Month: February 2025

Commissioner Blake’s Response

All well-thinking Jamaicans welcomed the creation of Independent Commission of Investigations (Indecom), which ensures that the security forces remain professional and ethical. In every organisation you will find the few who ‘let down the side’, and it is important that they be brought to justice.

I must, therefore, quote at length Police Commissioner Dr Kevin Blake’s response as shared by Jamaica Observer Editor-at-Large Arthur Hall in a report headlined ‘No Apology — Police commissioner slams JFJ; says criminals to be blamed for 50 fatal shootings in 50 days by security forces’.

Commissioner Blake is reported to have said that “….while he supports the view that the number of fatal shootings by the security forces is too high, the focus should be on the criminals who make the decision to challenge members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force [JCF], ‘which is a far more superior force’.”

Hall reported: “He charged that a call for the JCF to be held more accountable is a slap in the face of Indecom, which has a single most important mandate of investigating actions against civilians by members of the security forces.”

Here are excerpts from the commissioner’s response, as quoted by Hall:

“And so, let me encourage Jamaicans for Justice to be more responsible in their public pronouncements, especially when the nation is aware of its members’ proven ability to comprehend the most basic and fundamental principles of security.

“To suggest that fatal shootings numbers can be reduced by anything other than the unwillingness of persons being apprehended to engage in deadly confrontations with members of the security forces is irresponsible, or at best advocating for us to relent in our pursuit,” added Blake.

“He declared that criminals who are intent on killing and maiming will not be left free to hold communities at ransom and in constant fear,” wrote Hall.

Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation – Mandeville

Robot Construction: Supervisor at the Women’s Centre of Jamaica Foundation – Mandeville, Vastine Henry (left) assists two students to assemble a simple robot on the third day of the IGT Coding and Robotics Rock! Camp. IGT in its fourth consecutive year of the virtual camp welcomed 72 participants from five Caribbean countries.  This year’s camp recently took place under the theme Climate Action: Think It! Code It! Solve It!  Students were introduced to careers in the computer science industry while receiving training in computer science, including the basics of computing and coding.

The thankless and dangerous job of the JCF

Jean Lowrie-Chin

Dr Kevin Blake, Police Commissioner

That Savanna-la-Mar earthquake in the late 1950s was a frightening one for me as a small child. I was in the house behind the shop run by our widowed mother. As I felt the place shaking, I ran out into the dark street. A light flashed on red-seamed trousers. Because the police always cast a protective eye on our shop, I knew I would be safe if I grabbed on to that red-seamed trousers leg. The police officer picked me up, took a look, and recognised me as “Mrs Singh’s little girl”. He walked swiftly to the shop and handed me to my mother.

Many years later, on assignment at Caymanas Park in the 80s, I would have long conversations with officers Williams and Whitney. They would always arrive impeccably dressed and were thoroughly professional. Some mornings they would share that they had been in operations the night before, dodging bullets.

In the 90s I collaborated with Lasco to create the Police Officer of the Year Award and met some of the most inspiring officers. Some of the organisers were Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Neville Wheatle, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) LK Simpson, and a young constable who is now Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Natalie Palmer-Mair. Interestingly, the first Police Officer of the Year was retired Assistant Commissioner of Police Steve McGregor, who is now a politician.

After the 2002 General Election, which had been monitored by representatives of the Carter Centre, they reported that the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), led by then Commissioner Francis Forbes, had been exemplary in its work, as were the Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ) personnel. They declared that there would be no reason for them to monitor any further elections in Jamaica.

In other projects, I have seen the courage of SSP Ionie Ramsey Nelson, the brilliance of retired DCP Novelette Grant, SSP Stephanie Lindsay, and the compassion of Sergeant Jerr Johnson-Heron who has assisted with distributing care packages for the elderly on behalf of our seniors advocacy organisation. Indeed, the police youth club is the largest youth club in Jamaica and the Law Enforcement Torch Run has earned millions of dollars over several decades for Jamaica’s Special Olympians.

It is, therefore, deeply concerning that our outstanding JCF appears to be under unrelenting attack by the organisation Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ). I am confounded that the current head of the JFJ seems to be unaware of the dangers our police face in their crime-fighting efforts.

Source: Jamaica Observer

Farewell Archbishop Clarke

Jean Lowrie-Chin

The late Archbishop Emeritus Edgerton Clarke (centre) with fellow chairmen of Citizens Action for Free and Fair Elections the late Dr Alfred Sangster (left) and constitutional lawyer Lloyd Barnett.
 

We are mourning the passing of one of Jamaica’s most beloved sons: the humble, eloquent Archbishop Emeritus Edgerton Clarke.

Archbishop’s homilies were special — gently delivered but with the fire of the Holy Spirit igniting our spiritual aspirations. In his pastoral work he inspired our youth and showed his caring heart to the elderly. He shared his wisdom on boards of government and civil society organisations and was a past chairman of Citizens Action for Free and Fair Elections (CAFFE).

Archbishop Emeritus Clarke passed away peacefully on February 13, one day before his 96th birthday. He served as bishop of Montego Bay for 27 years before being installed as Archbishop of Kingston on November 23, 1994. He retired on February 14, 2004.

The vigil for Archbishop Emeritus Clarke will take place at Holy Cross Catholic Church on Sunday, March 2, and the mass of thanksgiving on Monday, March 3 at Holy Trinity Cathedral will begin with tributes at 1:45 pm.

Source: Jamaica Observer

Digicel Foundation rolls out its Safer Internet Together Programme, targeting Jamaicans of all ages

On Tuesday, February 11, 2025 the Digicel Foundation launched their ‘Safer Internet Together’ (SIT) programme at The UWI, Mona. The programme, which was launched on Safer Internet Day 2025, targets STEM programmes at over 150 educational institutions. From left: Avryl Francis, Security Operations Manager, Digicel; Antoinette Heirs, Digicel Foundation Board Director; Dr Terri-Karelle Reid, Founder of Open Door Jamaica Foundation; Charmaine Daniels, Digicel Foundation CEO; and Joy Clark, Board Chair of Digicel Foundation.

The internet offers a world of possibilities, providing benefits and opportunities. It has made everyday life more convenient and knowledge more accessible. However, the online world is far from perfect. It has become a confusing, complex space for many Jamaicans to navigate. At times, the internet can seem like an unsafe place to be.

What are the dangers lurking in the digital landscape – and how can we protect ourselves? Addressing these concerns, the Digicel Foundation officially launched its Safer Internet Together (SIT) Programme on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. This year-long initiative puts the emphasis on online safety, digital responsibility and cyber awareness – for all Jamaicans. 

The launch event at the Mona School of Business and Management, University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, observed Safer Internet Day 2025, under the theme “Together, For A Better Internet.” Digicel Foundation will roll out the SIT initiative in 150 educational institutions, in partnership with the ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, STEM Builders Learning Hub, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Sunshine Snacks, Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS), and MacMillan Education.

As CEO of Digicel Foundation Charmaine Daniels pointed out [in a Letter to the Editor] the programme of activities will be inclusive, “engaging diverse groups across the country on digital literacy and online responsibility.” Daniels added: “Furthermore, in partnership with the Caribbean Community of Retired Persons (CCRP), we will conduct specialised sessions during Senior Citizens’ Month in September to help older adults recognise and protect themselves against online threats.”

Marcelo Cataldo, CEO of the Digicel Group explained the programme’s goal: “We work every day to have our Internet available to our customers, but we are also mindful of the potential risks that the internet poses for young children. With the Safer Internet Together programme, we intend to raise awareness on how to mitigate the space carefully, with the help of all our sponsors.”

“Our responsibility at Digicel is to work together to help the new generation to be safe and to be protected.”

Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Technology, Leonardo Brown, in a dynamic presentation at the launch, reminded participants: “The internet and connectivity never forgets; whatever you post remains somewhere.”

Audience member Christoph Tucker reacted: “This day provides opportunities to learn about online risks, how to stay safe online, where to get help, and how to gain a better understanding of the laws.” He stressed: “There are so many young children nowadays using tablets. We want to ensure that they’re always safe and exposed to the right content, so that they become good people within our society.” 

The Digicel Foundation CEO urged stakeholders and Jamaicans, young and old: “As we observe Safer Internet Day, let us commit to making the internet a place of opportunity rather than a source of harm. Let us foster a culture of responsible digital citizenship, ensuring that everyone – regardless of age or background – can explore the online world safely and confidently.”

Source: Jamaica Observer

CCRP Advocates ‘A Life Full of Purpose’ after Retirement

Mrs Patricia Reid-Waugh addressing a group of employees at The Ministry of Finance and the Public Service on Thursday, January 30, 2025. Mrs Reid-Waugh is a Retirement Coach and CCRP Board Director. 

Patricia Reid-Waugh, Retirement Coach and Board Director of the Caribbean Community of Retired Persons (CCRP) urged prospective retirees at the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service to “consider the options that exist to continue a life full of purpose” after retirement.  Speaking at a seminar on ‘Retirement, A New Adventure’ on Thursday, January 30, 2025, Mrs Reid-Waugh encouraged the group to look ahead and anticipate an adventure rather than inactivity.

She appealed to them to explore methods of continued cash flow after retirement by utilizing their years of wisdom to generate income.  They were advised to contribute to the silver economy by leaning into their expertise, skills and hobbies to start small businesses or to become consultants in their respective fields.

The importance of social interaction after retirement was also addressed as she encouraged the participants to become part of a membership developed specifically for seniors – the CCRP – an organisation that aims to empower Jamaican seniors and ensure that they enjoy the quality of life they deserve.  Members are able to participate in various activities that bring them together to socialize and explore topics of interest.

CCRP has been called upon to prepare prospective retirees for life after the workplace on a number of occasions.  They addressed staff of several organizations on retirement, including Scotiabank, Mico Teachers’ College, Wisynco, Jamaica Public Service Company, Tax Administration Jamaica and National Housing Trust. 

Patricia Reid-Waugh has written two books on retirement – “Retirement: A New Adventure” and “Retirement: The Journey and The Destination” – both of which are available locally and on Amazon.

About CCRP

CCRP Jamaica is a non-profit, non-denominational and non-political membership organization for persons 40 and over. CCRP’s Vision/Mission:

• To work towards ensuring that the vast talent, experience and wisdom of seniors will be respected.

• To ensure that our seniors will enjoy the quality of life they deserve. 

• Empowerment of our seniors to continue making their contribution to the development of community, country and region. 

On Thursday, January 23, 2025, Mrs Patricia Reid-Waugh, Retirement Coach and CCRP Board Director addressed a group of NHT Staff on the topic of Retirement.

IGT upgrades computer lab at Dunrobin Primary

International Game Technology (IGT) Jamaica General Manager Debbie Green (right) proudly leads the ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially unveil the newly upgraded After School Advantage (ASA) Centre at Dunrobin Primary School on International Day of Education, Friday, January 24. She is joined by the school’s principal, Sacheel Grant-Henry (second left), and enthusiastic students who eagerly anticipate the enhanced learning opportunities the centre will provide. The upgraded facility is part of IGT’s ongoing commitment to fostering digital literacy and educational development among young Jamaicans, equipping them with the necessary tools and resources to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world.

Source: The Gleaner

Digicel Foundation brings ‘Play Day’ joy to children at Early Stimulation Plus

A young girl beams with joy while enjoying the see-saw with the support of Digicel Foundation CEO Charmaine Daniels at the Early Stimulation Plus Development Centre in Kingston on Wednesday.

DIGICEL Foundation made ‘Play Day’ extra special for the children at the Early Stimulation Plus Development Centre in Rockfort, Kingston, by spending a morning engaging in games and fun activities.

February has been designated as Play Month by the Early Childhood Commission (ECC), a celebration endorsed by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Jamaica Office.This year’s theme, ‘Bringing Back the Game of Play Through Traditional Games — Out of Many, One People,’ highlights the importance of play in early childhood development while embracing Jamaica’s rich cultural heritage.

During the visit, Digicel Foundation staff and board members joined the children in classic Jamaican games such as dandy shandy and hopscotch.In addition to the interactive play activities, the Digicel Foundation also donated crayons and colouring books to the school, providing the students with creative resources to support their learning and development.

Charmaine Daniels, CEO of Digicel Foundation, emphasised the significance of supporting institutions like the Early Stimulation Plus Development Centre.“The Early Stimulation Plus Development Centre is dear to us, as it is one of the 21 special needs schools we renovated a few years ago. Play is an essential part of childhood development, and we are delighted to be part of this initiative that brings joy, inclusion, and learning to these children,” said Daniels.

She pointed out that the Digicel Foundation has been a longstanding advocate for children with disabilities, investing over US$11.8 million in special needs initiatives across Jamaica since inception.

Source: Jamaica Observer

Update from Minister Williams

Fayval Williams

Minister Williams noted Prime Minister Andrew Holness’ ASPIRE’ programme highlighting access, safety and security, people, infrastructure, reforms and economic resilience. She asked her audience to ‘take comfort that there has been investment in a police force that has been equipped and is undergoing training for engagement with the public.’ She noted that students now have an extra two years in high school to get them job ready and that the HEART programme offered training in various aspects of industry.

Commenting on the damage to infrastructure due to hurricanes and heavy rains, she said the government had the financial wherewithal to make significant repairs as good roads were an enabling factor for the country. She referred to Jamaica’s lowest ever unemployment rate and said that we had more broad-based opportunities instead of just a few industries. She noted that our Debt to GDP had moved from 147% to 70%, citing financial stability and fiscal responsibility.

She noted that the Government will be using AI and big data for greater efficiency. This cannot come too soon as one guest spoke about her frustration in getting land titles for her parents in Jamaica. After unanswered calls, she had to travel here, using the funds that would have been better spent on investment. Productivity continues to be a major challenge for the public sector.

Source: Jamaica Observer