The Government has advanced the development of four priority pieces of legislation aimed at improving public order and enhancing security. Delivering the Throne Speech at the Ceremonial Opening of Parliament at Gordon House on February 18, Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, said the pieces of legislation are currently in the draft stage. They are An Act...

The Government has programmed amendments to key pieces of legislation during the 2021/22 fiscal year, as part of efforts to facilitate Jamaica’s swift recovery from the economic fallout caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. These include the Urban Renewal (Tax Relief) Act, Financial Administration and Audit Act, Financial Services Commission Act, and Income Tax Relief (Large-scale Projects and Pioneer Industries)...

At least one major road rehabilitation project will be undertaken in each constituency, in the next financial year. This was disclosed by Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation with responsibility for Works, Hon. C. Everald Warmington, in an interview with JIS News. The Minister explained that every year, members of parliament (MPs) are asked...

Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, says despite limitations on regular diplomatic activity, international cooperation remained central to the Government’s achievement of inclusive and sustainable economic growth. He said that in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government secured and coordinated assistance valued at US$12 million from international partners, who donated medicines, field hospitals as well as...

Writers, producers, musicians and persons who fall in the category of Entertainers are being reminded that proper estate planning is critical to securing generational wealth. Proper asset management, in addition to making a will, clearly outlines how property, including intellectual property, and funds should be distributed among family members. Deputy Administrator General at the Administrator General's Department (AGD), Stacie Ann...

A security vulnerability associated with the file storage service on the JAMCOVID-19 application was discovered on February 16, 2021. The vulnerability was immediately rectified upon discovery. A thorough investigation was immediately initiated to determine if there were any breaches in travellers’ data security, if the vulnerability had been exploited, and if there was a breach of any laws. At present,...

Minister of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport, Hon. Olivia Grange, is advising creative practitioners to take estate planning seriously particularly given the current uncertainties related to the coronavirus (COVID-19). She noted that the pandemic has served as a “harsh reminder of our mortality and the financial volatility of the cultural and creative industries.” She cited an industry-wide survey, conducted by...