On Friday, 15 January 2021, the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN) published its bulletin for the Consumer Price Index for December 2020. In this report, it was noted that, for calendar year 2020, the inflation rate was 6.4 per cent. The same release by STATIN also noted that the point-to-point inflation rate as at December 2020 was 5.2 per cent....

Aeronautical Telecommunications Ltd. (AEROTEL) is far advanced in the development of its Learning Resource and Development Centre (LRDC), which is expected to be launched on April 1. In an interview with JIS News, General Manager of AEROTEL, Howard Armstrong, said that the LRDC, which is the entity’s latest initiative, will simulate all aspects of the Communication Navigational Surveillance environment. “Our...

The Heart Foundation of Jamaica is urging Jamaicans to heed the warnings to get screened for heart disease, based on the adverse effects that COVID-19 could have on the organ. Speaking at a JIS ‘Think Tank’, today (January 20), Chairman and Consultant Cardiologist at the Heart Foundation of Jamaica, Dr. Andrene Chung, explained some of the findings from studies that...

The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, has donated over 500 copies of the book ‘Voices of the Pelican’ to the Ministry of Education, Youth and Education, for islandwide distribution to sixth-form students. Portfolio Minister, Hon. Fayval Williams, accepted the publications from the Curator of the UWI Museum, Dr. Shani Roper, at the Ministry’s National Heroes Circle location in...

Jamaicans are responding more positively to disaster preparedness efforts, says Director General of the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), Leslie Harrow. Speaking in a recent interview with JIS News, Mr. Harrow said that the culture of preparedness seems to be “catching on,” and persons are more receptive to the ODPEM’s awareness and training programmes. “Persons are recognising...

The Government is moving to improve the monitoring of projects though the implementation of a web-enabled Public Investment Management Information System. Cabinet has given approval for the award of a US$997,608.69 contract to Cambridge Resources International Incorporated for the design, supply and installation of the system. Minister of Education, Youth and Information, Hon. Fayval Williams, made the disclosure during Wednesday’s...

The Government has put measures in place to facilitate the quick clearance of the coronavirus (COVID 19) vaccines, once they arrive in the island. Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton, made the disclosure while delivering a statement in the House of Representatives on January 19. Jamaica has committed to vaccinating 16 per cent of the population...