Members of the public are again being urged to do their part to reduce transmission of the coronavirus (COVID-19) by strictly adhering to the Government’s social-distancing protocols. The call came from Chief Medical Officer (CMO) in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Dr. Jacquiline Bisasor-McKenzie, who said that social distancing remains one of the most effective defences in combatting the...

The Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) is reporting that its childcare facilities have put measures in place to ensure that children in State care are protected during the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. Chief Executive Officer of the CPFSA, Rosalee Gage Grey, told JIS News that the agency has activated its National Emergency Disaster Committee, similar to what is done...

The Maritime Authority of Jamaica (MAJ) is advising seafarers with certificates that will expire in the next three months to present the MAJ bulletin regarding the extension of validity of these documents, along with the expired papers, to Port State Control (PSC) at their various ports of call. Speaking in an interview with JIS News, MAJ Director General, Rear Admiral...

The Ministry of Tourism is reporting that the final arrangements have been made to officially begin the tourism workers’ pension scheme. Portfolio Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, said the contracts have been signed between the fund manager, Sagicor, and the administrators, Guardian Life. He informed that the first tranche of $250 million would be transferred to the fund in short order....

The National Housing Trust (NHT) wishes to advise that it has adjusted its opening hours effective April 1, 2020, until further notice. In addition, the NHT will offer some services online or by telephone only. Starting Wednesday, April 1, 2020: • Our offices will be open to the public from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, Mondays to Thursdays and close...

Jamaica’s imports for January to December 2019 were valued at US$6,339.2 million, an increase of 2.7 per cent when compared to US$6,170.5 million which was spent for the similar period in 2018 according to the International Merchandise Trade (IMT) Bulletin released today (March 31, 2020) by the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN). The December 2019 IMT Bulletin further outlined that...

With the advent of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) and consequent to the announcement of an Island wide curfew to take effect from April 1 2020, the normal operational schedule of the Government Employees Transportation Service (GETS) will be adjusted. Please note the following changes and ensure that they are brought to the attention of all concerned: Morning Pick Ups The...