Want to earn cash for your trash? Well, that is the guarantee of the Jamaican Government’s Plastic Bottle Refund Deposit Scheme; for each empty plastic bottle turned over, it will be cash back in your pocket. The programme, which is being introduced to curb littering and encourage recycling, will be spearheaded by Recycling Partners Jamaica Limited (RPJ), Jamaica’s national recycling...

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MLSS) is taking steps toward disbursing all National Insurance Scheme (NIS) pension payments electronically. Currently, some NIS pensioners receive their payments through direct deposit. However, the majority receive payments by cashing in vouchers and cheques provided by the Ministry. Compared with cheque and voucher payments, electronic direct deposits have several advantages. Among these...

Dengue Fever is caused by the Flavivirus, and occurs in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. During an outbreak – when there are more than 96 reported local cases – it is important to be informed about the disease’s transmission, symptoms, and methods of prevention. Transmission The disease is carried by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes and transmitted to humans through...

The holidays are noted for an abundance of food. However, it is also a time when persons are more vulnerable and susceptible to food poisoning, which can lead to hospitalisation. Food poisoning refers to illness as a result of eating contaminated food. How Food Poisoning is Contracted Food poisoning is caused by excessive bacteria in food, whether raw or cooked....

The Christmas season is now upon us, and many will be in pursuit of various items to help celebrate the period. It is advisable that consumers shop in a way that will protect their safety, get good value for money and use time wisely. Shopping Safely Be careful when using credit cards. Guard your PIN carefully to avoid possible theft...

The benefits of buying and eating local produce are continuously highlighted by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries (MICAF). This is part of the Government’s efforts to encourage economic growth and improve the health of the citizens. Listed below are some health and economic benefits of buying local produce. Health Benefits Locally grown produce often contain few or...

The Internet is an easy and convenient way to conduct everyday business and communicate with others. However, the medium is not without its perils. Below are some tips to help you to protect yourself and your information while online. 1. Be cautious about how you use your personal information. Never give out information, such as account details and identification numbers...

With the new school year well on its way, students would do well to assess and seek to improve their study strategies. Here are some tips that can help you to get the most from study sessions and make this school year a productive one: Before you start: • Take clear and comprehensive notes during classes. Write down the main...

A power of attorney is the legal authorisation of a person (appointee) to act on the behalf of another (donor) in business, judicial or personal affairs. Authorisation is granted by the donor. The appointee may be anyone of the donor’s choosing, aged 18 years or older. Types There are several different kinds of power of attorney. These include: • General...