The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining (MOAFM) have collaborated to expand support for agricultural protection, with the launch of the Agricultural Warden Programme. The initiative is aimed at tackling praedial larceny, which includes the theft of agricultural produce and livestock. Agricultural Wardens are part of the Agricultural Protection Branch (APB) of the JCF...

Under the Disaster Risk Management Act (section 26), the Prime Minister may declare a Threatened Area or Disaster Area when unsafe conditions exist, such as hurricanes. This declaration is an important emergency measure that allows authorities to act quickly and effectively before, during or after an event. In some instances, a Declaration of Threatened Area can be revoked and a...

Price gouging is the unjustified increase in the price of goods, especially during or following an emergency or disaster. During a time of crisis, some vendors may hike prices, preying on the vulnerability of consumers, to maximise profits because of increased demand. This practice is illegal. The Law Section 8 of the Trade Act states that no person whose business...

One of the most significant constitutional events in Jamaica’s democracy is the swearing-in of a Prime Minister. Guided by Section 70 (1) of the Jamaican Constitution, this ceremony formally authorises the elected Prime Minister to assume office under the authority of the Governor-General, the nation’s Head of State. The event usually takes place at King’s House, the official residence of...

Voting in a government election is a fundamental human right of citizens granted under the Representation of the People Act (ROPA), 1944. In Jamaica General or Parliamentary Elections are constitutionally due every five (5) years. For electoral purposes, the country is divided into 63 constituencies for which voters elect Members of Parliament to represent them in the House of Representatives...

The GOJ has created conditions for the preservation and conservation of certain wildlife that are often considered delicacies among Jamaicans. The Queen Conch, Spiny Lobster and a variety of game bird can only be caught within the open season. The National Environmental Planning Agency (NEPA) and the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) are mandated to enforce the regulations surrounding open and...

Labour Day, celebrated annually in Jamaica on May 23 since 1960, honours the efforts of Jamaican citizens to improve their communities through various projects. The importance of collective responsibility in safeguarding the environment for future generations is conveyed in this year’s theme — ‘Protect the Environment: Our Land, Our Duty, Our Future’ with the slogan ‘Jamaica Nice, Protect Wi Paradise.’...