Is Youth Social Activism Dead in Jamaica?

03/24.2018
Today was the March for Our Lives demonstrations in Washington DC, Parkland, FL, cities throughout the United States, and countries worldwide. The youth worldwide voiced their concerns not only for the specific causes that youth in the United States have been supporting but for their overall concerns that too many lives are being lost to gun violence. In January, 2018, Jamaica declared a state of emergency over some parts of the island to curtail soaring gun crimes. Yet, there was no coming together of the youth in Jamaica today to march in support of the March for Our Lives worldwide movement. Owing to the country's high gun crime rate, Jamaica's youth participation in this worldwide event would have sent a lasting message not only to the people of Jamaica but to the world. However, as noted in a previous blog dated October 1st, 2016, the youth in Jamaica seems unfamiliar or rather indifferent to demonstrating for social causes that impact the nation unlike past generations. This "me" generation appears to be more consumed with owning the latest electronic gadgets and profiling their wears at over-crowded parties and entertaining events. This is the new norm. However, it is concerning that the country is heading in a direction where the youth no longer takes an interest in advocating publicly for social issues that negatively impact the masses of the population.

10/01/16
Emily Shields, radio talk show host, spoke about her astonishment with the responses she received when she sent out a tweet for Jamaican college and university students to get involved in social activism in support of causes that affect their lives and others. She mentioned that as a student at UWI she became aware of how students in the past made a difference by taking a stand against injustices, and she became involved in demonstrations against the unconscionable hike in gas prices. From all indications the responses to her tweet echoed a disinterest in getting involved in public demonstrations for social causes unlike students of the past who readily participated in such actions. Mrs. Shields expressed her disappointment in the future generation's desire to stand up for important causes, and her sentiments are dittoed by this writer. But, she still believes that there must be young Jamaicans who are compassionate in their desire to speak out against the disservices that plague the underserved which may include even themselves. Certainly, there must be those young Jamaicans; however, they seem far and few between since, from public portrayal, the future generation of tomorrow is a "me" generation. It has become a generation where materialism is more important than having concerns about humanity. God forbid if these young people could not own or flaunt their latest expensive cell phones, computers, IPads and anything else that relates to electronics. Furthermore, why would they get involved in social causes when priorities are instead to wear the latest, most costly fashions, profile at popular events in the city, or travel to resort towns to compete among themselves in wearing the skimpiest of clothes and getting drunk at liquor company sponsored events. So, Mrs. Shields should not be alarmed with the twitter feed responses she received since the selfishness that is prevalent in the young generation of Jamaicans today is not surprising. The responses tell a sad story on the future of where the country is heading.

Minority Share-Holders of Cable & Wireless Jamaica Defy the Board

Minority share-holders of Cable & Wireless recently took an unusual voting action at the August, 2016 annual general meeting that is inconsistent with the customary docility of most minority share-holders at such meetings in Jamaica. As a concerned group, they demanded answers to questions on the final resolution.  Since this information was not forthcoming from the board of directors, they defied the board of directors by voting against the resolution to retain KPMG as auditors of the company and to fix their fee. This type of reaction from minority share-holders has been long awaited since it now demonstrates to other minority shareholders in Jamaica that they, too, have a unified voice in the decision making process of a company.  A couple years ago, one minority share-holder of Cable & Wireless's stocks bravely stood up at the annual general meeting to make known his dissatisfaction with that same resolution - retainment and re-numeration for the auditing firm. He was disappointed when no other minority share-holder spoke out verbally or use their voting powers against this resolution of the then Chris Dehring led board of directors. His frustration with the outcome resulted in his decision to no longer attend the annual meetings. However, he should now be pleased to see that the minority share-holders of Cable & Wireless have become more pro-active by coming together and using their knowledge and voting power. Hopefully, other Jamaican minority shareholders will take a page out of the book of those at Cable & Wireless and not simply agree to resolutions but educate themselves on them and use their voting rights to engage in the critical decision making process of the organization.

FBI - Coming to Jamaica

The Jamaican Ambassador, Luis Moreno, announced today that the FBI will be setting up an office as early as next week in the Jamaican embassy. While there has been some public dissatisfaction expressed, for the most part, social media feedback indicates that an FBI office is most welcome. Ambassador Moreno mentions that the decision was made to assist in quelching the big business of the lottery scam Jamaican syndicates. However, with the FBI in Jamaica, who knows what, in fact, is the real reason since this is such a secretive federal organization. So, quite likely, the decision to start an office in Jamaica involves much more than the lottery scam scandal. Nevertheless, the strategic setting up of an FBI office in Jamaica shows a dire need to assist in Jamaica's armed forces' inability to curve the high rate of crime, importation of ammunition, etc., etc., etc..The multi-million dollar investment in servicing FBI offices in certain Caribbean countries now includes Jamaica. The residents have to just wait and see how the efforts of this agency play out in addressing the serious crimes that plague this small island.
FBI to Set Up Offices At US Embassy

Black Hair Style Restrictions Not Limited to South Africa

Recently, a 13 year old girl in South Africa brought awareness to the world of the discriminatory policies in some South African schools that do not take Black culture into consideration. In her case, she was prevented from entering the school premises because she wore an afro. This led to demonstrations by her fellow students at Pretoria High School for Girls since the young lady refused to change her hairstyle. It was uncovered that South African schools that were initially White dominated still hold on to their archaic policies that do not embrace the cultural needs of Black students. But, such policies are not restricted to South Africa. Surprisingly, some schools in Jamaica have similar policies as it relates to a student's hair. This week, upon the opening of new semester, a three year old boy was denied entry into Hopefield Preparatory School in Kingston, Jamaica. The mother was told by the Vice Principal that the boy's hair was long, untidy, dirty and needed to be cut because it may contain headlice! Now, there are children of other races at this same school with long, unsecured hair who have not been chastised in this manner. So, of course, it must have been disheartening and embarrassing for a mother to be challenged on not maintaining her son's upkeeps. The South African school's governing body, in consultation with teachers, parents and affected students, suspended the school's hair restrictions. However, the unbending Hopefield Prep's principal of 40 years is standing by the school's insensitive, rigid policies that they cannot accept male students with "long hair". It is apalling that such practices are still prevalent in black-dominated countries during the 21st century.

No Tattooed Teachers, Please!

It would be expected that a country whose history demonstrates the injustices of slavery for centuries, would produce descendants who are accepting of people's differences. But, this is not the case in Jamaica where descendants of slaves tend to forget that during earlier years, the majority Black population was denied many social services and opportunities well after the abolition of slavery because of the color of their skin. Many may not remember or have knowledge of the fact that up to the early 1960's, dark-skinned Jamaicans could not obtain jobs at major corporations especially if the position required them to serve the public. Therefore, it is a sad state of affair when Ruel Reid and others in top positions at the Ministry of Education are heard expressing adamantly that even if a teacher is qualified, he or she would not be hired if that applicant has a tattoo. Ruel Reid and those education administrators who are decrying tattooed teachers have conveniently forgotten or have no clue that in years gone by, they too would be denied a job not because of their qualifications but as a result of the color of their skin. How quickly they forget their history! But, wonder if such tattoo policies are extended to foreign Cuban teachers?
Tattooed Teachers Lash Education Minister

Newton Marshall - First Jamaican Dog Sled Yukon Quest Participant

When one hears "Yukon Quest Dog Sled Race" words such as tedious trail, dangerous terrain, grueling long days, frigid temperature, and many more descriptions that link to the uncomfortable conditions participants are expected to experience. But, did you know that in 2009 Jamaican, Newton Marshall, entered this 1,000 miles competition? After recently viewing the competition on television, it was then that immediate notice was taken of Marshall when he spoke with his Jamaican accent. Since that competition in Northern Canada, Marshall has participated in other tough dog sled races in Alaska such as the Iditarod. Because track and field is such a popular sport in Jamaica, the names of athletes in this area of sports, such as Usain Bolt, are commonly heard and national recognition is given to them. However, it is important to also not forget unsung sports heroes such as Marshall who came from a humble Jamaican background and showed that his upbringing does not matter - all things are possible with hard work even in an environment that is out of a person's customary comfort zone.

Jamaican Call Center Seeks Workers With American Accent

When a job advertisement is placed in a Jamaican newspaper specifying that applicants for the position must have an American accent to be considered, it is quite clear employment requirements are at an all time low in a country with such high unemployment rate. Certainly this Jamaican call center has promised an American organization to provide a service that, in fact, is not easy to achieve. First, what type of American accent are they looking for? Should it be a southern drawl or a distinct one from a northern state? Are applicants expected to demonstrate a southern California valley girl accent or is an urban swag accent okay? Regardless of how hard a person who grows up in Jamaica and now living in the United States tries to speak with an American accent, the Jamaican accent will no doubt be heard some where in the conversation. So, professional and social assimilation into the American way of life for many years does not completely erase the accent of their roots. Therefore, is it possible for a Jamaican, who has never left the island, to be capable of speaking with an authentic American accent? Attempts to speak with an American accent has not been successful even in India although their call centers go through great lengths to provide American accent classes to their recruited employees who are even required to answer the phone with English sounding names. But, it is never difficult to identify that these call center reps are not Americans. Therefore, this is an expectation that has already been tried and failed. The Jamaican call center's silly selective process is definitely not making any positive difference in helping the country's high unemployment rate. But, good luck to that Jamaican call center in their ridiculous quest for applicants with an American accent!
No Even Likkle Twang - Louise Bennett

Cuban Teachers in Jamaica

It is amazing to see that the Ministry of Education has contracted Cuban teachers to work in Jamaica. Regardless of their expertise in a subject, for someone coming from Cuba, teaching Spanish may come natural to them, and this statement may be debatable since not all natives can teach others their own language. But, with the complexities of teaching Physics and Chemistry, one can only imagine the abilities of these teachers to convey the intricacies of these subjects to students in English. All Cubans have to start from scratch when they enter the United States. First, they must complete ESL classes and achieve English Language state standards in Reading, Grammar, Listening, and in some states, Writing before they are permitted to enroll in college credit courses to obtain a Bachelors degree and subsequently certification to teach in the schools. Jamaica, on the other hand, has made it easy for them to simply begin teaching at once. Nevertheless, this program has certainly allowed many Cubans to leave the dismal, poverty stricken daily life in communist Cuba to reside in a free atmosphere in Jamaica. Yet, it is quite ironic that these second language speakers are welcomed to teach in Jamaica when a Jamaican teacher residing in the United States with American M.Sc. and Doctorate degrees did not get the time of day when applications were made to teach a subject that she has taught to high school and first year college level students in the United States for over 10 years. Mind you, this Jamaican teacher, on sabbatical leave, applied primarily for teaching positions advertised for a one term period. One would think that is a good fit to obtain a qualified teacher in a subject area where there is a temporary need until the permanent teacher returns. However, nothing in Jamaica is logical. It's who you know - not who knows you to progress there. But, wonder if the strict tattoo policies of the Ministry of Education are extended to foreign Cuban teachers?
Twenty Cuban Teachers Arrive for Jamaican Schools
Reflection of an Untrained Unqualified Teacher

Portland's Seaview Villas Is Beautiful But Beware

When you google Seaview Villas, Portland, it boasts breathtaking photos of the property which easily identifies it as one of the gems in Portland, Jamaica. However, that part of Jamaica has an unsavory reputation which has now impacted the popular Seaview Villas. More than likely due to the beauty of the property and its offerings, 16 young women decided to book villas there to celebrate their high school reunion earlier this month, August 2016. These women not only reside in Jamaica, but some who are now living in the United States also came for the reunion. However, their precious time together in celebrating their high school reunion turned into a nightmare. They were robbed, assaulted and three were raped. In fact, while Seaview Villas' website indicates the presence of security, it was later learned that the security is handled by a groundsman on the property and supposedly the male owner. It is disturbing to learn that legitimate security personnel as advertised has not been hired to protect guests. Even more disturbing is the subsequent revelation of Portland Superintendent of police, Oberline Smith-Whyte, that rape is very common in the parish as "It's a community problem." It is even more alarming that before the rape was committed, there is a report that one of the gunmen went directly to a draw and removed a pack of condom. Hmmh! How strange that he knew exactly where to go! Of course, this is a hush, hush case since it was revealed by talk show host Cliff Hughes on his program. Nevertheless, guests who are lured by Seaview Villas' beautiful photos and others visiting Portland need to be aware that rape, as described by the Portland police superintendent, is a prevalent crime throughout that part of Jamaica.

Popeyes Makes Its Way to Portmore, Jamaica ----- Why?!

There are countless American fast food restaurants in Portmore which includes at least three KFCs in close proximity, Burger Kings, etc., etc., etc. The community doesn't need anymore greasy, fried food American restaurants that are known for producing food with high calories thereby increasing health risks. What some of these rich franchise holders need to do is to work with government entities in an effort to build a well-needed hospital for such a large community that has gone without an emergency medical care facility for over 45 years. It's all about making money for Richard Lake and Lois Lake Sherwood. However, it is time for them and other fast food franchise holders to start considering people's health needs.

Noel Hilton and Cronies Need To Answer To Multi-Million Payouts

Here we go again with white collar criminals!! The Jamaican public needs answers immediately from the Port Authority's Board-of-Directors, specifically Noel Hylton, Chairman-of-the-Board, as to why they disregarded government guidelines and approved multi-million dollar  payments to senior officers who were not entitled to such outrageous retirement benefits plus gratuity. In addition to gratuity of $31 million, one senior officer on contract received  three  pensions which includes one valued at $56 million, another for $554,164 U.S. dollars, and a third offered in a lump sum of $120,000 with monthly payments of $34,834. It is unbelievable and an injustice that one man receives three pensions when there are so many retirees from the Port Authority of Jamaica who are barely surviving on the pittance that they are offered for retirement after giving so many years of dedicated service to the government entity. In addition, many workers at the Port Authority now can hardly survive on their monthly salaries. Yes, Mr. Hilton and his board members need to account for why they found it acceptable to shell out multi-millions to 14 senior officers. The board has changed through the years but what has remained consistent is that Noel Hilton, at 80 something years old, continues to hang on to the Chairman position. It is well past time for a new chairman at Port Authority of Jamaica.  These white-collar criminals have no conscience, and they need to be arrested!

Senior Port Authority Officers Get Multimillion-Dollar Payments To Which They Are Not Entitled

UWI - Mona, Jamaica Unapologetic Induction Blunder

Today, the University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona, Jamaica, inducted Trinidad and Tobago's Prime Minister, Dr. Keith Rowley, into its Honour's Park. The university uses the Honour's Park to celebrate past students who were or are heads of government. This action is certainly a privilege for Dr. Rowley, However, it is an absolute embarrassment for Jamaica since its own Prime Minister, Andrew Holness, who is not only holding the government leadership post for the second time but also obtained his Bachelors and Masters degrees from UWI has not yet been inducted into the Honour's Park. Initially when the university was pressed by the Jamaica Gleaner to explain such a disrespectful reaction towards its own local prime minister, the institution showed a disregard for the matter with no response. The public took to social media to say that the university's decision is politically motivated. But, whatever the reason, the fact that Mr. Holness has not yet been inducted shows poor judgement on the part of the institution which has played into a common perception within the country that "anything foreign is better". Although at this time, UWI Mona cannot undo the blunder and bad impression that the institution has placed upon itself, with egg on its face, the university finally advised today that Prime Minister Andrew Holness will be inducted into the Honour's Park later this year. Obviously, that response means that the institution had not been planning to perform Holness's induction, so at this time, they are not even sure when is "later this year".

UWI Mona Inducts T & T Prime Minister Rowley Into Honour's Park

$150 Million Payout To Attorneys - Double Blow For Tivoli Gardens Residents

It was not enough that many of the Tivoli Gardens' residents were grossly abused and 73 persons were massacred in 2011 as security forces stopped at nothing to capture Christopher Coke alias Dudus. But media reports uncovered that tax payers lined the pockets of the three leading attorneys on the commission and also those who participated in the Tivoli Gardens Hearing. Out of $150 million, a grand sum of approximately $130 million was paid to the three leading commissioners, David Simmons, Velma Hylton, and Hazel Harris. The remaining millions were paid out to a couple of attorneys at the Frater, Innis, Gordon law firm, along with individual attorneys - Deborah Martin and Valerie Neita-Robinson. What is absurd is these attorneys represented the security forces and vehemently accused all the residents that testified at the commission as liars. The attorneys also used their superior attitude to intimidate and insult the intelligence of these residents from poor backgrounds. These attorneys made all efforts to discredit the residents so as to prevent them from receiving any compensation. Well, as of now their intentions have come to pass since none of those who went through traumatic experiences and lost loved ones at the hand of the security forces has received any significant compensation. Yet, of course, the attorneys have not been denied of their millions. Denis Brooks and Cliff Hughes on Nationwide Network radio justify that if it wasn't for the attorneys no one would know that the Tivoli Gardens residents deserve compensation. What bullshit!! The fact that the heads of some relatives were blown off by the security forces and the other gruesome bodies were displayed on the internet prove that a massacre must have occurred. What a shameful happening that certainly proves that poverty is a curse!

International Lending Agencies Must Stop Giving Grants to Countries That Squander The Money

Loans and grants to Jamaica from foreign entities continue to be misappropriated by top officials in Jamaican government ministries. These monies are expected to serve as necessary funds for ailing industries, farmers experiencing difficulties, improvement of infrastructure, etc.  Yet, millions of dollars have been going instead to chairmen and members of government boards or permanent secretaries such as Donovan Standberry who should be responsible for ensuring that the monies are disbursed appropriately. Clearly there is a cesspool of corruption in the Jamaican government when the auditor general, Pamela Monroe-Ellis continuously uncovers that hundreds of millions of dollars have not been going through the proper checks and balances. Instead, a conflict of interest is prevalent with those who should be managing the funds for public use are giving themselves personal loans. Yet, even after the audit reports of such criminal acts, no actions have been taken to either reclaim the ill-gotten funds or arrest these highly connected persons. Tax payers in countries such as the United States should become aware of what is occurring since often it is their tax payer's money that are going to developing countries such as Jamaica where, the funds are squandered by these unscrupulous persons in high government positions. It is no longer acceptable for these international loan representatives to visit these countries, stay at the most expensive hotels, and be wined and dined prior to becoming a part of a public relations photo op to hand over a check worth millions of dollars. It is now time to take steps to ensure that the funds are used to address the needs of the country.  In the meantime, these senior managers/executives will have to answer to their conscience as the very critical public, including "friends" silently judge them on how they acquired their property.  The three stories below are examples of the blatant use of moneys from international agencies.

$655 Million Unaccounted for at PC Bank

Factories Corporation of Jamaica Spending Spree

$200 Million Disbursed Without Approval

Housing Association of Jamaica - $2 Billion Missing

Port Authority Pension Bombshell

Candidates Accused of Not Accounting for Election Donations

Overseas Athletes Representing Jamaica - the Country of Their Roots

For the Rio Olympics, the Jamaican team will show a growth in athletic areas that are new to the country. Past Olympians who can no longer qualify for the Jamaican Olympic national team continue to choose to represents other countries. However, it is welcoming to see a reversal of this trend since so many strong athletic contenders who live in other countries but have Jamaican roots are choosing to represent Jamaica. As a result, Jamaica now has a gymnastic team; Diana Levy will be the country's first hammer thrower, and others such as Aisha Praught,  Yona Knight-Wisdom, are trying to make a mark elsewhere. As the team continues to dominate in track and field, it is hoped that athletes will also excel in other areas with these new contenders.

Let's Focus On English Before Making Spanish A Second Language

Prime Minister Holness came back from Cuba and announced that he wants to make Spanish an official second language. But, consideration should be given instead to spending money on developing the English language abilities of so many students who are having difficulties with not only speaking proper English but with written Grammar. Surely, many in Jamaica are used to and comfortable speaking only Jamaican patois. This is not a problem unless they are placed in a situation or an environment where proper English would be expected for all to understand. Nevertheless, while knowing another language is a good idea, this concept has already been implemented in schools throughout the island for so many years. It is important to give attention to perfecting the first language of the country - English.

Politically Connected Appointees to Government Boards Must Stop

Here we go again!!  Five members on the board of the Factories Corporation of Jamaica (FCJ) committed the most despicable act of employing themselves in key managerial positions. But, it doesn't end there. As board members they were able to approve salaries for themselves that resulted in a sum total of $25 million. The report from Auditor General, Pamela Monroe Ellis, should not have been a surprise. But, where in the world would board members who, by the way are generally in financially secure careers or positions, be so crooked as to commit such an unforgiving act - only in Jamaica! This is amazing especially when the government is complaining that they have no money! Certainly these board member crooks have no conscience or any shame in stealing hard-working tax payers' money for their own personal gains. Their actions show that the nepotism practices of Jamaican Prime Ministers and other government hierarchy in appointing their friends to government boards need to stop. It is unethical for the politically connected to get such positions when they are no vetted through a check and balance system to see if they are suitable to hold such high positions. 

Call Out K.D. Knight's Disrespectful Behavior in Trafigura Court Hearing

The behavior of K.D. Knight at the Trafigura court hearing yesterday is not expected of an attorney who has achieved the status of "QC" or for any litigation attorney in court whatsoever. As an elderly, long-standing attorney, his actions in court towards Judge Lennox Campbell and others clearly do not set a good example for other attorneys. It was quite clear that Knight had intentions to be disruptive and only demonstrates that he:

• is a bully who is used to dominating others
• is short tempered
• demonstrates divisive behavior if he does not get his way
• is used to laying the blame on another when he is the wrong doer 
• has been given a badge of honor as "sheriff" so he may believe he is above the law and can do whatever he wants in a courthouse
• arrogant 

The question is why was no action taken against Knight by Justice Lennox Campbell instead of putting up with the impertinent challenges. The behavior of Knight is just another example of the indiscipline that exists in Jamaica. One sees it on the streets every day, but just would not think that it would be played out in the courthouse by a man who has been practicing law for so many years.

"Bad Minded" People

Growing up in Jamaica, I always heard about people having "bad mind". However, for so many years, that phrase has never been mentioned around me throughout my interactions in Jamaica and around Jamaicans abroad, so I completely forgot about the term until lately when the word appeared to have been resurrected. This resurgence of "bad mind" indicates that it is not a word that has gone out of style -- this term from the past is still alive and well nowadays. During the recent elections,  Andrew Holness's mansion saga brought this term back to life in the public forum as the then Leader of the Opposition indicated that some people, primarily from the opposing PNP, had "bad mind" about his ability to purchase a dwelling at such a exorbitant cost. From all indications, the magnificent appearance of the property made many wonder how he could have acquired so much money on his politician salary to build such a structure. However, another politician has caught the "bad mind" bug. Julian Robinson's intent to purchase a multi-million dollar home with his wife, a CEO of a bank, is under scrutiny, and ironically his personal business has been brought to the public not by the opposition ruling party but surprisingly person or persons from his own political party. It appears that these "bad minded" people do not seem to realize people who come from humble backgrounds can work hard to achieve academic  and professional successes that will subsequently lead to their ability to afford an expensive house in an economy with property values that having been increasing rapidly due to the unstable economy. It must be emotionally draining, unproductive, and a sad situation for people to waste so much energy worrying about another person's ability to succeed.

Don't Expect Quick Resolutions from Jamaican Government Offices

I began to fret as I contemplated the  experience I would face when I arrive at my destination. I know without a doubt that I should expect to get the run around as nothing ever goes smoothly at any of these service locations. There is only a guarantee that once I finally get to speak to a customer service employee after standing in a long line, I will be given information that will clearly mean nothing if I return the next day and ask the same questions to another employee. With so many horror stories from Jamaican pensioners and others, I will not hold my breath in hope of getting any resolution to my problem on that day or that week or that month or even that year. In fact, the issue may continue for the next years due to the lackadaisical work culture that this entity has come to symbolize. So, I should get used to entering the building since  many more visits are predicted before the matter will be finally resolved. Where am I? Of course, at a Jamaican government office - where else could I be?

Too Much Time on the Mayor's Hands

It is inconceivable how a mayor of a city that is plagued by so many social issues and population needs seems to have found so much time throughout each day to post on social media. The constant postings throughout the day indicates that the mayor may simply have nothing to do or this mayor is effective in delegating work to others so as to free up tax payers' time to constantly post on social media. It would be acceptable if this mayor would post on the work that is taking place on the bad roads or dilapidated buildings or the dirty, smelly streets with running sewer water or the many other issues that need to be fixed throughout the city. Tax payers would certainly welcome posts on successes achieved or notices on social activities planned to benefit the residents of communities throughout the city. However, in addition to silly postings, the main emphasis of the mayor is to blast the ruling JLP or to spread propaganda or call out other politicians - even those associated with PNP who brings out the mayor's wrath. Taxpayers deserve better.

Corrupt Principal Promotion Policies

Recently, Professor Paul Miller, a United Kingdom based educator, wrote an article on the corrupt practices of selecting school principals in Jamaica. He indicated that the process has been flawed for many years. Professor Miller is correct in his research findings as noted in the link below. Corruption is a societal ill in Jamaica, and the education system is no exception. The article emphasizes that the corruption stems from the member of parliament; however, a great deal of the corruption initiates from the Ministry of Education that will only employ persons for high-level administrative positions if these candidates are socially connected to an influential relatives or friends who are known throughout Jamaica. So, there is no wonder that the Ministry of Education's nepotism practices will trickle down to the hiring of principals. Nevertheless, the death of a young girl late last year at the Prickly Pole Primary school in  St. Ann' clearly shows a principal's inability to lead when she along with the board's director arranged for students and parents to take a bus to participate in a political demonstration against their Member of Parliament, Lisa Hanna. This irresponsible behavior is a minor example of the incompetence of not only many principals but also the members politically selected to serve on school boards. But, unfortunately, such biased selection for these important positions ultimately affects the students who will not have a chance to to their best with incompetent leadership.

Principal Prejudice - Corrupt Promotion Policies Hurting Jamaica's Education System, Claims Professor

Remnants of British Colonialism After Country's Independence

Anyone looking at the above picture who do not know what the Queen's Counsel (QC) is all about may initially think that the blond head wear shown in the photo appears strange or funny or ridiculous or some other unflattering thoughts may come to mind. Even those who may be familiar with what the Queen's Counsel is all about have made unkind comments on news media blogs about the head wear that symbolizes the British colonial system. The fact is that these two individuals in the picture are well-known, successful attorneys-at-law who are associated with high-level or well-known court cases. However, in spite of the questionable nomination practices for Queen's Counsel socially-connected applicants by their affluent, influential relatives or friends, it is high time for countries that gained their independence from England over 50 years ago to break away from the symbolic, old-fashioned British colonial practices that do not relate to the modern customs of the country.  It is time for these "independent" nations to develop their own national practices that recognizes high-level barristers instead of hanging on to another country's traditions. Hong Kong, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, and Zambia have all made efforts to reform this Queen's Counsel legal practice to a system that is more in line with their national traditions. Reform, however, will quite likely not come any time soon to nations such as Jamaica since many in the legal community, especially those already designated as QCs, will not want to give up the high-profile status or elite mentality or high remuneration that is associated with this acronym that is placed behind their names.

Portmore Needs Hospital Not Cemetary

Portmore's acting Mayor, Errol Crosby, has made his case for a cemetery to be constructed in the city. Certainly, a city with an estimated population of 300,000 will eventually need a cemetery. However, the acting mayor should place his priorities on the living citizens who are in dire need of a full functioning hospital especially during late night emergencies when doctors' offices are closed. It is inexcusable and a shame that such a major city has no hospital but unhealthy fast-food franchises may be seen at every turn on Portmore streets. In the long run, it is important to provide necessary services to people while they are living – not after they are dead.

JAMEXIT - CARICOM Passport Has No Use To Jamaicans

Here we go again...another incident in Trinidad and Tobago where Jamaicans were treated poorly. In this matter, the Jamaican women entering the country were made to sleep on a hard floor and given only a bottle of water before deporting them back to Jamaica. This kind of disrespectful reaction to Jamaicans is not a typical reaction that would be shown to immigrants from CARICOM countries who enter Jamaica. Such incidents generate the question as to why Jamaica, the most popular and dominant English speaking country of all the Caribbean countries, should continue to issue CARICOM passports or remain a full fledge or even a member of CARICOM. The Jamaica Manufacturing Association (JMA) also presents a list of concerns that the Jamaican exporters experience while doing business with Trinidad. The treatment of Jamaicans by CARICOM countries in general does not indicate that these countries want to engage with Jamaica in working towards a unified Caribbean. It clearly shows that most islands that are separated from Jamaica by their south eastern location want to maintain a close relationship with people in that region but not with Jamaica that is located in the distant north western region. Furthermore, while Bahamas is not located in the eastern region of the Caribbean and is not considered a full fledge member of CARICOM, it, as a Caribbean nation, is renown for its draconian treatment towards not only Jamaicans but people of other Caribbean countries since others are not considered "Bahamian" even by birth. For Jamaica, it is full time to review the CARICOM agreement and disassociate with the regions in the aspects of the agreement that are simply not working. It is time to move on!

School Challenge Quiz Showcases Outstanding Students from All Schools

The overall impression after release of the GSAT results is that, for the most part, a great number of the highest scoring students throughout the country are placed at Campion College. Campion College has come a long way from its former days as a private boys only school when it was not a popular choice among boys unless they were not successful in the Common Entrance Exam. The same feelings applied to girls who would not generally want to go to its sister school, St. Peters & Paul. So, both were the schools of last resort if students did not secure a place at their primary choice schools, St. Georges College or Immaculate Conception High School. However, today, Campion College is considered an elite high school and a popular choice among hundreds of thousands of students. This influential school is known for its state-of-the art equipment and well maintained facilities unlike other high schools where students may not have proper equipment, the facilities are dilapidated, and they may have to carry around their chairs since furniture is lacking in many classrooms. Nevertheless, the School Challenge Quiz, clearly demonstrate that the best and brightest students do not all gravitate to Campion College. The competition shows that there are outstanding students enrolled in other corporate area high schools and also rural schools. While these schools may not have picturesque surroundings and a college campus-like atmosphere similar to Campion College, they are still producing, through the dedication of hard-working teachers, the best and brightest students who are expected to excel in their future endeavors. Congratulations Tichfield High School on your 2016 School Challenge Championship win!

Dental Hygienists Working As Dentists

Too often when people go to dental offices in certain Jamaican communities, they are greeted by a receptionist who may also serve as the dental hygienist or, believe it or not, they may even take on the responsibilities of the dentist. Far too many dentists are opening up offices in these communities but are no where to be found at these offices during the important daytime working hours since they are working elsewhere. As a result, these dentists are leaving patients in the care of their hygienists/receptionists to perform important procedures. So, the dental hygienists/receptionists are running these offices under no supervision and charging the same fees as a dentist to perform routine and even complicated dental care services. A recent case occurred when a dental hygienist indicated that the dentist was not in office, but she would perform the duties of removing four teeth from the mouth of an elderly woman. Luckily, the daughter of the elderly lady was present to question the dental hygienist's qualification, refuse the dental procedure, and leave the office. However, too often unsuspecting patients who may not be knowledgeable about the dental hygienist's qualifications will allow him or her to perform dental procedures without the presence and guidance of a dentist. In such cases, dental complications may occur at that moment or later. Patients need to be educated that the dentist whose office was used for the procedure will ultimately be legally responsible for their difficulties. Evidently, the opening of private dental practices need to be regulated by the Ministry of Health so that a dentist is always in office to attend to patients' needs.

UWI Hospital Mona Fails Again at Serving the Public

It is disheartening to hear that a lady cannot obtain critical eye treatment and is on the verge of becoming blind because UWI hospital no longer provides a machine to handle the needed procedure. Certainly, after years of use, machines will break down. However, it does not appear any responsible person at the hospital considers that important machines such as that eye machine will need to be replaced eventually. The Chairman of the UWI Board, James Moss Solomon, provided a poor, inexcusable response that the machine costs too much money. It would have been more informative to hear from Mr. Moss Solomon what action will be taken to seek funding to replace the machine so that not only this lady but the public will continue to benefit in the future. Such response shows an indifference to the plight of people who cannot afford private medical attention since having such eye procedure done privately will cost over $1 million Jamaica dollars. Such a shame!

Early Announcement of Final Election Results Causes Conflicts in Jamaica

Announcing the final election results on the same night the polls close can be successfully done by certain countries such as the United States. However, making such an early announcement of the final results in countries such as Jamaica continues to cause confusion and later becomes a costly re-count process. This past elections is an example that indicates Jamaica still has not achieved the ability to count the ballots and provide accurate results on election night without making mistakes. The rush to get the results out creates disappointment and embarrassment when one candidate is later advised that the initial announcement of winning the constituents' votes was not correct. It also causes contention between the candidates and party supporters who have to wonder if any corruption occurred during the initial counting of the ballots. A number of countries give additional time to counting the ballots. Announcing the final results the next day or two gives workers a better opportunity to take their time to get the job completed efficiently. Other countries have taken this step to avoid after election confusion.  Why not Jamaica?

Ballot Recount Creates Post-Election Tension in Jamaica This content was originally published by teleSUR at the following address: "http://www.telesurtv.net/english/news/Ballot-Recount-Creates-Post-Election-Tension-in-Jamaica-20160301-0003.html". If you intend to use it, please cite the source and provide a link to the original article. www.teleSURtv.net/english

Popeyes Clogs Up Cross Roads!

A second franchise of the Popeye's restaurant was opened in Jamaica to fanfare at its Cross Roads location. Wonderful!! Another American restaurant is opened that sells greasy fried food to create more health problems for Jamaicans. It would be interesting to know how much of this unhealthy food Richard Lake, Lois Sherwood, and the other franchise owners at Restaurant Associates really eat. It is about time the health of the people is taken into consideration so that more effort will be given to starting Jamaican restaurant chains, such as Island Grill, that has developed a reputation for providing well cooked, healthy meals. Bombarding communities with so many American fast food restaurants, for instance three KFCs in Portmore, is simply just greed that manipulates the population's desire to eat "American".

Money Comes Out on Top Over Preserving the Environment

The "Environmental Minister's" lifting of the ban that prevented Karisma Development Corp. from removing sand from an already eroding beach property to use on another property shows that those like himself in charge of the country's environmental issues are either illiterate to the consequences that will likely occur to the coastline from the destructive sand mining, or have been lured by the monetary outcomes in building another hotel and the backdoor deals for making the decision in favor of the hoel development company. Diana McCaulay, environmentalist, explained in details the differences in sand quality from one coastline to the next. The published response showed the harm  that will not only affect the coastline where the sand was removed but also the coastal areas where the sand was transferred. However, this detailed response to the issue appears to have been overlooked by the minister. In concurring with a statement made on a popular radio talk show today, "Why bother to have an Environment ministry?"In time, those who have been lured by money that have caused them to make decisions in favor of big businesses will be remembered in history for their contribution to the destruction of the country's environment.

Government Lift Ban on Karisma Development for Removing Sand

Caribbean Maritime Institute Questionable Hiring Practices

Pamella Munroe Ellis’s audit report on the Caribbean Maritime Institute (CMI) indicates cronyism at its best. The hiring of six assistant lecturers who have no training or teaching experience in the subject areas simply shows a disinterest by the institution’s leadership to provide qualified lecturers so that students may obtain the best possible education. Furthermore, the hiring of 253 part-time lecturers without approval from the Ministry of Finance indicates a breakdown in communication between CMI and the ministry that resulted in failure to monitor spending of $135.6 million paid in salaries at tax payers’ expense. Students’ surveyed feedback on their dissatisfaction with the training offered by CMI lecturers should be taken seriously especially since these students are paying such high tuition for their education. CMI’s leadership should be held responsible for compromising the education needs of its students
Caribbean Maritime Institute Accused Of Employing Unqualified And Inexperienced Educators

Is Lisa Hanna an Innocent Victim of Controversies?

Everald Warmington's usual tirades continued this week when he referred to Minister Lisa Hanna as a jezebel. This outburst was disrespectful and showed a lack of professionalism. Many believe his outburst this time has gone too far and disciplinary action needs to be taken since proper conduct is expected from all members of Parliament especially during a sitting of the House of Representatives. On the other hand, this is yet another public controversial incident involving Ms. Hanna. In fact, it appears that throughout her tenure as a government minister, she is constantly embroiled in uncomfortable issues that stirs up public attention. It includes but not limited to: the questionable handling of certain cases in her ministry; the bathing suit posting on social media; her comrade, Dayton Campbell, taking her to task; claims of her secretive survey to publicly declare her popularity; the Jamaica Observer 3 part publicity story; claims of fractions with the Prime Minister and her close circle; discontent with counselors in her constituency; claims by her counselors of impropriety; and now her dispute with Mr. Warmington which she quickly brought to her fans' attention on social media to incite their support. Is it pure coincidence that Ms. Hanna seems to attract controversy causing her to often become a popular debate topic on social media? But then, her PNP colleagues such as Natalie Neita-Headley, Imani Duncan-Price, Sharon Ffolkes-Abrahams, and others appear to be quietly working hard to do a good job without scandals or drama that generate public attention through social media debates. There is more than meets the eye.