Chief justice clarifies court demerit rules as Chang rejects Granston migrant housing claims

Chief Justice Brian Sykes has clarified how Jamaica's courts handle demerit points and driver disqualifications, as debate continues over a separate administrative demerit-points regime set to take effect on October 1.

Transport Minister Daryl Vaz had said motorists who settle outstanding traffic tickets by September 30 would not be adversely affected when the administrative system launches. Justice Sykes, however, stressed that persons appearing before the courts should still expect demerit points and disqualifications where the law requires them.

In a statement, the chief justice said offences committed before February 1, 2023 remain governed by the Road Traffic Act 1938, which obliges courts to record demerit points and impose disqualifications where applicable. He noted that the Road Traffic Act 2018 has been in force since January 25, 2023, and that under Section 98.1 courts must order scheduled demerit points for specified convictions and forward records to the Island Traffic Authority. Section 35 and related provisions empower courts to disqualify drivers in prescribed circumstances, including on second or subsequent convictions for reckless or dangerous driving.

"This clarification is intended to ensure that members of the public understand that the courts have continued to exercise only those powers expressly conferred by the applicable legislation," Justice Sykes said.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security and Peace, Dr. Horace Chang, has dismissed reports that the first group of third-country nationals will be housed at a property in Granston, St. Mary. Speaking during a Jamaica Information Service ministerial interview on Monday, Dr. Chang said the claims are false and urged residents to remain calm.

"I'm very concerned because I said the the reports have, in fact, raised the ire of the population Granston, St. Mary. And would like to ask them to remain calm. Um not to do anything rash because there is no truth to the reports," he said.

Dr. Chang warned that rumours had heightened tensions and put the Airbnb property's owner, staff, and guests at risk. He said he has instructed police to monitor the area and maintain order, and that no decision has been made on where third-country nationals will be housed.

Jamaica has expressed deep sympathy following earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24, extending condolences to bereaved families and pledging solidarity with relief and recovery efforts.

Government trustee agencies say persons struggling with debt valued above $300,000 may contact the Office of the Supervisor of Insolvency to negotiate with creditors and secure up to 12 months' breathing room. BPM Financial manager Peter Rose Hall has called for average approved retirement-scheme contributions to rise gradually from 10% to 12% of salary, noting fewer than 20% of Jamaica's 1.4 million workers are enrolled.

The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, and the Caribbean Agricultural Health and Food Safety Agency have signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen Caribbean food security, workforce development, and research. Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Dr. Acolla Lewis-Cameron, said the partnership will support training, technical exchanges, and professional development.

In sport, Jevazzano Bell won the 2026 Jamaica Squash Long Ball title, beating Joey Levy 11-10 in a deciding third game at the Liguanea Club in New Kingston after the finalists finished level at 10-10.