Under the Caribbean Community (Free Movement of Skilled Persons) Act, skilled nationals of CARICOM member states are entitled to move and work freely within other member states. This is made possible through the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Skills Certificate, a provision of the Act that allows these freedoms without the need for a work permit or permit of stay. How to...

The Jamaican Government is currently taking steps to protect and preserve the island’s wildlife and habitats. Wildlife in Jamaica incorporates: • Several species of birds over 20 of which are indigenous • Marine life including manatees and dolphins • Plants such as the Blue Mahoe (National Tree) and the Lignum Vitae (National Flower) • Mammals including the popular mongoose and...

The Government of Jamaica is committed to ensuring that all Jamaicans can access quality legal representation, irrespective of their financial resources. To this end, the Legal Aid Council was established to provide legal services to members of the public who have been charged with criminal offences and especially to those who are unable to afford private legal representation. The Council...

Malaria is a potentially fatal disease caused by the Plasmodium falciparum parasite. The disease produces chills, headache, a high fever and other flu-like symptoms. Official diagnosis is, however, necessary to confirm the presence of the virus. Locally, malaria has been successfully eradicated through programmes focused on public education, early detection and vector control. Transmission Primarily, malaria is transmitted through the...

Fostering is the legal process of temporarily placing a child, who would otherwise be a ward of the state, into an approved family environment under the guardianship relatives or other adults. In Jamaica, children placed in foster care are usually between the ages of zero and 18. Any adult of good character and legal standing who fits the Government’s pre-established...

Caribbean literature reflects the natural beauty of the region and highlights the struggles, dialects, and cultural practices of the people stemming from their shared past. The genre is universally recognisable. Jamaica has produced many important writers. Among these are four notable Jamaicans, who are the focus of this article – C. Everard Palmer, VS Reid, Kei Miller, and Una Marson....

A heritage site is any building, area or any part of the natural landscape that has historical value to a country. The Jamaica National Heritage Trust (JNHT) is legally responsible for designating and administering heritage sites across the island. Members of the public can recommend locations of historical value to the JNHT that could be declared heritage sites. Such recommendations...