The National Fisheries Authority (NFA) is reporting an uptick in diverse fisheries production out-turns, including for sea cucumber and sea moss. Principal Director of the NFA’s Capture Fisheries Division, Stephen Smikle, says the Authority welcomes this level of engagement by local producers. “In recent years, we have seen a rise in non-traditional products like sea moss and sea cucumber, which...

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security has introduced a pilot programme for the employment of capable persons with disabilities in the Overseas Employment Programme. This initiative involves partnering with the Abilities Foundation, engaging overseas employers, and establishing a support system to assist workers with disabilities during their employment. “For the first time, we have a batch of three farmers...

Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, is reminding Jamaicans of the importance of preparing for what is expected to be an active 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, which begins on June 1. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of the United States has forecast an above-average season, with projections of 17 to 25 named storms, eight to 13 hurricanes,...

A Bill to amend Section 61 of the Constitution of Jamaica to provide for new Words of Enactment, was passed in the House of Representatives on Tuesday (May 28). Minister of Legal and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Marlene Malahoo Forte, who piloted the Constitution (Amendment of Section 61) Act, 2024, said it constitutes the first legislative step in a proposed series...

More than 1,300 Jamaicans benefited under the Government’s Social Intervention Programme in 2023. They included 423 youth who received education grants totalling approximately $50.9 million and another 367 who were placed in on-the-job training. Additionally, 534 members of Programme of Advancement Through Health and Education (PATH) households received entrepreneurial grants totalling $87.1 million. This was disclosed by Minister of Labour...

More than 6,000 persons with disabilities benefited from training, assistive devices, and economic empowerment grants, during Financial Year 2023/24. This was disclosed by Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., during his contribution to the 2024/25 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives, on Wednesday (May 29). Mr. Charles Jr. said the assistance was provided through a...

Jamaica is moving ahead with the establishment of the country’s first unemployment insurance scheme. Details of the proposed model, governance, management, and investment strategy will be submitted to Cabinet for approval in the current financial year, said Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr. He was making his contribution to the 2024/25 Sectoral Debate in the House...