Cannabis, also known as marijuana and ganja, has long been a part of Jamaica’s landscape. In 2015 lawmakers amended the Dangerous Drugs Act creating the framework for the decriminalisation of offences under the statute. The Cannabis Licensing Authority (CLA), an agency of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries (MICAF), was established through the legislation, to oversee the cultivation...

Before you toss that next item you consider at the end of its useful life into the garbage, you might want to stop and think whether it is actually the beginning of something else. Why not repurpose that shoe box or reuse those worn car tyres? According to the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA), Jamaica produces an average of...

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...