The Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN) is reporting that the economy grew by 8.2 per cent for fiscal year 2021/22, compared to 2020/21. This was aided by a 6.4 per cent out-turn between January and March 2022, compared to the same period last year. In a statement on Thursday (June 30), STATIN indicated that the March quarter out-turn was driven...

The Executive Director of the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA), Audley Gordon, is calling for a shift in culture and a restoration of civic pride where every Jamaican recognises and accepts their role in keeping the country clean. Speaking with JIS News recently, Mr. Gordon said that a targeted approach could be beneficial, starting in the home and having...

The Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA), in collaboration with the Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence Programme, jointly hosted a three-day radiation incident tabletop simulation exercise from June 28 to 30, at the Courtyard by Marriott Hotel, in Kingston. The objective of the exercise was to ensure that all players involved in matters of this nature are aware of their roles and...

Thirty-five young fishers across the island are to benefit from a ‘Training in Safety at Sea’ initiative by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, through the Caribbean Maritime University. State Minister, Hon. Franklin Witter, said this activity forms part of the Ministry’s drive to improve occupational health and safety in the fisheries sector. “Beneficiaries will be trained in navigation, small-boat...

The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries is putting in place a fisheries production incentive programme that will finance the development of new and underutilised fisheries and aquaculture resources in local fishing communities. The programme will begin with two community groups, one in Green Island, Hanover, and the other in Savanna-la-Mar, Westmoreland, with an intent to being extended islandwide. Speaking at...

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is reporting that more than 1.6 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines have, to date, been administered in member countries. PAHO Director, Dr. Carissa Etienne, says this has resulted in just over 69 per cent of the region’s population completing immunisation schedules. Speaking during PAHO’s digital COVID-19 media briefing on Wednesday (June 29), Dr. Etienne...

One hundred and fifty guidance counsellors from various primary and secondary schools in Region 1 (Kingston & St. Andrew) are being trained in underage gambling prevention. The training is being conducted over three days between June 27 and July 1, using a lesson plan created by RISE Life Management Services in collaboration with the Betting, Gaming and Lotteries Commission (BGLC),...