The Jamaica Fire Brigade (JFB) and several of the island's infirmaries are to receive new ambulances, as the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development works to improve the country's emergency response services. The JFB will receive five ambulances, while three ambulances will be procured for three infirmaries across the island. Portfolio Minister, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, made the disclosure in...

An additional 22,800 streetlights will be installed across the country over the next two years, says Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond McKenzie. “There are 228 municipal divisions in Jamaica. Each of them will get 50 streetlights installed each year,” the Minister said. He was making his contribution to the 2025-26 Sectoral Debate in the House of...

Cabinet has approved a submission for May 20 to be commemorated annually as a National Day of Remembrance for the 150 women who lost their lives in a fire at the Eventide Home in St. Andrew, on May 20, 1980. The submission was made by Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond Mckenzie. In his 2025/26 Sectoral Debate...

A fully equipped ambulance is now in service at the Portland Infirmary, enhancing the institution’s ability to respond to emergencies. The vehicle, donated by the Culture, Health, Arts, Sports and Education (CHASE) Fund, was handed over on May 21. It is the third ambulance CHASE has donated to an infirmary. Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond McKenzie,...

With the Atlantic Hurricane Season due to start in three days, Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Hon. Desmond McKenzie, has indicated that the island is in a state of readiness. He gave the assurance while making his 2025/26 Sectoral Debate presentation in the House of Representatives on Wednesday (May 28). “The shelters have been visited [and] assessed by...

Mayor of Falmouth, Councillor Collen Gager, says he is optimistic about the major development projects on the horizon for the Trelawny capital, which continues to undergo significant economic transformation. Addressing more than 200 Rotarians from across the Caribbean during a Rotary District 7027 Conference Cruise at the Falmouth Artisan Village on Tuesday, May 7, Mr. Gager outlined an ambitious vision...

The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) is cautioning members of the public to guard against the effects of the Saharan dust, which tends to happen at this time of the year. Members of the public and especially people who are already experiencing or those who are prone to respiratory illnesses, should exercise great care, by observing the...