-division mastered by government Sites and Services Programme (1973–1982): A World Bank-backed initiative providing 4,700 plus serviced lots for low-income resulting in communities like Nannyville and Catherine Hall National Housing Trust (1976–present): Provides below-market housing loans and increase supply unit completions rose to 4,100 (in 2006) annually Greater Portmore Housing Development (1990–1999): Financed through the San José Accord this 12,500-unit project remains the Caribbean’s largest housing development using modern construction technology and local contractors Operation PRIDE (1994–present): Ongoing under HAJ regularising informal settlements and delivering 30,000 plus serviced lots and housing units Inner-City Housing Project (ICHP) (2004–2013): Initially planned for 5,000 homes Social Housing Programme (2021-): Constructed 300 plus homes for vulnerable groups Several housing policies have been introduced with limited success The 1982 National Housing Policy and 1987 Shelter Sector Strategy sought more private sector involvement but struggled with funding Vision 2030 (2007) emphasised strategic planning The 2019 draft Housing Policy set a target of 15,000 units per year The 2023 Housing Plan aims to boost affordability and public-private partnerships There is a wide gap that remains between demand and supply Overlapping mass housing programmes boosts output programmes like Portmore Land Development and Sites and Services Programmes Operation PRIDE and the Greater Portmore Housing Development delivered 60,000 units or one-third of post-Independence housing Public-private partnerships (PPPs): Collaborations between the government and private entities are effective Affordability focus: Ensuring housing solutions cost less than $9 million range sold for less than $500,000 in the early 1990s is equivalent to $8.5 million today Innovative construction techniques: Modular construction improved cost-effectiveness Portmore and Greater Portmore showcased local expertise International partnerships: Funding from entities like the World Bank and other International agreements were instrumental in addressing housing needs Mass regularisation initiatives: Operation PRIDE have improved land tenure security for over 58,000 families Cutting urban renewal and regularisation projects like the Inner-City Housing Project (ICHP) in 2009 and ignoring the planners’ recommendations for transit-oriented districts shelved the housing needs of 60 per cent of the market using statutory housing funds to support speculators with solutions that are out of reach of the low- and middle-income earners does not close the affordable housing gap The government has emphasised expensive middle-income and high-end units The focus remains toward demand-side support Without a change to supply-side support with accelerated approvals Jamaica’s housing crisis needs coordinated supply-side action guided by policies and programmes for mass production of affordable housing rather than a few high-end cottage developments Government must lead with solutions that offer not just pretty homes Affordable housing must become the top priority for NHT That means stopping the diversion of NHT funds Public-private partnerships should be expanded to encourage developers to build large-scale Government owns over 135,000 acres of land some of this should be used for affordable homes rather than building on expensive limestone hills low-cost housing near job centres and public transport must be part of the solution Quality and dignity in housing are important But dignity also means access and affordability Without more homes for working-class families and young professionals Christopher Burgess, PhD is a registered civil engineer, land developer and the managing director of CEAC Solutions Company Limited. He is currently a Jamaica Institution of Engineers council member. Send feedback to columns@gleanerjm.com View the discussion thread. Log in for full access to stabroeknews.com Only one active session is allowed per subscriber Maziki Thame is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Government Editor’s Note: A shorter version of this article appeared in the Jamaica Gleaner Voices of clergy and women’s rights veteran unite to demand human rights policing and police accountability at an April 29th peaceful protest organised by Jamaicans for Justice in Kingston Could not recognize the faces standing over me They were all dressed in uniforms of brutality who the Jamaican government celebrated in February say about the police dressed in masks and balaclavas in their daily operations today Would he agree with the Prime Minister’s assessment that the rise in police killings are “understandable” make of what Police Commissioner Blake says is an “amazing transformation” of the police force The constabulary was originally set up to keep Black people in place at the bottom of Jamaica’s social hierarchy Their conduct and the role they play in the broader social structure are important indicators of how far Jamaica is from a colonial condition wherein Blacks Indians and other non-whites were deemed disposable The state of policing also indicates the extent to which democracy is under threat or thriving Militarism goes hand in hand with authoritarianism While democratic values include popular participation in decision-making checks on the power of governments and the protection of people’s rights and freedoms militarisation of states threatens democracy by way of the expansion of the power of security forces to use violence against the people and curtail their means to participate in public life and enjoy rights and freedoms Security forces are not neutral players in the state we are witnessing the rise of militarisation and authoritarianism El Salvador’s president Nayib Bukele enacted a state of exception (SOE) in March 2022 that limits constitutional protections and grants unlimited powers to Salvadoran armed forces to arrest people suspected of being gang members critics of his government and land and water defenders El Salvador now has the highest rate of incarceration in the world with 3 in 100 men in prison and penitentiaries running at over 300% capacity The state has relied on mass detentions and mass trials and there have been over 350 deaths in state custody since the SOEs We have seen Donald Trump attempt to legitimize Bukele tied to the US disappearing migrants into El Salvador’s mega prison is part of his justification for creating a police state inside America and militarisation of the Americas The history of US militarisation in the region is long the blockade against Cuba and a ”War on Drugs” that led to the mass incarceration of Blacks including Latin American and Caribbean people the US’s most “like-minded partner” in the region finds commonality in positions on Haiti and Venezuela they are deemed criminals and quickly returned to a hostile environment Holness has said it is time to launch a global war on gangs promotes the “Bukele Model” in spite of Amnesty International’s warning that what the Salvadorian government “calls peace is a mirage that pretends to conceal a repressive system” that disregards “already invisible people” Faced with Trump’s heightened deportations across the region the Jamaican government did not speak in defence of its citizens as did other leaders who insisted that they be treated with dignity The Prime Minister warned that with our transformed forces “You will either meet a judge or your maker if you come back to Jamaica and violate our laws and create havoc.” Holness was expressing a stance that built on a direction of militarisation of the state The awesome power of the security forces has been made more so in recent years in Jamaica According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) Jamaica’s military spending moved from USD 133.3 mil in 2016 to USD 284.3 mil in 2019 SIPRI’s 2019 Yearbook reported that “The three biggest relative increases in military spending between 2017 and 2018 were by Burkina Faso (52 per cent) Jamaica (40 per cent) and Armenia (33 per cent).” The jump in military spending coincided with the introduction and perpetuation of the use of States of Emergency (SOE) between 2018 and 2020 They only waned after the Supreme Court deemed their use to be an overreach of executive powers after 5 men who had been detained  between 177 and 431 days filed cases against the government In defence of SOE’s the Minister lauded their capacity to buttress the force The government has been expanding the role of the army in policing militarizing police practices and passing or attempting to pass draconian legislation or sentencing related to crime such as the expansion of mandatory minimum sentences In addition to the SOE’s and the establishment of Zones of Special Operations (ZOSO’s) which brought the military into active policing and occupation of communities there have been high level appointments of military figures to public office notably Lieutenant General Rocky Meade as Permanent Secretary at the Office of the Prime Minister after the failed attempts to push him into the post of Cabinet Secretary in 2022 and Major General Antony Anderson’s appointment as Police Commissioner and then as Jamaica’s ambassador to Washington Reminiscent of Hugh Shearer’s infamous directive to the police to shoot first and ask questions later Horace Chang has repeatedly told the police to shoot to kill when confronted with armed criminals how do we understand the reasons for crime and violence in Jamaica and does this stance address those do we trust that police encounter armed criminals when they shoot to kill Injuries from police shootings decreased by 21 per cent in 2024 with 78 people injured compared to 99 in 2023 The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) has reported that 189 people were killed by the security forces in 2024 building on a five-year increase since 2019 when fatal shootings had reached their lowest point in two decades at 86 the police killed an average of one person a day with 81 people killed in 90 days but re-intensified in April Some Jamaicans have applauded the force in their recent “success” in bringing down homicide rates It has been achieved alongside or some would say due to the killing of 9 people with mental illness last year Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ) has implored the public to reject what they called a defacto shoot-to-kill policy particularly regarding allegations of extrajudicial killings could undermine officers’ morale and reverse progress in crime reduction.” The Police Federation Chairman Arleen McBean argued that the JFJ would be “true terrorists” if they did not defend the police at their protest carried out on April 29 is used alongside criminal by Trump and Trumpists to describe anyone his government wants to target The JCF gave notice that it would deploy the force to monitor and ensure order at the protest supporters of the JFJ’s position called for human rights policing said no to “police outlaws” and called for the removal of masks and balaclavas and for the wearing of body cameras in police operations All people do not experience the development of militarisation in the same way it is they who must face the police and military and be curtailed in their movements by the curfew Salvadorians marked the third anniversary of SOEs with protests A protester told the media Bukele was criminalizing poverty and his collaboration with the Trump administration was xenophobic we might seek to eliminate it and current trickle-down economics does not do that Jamaica’s violence problem is not just a problem of bad behaving men It is tied to an understanding of masculinity whereby performing violence is a route to status and power in a society where prospects for achieving them is very limited and also highly valued Prospects are limited by a socio-economic structure where inequality is entrenched and expanding and violence is turned inward and directed from the state The history of violence in independent Jamaica is tied to party politics and the practice of turning poor communities into garrisons and neighbours into enemies thus mobilizing poor Blacks into political violence Players in that process became increasingly independent of the party system in the neoliberal period but remained connected to criminalized economies if we want real solutions to crime and violence we must examine the nature of the political economy and who it disadvantages in tandem with the ways in which the social order constructs the poor as criminal and treats them as disposable Jamaica may not yet have come to terms with the values of democracy human rights or the equality of human beings This is part of the challenge of decolonization and it shows in the approach to security in Jamaica understood in terms of high value for rights and freedoms citizens would seek to zealously curtail the authority of the state to use violence as a way to manage its people A FREE roundup of top news from Guyana you might otherwise miss Miramar Regional Park will host the highly anticipated Jamaica Hi5 5K Reggae Run This event promises to be an extraordinary celebration of fitness Legendary reggae artist Sizzla has been officially named a Race Ambassador joining an impressive lineup that includes Ky-Mani Marley and 8-time Olympic medalist Veronica Campbell Brown The Jamaica Hi5 5K Reggae Run offers participants a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant culture of reggae while promoting health and wellness The event aims to bring together people of all ages and fitness levels to enjoy the rhythm and energy of reggae music as they run or walk through the picturesque Miramar Regional Park Known for his powerful voice and profound lyrics, Sizzla has made an indelible mark on the reggae music scene he brings his passion for music and community to the Jamaica Hi5 5K Reggae Run inspiring participants with his presence and support The son of reggae legend Bob Marley, Ky-Mani Marley has carved out his own successful career in music His involvement as a Race Ambassador underscores the strong connection between the Marley family and the reggae genre Ky-Mani’s energy and enthusiasm will undoubtedly add to the event’s electric atmosphere Veronica Campbell Brown is one of Jamaica’s most decorated athletes Her participation as a Race Ambassador emphasizes the event’s focus on fitness and athleticism Veronica’s achievements and dedication to her sport serve as an inspiration to all participants The Jamaica Hi5 5K Reggae Run is more than just a race; it’s an immersive cultural experience Participants will be treated to live reggae performances throughout the course creating an exhilarating backdrop for their run or walk The event also features various activities and attractions Registration for the Jamaica Hi5 5K Reggae Run is open to individuals of all ages and fitness levels Whether you’re an experienced runner or simply looking for a fun way to stay active Participants can register online through the official event website where they will find details on entry fees Sign up today at www.JamaicaHi5KRun.com Location: Miramar Regional Park 16801 Miramar Pkwy Participants are encouraged to arrive early to ensure ample time for parking with the music and festivities starting shortly thereafter The Jamaica Hi5 5K Reggae Run is not just about fitness and fun—it’s also about giving back to the community Proceeds from the event will support local charities and initiatives that promote health individuals are contributing to causes that make a positive difference in the lives of others The success of the Jamaica Hi5 5K Reggae Run relies on the support of sponsors and volunteers Local businesses and organizations are encouraged to become sponsors helping to enhance the event while gaining visibility among attendees Volunteers play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of the race Run or Walk in your Jamaican Socks, and contribute to the cause. When you shop with Irie Steppings 15% of every purchase goes directly to support the Adopt-A-Clinic initiative bringing vital aid to health clinics in Jamaica Look good and feel even better knowing your style is making a difference If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor or volunteer visit the event website for more information on how you can contribute Your support is greatly appreciated and vital to the event’s success The 2025 Jamaica Hi5 5K Reggae Run promises to be an unforgettable event that blends the rhythmic beats of reggae with the invigorating spirit of a 5K run With esteemed Race Ambassadors like Sizzla participants are in for a treat as they join this celebration of music Mark your calendars for May 10 and get ready to experience the perfect fusion of reggae and running at Miramar Regional Park United States (AFP)-The United States on Friday ended a tariff exemption for goods shipped from China worth less than $800 dealing a major blow to popular e-commerce sites such as Shein and Temu whose cheap items consumers have come to rely on with the White House calling it a “critical step in countering the ongoing health emergency posed by the illicit flow of synthetic opioids” from China to the United States goods shipped commercially will now be subject to new tariffs of 145 per cent — the current level of levies imposed on goods coming from China Items sent through the US Postal Service will be hit with duties of 120 per cent of their value The elimination of the ‘de minimis’ exemption now subjects even low-value imports to tariffs,” EY chief economist Gregory Daco wrote in a recent note to clients adding it would squeeze “already-thin margins and driving up end prices.” The measures mark the latest salvo in a burgeoning trade war between the United States and China — the world’s two largest economies The White House has also slapped additional levies of 25 percent on several sectors including automobiles Beijing retaliated with sweeping 125 percent levies on US imports Most other US trading partners face a baseline tariff of 10 percent except for Mexico and Canada which face a higher 25 per cent tariff on goods not covered by a current North America free-trade deal The move threatens to hammer the business model of several large firms that ship cheap goods from China — including fast-fashion titans Shein and Temu Chinese e-commerce sites listed on the New York Stock Exchange were largely in the green on Friday most likely reflecting optimism about trade negotiations between Beijing and Washington and the fact that many of these changes were already priced into the financial markets The Financial Times reported earlier this week that Shein was postponing a long-standing plan to list on public stock markets in London due to the looming de minimis changes Trump first floated cancelling the exemption in February before backtracking after the move caused logistical disruptions Beijing accused the United States of “politicising trade and economic issues and using them as tools.” While fighting to keep his emotions in check Jamaican athletics icon Usain Bolt yesterday credited his father who operated a grocery shop in their home community of Sherwood Content with teaching him the value of respect for others anyone who knows me knows that I am very respectful … that is one of the biggest lessons I learnt from my dad No one could go in his shop and behave bad; and no matter how old you were you cannot come in there,” Bolt recounted and that is how I am trying to grow my kids.” He was speaking at the Falmouth Seventh-day Adventist Church in Trelawny and emotion on Sunday as tributes poured out from relatives and well-wishers during the funeral for his father a punctual man whose parenting style was strict but ultimately loving demonstrated kindness to anyone who came seeking assistance from him but I know he always wanted the best for me and he was a very kind person… he was a very giving person because all he did was give,” said Bolt anybody from Sherwood Content can tell you that they could always go to him and say I’ll pay you tomorrow,’ and he would give to them.” likewise noted that kindness and humility were key parts of the elder Bolt’s personality “Gideon’s devotion extended to his own family During his mother’s extended illness he lovingly prepared her dinner before going home to his wife and children,” Davis recalled his spirit of love and kindness will never be forgotten and the reflections of his generosity resonate deeply within our hearts.” including Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness; Culture and Sport Minister Olivia Grange; former Prime Minster Bruce Golding; National Security Minister Dr Horace Chang; Trelawny North Member of Parliament Tova Hamilton; and Dr Wykeham McNeill the People’s National Party’s prospective candidate for the constituency; were in attendance at the three-and-a-half-hour service and every Jamaican is grieving at this time with Usain and his family,” said Holness in a brief tribute it was because of my parents.’ I am sure it would have taken Usain’s village to raise him Members of Jamaica’s sporting fraternity were also present to provide support to the Bolt family as well as representatives from the Jamaica Union of Seventh-day Adventists and the North Jamaica Conference of Seventh-day Adventists Tributes also poured in via remembrances and songs from representatives of the Jamaica Coffee Board where the elder Bolt was employed as a supervisor and field manager between 1982 and 2001 and the Waldensia Primary School in Sherwood Content of which he was a past student and a member of the school’s board of governors Wellesley Bolt was born in Lime Tree Garden the fifth of six children for parents Cyril and Maude Bolt He briefly attended the Lime Tree Garden Primary School but his schooling there was affected by an asthmatic condition with Bolt attending the Waldensia Primary School in Sherwood Content where he operated a grocery store until 2017 who was a constant supportive presence throughout his son Usain’s rise to track and field stardom suffered a stroke while in England in 2017 His health declined in the years afterwards until his passing on March 31 this year at the age of 68 christopher.thomas@gleanerjm.com View the discussion thread. “Stop killing us!” “Stop the abuse of our children!” “Help me grow in love Armed with their placards bearing poignant and powerful messages several youngsters from different uniformed groups stood in silent protest hoping that their messages would not fall on deaf ears as the nation observes Child Month The youngsters’ protest was part of the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation’s (KSAMC) annual Child Month Candlelight Vigil held at the Secret Gardens Monument in downtown Kingston to honour the memory of children who have died under tragic or violent circumstances a 15-year-old Camperdown High student whose message was about putting an end to child abuse “We should stop all crimes altogether because the children are our future Who is going to help us in the future to maintain a good environment?” she asked and hurting our children and people altogether.” Willis also called for more support for children because they will be taking over after you are all old and frail,” he said who two years ago lost his friend as a result of gang violence and recalled feeling depressed for a couple of days called for stricter penalties for child killers head boy at Wolmer’s Boys’ School urged his peers to champion the changes that they would like to see for themselves and get involved “As much as the youth are undermined they have to speak up for themselves as well Join advocacy groups and use your voices for good,” he said “My message to everyone this Child Month is that child safety and development is not just a parent’s problem should take heed of and play our part to protect our children.” emphasised that child abuse in Jamaica is no longer just a societal issue ‘Act Now: Stand Against Child Abuse and Exploitation’ called for immediate action in light of the growing crisis Swaby outlined alarming statistics that underscored the urgency of the situation citing more than 15,000 child abuse reports received by the Child Protection and Family Services Agency in 2022 alone — an average of 40 cases a day The Violence Against Children and Youth Survey with nearly three out of four children having experienced some form of violence “The violence is not only in our homes One in three boys says he is aware of gang activity in his school One in four girls says the same,” the mayor shared He also pointed to the fact that many young victims suffer in silence noting that only one in 10 children who have experienced such trauma ever receive professional assistance He called for better support systems and encouraged Jamaicans to speak out and act decisively to protect children from harm Swaby also reaffirmed the KSAMC’s commitment to child protection declaring that the safety and well-being of children would always be a top priority for the city He emphasised that the vigil was more than a ceremonial event; it was a call to action for the entire nation to act in solidarity “The theme of this year’s Child Month our courts — building networks of trust and response We must create safer communities,” he said Swaby also stressed that every child deserves not just protection and that Jamaica must ensure every child feels seen tanesha.mundle@gleanerjm.com View the discussion thread. Located just 3.5 miles from Boston University by bike Jamaica Plain (JP to locals) is one of Boston’s most diverse neighborhoods What you will find is a community committed to the environment and sustainable agriculture—and a place that’s hip and way left-of-center when it comes to politics Once described as the “Eden of America” by a 19th-century traveler, JP evolved after the Civil War from a series of large farms to one of the country’s first streetcar suburbs, according to local lore. The neighborhood includes a key part of the city’s famed Emerald Necklace Conservancy a seven-mile series of contiguous parks designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted in the late 19th century held each May to celebrate and showcase its world-class collection of more than 400 lilac trees One of the country’s premier examples of the garden cemetery style Forest Hills was created in 1848 to replace old colonial graveyards in what was then the city of Roxbury was designed as a place to mourn the dead and to contemplate nature among them the abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison Nobel Prize–winning playwright Eugene O’Neill The cemetery also includes wonderful examples of Victorian architecture and spectacular sculptures including a towering bronze angel created by sculptor Daniel Chester French famous for the Lincoln Memorial’s Abraham Lincoln sculpture in Washington The parklike setting is ideal for strolling and contemplation The Forest Hills Crematory was the first built in New England The cemetery was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2004 Guided tours are available from April through October a private nonprofit committed to conservation This popular family destination is open year-round and attracts more than 600,000 visitors a year is a classic Irish bar famous for its large selection of draft and bottled beers And as the pub’s devoted clientele will tell you the Behan is also famous for conversation and live Irish music each Saturday starting at 5:30 pm The pub also allows dogs on its back patio year-round.  This American-Caribbean restaurant serves traditional bar food with a twist The lunch and dinner menu includes mofongo (hand-mashed fried plantains with garlic butter and fried pork shoulder) The restaurant prides itself on uniquely mixed spirits along with a Caribbean-inspired cocktail menu Guests love the ambient lights and invigorating Latin music The house showcases American furniture and decorative arts from the 18th through early 20th centuries as well as archival material chronicling the history of Jamaica Plain Special exhibitions and concerts are also held at the house Founded in 1877 with the mission of providing “pleasant and useful entertainment by the aid of drama,” this is the oldest community theater in the country 38 residents of Jamaica Plain donated land to support a school funded by an endowment from local farmer John Eliot The Eliot School of Fine & Applied Arts educated Africans and colonial children before turning its focus to the arts in the late 19th century Alarmed at how manual arts like woodworking and bookbinding were disappearing in Boston the Eliot School began offering courses in such crafts for schoolteachers and adults and then for children in after-school programs which continues to operate out of its original 17th-century building offers courses for children and adults in woodworking Instructors offer a modern twist on many of these art forms: there are courses in drawing for comics and cartoons and seasonal Easter egg decorating workshops The majority of Jamaica Plain’s shopping and dining venues can be found along and around Centre Street the principal artery cutting through JP center South Huntington Avenue.) Below are highlights This popular eatery has legions of dedicated customers who stop by for ramen featuring pork broth and chashu pork (marinated braised pork belly) Vegans and vegetarians will enjoy the yasai ramen with steamed tofu and veggie broth Try a rice bowl like the chicken katsu curry Soup Shack is open daily for lunch and dinner and has additional locations in Brookline and Cambridge Outdoor sidewalk dining is available during warm-weather months.  Jadu—which means “magic” in Hindi—is a coffee shop by day and a soon-to-be wine bar by night The eatery not only offers delicious drinks (the chai teas are outstanding) but also has a particular focus on serving flavorful and culturally rich food was heavily inspired by her own life experiences and wanted to foster an environment with the vibes of a typical coffee shop—but on a more ambitious level You’ll find more than your run-of-the-mill breakfast foods: Jadu’s popular menu items include their Breakfast Sammy (a jammy egg and lemon vinaigrette on focaccia); Turkish style eggs (two jammy eggs with garlic labneh with a side of pita bread); and chicken and rice (black rice chicken thighs marinated in peanut ginger sauce The shop’s yummy pastries are supplied by Monumental Market The wine bar is expected to open in summer 2025 Note: the restaurant is closed on Wednesdays husband and wife Jessen Fitzpatrick and Andria Rapagnola believe that there’s a perfect hat for everyone—and their JP shop has more than 12,000 to choose from the boutique offers a wide selection of handbags owned and operated by longtime Jamaica Plain residents Dan and Kristen Valachovic has become a neighborhood favorite since opening in 2008 The ever-changing seasonal menu currently features entrees like steak frites a spice-rubbed seared tuna (served with cucumber salad and vegan gorditas (topped with refried lentils Vee Vee also has a small but impressive selection of beer and wine and offers takeout most evenings Be sure to save room for dessert: the butterscotch pudding and the crème fraîche ice cream are worth every calorie While some tables are designated for walk-ins Vee Vee also has a lovely outdoor patio that is open during warm-weather months including Buy the Pound: $5 Fill A Bag and color analysis sessions.  This Mexican restaurant has been open since May 2016 and attracts diners from all over the area The restaurant offers a wide selection of snacks including elote (grilled corn with a cilantro aioli with fillings like pork and adobo tofu and served with guacamole Casa Verde also has an innovative cocktail menu and an extensive list of draft and bottled beers The restaurant does not accept reservations A back patio is open for al fresco dining during warm-weather months.  This Vietnamese-Thai restaurant serves classic noodle dishes like pad thai Noodle Barn is also known for its fried rice Sweet Rice bills itself as a Thai kitchen with a sushi bar They also offer sushi boats swimming with sashimi and assorted sushi rolls and an abundance of gluten-free and vegan options including tofu avocado curry and sautéed eggplant This women’s and children’s clothing boutique (they also feature a select number of men’s attire) focuses on local and American brands with an emphasis on female designers You’ll also find many sustainable and domestically produced accessories and jewelry The shop’s friendly and knowledgeable staff will help you find the perfect gift for yourself or a loved one Free shipping is available on orders over $100 independently owned gem of a gift shop offers something for everyone It features a small but curated choice of clothing It’s the perfect place to find a quirky birthday present With an emphasis on fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors healthy interpretation of classic Mexican cuisine low on fat.” Black beans are simmered without lard or additives and the kitchen uses low-fat sour cream and lean steak in its dishes and a vegetable taco salad with a zingy cilantro-lime vinaigrette The guacamole and salsa fresca are made daily Purple Cactus is especially popular for takeout (the dining area is decidedly no-frills) and is open every day except Sundays with a special Saturday brunch menu available from 10 am to 2 pm This grocery-café-deli is reminiscent of an old-fashioned general store buy local”—emphasizes its commitment to sustainability and locally grown or prepared foods City Feed offers fair-trade coffee and a mouthwatering selection of sandwiches and baked goods for takeout You’ll find a wide selection of artisanal cheeses A smaller City Feed is located at 66A Boylston St. a short walk from the MBTA Orange Line’s Stony Brook station This kitchen store is chock full of just about everything you’d need‚ from bakeware to teapots and coffee pots The store has twice won Boston Magazine’s Best of Award for kitchen store formerly the site of the popular eatery Little Dipper draws inspiration from the cozy trattorias and aperitivo bars in the smaller neighborhoods surrounding Rome The menu features pasta dishes like bucatini served with anchovy chili butter and mortadella and pecorino served with house pickles; and pizza slices and whole pies in a variety of flavors as well as bianca pizzas in flavors like ricotta and hot honey and eggplant caponata The beverage menu includes a curated list of cocktails Have a hankering for some fresh New England seafood including a raw bar and a variety of fish sandwiches like a salmon BLT and Bluefin’s famous New Englander—a lobster roll with a side of clam chowder The fish market features some of the best local seafood around—tuna and “eat and heat” clam chowder and lobster bisque The trout and smoked bluefish pates are outstanding Licks ice cream shop (there are now 17 in and around Boston) It may well be the most popular place in JP Referring to itself as “an ice cream maker The restaurant’s large fireplace is put to good use during winter months and its outdoor tables make it an inviting place in warm weather unpretentious taqueria offers authentic Mexican street fare from tostadas and enchiladas to quesadillas Of special note are the restaurant’s corn tortilla tacos but is most popular for its takeout service With a strong emphasis on the importance of health and wellness Shea Butter Smoothies features protein-rich smoothies—including the Big Papi (strawberries almond milk)—as well as an array of yummy fruit-based smoothies Try the So Fresh and So Clean (green apple You’ll also find an array of fresh press juices This small eatery offers a wide range of menu items as well as dinner entrées like ribeye steak and eggplant parmesan Joint is especially popular for their burgers and pizzas Save room for the brownie sundae with ice cream The Joint has only a small number of tables so be prepared to wait—or order takeout or delivery Note: the restaurant is closed on Mondays.  is the city’s “first full-service restaurant and music store,” according to its website Formerly the book and music store Rhythm & Muse Tres Gatos still sells books and music in the back It also has a wide selection of classic and contemporary Spanish wines and hard-to-find brews Based on the belief that “sharing good food and books is essential to a happy life,” Tres Gatos has become enormously popular with locals You’ll have your choice of seating at the bar Be sure to check out Tres Gatos’ weekend brunch service a cannabis dispensary that offers a range of vapes Located just around the corner from Ten Tables independent coffee bar featuring ingredients that are ethically sourced and farmed Coffee beans are from small growers and cooperatives around the globe and roasted by Barrington Coffee Roasting Company in the Berkshires You’ll find a wonderful selection of teas and coffees The latest addition to Hyde Square’s bustling restaurant scene from classics like margherita to unique creations like the JP Veggie Monumental Market is a woman-owned enterprise that supports local artists and businesses Visitors rave about the friendly atmosphere The BYTE Shop does a little bit of everything with electronics: it’s a repair shop Services include computer hardware and software repair The knowledgeable staff will answer any of your technology questions and you can drop off old electronics for recycling The quirky studio is decked out in vintage computers and multicolored bar stools The shop is also a computer history museum that traces the evolution of the home computer from 1965 to 1995 through one of the largest collections of historic home computers in New England an independent book publisher dedicated to publishing cutting-edge books as well as complimentary air and lubricating oil for customers Video Underground (The VU) offers Boston cinephiles more than 17,500 independent films including many you won’t find online—and the knowledgeable staff adds films to the store’s collection on a daily basis The VU also offers local artists a chance to sell their work You can buy or rent DVD and Blu-ray films here any available title they don’t have in stock such as Comics & Superheroes and Cops & Criminals Films are searchable on the store’s website But The VU is more than just a video store They have a 24-seat microcinema where they host regular film screenings and a full-service coffee shop The store is also a micro-batch coffee roaster and sells a wide range of coffee and non-coffee drinks Brassica Kitchen + Café transforms at night into a hip sophisticated restaurant that prides itself on its “fermentation-forward” food and drink The innovative menu includes chef tastings and à la carte plates and is constantly changing to reflect the seasons You’ll find everything from koji risotto to duck breast to fried chicken with maple ume and giardiniera to fried rice with fermented vegetables Located within walking distance of the Forest Hills T stop Brassica is open for dinner Wednesday through Saturday and also features a popular weekend brunch.  This laid-back café serves breakfast all day which features a smashed burger topped with American cheese Their clam belly rolls with fresh whole clams as is the Forest Hills triple-decker sandwich with bacon Evergreen Eatery and Café is open for breakfast and breakfast and lunch on Sunday (closed Monday).  and veteran–owned bakery and coffee shop carries organic fair-trade roasted coffee from New Harvest Coffee Roasters in New Haven as well as espresso and a wide selection of loose-leaf teas and fresh sandwiches and pastries The menu also features a selection of yummy vegan and gluten-free options The free Wi-Fi attracts many young professionals hunched over their laptops.  Getting there: The easiest way to get to JP is to take the #39 bus from Copley Square to JP Center The bus takes you down Huntington Avenue to South Huntington Avenue Or take the MBTA’s Orange Line to either the Jackson Square stop (for venues in Hyde Square) or the Green Street stop The neighborhood is also within an easy bicycle ride from BU; the Emerald Necklace bike path is one of Boston’s best Click on the points in the map above for more information on the places listed in our guide to the Jamaica Plain area Getting to Know Your Neighborhood: Jamaica Plain Pioneering Research from Boston University Sign up for our daily Newsletter and stay up to date with all the latest news You are receiving this pop-up because this is the first time you are visiting our site You are using software which is blocking our advertisements (adblocker) we are relying on revenues from our banners So please disable your adblocker and reload the page to continue using this site.Thanks Four strawberry farmers have secured $43 million in financing from the Development Bank of Jamaica (DBJ) to improve and expand their production Their success stories were highlighted at the Strawberry Cluster Open Day The four farms are Synergy Business Solutions expressed satisfaction that the government is providing funding for farmers who want to invest in agriculture The four farmers used the funds to conduct a study tour in California to explore global best practices; develop a technology package suited to Jamaican growing conditions; construct new greenhouses and retrofit existing ones with advanced solar-powered cooling systems; and introduce a high-yield strawberry variety that has adapted well to Jamaica's climatic conditions David Lowe as the new Head of the DBJ was agriculture-related where we signed a document with the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) and the DBJ We are going to train farmers in financial literacy and train extension officers who can go out in the field to train farmers in the fundamentals of financial literacy," Mr farmers would be able to access financing with a registered business and a business plan He noted that meetings had been held with the DBJ to ensure that capital was not only available but accessible and at a cost that would provide farmers with good returns on their investment "We have already decided that we would meet quarterly to make this happen Today is a sign that we already have some of the models that can make this happen We have advised farmers to organize themselves into groups because it is much easier to get help as a cluster than going it alone," the Minister said said with Jamaica importing millions of dollars' worth of strawberries annually "we are on the path to import substitution." "It is important to us when we put forward solutions and tools that allow clusters like this to grow and make an impact we see that the things that come from this (strawberry) are not just limited to jams and preserves but also in the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries—two very high-value spin-offs that we need to be thinking of," Dr He assured the farmers that the DBJ would be happy to partner with them in the next stage of their development The capital that supported the cluster came through the Boosting Innovation and Entrepreneurship Ecosystem (BIGEE) program Source: Jamaican Information Service FreshPublishers © 2005-2025 HortiDaily.com ExpandLetter to the Editor (Shaw Local News Network) Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network Trelawny — Legendary sprinter Usain Bolt on Sunday promised his father whose thanksgiving service was being held at Falmouth Seventh-day Adventist Church here that he’ll be the pillar of strength for his widow Jennifer from now on as hundreds of mourners and well-wishers from all walks of life paid their final respects to the Bolt patriarch You’re gonna get tired of me now because I’m gonna be a lot more in your life and the well wishes and everything,” said Usain And thanks for all the ministers for coming and supporting I feel the love and I really appreciate it.” don’t worry — I have Mommy now,’ so thank you very much,” he said Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness was among those gathered and he assured the eight-time Olympic gold medallist that “the entire nation mourns with you” “The entire nation embraces the family and surrounds you with prayers at this difficult time,” Holness said The prime minister managed to elicit a smile from the at-times stone-faced Olympian retelling what Usain said about his father during an interview “I immediately looked up some of the things you said about your father ‘My father didn’t speak much but when he spoke we listened,’ and I believe that summed up the character of the man it was because of my parents.’ He gave credit to his parents and I’m certain that it would have taken Usain’s village to raise him to become this world champion but it all started in the home,” the prime minister emphasised Surrounded by a sea of light-blue-clad family members in a reserved section of the church a teary-eyed Usain sat huddled beside his grief-stricken mother the two leaning on each other for strength in the front pew of the jam-packed church during the thanksgiving service At one point the distressed but caring mother could be seen wiping beads of sweat from her legendary son’s face one of the sprint icon’s sons played with his father pulling his attention away from the solemn situation Sports Minister Olivia “Babsy” Grange described the elder Bolt as a passionate father who was invested in his family She underlined that Wellesley and his wife Jennifer were Usain’s “chief motivators that Usain has achieved can be attributed to the confidence given to him by his ever-supportive mother and father I know he’s missing his father and will miss him for a very long time but I know he’s a big man and he’s going to make sure he’s there for his mother and the rest of the family Offering her sincerest condolence to his family Grange said: “It is going to be a difficult time…but I encourage you to be comforted by the memory of an incredibly good father As a community man and father you’ve run your race Usain was also supported by a cast of sports celebrities where Wellesley resided for decades after leaving his native St Ann parish with mourners overflowing from the church and into a large tent on the grounds and out onto Duke Street Among the mourners were also former Prime Minister Bruce Golding Member of Parliament for Trelawny Northern Tova Hamilton and the People’s National Party’s aspirant candidate in the constituency Dr Wykeham McNeill one family member recounted that the shop he operated in Sherwood Content had to be dubbed the charity shop because of his inability to turn his back on customers who were unable to pay adding that it is a trait he inherited from his parents Anybody from Sherwood Content could tell you that they could always go to him and say I’ll pay you tomorrow.’ He was always a giving person and [that’s] something that I grew up with you can’t give away all of your money,’ and I was like That’s what you taught me to do — to always give anybody who knows me knows I’m very respectful Members of the Waldensia Primary and Infant School in Sherwood Content also recounted Wellesley’s kindness He was also remembered as a spiritual individual by a Sherwood Content Seventh-day Adventist Church member the senior Bolt would drop his wife off at church on the Sabbath and leave “I remember he would always be giving me a smile He was always kind and humble,” the church brother reflected Members of the Coffee Industry Board of Jamaica also paid tribute to Wellesley often featured in the stands alongside his wife Jennifer as they supported their son Usain during his rise to global stardom He ran a shop in Sherwood Content for 15 years he worked at the coffee board for 16 years His body was interred at the cemetery in Reserve Brothers Sadiki (left) and Usain Bolt (second left) carry the casket bearing the remains of their father Wellesley “Gideon” Bolt whose thanksgiving service was held at Falmouth Seventh-day Adventist Church in Trelawny on Sunday Their cousin Kevin Graham (right) is also a pall-bearer Legendary sprinter Usain Bolt wipes beads of sweat from his face during Sunday’s thanksgiving service to celebrate the life of his father Wellesley “Gideon” Bolt at Falmouth Seventh-day Adventist Church in Trelawny Among the mourners and well-wishers at the funeral for Usain Bolts’ dad held at held at Falmouth Seventh-day Adventist Church in Trelawny Family members of the late Wellesley “Gideon” Bolt wear blue and are seated in a reserved section of Falmouth Seventh-day Adventist Church during the thanksgiving service to celebrate his life on Sunday was on Sunday laid to rest following a thanksgiving service celebrating his life at Falmouth Seventh-day Adventist Church in Trelawny In order to provide you with the best online experience this website uses cookies.By using our website, you agree to our use of cookies. Learn more Trevello Travel Group kicked off its 2025 national conference Sunday night (May 4) in Montego Bay Jamaica at lush and elegant Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall,  welcoming a delegation of 152 travel advisors and 52 suppliers who flew in from all over Canada (and beyond) to attend the week-long event sipped cocktails and snapped selfies before heading into a buffet-style dinner in Hyatt Zilara’s ballroom where a live steel drum band filled the air with smooth Jamaican grooves which is covering Trevello’s conference on location "Momentum,” which is about encouraging travel advisors to keep moving forward who roamed the room last night wearing a sparkling tiara (campaigning for the title of “Prom Queen,” we were told There’s a prom-themed party happening later in the week But back to business. A lot has happened at Trevello ever since the host agency celebrated its 30th anniversary last year, a milestone that was marked by a national conference held aboard the Ruby Princess in Alaska.  Last summer, Trevello announced its plan to expand into the United States under parent company Trevello World Holdings. Then, the company announced it was going public through a qualifying transaction with M3 Capital Capital Corp Then, an acquisition. At the start of this year, Trevello World Holdings Inc revealed that it had secured the Gifted Travel Network (GTN) a U.S.-based host agency for luxury travel advisors which serves new-to-industry advisors – one of Trevello’s fastest-growing segments “We’re targeting new-to-industry advisors because they’re going to be our future,” Gedeon said last night Launch Pad trains newcomers about “the ABCs of travel,” Gedeon went on to say stay in the program for three to six months and have a much more hands-on approach,” she said The word on the street is that almost half of the agents attending Trevello’s conference this year are new (or still relatively new) to the travel industry This week’s agenda will not only connect advisors with suppliers in educational but also provide an in-depth overview of the new tools and technology Trevello has introduced over the past 12 months Newly-launched platforms like Cruise Central, which aims to refine the booking process and boost cruise sales as a one-stop shop Trevello is also “rewriting the rules” of the host agency world with a revamped compensation model As announced in April “Momentum” – there’s that word again – is a new commission program that that “puts advisors first,” with 85 per cent commission for everyone—"no exceptions” – and 100 per cent commission once $15,000 in paid commission is achieved It also promises the lowest fees in the industry—"because advisors should keep what they earn,” reads a press release that was issued at the time Trevello isn’t sugar-coating its message either calling Momentum “a rallying cry for every travel advisor who has ever felt undervalued or overlooked.” Commenting on the commission program last night Gedeon said the idea has been six years in the making.  so they deserve to make all the money,” she said but we should not be making money from our advisors.” So yeah. A lot to unpack this week. And that doesn’t even include all the updates and discussions that will unfold about the state of travel, and the economy, as Canadians respond to U.S President Donald Trump’s tariff policies and annexation threats The industry is also cooling down from the post-COVID booms of 2023 and 2024 Gedeon has a realistic view of the situation “Nobody can sustain the 25 per cent growth we all had last year “I think we're going back to the real normal of it being five to ten per cent [growth] but realistically our target is ten this year.” Trevello’s growth is currently hovering at a five per cent increase over last year with all the instability happening around us who are attending the company's conference for the first time.  agents will hear from various brands about the latest product updates They’ll also hear from colleagues at panel discussions and workshops Hosting the event at Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall is also boon for Playa Hotels and Resorts It’s the first time the hotelier has ever collaborated with Trevello on a scale like this “We're super excited and honoured they decided to pick this hotel and destination which is dear to us and Canadians,” said Rose Cosentino vice-president global wholesale and retail sales at Playa We’re looking forward to seeing what more we can bring to the table.” Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall (Ziva for adults) is definitely “one of the originals” at Playa The property’s “beautiful landscaping and lush vegetation” has caught Morris’ eye this week “It’s one of the great features of having a property that is mature,” she said Another point: apparently 60 per cent of Trevello advisors have never stayed at a Hyatt Ziva or Zilara property Advisors will be able to experience what their clients enjoy.” The opportunity comes as Hyatt Hotels Corp. works on securing a deal to buy Playa Hotels & Resorts for $2.6 billion USD Cosentino and team will be discussing the transaction with Trevello’s advisors at a session on Monday The deal has not yet closed (Hyatt recently requested an extension) “everything is status quo,” Cosentino said “We anticipate that once the transaction closes Hyatt loves the product – there’s a reason why this is happening Our commitment is to ensure a smooth transition for our guests and travel advisors.” Cosentino added that “we're not going to make any radical changes.” “Hyatt Ziva and Zilara” is a brand Playa created in collaboration with Hyatt “Hyatt really likes the way we operate,” Cosentino said “It’s a testament to how well we have been performing as an organization – at the ground level right up to the executive teams.” But it’s not all business at Trevello’s conference there’ll be parties and activations aimed at injecting some fun into the program And Trevello sure knows how to lock in a date this year’s event conveniently runs in conjunction with Travel Advisor Day on Wednesday (May 7) Sandals Resorts will be hosting a big Caribbean bash To see more pictures from Trevello’s event, click and “like” PAX’s Facebook page here Stay tuned for more of PAX’s exclusive coverage from Trevello’s 2025 conference at Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall Don't miss a single travel story: subscribe to PAX today!  Click here to follow PAX on Facebook Receive the best travel industry news every day OttawaNewsAir Canada to offer non-stop flights from Ottawa to 2 Caribbean destinations this winter By Josh PringlePublished: May 05, 2025 at 8:12AM EDT Twitter feed ©2025 BellMedia All Rights Reserved Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights Transformative Travel: I look at how travel can change lives.Follow AuthorApr 30 11:02am EDTShareSaveComment@font-face{font-family: "Schnyder"; 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Alongside the launch of the 50th-anniversary book, the hotel recently released Rockhouse Rum—a limited-edition, single-barrel Jamaican rum created in partnership with Worthy Park Estate like candle-making workshops and a 4,500-square-foot hydroponic greenhouse where guests can learn about organic growing composting and the future of regenerative hospitality It’s the kind of place that draws people back year after year. Luxury travel and lifestyle expert Ellen Asmodeo-Giglio first introduced me to Rockhouse—and this is her home away from home when she’s not traveling the world “There’s a feeling that I have when I’m there It’s like ‘How Ellen gets her groove back,’” Asmodeo-Giglio told me in an interview It immerses you immediately and creates deeper relationships with the people you travel with.” Rockhouse Foundation has helped build schools and fund education for the local community “The Rockhouse team is serving the community and I’d love to see them continue to serve because one child in that school might be the next kid to find the cure for cancer or change the world,” the musician Shaggy wrote in Rockhouse: The Book “Their sustainability efforts have been going on for such a long time—before it was chic or necessary,” says Asmodeo-Giglio “And then you have the fact that they just built a special needs school Salmon shares a few of the lessons he learned from 30 years of running this small clifftop hotel in Jamaica—lessons that resonate far beyond Negril’s shores he was working in finance—and had no background in hospitality But he and his cofounders were drawn to the idea of creating something rooted in service And that beginner’s mindset turned out to be a hidden strength But we didn’t really know any better than to do it the way we’ve sort of done it And I think that by staying committed to our values that’s what made the difference.” “We’re not trying to be the place for everyone,” says Salmon “We want people who appreciate what we are That means staying true to our identity.” He recalls how some guests arrive with a type-A mindset anxious that their room isn’t the “best in category” and asking to switch “They're bringing their city self with them,” he says sometimes even apologizing for how they were when they checked in They’ve transformed.” And that is part of Rockhouse’s quiet magic the lack of TVs or just the cliffs and salt air Rockhouse has never been about marble and glitz Its charm lies in its hand-laid stone floors locally built furniture and gardens that grow a little wild “It’s this whole idea of rough luxury,” says Salmon “There are so many hotels that are so slick and everything is so hyper produced And that to me is one of the things I love about the hotel—it's an overused word It took Salmon and his partners two decades to open a second hotel after Rockhouse “We did open Skylark on the beach about seven years ago,” he says “I think after 20 years of owning the hotels we’ve learned enough to do another one now.’” That patience defines Rockhouse’s slow approach to growth New ventures—whether it’s a hydroponic greenhouse or a limited-edition rum—aren’t rushed or trend-driven Rockhouse was operating on principles of place-based design and community connection the team continued to build using local timber and volcanic stone and furniture was handcrafted by Jamaican artisans in the on-site woodshop the goal has always been to immerse guests in the real Jamaica—not wall them off “We've always been an open-door kind of place,” says Salmon “We want people to experience Jamaica—not just the hotel.” so has its commitment to lifting people up “We partnered with a guy who had a great hydroponic farm in Green Island but he didn’t have capacity to grow for us,” says Salmon what if we build a farm at Rockhouse and you run it Now he’s also managing the organic farm out back.” It’s a model that Salmon and his team have repeated often—partnering with local entrepreneurs and giving them the infrastructure to scale “It’s about empowering people through entrepreneurship,” he says Salmon has seen the ripple effect of Rockhouse’s presence in Negril “The average person at Rockhouse has worked there 10 years,” he told me “The average tenure of our senior management is like 17 years.” he’s watched team members buy cars and houses and have families and grow “I think it's in that cumulative effect that you realize that you have an ability to have a positive impact at a much larger scale than you ever aspired to when you started out.” Through the Rockhouse Foundation “We started out sponsoring one breakfast program at a local school,” he says “Now we’ve spent over $10 million on local education.” Salmon doesn’t pretend to have all the answers “I still feel like we’re figuring it out,” he says We’re all just trying to work out how to do things the best way we can.” That humility—and willingness to keep learning—has helped Rockhouse stay relevant while remaining true to its roots Rockhouse has faced plenty of challenges—from hurricanes to health crises “You have your ups and downs,” says Salmon “Lots of challenges in the Caribbean as the hurricanes blow through You’ve got challenges with all sorts of varying airborne diseases You work out how to muscle through it all.” “The worst thing you can do is not act,” he says “You’ve got to keep taking steps—even if they’re in the wrong direction you’ll learn more and be able to set a different course.” Guyana (CMC) – The family of an 11-year-old girl whose body was found in a swimming pool at a hotel late last month in Guyana and whose death caused the government to institute a four-and-a-half-hour curfew following protest action says the funeral planned for Monday has been postponed Amecia Simon gave no date as to when the funeral of Adriana Younge would now take place “Due to ongoing matters and our family’s need for space and clarity as we grieve we have made the painful decision to postpone Adriana’s funeral today,” she said adding that a new date will be provided in due course The mother said the decision to postpone the funeral was difficult but the need for “peace” was among the key reasons love and the dignity she deserves,” she said thanking members of the population for their outpouring of sympathy there is no pain greater than losing your child – she was my heartbeat My precious Adriana was the light of our lives we are clinging to the love she gave so freely and the memories that will live with us forever “I want to take this moment through my tears and brokenness to thank each and every one of you near and far who have stood with our family during this impossible time hugs and tears shared with us- they have held us up when we thought we couldn’t stand I’ve felt the arms of this nation around me and I am so deeply grateful,” she said “I express my heartfelt condolences following the tragic death of Adrianna Younge and share my deep concern and sorrow over the crisis and civil unrest that have happened in Guyana “I encourage all Guyanese citizens to remain calm and voice their concerns through non-violent means and to adhere to the rule of law Looting and destruction of property are harmful to all I strongly urge all involved to commit to peace as the Government works to resolve the situation “The United States remains committed to supporting the people of Guyana and the country’s continued stability and prosperity,” Theriot said the government had announced a four and a half hour curfew and the order stated that there shall be no public meetings procession or marches in any public space during the hours of 12:30 am and 5:00 am (local time) An autopsy conducted by three internationally respected pathologists last week has concluded that Younge died by drowning but there have been calls for an international probe into the death of the child with several political parties and civil society actors dismissing a report from President Irfaan Ali that Younge did not die from “forceful drowning” Citing a lack of confidence in the Guyana Police Force (GPF) the family and the opposition have called for an international probe after the child’s body was found in a pool at the Double Day Hotel A GPF statement stated that she had been seen on government video surveillance cameras entering an identifiable car The Ministry of Home Affairs on Sunday warned that the government would not tolerate any disruptions at the time of Younge’s funeral with the full support of the Joint Services is on alert to respond to specific and general requests to calls for service from the public to assure calm and security,” the ministry said It reminded citizens of the need to enable “a non-disruptive sufficiently conducive to enabling the funeral arrangements for Younge as well as the successful commencement of sittings of the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) examinations…and the full return to safe and normal undertakings throughout the country” Former People’s National Party (PNP) councillor for the Ocho Rios Division which he had been battling for over four years Williams served as councillor for the Ocho Rios Division from 2012 to 2016 on Main Street in Ocho Rios for over 20 years said the news of Williams’ passing has left him in disbelief but described his friend as a humble and kind man “He never turned his back on those who needed his help; he was a humble man,” Haughton stated former Jamaica Labour Party councillor for the Ocho Rios Division Neville Williams stated the family is shaken up by the loss of his brother and we asked that people keep us in their prayers at this time of bereavement,” he said Williams leaves behind his wife and three children Mexico hosted and defeated Jamaica on Saturday Las Serpientes were 37-22 winners at Estadio Tapatio Mendez in Mexico City The match was a Rugby Americas North (RAN) Men’s XV Semi Final The RAN Men’s XV’s Finals were determined by results from 2024 Mexico vs Jamaica was the North Semi final while the South Semifinal will take place in Port of Spain with Trinidad & Tobago at home against Barbados on May 31 The winner will face Mexico in the Men’s XV Final in June Mexico defeated the Cayman Islands 45-14 in December 2024 and 20-10 in June 2024 The two matches account formed for 50% of Las Serpientes’ test matches since the pandemic all four of Mexico’s matches between the pandemic and Saturday’s match against Jamaica were against the Cayman Islands Mexico and RAN as a whole were excluded from Rugby World Cup 2027 Qualifiers. Only Canada and the USA are involved and will compete in the 2025 Pacific Nations Cup. This came as part of World Rugby reducing the number of participants despite expanding the Rugby World Cup from 20 to 24 teams for Australia 2027. Changes for 2026 will see the RAN Men’s XV comprised of three Tiers It will be used to implement a new model for Rugby World Cup 2031 Qualifiers It marks the first time that the Western Hemisphere will host the event In short, 2026 ought to see improved structures and opportunities in place. Before Mexico’s home win ove Jamaica, the Cayman Islands took to the field, claiming a 48-17 victory over Guyana Upcoming RAN Men’s XV’s international competition features two further test matches in May The Bahamas play host to Bermuda while Barbados will be at home against Guyana the Cayman Islands take-on Bermuda while St Vincent & the Grenadines on a yet to be confirmed date Tags Los Dogos showed class in a bonus point home victory on Friday The Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA) is still awaiting confirmation and final details regarding a reported US$50,000 worth of track and field equipment that Grand Slam Track founder Michael Johnson said was left in Jamaica following the inaugural meet held from April 4–6 at the National Stadium The Windward Islands Women held their nerve to secure a gritty three-wicket win over Trinidad and Tobago in a low-scoring contest on Monday at the Arnos Vale Ground in the ongoing CWI T20 Blaze West Indies Women’s captain Hayley Matthews delivered a standout performance in Barbados over the weekend scoring a vital 60 off 71 balls while representing ESA Field Pickwick in a men’s three-day match in the Barbados Cricket Association’s Elite Division League Cricket West Indies (CWI) has unveiled an exciting and dynamic 15-member squad for three One Day International (ODI) matches against Ireland from May 21-25 and another three against England from May 29 to June 3 The quarter-finals of the Kingston and St Andrew Football Association (KSAFA) Wray and Nephew Major League delivered high drama and exciting football action on Sunday as four clubs booked their spots in the semi-finals Qiana Joseph delivered a match-winning performance to lead the Leeward Islands Women to an emphatic eight-wicket victory over Jamaica in a rain-shortened encounter at the CWI T20 Blaze on Monday The match took place at the Arnos Vale Ground in Kingstown The 2025 Jamaica Volleyball Association (JAVA) Club League came to a thrilling end over the weekend with championship glory and bragging rights decided in an action-packed finale at the GC Foster College of Physical Education and Sport has said that Jamaica is being looked at to host future meetings and conferences of international sports organisations This follows the successful hosting of the two-day Sports Summit of the Americas in Montego Bay last week It was the first time that Jamaica was hosting the Summit The Guyana Amazon Warriors are set to return for Season 2 of the ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL) Sprint legend Usain Bolt delivered a moving tribute to his late father during an emotional funeral service on Sunday at the Falmouth Seventh-day Adventist Church drawing a large turnout of mourners from across Jamaica’s political In a major boost to Jamaica's national basketball program A high-level probe into the missing USD$12 million investment of Jamaican sprint legend Us.. celebrated for mentoring sprint legends like Usain Bol.. The newly resurfaced track at Jamaica’s National Stadium in Kingston is likely to receive .. Kingston College and Hydel High School are the respective leaders in the Boys’ and Girls’ .. Guadeloupe (CMC) – French authorities on Monday continued their evaluation of the damage caused by what the media there described as a “mini-tornado” that touched down on the French island on Sunday afternoon The weather phenomenon took place in Baie-Mahault There have been no reports of deaths on the island as a result of the weather situation The authorities have confirmed that major damage has occurred in residential areas in a town called Belcourt and that fire and rescue services have been deployed to the area Videos and photos circulating on social media show scenes similar to the passage of a hurricane Guadeloupe has now been placed under Orange Alert for “strong rains and thunderstorms.” reported that the island was being affected by a wet and unstable air mass “Heavy and sometimes stormy showers can still be triggered quickly today and can generate significant rainfall totals reaching Temporary flooding is therefore to be feared,” the newspaper said The French authorities have warned that heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected to return given the weather pattern over the past few days Météo France has warned that conditions would likely turn humid and very unstable again raising concerns about renewed heavy showers In a report detailing the rainfall accumulation from the previous day estimates indicated that the Jarry sector experienced significant downpours with 50 to 60 mm of rain recorded over three hours and 80 mm over six hours rainfall accumulations were projected to reach 20 to 30 mm with localised areas possibly seeing up to 50 mm The situation serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather in the Caribbean leading to both beautiful sunny days and intense storms With a nearby family-friendly resort and water park Princess Senses The Mangrove is the ultimate multi-generational vacation destination Sandals Resorts International has announced that the Beaches Ocho Rios in Jamaica will close on May 31 In a statement posted on the resort's website Sandals said that unlike other properties in the Beaches portfolio the Beaches Ocho Rios is owned by a third party and the owner is planning a major renovation the resort has stopped accepting new reservations and is contacting booked guests to provide other options Sandals' family-focused Beaches brand will be down to two all-inclusive resorts: the Beaches Negril in Jamaica and Beaches Turks & Caicos The closure announcement, however, comes after Sandals said it plans to pour nearly $1 billion in growing the brand Projects in progress include the Beaches Runaway Bay on Jamaica's North Coast and the Beaches Barbados as well as the conversion of the Sandals Emerald Bay in the Bahamas to the Beaches Exuma Sandals also recently opened reservations for the 101-room Treasure Beach Village at the Beaches Turks & Caicos The Treasure Beach addition will begin welcoming guests on March 1 This report was updated on the afternoon of April 30 with a statement from Sandals saying there's a "possibility of a continued relationship" with the property owner when a resort renovation is completed President of the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) Dr Mark Smith yesterday blasted the proposed Jamaica Teaching Council (JTC) Bill as a “betrayal” to educators while warning that the association is prepared to take all necessary steps to block its passage “We stand ready to take all possible actions to halt this travesty “This bill must not be passed in its current form; the teachers of Jamaica will not forget this betrayal!” Smith warned after two decades of advocacy on this bill demonstrates that no meaningful effort was made to address the critical concerns raised by the teachers of Jamaica” He said the bill is heavy-handed and appears more focused on control than collaboration during his address at the JTA’s National Education Week church service held yesterday at May Pen Methodist Church in Clarendon urged the Government to address what he called significant flaws with the bill arguing that it prioritises punitive measures over professional empowerment which was recently passed in the Senate and is now before the House of Representatives including standards for licensing and disciplinary action the JTA contends that the legislation undermines the autonomy of educators and places too much regulatory power in the hands of external authorities Smith sought to make it clear that the JTA was not opposed to regulation or professional standards but insists that any framework must involve meaningful input from teachers themselves He also called for greater and more strategic investment in the sector at all levels “We call upon our policymakers to recognise education as the most powerful investment we can make for our country’s future “Now is the time for a bold and unprecedented investment in education one that ignites a meaningful revolution in our human capital and shifts Jamaica towards a trajectory of true progress and national transformation,” he said Dr Smith also urged politicians to speak more strategically of their plans for education as a conduit to develop the nation’s human capital “There is no version of an economically sustainable socially viable or progressive Jamaica that does not have education and God at the centre of its existence” he said The JTA head at same time cautioned members against partisan division and appealed for unity among teachers there’s only one group that benefits from a weakened JTA and that is whichever party forms government “We must never forget that both parties have their fingerprints on this bill and so let us not be divided in our attempts to move forward,” he said the education ministry’s Region 7 director who extended apologies for the absence of Education Minister Senator Dr Dana Morris Dixon underscored the importance of education and the contribution of the nation’s teachers Pointing to the theme for the week - ‘Safeguarding the Future of Education Adapting to the Changes’ - he said it was very timely as it is a reminder that Education Week is not just a celebration reflect and recommit to equity and access for all “It reminds us that education is not just a system View the discussion thread. The Investing in Jamaica and Housing Forum set to take place tomorrow at the Pyramid Club in Philadelphia and May 8 at Resorts World New York City is expected to connect members of the Jamaican diaspora and potential investors with expanding economic opportunities in Jamaica The events were announced by Alsion Wilson Jamaica’s consul general in New York who noted that Jamaica’s economy is experiencing robust growth with a projected real GDP increase of 1.0 per cent to 3.0 per cent for the 2025-2026 fiscal year This positive outlook is underpinned by expansions in agriculture with a government commitment to fiscal discipline and strategic reforms credited with positioning Jamaica as a prime destination for investment in the Caribbean region “We are particularly excited to highlight Jamaica’s Special Economic Zones which offer investors significant tax incentives including a reduced corporate income tax rate of 12.5 per cent with potential further reduction to 7.5 per cent through additional tax credits,” said Wilson “These incentives represent our government’s dedication to creating a business-friendly environment that attracts sustainable foreign investment.” Forum attendees will engage directly with representatives from leading Jamaican institutions and agencies These organisations will provide comprehensive insights into investment opportunities is expected to discuss Jamaica’s strategic initiatives to attract foreign investment and the country’s vision to become a logistics and manufacturing powerhouse in the Caribbean The Philadelphia session tomorrow will feature focused panel discussions on investing in Jamaica via the Jamaica Stock Exchange and navigating the Jamaican housing market with presentations by Victoria Mutual Group The New York session offers a comprehensive programme beginning with morning presentations on the real estate market by Keller Williams Jamaica Realty and business opportunities with JN Group and VM Group Afternoon panels will cover doing business in Jamaica and opening a brokerage account while evening sessions will feature Hill’s keynote address and discussions on emerging markets and housing investments In addition to the scheduled presentations attendees will have opportunities for one-on-one meetings with booth-holders to discuss specific interests and explore personalised investment pathways “We cordially invite all interested investors and members of the Jamaican diaspora to join us for these informative and potentially life-changing events,” added Wilson and we are eager to showcase the tremendous opportunities available in our beautiful island nation.” View the discussion thread. Countries & Areas Bureaus & Offices About Secretary of State Marco Rubio traveled to Jamaica, Guyana, and Suriname March 26-27 to advance President Trump’s U.S foreign policy priorities in the Caribbean While in Jamaica, the Secretary also held bilateral engagements with heads of state from Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, and Haiti Secretary Rubio’s engagements with our valued Caribbean partners promoted regional cooperation to end illegal immigration strengthen regional actions to address Haiti’s political and security challenges and strengthen the United States’ economic partnerships with Caribbean countries We use cookies to make our website work better and improve your experience United States (CMC) – The California-based Haitian Bridge Alliance (HBA) is urging the Donald Trump administration to reverse its decision to designate two prominent Haitian gangs as Foreign Terrorist Organisations (FTOs) US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the State Department’s designation of Viv Ansanm and Gran Grif as FTOs and Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGTs) HBA said that it is “strongly” opposed to the designation of FTOs for the two Haitian gangs it is urging the Trump administration to impose “targeted sanctions” under the Global Magnitsky Act absent a comprehensive strategy that addresses Haiti’s insecurity and humanitarian crisis and devastating to innocent Haitians,” HBA executive director Guerline Jozef told the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC) under Section 219 of the US Immigration and Nationality Act an entity may be designated as an FTO only if it is a foreign organisation engages in “terrorist activity” or “terrorism” and its activity threatens the national security of the United States or the safety of US nationals while undeniably violent and destabilising their motives are rooted in territorial control “These groups do not fit the statutory definition of terrorism and should not be mischaracterised to justify punitive immigration or security policies A Foreign Terrorist Organisation designation would not weaken the gangs and escalate deportations of people fleeing for their lives.” Jozef urged the Trump administration to “pursue lawful not political theatre,” calling on the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Organisation of American States (OAS) to “speak against this designation” Jozef also echoed the concerns expressed by US Congressman Gregory Meeks a ranking member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee who warned that an FTO designation “absent a clear comprehensive US strategy to defeat the gangs and their enablers is counterproductive and will only exacerbate Haitians’ suffering” Jozef said such a designation would also “trigger immigration bars under US law punish victims coerced by gangs under the ‘material support’ doctrine and deter NGOs (non-governmental organisations) from delivering aid to areas most in need strain US-Caribbean relations and complicate multilateral coordination on the ground,” she said adding that the move by Washington “reflects a troubling precedent in how the United States may continue to expand the use of counterterrorism frameworks to address complex social and political crises Jozef said rather than designations that isolate and harm she is urging the Trump administration to “increase targeted sanctions on financiers who are aiding and abetting gangs in their criminal activities; (and) increase funding for the Haitian National Police and other security forces” she said HBA would like the administration to restrict the flow of weapons coming to Haiti from the United States; work with neighboring countries to also restrict the flow of weapons into the country; invest in the rebuilding of the Haitian State through direct foreign investments; bolster funding for Haitian civil society and local governance; strengthen legal pathways for Haitians seeking protection in the US; and name a Special Envoy from the Haitian Diaspora to report directly to the White House National Security Council (NSC) “Haitian Bridge Alliance remains committed to advocating for policy rooted in justice We call on the State Department to reverse this designation and instead lead a principled including the Viv Ansanm coalition and Gran Grif are “the primary source of instability and violence in Haiti “They are a direct threat to US national security interests in our region These gangs have killed and continue attacking the people of Haiti and Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission personnel and are committed to overthrowing the government of Haiti “Their ultimate goal is creating a gang-controlled state where illicit trafficking and other criminal activities operate freely and terrorise Haitian citizens Terrorist designations play a critical role in our fight against these vicious groups and are an effective way to curtail support for their terrorist activities.” He said that engaging in transactions with members of these groups “entails risk in relation to counterterrorism sanctions authorities not only for Haitians but also for US lawful permanent residents and US citizens,” Rubo said The US Secretary of State said individuals and entities providing material support or resources to Viv Ansanm or Gran Grif could face criminal charges and inadmissibility or removal from the United States He said the Trump administration commends “the extraordinary bravery of the Haitian National Police and all international partners supporting the MSS mission for their ongoing efforts to establish stability and security in Haiti The US Department of State said Viv Ansanm is a group formed in September 2023 as a coalition of gangs through an alliance between the two main gang factions operating in Port-au-Prince Gran Grif has been responsible for 80 per cent of civilian death reports in Artibonite Please enable JS and disable any ad blocker Tucked away on a pristine stretch of Jamaica’s dazzling coastline, the newly unveiled the Princess Senses The Mangrove is nothing short of a modern Caribbean marvel With a development cost exceeding $1 billion and boasting an impressive 600 rooms this grand retreat is redefining what luxury means in the tropics Designed in a sweeping horseshoe shape that hugs the shoreline the resort is architecturally crafted to maximize sea views—nearly every room in the main wings offers an unobstructed panorama of the Caribbean Sea At the heart of the property lies an imported Bahamian powder-white sand beach so silky and clean it rivals the most coveted shores of the region Gentle turquoise waves lap against the shore while towering palms and vibrantly landscaped tropical gardens give way to strikingly elegant buildings adorned in colorful island motifs Double-height lobbies are flanked by gleaming marble floors and open-air walkways that reveal cinematic views of the sea The scent of hibiscus blossoms mingles with the salty breeze as trade winds drift through the open corridors Princess Senses The Mangrove is an ambitious project now celebrated as the largest and most indulgent resort Jamaica has ever seen What truly sets Princess Senses The Mangrove apart is its clever bifurcation into two distinct thoughtfully planned experiences—one for adults The adults-only wing is a sanctuary of calm and intimacy Guests here are treated to serene infinity pools and sophisticated cocktail bars shaded by lazy palms and cooled by sea breezes It’s the perfect hideaway for honeymooners or solo travelers looking to unplug in peace the Princess Grand Jamaica is a family-friendly zone humming with joyful energy Children delightfully squeal in the sprawling lagoon-style pool complex teens challenge each other in high-tech arcades while parents and kids dine together beneath open-air palapas Activity programming runs from morning until sunset keeping young guests engaged and giving parents the freedom to indulge in their own version of relaxation its layout is designed to preserve peace and privacy whether you’re lounging with a book beneath a cabana or watching your kids make new friends from the edge of the pool Thanks to the Princess intentional zoning and exceptional staff-to-guest ratio both sides of the resort feel like their own worlds offering a rare experience where romance and family bonding can coexist harmoniously Step indoors and the sensory journey continues Public spaces showcase a seamless blend of contemporary sophistication and Jamaican soul and hand-painted murals by Caribbean artists adorn walls and ceilings organic contrast to the cool marble underfoot Every corridor seems to lead to another jaw-dropping view of the ocean—whether it’s the welcome atrium or the tucked-away alcoves designed for intimate conversations Guest accommodations are no less spectacular From deluxe king rooms to expansive suites while oversized terraces offer private plunge pools One of the most memorable experiences is a soak in a stone bathtub under the stars as the sun dips below the horizon and the waves crash softly in the distance the indoors and outdoors merge to create an atmosphere of unhurried luxury Dining at Princess Senses The Mangrove is not just a necessity—it’s a highlight of the experience The resort boasts six signature restaurants each offering distinct culinary perspectives and meticulously designed ambiance Each venue is helmed by globally trained chefs and supported by exceptional servers who deliver a level of warmth and professionalism that embodies Caribbean hospitality at its finest Whether you’re craving jerk-seasoned grouper or tiramisu guests savor prime cuts grilled over open flames complemented by rich rum-infused sauces and traditional island sides the Seafood Grill delivers an immersive toes-in-the-sand experience where the catch of the day is filleted tableside and grilled with fragrant island spices The Sushi & Asian Fusion Bar offers a sleek coastal ambiance as chefs craft delicate sushi rolls using local fish alongside Pacific-inspired small plates The Mexican Cantina comes alive with hand-painted tiles and a menu of tequila-forward cocktails and authentic fare the Tuscan Trattoria transports diners to Italy with vine-wrapped pergolas the international buffet hall is a vast market-style dining venue featuring everything from tropical fruit stations and made-to-order omelets in the morning to themed global nights for dinner From the moment you rise to the minute your head hits the pillow the resort offers an abundance of ways to stay entertained—or blissfully idle Six distinct pools are scattered across the property including a glass-edge adults-only infinity pool with unobstructed sea views and a lagoon-style playground designed for families and personal attendants make every sunbathing session feel like a VIP experience and cocktails infused with local rums and tropical fruits fans gather for live games on oversized screens while enjoying pub-style bites and craft drinks During big events—like the Super Bowl—the resort pulls out all the stops with themed parties and specialty cocktails to match the occasion A luxurious day at Princess Senses The Mangrove wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the expansive Princess Spa Inspired by ancient island rituals and modern wellness techniques Signature treatments include deep-tissue massages with warm coconut oil revitalizing coffee scrubs using Jamaican Blue Mountain beans and hydrating facials that leave skin glowing under the island sun The spa’s rooftop deck is a hidden gem: an open-air hot tub bubbles quietly beside an ice-cold plunge pool offering alternating cycles of calm and invigoration As you lounge on a teak chaise with fresh herbal tea in hand the ocean stretches into forever before you—a true high-altitude escape into serenity the resort’s Tahitian-inspired beachfront villas are peerless These exclusive bungalows are tucked away on their own private slice of coastline and come with plunge pools the interiors are cooled by ocean breezes and warmed by elegant island design For honeymooners or anyone seeking barefoot luxury these villas redefine what it means to “get away.” Though a few days at Princess Senses The Mangrove seem to pass in a blissful blur with developers announcing an on-site luxury casino and a convention center slated to debut next year These additions will make the resort not only a getaway for leisure travelers but also a prime destination for business events Princess Senses The Mangrove cements its status as a global hospitality flagship on Caribbean soil For editorial consideration please contact editor@jetsetmag(dot)com Marco Rubio, Secretary of State PRIME MINISTER HOLNESS:  Good afternoon.  It is my great pleasure to welcome United States Secretary of State I have known Secretary of State Rubio for some time and I’ve always been very impressed by his deep knowledge of the region.  Jamaica is deeply honored that you have chosen to visit us first on your official visit to the English-speaking Caribbean.  This visit so early in your term confirms the strength of historic friendship and strategic partnership between Jamaica and the United States and people-to-people ties.  Our nations have long been united by a common commitment to freedom and your visit today reaffirms this bond.  we engaged in productive and constructive discussions focused on strengthening this partnership and expanding opportunities for collaboration.  During our meeting we addressed several critical areas of cooperation.  Security we reaffirmed our commitment to enhancing cooperation in combating transnational crime ensuring the collective safety of our citizens and mutually secured borders.  We discussed a global war on gangs and there is already significant policy alignment with both countries in this regard.  The United States has been instrumental in supporting Jamaica’s efforts to bolster its marine domain awareness and intelligence surveillance capabilities which are crucial in our fight against organized criminal networks.  We discussed expanded and repurposing development assistance towards our shared goals including security.  This will exponentially expand our cooperation in fighting lottery scammers and building safer communities.  We are committed in ensuring our partnership delivers results in driving down criminality and trafficking in this hemisphere.  we look forward to continued partnership with the United States as we seek to work with the Haitian leadership and stakeholders to address the ongoing crises in Haiti.  The extraordinary humanitarian and national security challenges in Haiti pose an acute threat to Haitians including Jamaica.  We agreed that we must do everything we can to stabilize the security situation in Haiti so that they are better able to build capacity and address their political and humanitarian challenges.  recognizing the United States as Jamaica’s largest trading partner with bilateral trade surpassing $3 billion in 2023 we explored avenues to further expand trade relations between our two countries.  The renewal of the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act was raised as a matter of critical importance to trade for ourselves and for all CARICOM member-states We also explored means to attract increased U.S investment into Jamaica’s emerging sectors.  With our stable macroeconomic framework and positive growth trajectory including energy and nearshoring.  In terms of logistics the discussion touched on working with U.S companies to leverage Jamaica’s location as a premier transshipment hub in the Americas and this will further bolster Jamaica’s work as a major logistics hub for global trade the United States and Jamaica have enjoyed an 80-year-old history relationship in terms of bilateral labor agreements where we provide short-term skilled and semi-skilled labor in sectors such as agriculture and hospitality.  We discussed ways to expand and enhance these agreements including skills development partnerships to upskill and reskill Jamaican workers.  we discussed significant progress that we are making in bringing down all major crimes and that Jamaica today is safer than at any time in the last two decades.  In fact crimes against visitors represent less than 0.01 percent of the more than 3 million visitors to Jamaica annually.  We are committed to working collaboratively to ensure that travel advisories reflect the current realities and promote travel to Jamaica.  I am confident that the dialogue initiated today will lead to tangible outcomes benefiting both our peoples and contributing to mutual stability and prosperity.  our concern for enhanced regional and hemispheric security and prosperity was recognized as a shared one.  I wish my CARICOM colleagues who are now in Kingston productive meetings as well with the Secretary this afternoon.  Jamaica remains committed to fostering a partnership with the United States and a collective ambition for a stronger and a more resilient future.  I extend my sincere gratitude to Secretary Rubio and his delegation for their visit and for the productive and forward-looking discussions we have had.  We look forward to building upon this foundation and taking our partnership to new and greater heights for the lasting benefit of both our nations.  PRIME MINISTER HOLNESS:  — Secretary Rubio for his press statement thank you for the very warm welcome.  On Tuesday was – I completed my ninth week on the job.  So I told you I’d be here early; I think that’s pretty early.  And I’m glad to be here so soon.  Thank you to the foreign minister as well for welcoming me between the United States and Jamaica don’t need to be explained.  They’re incredibly strong.  And in particular we were commenting close to – 800,000 to a million Jamaican expatriates who call the United States home.  And I asked  (Laughter.)  Because a very vibrant community that’s contributed so much to the place that I’ve called home for so long.  And so we have a shared history that’s tied together by people.  I also would say that some substantial percentage of Americans have traveled here at some point in their lives.  And that also binds countries together.  Nothing binds countries and cultures more closely together than people.  And we certainly have that in common and we want to continue to make sure that we build on that We did touch on a couple of topics.  The first is trade.  The world the President is in the midst of realigning American global trade policy primarily to reset global trade in a way that’s fair to the U.S after 20 or 30 years of what we believe is unfairness – not when it comes to Jamaica but broader.  And from that will come real opportunities to create new alignments and new trade arrangements and new trade opportunities and I believe Jamaica is one of those places that together we both stand to benefit.  we discussed supply chains.  And we ask ourselves:  Why if so many of these products are destined for the North American market why are so many of the productive capacities located halfway around the world?  And there’s a lot of different reasons why that’s happened.  But it makes all the sense in the world to see more productive capacity relocated into our hemisphere.  We certainly have the labor and the population and the desire to do so in our hemisphere.  It’s closer to the end markets.  And so we want to pursue opportunities to make that possible and clearly I think Jamaica is one of those places that could benefit; and the prime minister has that vision for the country but jobs that pay even better than the jobs that maybe some could find now.  So it’s an opportunity and we’re going to actively seek and look for ways to make that possible I also think there’s extraordinary opportunities for investment.  And we talked about it whether it’s – particularly in energy.  The United States is going to be producing a lot of liquefied natural gas which is a very clean fuel that we have in abundance and that we seek to export.  And it’s also critical by the way.  You cannot have manufacturing without reliable and affordable energy.  And so it’s one of those things that I think potentially we could continue to partner on along with other things whether it’s mining opportunities off the seabed – in essence to utilize all of the resources of the country in a responsible way that protects your environment but at the same time is generating income and opportunity of employment for the people.  Ultimately that’s – governments have two prime responsibilities: the safety and prosperity of their people.  And your prime minister and his government is very focused on those two priorities We did talk about tourism because obviously it’s a significant part of your economy.  And we pledged we were going to go back and re-evaluate the travel advisories as they currently stand to ensure that they do reflect the reality of the new numbers what the numbers show.  Because you’ve made very impressive progress in your general numbers overall when it comes to the murder rate and so forth but in particular with those travel advisories are designed to American travelers.  And I think we need to analyze that and just ensure that the status we’re currently in accurately reflects the status quo and takes into account the progress you’ve already made this year and made last year which I think is one of the highest numbers in terms of reductions that we’ve seen of any country in the region and I think that the prime minister has phrased it in a way that I think is very beneficial and that is – he used the term “global war on gangs.”  Maybe we’ll find some other phraseology in the United States to describe it but we’re talking about the same problem.  It’s amazing if you look across the region – and really many parts of the world – how many of the threats we face in the world now that once came from a ideological terrorist organization or from a nation state are now coming from non-governmental criminal organizations who in some cases are more powerful than the governments in some of these countries.  And we’ve confronted this issue.  It’s a challenge in Mexico.  It’s a challenge on the border between Venezuela and Colombia.  It is the challenge in Haiti and it’s been a challenge here.  And it’s a multifaceted challenge.  They are transnational for a number of reasons.  One is – and we’ve acknowledged this in our conversations that lead back to my time in the United States Senate – how many of the guns and the weapons that are being used by gangs to commit acts of violence here in Jamaica are purchased in the United States and then shipped here.  And we want to commit to doing more to stopping that flow at the same time as we do more to commit to increasing your capacity.  That’s the other thing I underlined What we’re talking about here when we talk about American assistance is America helping Jamaica build its own capacity its own ability to confront these challenges and solve these problems because security is a baseline for everything.  And to that end we have some good things to announce today here We’ve – the JOLT Fusion Center that is starting up again and that’s been even further strengthened.  That’s going to help address lottery scamming.  We can announce this synthetics detection equipment for Jamaica‘s forensic labs; another counter-gang recruitment program that we seek to launch as a result of our visit here today; and announce something that I think is really important for the law enforcement here in Jamaica to combat gangs – things like night vision goggles as well technology.  And we look to do more.  And on that end let me touch on a topic that we talked about just a little bit.  Well I’ll touch on what the topic – then I’ll get to this final one how can we – it’s a topic we hadn’t touched on directly extensively before.  We talked about it today.  We seek to go back and find ways that we can partner to create opportunities for skills training so that if those companies – and we can attract those companies if we can attract – whether it’s a logistics center or manufacturing – to come to Jamaica.  There’s a workforce that’s been equipped with the skills needed we face this challenge domestically as well.  We need to do that ourselves.  But there may be things that we can do in collaboration with one another.  And this touches on the issue of aid – very controversial in the United States but it’s one of the reasons why I wanted to come here today because it in many ways highlights exactly what our vision for aid moving forward is The United States is not getting out of the aid business.  We are going to be providing foreign aid.  The difference is we want to provide foreign aid in a way that is strategically aligned with our foreign policy priorities and the priorities of our host countries and our nation states that we’re partners with.  In essence is USAID or some other entity would come into a country and say this is what we think you need.  And then they go out and hire an NGO that maybe are the ones that convinced them that that’s what you need and they give them a bunch of money and they come into the country and they do things.  Some of these programs are fine.  They’re nice things.  Other times How we want it to be in the future is that our embassies are involved with the host government what are your needs?  And we provide assistance geared towards the needs of the nation states that are hosting us and that we’re partnering with.  At the end is the government.  It’s the host government who have a clear vision for the future.  And to the extent that our foreign aid can be helpful it is in furtherance of what the people of your country have elected you to carry out Here there are a lot of things.  We’ve just described some of them.  What should our foreign aid be geared towards?  It should be geared towards looking for opportunities to increase skills training looking for opportunities to attract investment and business and trade for opportunities to expand on your own domestic intelligence capabilities.  We are going to have foreign aid that is aligned to our foreign policy and our foreign policy is going to be aligned to our mutual shared interests with the partners that we have all over the world.  Jamaica’s an incredible partner to the United States.  It’s very cooperative on a number of fronts.  And we will continue to work together and we’re going to work closer than we’ve ever worked before because we are now going to have U.S programs for foreign aid that are going to be aligned with the vision that you’ve elected your leaders to carry out for your country.  And that benefits us both And so I thank you for the opportunity to visit with you here today and talk about these things.  I’m excited that we’re going to be able to follow up on a lot of them and show real progress.  The message that I’ve wanted to send in my travels – I’ve had to travel a couple of other places but I’ve been to the hemisphere now twice – is very simple and that is that the United States wants to ensure that when countries are cooperative and work with us and partner with us and constantly seek ways to engage us that that leads to positive results and outcomes.  but what it really means is it has to be a mutually beneficial relationship.  And we want countries in the world to identify being close to the United States as something that is beneficial and helpful – helpful to develop and frankly helpful so that one day many countries can serve – and I think – and Jamaica is already doing this – as a model of what other countries would seek to emulate on skills acquisition and improvement.  These are the things that we want America – relationship with our partners to look like.  And I can think of no better friend in the Caribbean and frankly in the Western Hemisphere than Jamaica and your government And so we thank you for this chance to visit with you so early.  And as I joked a couple times but I’ll say it again – I think I told it to the cameras already – I wanted to come here early so when I come for the second and third time they don’t accuse me of only wanting to go to Jamaica.  (Laughter.)  And – but in many ways it really truly feels like home and – where I am in South Florida and I thank you for your hospitality and this opportunity.  (Applause.)  Prime Minister Holness and Secretary Rubio.  Thank you both for your remarks just now.  We have several members of the media from Jamaica and the United States in the room with us this afternoon but we’ll only be taking four questions.  And I ask that those who have been selected that you please stand as you ask your question.  And our first question is going to be from John Hudson of The Washington Post.  QUESTION:  Thank you.  Thank you very much.  Mr a Republican congressman —    SECRETARY RUBIO:  He came with me.  Don’t say I don’t take you to nice places QUESTION:  But thank you for the hospitality.  Beautiful weather SECRETARY RUBIO:  I’m sorry.  Yeah Republican Congressman Don Bacon weighed in on the Signal chat breach saying the White House is quote “in denial that this was not classified or sensitive data.  They should just own up to it and preserve credibility.”  Do you think that’s true?  Also not carrying out the work of the American people.  Do you worry that the DOGE effort won’t ultimately end up benefiting U.S violence and instability remains in Haiti.  What would you like to see from the United States in terms of being a productive force.  And a State Department envoy yesterday called the presence of Cuban doctors in Jamaica and elsewhere human trafficking.  Do you agree with that?  SECRETARY RUBIO:  Let me take the first – I’ve already – I mean but let me address it again.  This is not about getting rid of aid; this is about restructuring how we’re going to do aid.  And when you restructure there’s some disruption and – but it has to happen.  By the way this is not an idea – this is an idea Condoleezza Rice wanted.  This is an idea multiple secretaries of state throughout time have tried to achieve because we think it makes all the sense in the world.  So I recognize it; there’s disruption involved when you make reform and you make change.  But it’s necessary because our foreign policy and our foreign aid have to be aligned.  Foreign aid is an instrument of foreign policy okay.  It is not a global charity.  Jamaica is not asking for charity; they’re asking for development assistance so they can become stronger at their security needs and the other things of this nature.  That’s what they’re asking for.  They’re not asking for a handout.  They’re asking for a hand up help to build their capabilities so that they become a self-reliant partner and frankly could end up – and already are helping other countries.  Jamaica now is contributing to the effort in Haiti as an example.  So these are the kinds of things we want to see in our foreign aid.  So look our goal was not to disrupt anyone’s life.  Our goal was to restructure the way we deliver foreign aid so that it is aligned with our foreign policy and with what we’re trying to carry out at our respective missions around the world.  this thing was set up for purposes of coordinating how everyone was going to call – when these things happen especially of our close allies.  We need to notify members of Congress.  Other members of the team have different people they need to notify as well and that was the purpose of why it was set up.  Obviously someone made a mistake.  Someone made a big mistake and added a journalist.  Nothing against journalists but you ain’t supposed to be on that thing.  So they got on there and this happened.  I’ve been – so I can speak to myself and my presence on it.  I think my role – I – on it was – just speaking for my role I contributed to it twice.  I identified my point of contact and then later on – I think three hours after the White House’s official announcements had been made I congratulated the members of the team.  I have been assured by the Pentagon and everyone involved that none of the information that was on there though not intended to be divulged – obviously that was a mistake and that shouldn’t have happened and the White House is looking at it – but that none of the information on there at any point threatened the operation or the lives of our servicemen.  And in fact and it’s an ongoing operation.  But that was the intent behind it I think the Pentagon has made it clear that nothing on there would have endangered the lives or the mission.  And the mission has been very successful the Pentagon says it was not.  And not only did it say it was not – they make very clear that it didn’t put in danger anyone’s life or the mission.  The – there was no intelligence information.  And understand – when this story first broke they were sort of alluding to were there war maps were there this – there was no war plans on there.  This was a sort of description of what we could inform our counterparts around the world when the time came to do so.  I think the White House is looking at this entire thing.  How did that journalist get on there?  Was this the appropriate – and I think they’ll be reforms and changes made so this never – this – well it’s not going to happen again; it can’t.  But I want everybody to understand why this thing was even set up in the first place and also understand very clearly the mission was successful and at no point was it in endangered.  And that’s coming from the highest-ranking officials at the agency that was in charge of the actual operation PRIME MINISTER HOLNESS:  In terms of Haiti the United States has been an incredible partner – in fact the lead partner – in ensuring that resources and organization is brought to the crisis in Haiti.  In terms of what more could be done I think we are at a phase in Haiti where there has to be a rapid expansion of the Haitian National Police because ultimately the HNP has to take on the gangs.  The present holding situation that we have is not necessarily moving the situation forward as we would all like so there will have to be a significant expansion in resources in support of the HNP to enable them to take on the gangs let us be clear:  The Cuban doctors in Jamaica have been incredibly helpful to us.  Jamaica has a deficit in health personnel primarily because many of our health personnel have migrated to other countries.  We are very careful not to exploit the Cuban doctors who are here.  We ensure that they are treated within our labor laws and benefit like any other worker.  So any characterization of the program by others certainly would not be applicable to Jamaica.  We are ensuring that our program complies with all the international laws and standards to which we are a party to our next question will come from Tauna Thomas from Nationwide News Network.  Please stand my question is – or questions in relation to the matter of the Cuba medical cooperation program as well.  So the medical mission has been a cornerstone of health care in Jamaica and the Caribbean for over 50 years according to our foreign minister.  How does the U.S reconcile its stance on this program with the region’s reliance on Cuban medical professionals and what alternatives does it propose to ensure health care stability I think the first thing is to separate the medical from the labor issues that we are pointing to okay?  This is not about doctors.  This is not about the provision of medical assistance.  We have no problem with medical assistance and we don’t have a problem with doctors.  We have a problem – and I’m not speaking about Jamaica; they’ve – they’re – we discussed this today about following international labor standards and the like.  But I’m just talking about this program in general And how it’s operated around the world is that basically the doctors are not paid.  In many other parts of the world the doctors are not paid.  The doctor – you pay the Cuban Government; the Cuban Government decides how much to give them; they take away their passports; they basically operate as forced labor in many places.  Now there are places that have better labor standards.  Perhaps Jamaica is one of those and that’s fine.  But I’m describing generally what the program has been.  It has operated in that way in many parts of the world and placed these people in tremendous danger And so we – I think we can all agree that the trafficking in labor is not something that we would want to be supportive of and we find that to be an egregious practice on the part of the Cuban regime.  Now every country operates their program differently because of our relationship with Jamaica we’re going to – we’re going to engage with them on that and talk about it further and have a better understanding.  Perhaps none of this applies in the way it’s handled here.  But generally that’s the problem with the program.  It’s not that they’re Cuban doctors it’s that the regime does not pay these doctors and basically it is in many ways forced labor.  And that we cannot be in support of.  Again our next question’s going to come from Will Lowry from The National News QUESTION:  Thank you so much for taking my question Secretary.  I just want to circle back to John’s question re: the Signal chat.  Are — QUESTION:  But of course.  Are you planning on making the Europeans pay for U.S operations against the Houthis given that their businesses seem to benefit more from opening of these shipping lanes as discussed in that chat I was wondering if you could elaborate on the Black Sea ceasefire deal and whether – how it’s progressing.  President Zelenskyy has already questioned Russia’s seriousness “They are… trying to distort agreements and deceive both our intermediaries and the entire world.” SECRETARY RUBIO:  Okay.  So on the first question about – look okay?  This is a band of – it’s a gang but these are a religious fanatic gang.  And these guys have missiles and they’ve launched 174 attacks against U.S 150-something attacks on commercial vessels.  They are literally saying they control – they’ve set up a toll system in the Red Sea.  These ships can go these ships cannot; they don’t blow up the Chinese ships but they blow up all the other ships.  This is not sustainable And so I think the point that I’ve made publicly is we are doing a great favor to the world the United States is doing a great favor to the world going after these guys’ capability of doing this.  How can we live in a world where a group like this has advanced weapons and can shut down a shipping lane and increase the cost of shipping that we’re all paying for?  Everything we buy all the stuff is embedded in the cost and in the price of these things is how much it costs to ship it.  And so that’s just not a sustainable thing.  We can’t allow it So I think the point I would make is not we’re going to make anybody pay – it’s everybody should recognize we are doing the world a great favor going after these guys because this can’t continue.  This is unsustainable.  What’s next?  Some gang’s going to show up somewhere else and shut off another shipping strait a shipping lane?  That’s not practical.  It cannot happen.  So what was your first question?  I was so fired up about that one that I forgot the other one QUESTION:  The Black Sea ceasefire — I think yesterday – our negotiators are en route or perhaps they’ve already arrived after spending – I think they met with the Ukrainians twice the Russians once.  What we have here is an agreement in principle on a Black Sea ceasefire.  We got two things from that.  The first is we have more detailed definition of what the energy ceasefire entails concept of a Black Sea ceasefire.  Obviously the Russians detailed a number of conditions that they want to see met in order to do that.  So we’re going to evaluate that.  Some of those conditions include sanctions that are not ours; they belong to the European Union.  So we’re going to be gathering and sort of when our folks get back getting their impressions of the conversations so we can more fully understand what the Russian position is or what their ask is in exchange and then we’ll present that to the President who will ultimately make a decision about what – the next step here.  I think it’s a good thing that we have both the Ukrainians and the Russians talking about ceasefires be they energy or be they potentially in the Black Sea but obviously this is hard and difficult work.  This is a protracted three and a – almost three-and-a-half-year war now or three-year war.  It has a lot of framework of sanctions that have been built globally now that that would – that have to be looked at as part of an ultimate end to a conflict.  There’s a lot of things that have to be worked through and I certainly think the only way you’re going to make progress on these things is by engaging with both sides So we’re going to have a chance now to sort of sit down as a team and evaluate in detail how the meetings went with the Ukrainians and then make a decision on that basis about what comes next in this process.  In the end the goal here is peace.  The goal is to end a war where people are dying.  And I think everyone should be happy that the United States is engaged in a process of ending a war and bringing about peace.  It’s not going to be easy.  It won’t be simple.  It’ll take some time.  But at least we’re on that road and we’re talking about these things and we’re going to test it and see what’s possible.  We think we owe that to the world is the only leader in the world right now – President Trump – who’s in a position to even get these two nations to a city to talk about these things albeit in rooms far apart from one another when these talks were going on.  But nonetheless they’re talking; it’s the first time in a while that we’ve seen any conversation about this.  But we have a lot of work yet to be done and we’ll know more after we get the readout from our teams our last question will come from Andrea Chisholm from Television Jamaica QUESTION:  Thank you.  Secretary Rubio there are some Jamaicans who are afraid to travel back to Jamaica even though they are legitimate green card holders.  What assurances can you give to those individuals that they would have no difficulty returning to the United States SECRETARY RUBIO:  Green card or residency?  I mean permanent residents you’re asking me about does America have with China’s investment in Jamaica China’s a rich and powerful country.  Our problem is not investment okay?  Our problem is predatory practices.  That’s what we’re concerned about.  What we have seen all over the world is that China comes in and says here’s a bunch of money for a project they never build.  They’ve been – they bring their own workers to do the work; they don’t hire the locals they bring their own workers.  And oftentimes it comes attached with a huge loan that can never be repaid and now they hold it over your head forever.  That’s our concern.  Our concern is unfair practices their government-subsidized companies underbid everybody because they’re subsidized but then they come back and charge whatever they want because now they’ve got the contract.  So these are the things that we remain very concerned about.  Again not specifically about Jamaica but in general.  And so that’s what we’ll continue to highlight I would say – let me talk about if you’re a green card holder you’re not illegally in the United States.  You’re a green card holder you are legally in the United States.  What the President has said – and I don’t know how anybody can disagree with this – every country in the world has immigration laws.  And immigration laws you don’t have immigration laws.  Over the last few years we’ve had what 15 million people enter the United States unlawfully and irregularly.  No country in the world can assume that.  By the way right?  Even here in Jamaica you’ve faced challenges of migration.  And it’s not that we don’t sympathize with people that are leaving difficult circumstances it’s that no society can absorb mass migration from anywhere in the world.  You just can’t do it.  And we’re facing that challenge.  That’s not specific to Jamaica; I’m just speaking in general And so the President is doing something that hasn’t been done in a long time.  He’s enforcing our immigration laws and that’s what we’re doing.  So if you’re a green card holder you’re not illegally in the United States.  I think the challenge is for those who are illegally in the United States that – I don’t know why that’s an unreasonable demand.  And frankly Jamaica is not a major source of illegal migration to be frank.  It’s not even in the top 10 or top 20 for that matter we are enforcing our immigration laws.  Because here’s what happens if you don’t:  You’ll get another 12 million people.  And if tomorrow Jamaica announced anybody who wants to come can come in you’re going to get a lot of people too and it’s going to be very disruptive.  So we need to have immigration laws and we need to enforce them and that’s what we are – that’s what the President is doing.  That’s what he promised voters he would do and that’s what we‘re going to continue to do you’re legally in the United States unless – unless – and I say this because a lot of these people come – unless you’re some student visa holder who is a sympathizer of some terrorist organization and is running around in our streets like a lunatic burning down buildings and attacking students at universities if you’re one of these lunatics that’s going to put on a mask over your face and break into a student union center and harass students and – we wouldn’t have let you in in the first place If you had told us that was – if you told us I’m going to America not just to study at your university but to tear up your campus we would have never let you in.  And if you do that once you come into the United States we’re going to kick you out.  We’re going to do that.  And I don’t care – I don’t care what terrorist organization you’re supporting we’re going to kick you out.  If you’re a gang member okay?  If you’re one of these violent gang members that’s coming to the United States then we’re going to kick you out.  That we’re going to do.  There’s no doubt about it.  But that the President’s very committed to that.  And – but if you’re a green card holder and you’re not any of these things MINISTER DIXON:  Prime Minister Holness and Secretary Rubio we want to thank you for your engagement here today.  We thank all of the members of the media and all of the other guests who are here and we wish you safe travels and a happy rest of the day.  Thank you Jamaica — A 42-year-old engineer has been arrested and charged after allegedly collecting over $4 million for land that was not handed over to the buyer Charged with fraudulent conversion is Jomo Campbell of Tobias road Reports from the Hunts Bay police are that between Tuesday a woman paid Campbell over $4 million to purchase land She later discovered that the land was no longer for sale and the money was reportedly not reimbursed to her A report was made to the police on Wednesday Campbell turned himself in to the police on Saturday The USA Will Face China PR on May 31 at Allianz Field in St USWNT Legend Becky Sauerbrunn Will Be Honored Pre-Game on June 3 in Her Hometown Jamaica will replace China PR as the opponent for the U.S Women’s National Team at Energizer Park in St Universo & Peacock in Spanish and on the radio on Westwood One Sports) The USA will still face China PR at Allianz Field in St After initially agreeing to play two matches during the upcoming FIFA window the Chinese Football Association subsequently informed U.S Soccer that its Women’s National Team could play only the first match the USWNT will face the Reggae Girlz for the first time since the summer of 2022 when the teams met in group play at the Concacaf W Gold Cup in Monterrey This match will be just the sixth all-time between the USA and Jamaica which has qualified for the last two FIFA Women’s World Cups and advanced to the Round of 16 for the first time ever in 2023 Jamaica lost 1-0 to Colombia in that knockout round match to bow out of the World Cup a competition where it tied France and Brazil Louis will feature a special pre-game celebration for retired USWNT legend Becky Sauerbrunn who announced last December that she was hanging up her boots She played in three Olympic games and three Women’s World Cups and would have played in a fourth but a foot injury knocked her out of the 2023 tournament captain will be doing double-duty on the night as she is also part of the TNT broadcast team Consumers of Jamaican exports to the United States (US) can now expect to face increased prices as the 10 per cent tariff imposed by President Donald Trump on all countries has taken effect for the Caribbean nation Consumers of Jamaican exports to the United States (US) can now expect to face increased prices as the 10 per cent tariff imposed by President Donald Trump on all countries has taken effect for the Caribbean nation Jamaica was hoping to escape the 10 per cent tariff as 90 per cent of the island’s exports to the US are covered under the Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI) it has been determined that the 10 per cent tariff supersedes the CBI regulations That’s according to Senator Aubyn Hill Jamaica’s main exports to the US include bauxite and agriculture and the majority are covered under the CBI “We continue to have conversation with the US administration as the tariff question is not completely settled but all Jamaican exports to the US will be subject to the newly imposed 10 per cent tariffs as it supersedes the CBI regulations,” Hill told The Gleaner comprising the 1983-1990 Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act and the 2000 Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act allowed Jamaica to export nearly all products to the US duty-free president and chief executive officer of GraceKennedy Foods US GraceKennedy had already begun paying the tariff on exports from Jamaica into the US He said there would be some increases in prices efforts are being made to mitigate the increases to prevent them from being as high as they could have been He also said that because there are some products already in the system the effect of the tariff will not be immediately felt Reckord told The Gleaner that Grace products out of Canada into the US will not immediately attract increased tariffs as these tariffs have been suspended for the time being “Where we have products coming out of Brazil and other countries the 10 per cent tariff will be added to the price of the imports,” he said Reckord said his company was looking to keep prices down He said that with the continued changes in how trade is now being conducted around the world there remains a level of uncertainty which companies have to manage as they go forward “What is happening today could change tomorrow so we have to keep on top of the changing trade environment,” he said told The Gleaner that his company was also already paying the tariff on its exports to the US He said his company has reduced the cost of its products to the US importer for the next two months to hold prices at current levels to the consumer if the Government is unable to convince the US administration to withdraw the 10 per cent tariff his company would have no choice but to increase costs to the US importers which will in turn increase costs to US consumers “Most of our consumers in the United States are people at the lower end of the economic scale and if we have to increase prices it will impact them negatively,” he said who is a past president of the Jamaica Manufacturers and Exporters Association (JMEA) said that Jamaica has a trade imbalance with the US in favour of its North American neighbour and as such “The tariff is also not protecting US manufacturers as there is no manufacturing in the US of the products that we export,” he said Mahfood said that if the tariff remains in place it will hurt the Jamaican consumer “If sales to the United States decline then companies will see reduced profits and they will have to look at reducing costs or seek markets elsewhere,” he said told The Gleaner that with the increased tariffs on Jamaican exports to the US the situation provides a good opportunity for Jamaican exporters to seek to develop new markets he expressed the hope that with the realignment of trade partnerships this would not lead to a disruption in the supply chain Thwaites said that while he had heard anecdotal stories he could not say if and how many exporters are lowering their prices to hold prices at current levels for US consumers He said he did not know how feasible it was for Jamaican exporters to drop their prices charged to US buyers to accommodate the new tariff “It will take some time to clarify the situation we need to see how we can continue to partner with the United States in the new alignment,” he said Thwaites added that he believed that despite the challenges that come with the tariffs there are opportunities that will open up to the Jamaican exporter due to the country’s location local exporters expressed unease about the tariffs said she had worked out an agreement with her main buyer where the buyer would absorb five per cent of the tariff while Hilton would absorb the other five per cent in an effort to maintain consumer prices for her goods Carita Jamaica Limited exports agricultural products including thyme and Scotch bonnet peppers to the US market that consumers might still see price increases once the products land in the US as a result of other variables editorial@gleanerjm.com View the discussion thread. United States (AFP)—Former world 100m champion Fred Kerley has denied he was arrested as claimed for battery but because he exercised his right to remain silent until his lawyer was present after a “physical altercation” who won 100m gold at the 2022 World Championships and took bronze in the event at the Paris Olympics said in a statement the arrest was down to a “misunderstanding” He missed the Grand Slam track meet in Miami after he was detained last Thursday by police in Broward County had been arrested on a charge of touch or strike battery and remained in jail as of early Friday Reports said the American had been arrested following an incident at the official hotel for the Grand Slam Track event the second stop on Michael Johnson’s new circuit “While there was a physical altercation my arrest was not due to any criminal act,” Kerley wrote on Instagram it resulted from my decision to exercise right remain silent until legal counsel was present “I chose not to speak to law enforcement without my attorney and for that reason alone I was booked.” who also won a 100m silver medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics adding the “experience had “caught (him) off guard” “I remain fully committed to clearing my name,” he said “I take full accountability for placing myself in a situation that allowed for this misunderstanding “I am taking active steps to ensure nothing like this happens again.” a member of two world title-winning relay teams (4x400m in 2019 and 4x100m in 2023) has had several brushes with the law in recent months In January he was arrested by police in Miami Beach following a confrontation with officers that led to him being tasered He was subsequently charged with battery against a police officer Kerley was also charged with domestic violence by strangulation following an incident in May 2024 United Kingdom (AFP)— Trent Alexander-Arnold announced Monday he will leave boyhood club Liverpool when his contract expires at the end of the season saying it was the “hardest decision” of his life The England right-back who helped Liverpool win the Premier League this season is out of contract at the end of June and is expected to join Real Madrid “After 20 years at Liverpool Football Club now is the time for me to confirm that I will be leaving at the end of the season,” the 26-year-old posted on X “This is easily the hardest decision I’ve ever made in my life.” sealed with a 5-1 win against Tottenham at Anfield last week moved the Reds level with rivals Manchester United on a joint-record 20 English top-flight titles “I know many of you have wondered why or been frustrated that I haven’t spoken about this yet but it was always my intention to keep my full focus on the team’s best interests “This club has been my whole life — my whole world — for 20 years the support and love I have felt from everyone inside and outside of the club will stay with me forever “I will forever be in debt to you all My love for this club will never die.” Liverpool-born Alexander-Arnold was one of three high-profile Reds players whose deals were due to run out at the end of the season — a theme that provided a continuous backdrop to Arne Slot’s first campaign in charge Top-scorer Mohamed Salah and captain Virgil van Dijk signed new deals in recent weeks but Alexander-Arnold has opted to leave The defender made his senior debut in 2016 and has made 352 appearances for the Reds to date scoring 23 goals and lifting multiple trophies including the Champions League and two Premier League crowns “Alexander-Arnold will depart with our gratitude and appreciation for his contribution during a sustained period of success,” the club said in a statement Alexander-Arnold said he had “loved every single minute of it I’ve got to a point now where I feel like I need a new change a new challenge for me as a player and as a person And I think now is the right time for me to do that,” he said Last month Van Dijk said Alexander-Arnold would be remembered for “a lot of good things” even if he decided to leave Anfield Alexander-Arnold’s mooted move to Real Madrid has split Liverpool fans and pundits with some believing he should have stayed to become a one-club legend His status is reflected in a mural that stands just metres from the club’s Anfield stadium emblazoned with the quote: “I’m just a normal lad from Liverpool whose dream has just come true.” Alexander-Arnold played in Liverpool’s 3-1 defeat at Chelsea in the Premier League on Sunday Liverpool have three league fixtures left this season giving Alexander-Arnold a chance to say a long goodbye Slot’s side will also take part in a parade through Liverpool with the Premier League trophy on May 26