Jamaica Magazine-10.06.2026

Road safety is everybody's business. And with that said, be sure to not only look out for yourselves when using our roadways, but also for others around you. One responsible decision can save a life. Yearly, June is observed as road safety month. A reminder to all road users to slow down, stay alert, and practice courtesy on the nation's roads. This is Jamaica Magazine, and I'm Theodore Henry. More to come, so stay with us. Are you confident that you are the legal owner of your property? Take action to secure your property ownership. Get a registered certificate of title and become the legal owner of your property. To register your property and obtain a certificate of title, you will need to provide a tax registration number TRN, a valid government issued identification, a survey diagram, documentation to prove ownership, up-to-date property tax certificate, the names, addresses, and occupations of two neighbors over the age of 50 who are not family members and can give a declaration on your behalf. proof that you have been in open, undisturbed, and undisputed possession of the property for 12 years or more. For further information on registering your property and obtaining a certificate of title, contact the National Land Agency at 876750263 or 876-946-5263. Email Ask NLAN.gov.jm or message us at WhatsApp at 876418-5089. The National Land Agency. One agency, one goal to serve you better.

Good day. I'm Lisa Row and this is your JIS news for Wednesday, June 10, 2026. Stronger measures are coming to stem illegal squatting, reduce adverse possession, regularize registration, and monitor idle lands. A comprehensive presentation was made by Minister with responsibility for land titling and settlements, Robert Montiku. He was delivering his 2026 2027 sectoral debate in parliament on Tuesday. One of the measures is a notice that as of June 9, people who go onto Crown Lands to live will not be considered for a settlement program and those who sell crown lands will be prosecuted. Minister Montu is encouraging Jamaicans to check with the National Land Agency, NLA, before making land purchases. We are in the middle of an intensive consultation and discussion program as to our squatting challenges. We know that there is a need for land for the landless and also for orderly development. There is also the need for respect for property rights. We have done drone and spatial surveys and we know what is already on crown lands. So if you go on the land after today, you must face the consequences. Minister Montigue says adjusting the time frame for adverse possession is being discussed as well as meeting with members of parliament on squatting challenges in their constituencies. No member of parliament nor counselor nor JP nor big man nor area leader can sell government land. So to those persons scamming people and says the MP send them stop it because the MP never send you go do nothing like that. We want to remove the incentive for land scamming. Remember, government lands belong to the people. It is bought for development. People are squatting on lands reserved for schools, clinics, roadways, and even one historic site. Meanwhile, a survey loan fund will be established by the government to help small landholders cover the cost to get their properties surveyed. This is intended to move families closer to acquiring land titles and ease the financial strain. We have therefore proposed that a revolving fund should will be established where land owners of 2 acres or less can apply for a surveyor's fee loan. Once the applicant applies through LAMP, an NLA trained and certified lawyer or a recognized land management service company, they will qualify and this funds will go directly to the surveyor and a caveat lodged against the title so that the taxpayers will recover the money. In addition to facilitate a faster systematic land titling process, the government intends to digitize all its processes including surveys to accommodate the distribution of e titles by September next year. Minister Montiku asserts that this will make the process more efficient and secure allowing distribution of more than 30,000 e titles per year. The title system will also help land owners to watch their properties so that they will be alerted if someone applies to title their lands. This will reduce the instances of persons persons moving to take over your land by adverse possession. There will be a fee of course for this property watch service. The Ministry of Health and Wellness has given assurance that Jamaica remains Ebolafree and the risk to the country remains low. Portfolio Minister Dr. Christopher Tuftton says the government has intensified its implementation of preparedness measures in accordance with the World Health Organization WH recommended standards. Giving an update at today's post cabinet press briefing, Dr. Tuffton says this was to ensure early detecting, reporting, and safe management of potential imported cases. These include detailed surveillance system at airports and cruise pairs, enhanced coordination among border agencies, sensitization of frontline personnel, reinforcing standard infections and control measures, and assessing the readiness of designated points of entry and isolation points. As part of these preparedness efforts, assessment and sensitization activities were conducted at Jamaica's major ports of entry, including the two international airports, the historic Falmouth cruise ship pair and Port Authority of Jamaica. In addition, preparedness meetings and sanitization sessions were held. key stakeholders including medical officer of of health, senior medical officers, regional technical directors, immigration officers, islandwide senior management representative of the Port of Jamaica, Port Authority, and other crucial public health and border management personnel. Minister Tuffton says approximately 1,100 key personnel from these agencies and institutions have been sensitized. The health minister confirmed that nine passengers who arrived on the island had travel flights associated with Ebola affected countries. However, these individuals had received counseling from the airport's help desk, were placed on mandatory self quarantine, and are being monitored by respected health authorities. Importantly, Minister Tuftton is assuring that all nine passengers have not manifested any symptoms associated with Ebola. Therefore, transmission is not likely and there is no risk as it relates to the other passengers on these flights. Persons who have traveled to or transited through Ebola affected countries will be quarantined for 21 days. So, those who have intentions to travel, you know, we know because the flight itinerary is communicated to us. You don't need to declare. We know um and you are going to be quarantined. So maybe you should avoid it or be prepared for the consequences after the fact in the interest of yourself and the country. So we're urging you to review your travel plans. Minister of Finance and the Public Service Faval Williams is assuring travelers that they may enter Jamaica with up to $10,000 US or its equivalent in any currency without the need to declare the funds. Her comments come amid public discussion following reports that a traveler was allegedly barred from entering the island with 100,000 Jamaican dollars in cash that had not been declared. Speaking at Wednesday's post cabinet press briefing, Minister Williams clarified that the declaration requirement only applies to persons traveling with more than $10,000 or its equivalent. persons traveling to Jamaica uh can bring cash in excess of a h 100,000 Jamaican dollars. Um you have to declare if you are bringing in US 10,000 or the equivalent you have to declare it on your enter Jamaica um electronic form when you fill that out. The minister explains that while travelers are not required to declare amounts below the $10,000 US threshold, Jamaica Customs and other security agencies have the authority under the Proceeds of Crime Act to question individuals and investigate the source of funds where there are reasonable suspicions. She also clarifies that the 100,000 Jamaican dollar figure relates to provisions in the law that empower authorities to seize cash if they believe it may be linked to criminal activity and the individual cannot satisfactorily account for its origin. Minister Williams is encouraging travelers to ensure they accurately complete the Enter Jamaica electronic form and declare any cash exceeding the prescribed threshold. The increasing use of forensic science is strengthening the delivery of justice and security and transforming the way crimes are investigated and prosecuted. That's the confidence being expressed by Minister of National Security and Peace Dr. Horris Chang. He was speaking at the opening ceremony of the Caribbean Association of Forensic Sciences bianial conference on Monday. He says responding effectively to criminal threats require more than traditional policing methods. It demands scientific precision, technological innovation, and evidence-based investigations. Whether through DNA analysis, fingerprint examination, digital forensic, ballistics, toxicology, forensic pathology, or crime scenes reconstruction, forensic science, equipment investigates with the tools necessary to identify offenders, establish facts, eliminate uncertainty, and support successful prosecution. Minister Chang highlights that major forensic disciplines have been consolidated within the JCF forensic services branch to improve efficiency, strengthen evidentiary support, and enhance investigative processes. Additionally, the minister says preparations are in high gear for the commissioning of the state-of-the-art forensic pathology autopsy suite this month. This facility is expected to dramatically improve service delivery by reducing postmortem waiting periods for weeks from weeks and months to a matter of days and we look forward to that as a crucial part of our development. The Caribbean Association of Forensic Sciences bionial conference which wrapped up today brought together forensic practitioners, scientists, law enforcement professionals, prosecutors, academics, and other stakeholders to share knowledge, strengthen collaboration, and advance forensic practice throughout the region. And finally, adolescent mothers enrolled in programs at the Women's Center of Jamaica Foundation are set to benefit from enhanced support services following a $4.5 million donation from the proceeds of the 5K run for mom. The funds were officially handed over during a recent ceremony at the institution recently. The initiative was organized by the heart and vascular center along with other partners to support adolescent mothers and advance maternal and child health programs. Minister of culture, gender entertainment and sport Olivia Graange has welcomed the contribution. We are grateful for this support because the work of the program for adolescent mothers touches both the present and the future of Jamaica. Through this program, we are supporting two generations at the same time. A young mother like you who is trying to continue your education and a child whose own future is strengthened when you as the mother receive the support you need. And that's it for JIS News today. I'm Lisa Row. Thanks for watching.

The Atlantic hurricane season began on June 1, and Jamaicans are being urged to take the necessary precautions now before a storm is on the horizon. Waiting until the last minute could leave you with little time to prepare and protect your family. To help you stay ready this season, this next important health advisory and practical tips will help you prepare, stay safe, and take heed.

Food, clean water, and medication are among the important things to secure when you're preparing for severe weather conditions such as a tropical storm or hurricane. Pay attention as we share a few useful tips on these, as well as advice for pregnant women and persons with chronic illnesses.

Persons with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and asthma are reminded to have an adequate supply of medication on hand. If they have to evacuate their homes, they must ensure that they take their medication with them to the place of shelter. They should continue to take their medications as prescribed by the doctor while away from home. Having an igloo with ice for medication needing refrigeration is recommended. Also, persons with chronic illnesses must keep regular eating and medication schedules and ensure they have received adequate nutrition and hydration.

If a storm is on the way, medical experts recommend that all pregnant women who are within 1 month of their delivery date should relocate to family or friends who are in close proximity to a hospital or delivery center.

If you must evacuate your home when disaster threatens, certain items should be taken with you. medical supplies, including over-the-counter and prescription medications, dentures, and first aid kit items such as bandages and rubbing alcohol. Also, take along basic disaster supplies, including flashlights, batteries, radio, and bottled water. You'll also need clothing and sanitation supplies such as diapers, toilet tissue, soap, and feminine hygiene products. Keep a bag with supplies for the emergency evacuation from your home. They should include only non-p perishable items and special foods like baby formula. And while these are not strictly for health purposes, it's also recommended to travel with important family documents like birth, marriage, debt certificates, passports, land titles, and immunization cards, as well as games, books, and other items for your entertainment.

With the threat of power outage and water shortage during or following a storm, food safety takes an added importance. Do not store food items with chemicals such as kerosene, bleach, detergents, and insect sprays. Do not purchase food from tins which have signs of dents, bulges, or other damage. Keep food in a dry and cool place. and store sugar, flour, rice, and crackers in their original packages or in tightly closed containers.

Lockoffs are likely in a storm. Plus, flood rains can wash sediments into the water supply, so store water for domestic use in a clean, covered container. Ensure the lid fits tightly to prevent mosquito breeding. Do not use containers that have previously stored harmful chemicals. Use a clean container with a handle to dip up water from storage. Treat the water with bleach or by boiling for safe use. For further information and health advice to prepare for severe weather conditions, please contact the Ministry of Health and Wellness's Emergency Operations Center at 8881. That's 888663-5683 or visit www.ohw.gov.jm.

New and evolving technologies have increase the risks associated with protecting personal data in the digital age. This makes it even more critical for organizations to implement strong measures to safeguard privacy and secure sensitive information. What does data protection actually mean especially for organizations? Data protection is a concept that regulates the privacy of individuals. As you know in this age every every person has a device and in our communication with each other and even in our business with different organizations data protection regulates how data controllers protect and recognize the rights of data subjects. At minimum an organization should register with the office of the information commissioner as a data controller. They should appoint a designated officer as a data protection officer. They should also comply with the eight standards of data protection, adhere to the rights of the data subject and they should also ensure that there is regular audit and assessments.

As far as policies are concerned, they should be clear. Every organization should have a data protection policy, privacy policy, retention and disposal policy and records management policy. Beyond that, procedures for data subject requests, rectification, breach notifications, and incident responses are critical. These policies should be revised annually. But in the event that a new law comes into place, an organization introduces a new process or procedure, they may need to be reviewed more regularly. While the organization as a whole remains legally accountable, internal roles can also be defined through job descriptions and staff sensitization to ensure every employee understands their part in protecting data.

Protecting data requires both physical and digital measures. Physically, it is recommended that employees and members of staff keep personal data under lock on key, whether it is in a filing cabinet or any other storage facility. Ensure that departments that regulate or manage personal data is user restricted and that whenever employees leave their desk, they close their computers. Digitally, it is best that devices are under password and it is recommended that employees use a combination of biometric and a pin or some other combination to close those devices. ensure that they update the softwares on their devices regularly and ensure that they don't click on suspicious links. Employees play a vital role in preventing accidental data breaches. Staff are required to remain vigilant in their daily data handling practices. Organizations should ensure that they audit their vendors to ensure that they comply with the data protection act before doing business with those vendors. Ensure that there's a data sharing agreement with different prescriptions. For example, a data breach response plan in the event that there is a data breach and ensure that you regularly keep up to date with what you share with that vendor and minimize the information that you share with them. Compliance with the data protection act is a partnership not only between leadership and members of staff but also between the members of staff and the people that they serve. Whether those be clients, suppliers, whoever they are, everything is a partnership. As Jamaica's digital systems continue to grow, this shared vigilance will remain crucial not just to meet legal obligations, but to build trust and safeguard the privacy of all Jamaicans.

The Jesse Ripal Primary School recognized the importance of introducing digital literacy at an early age. Students are being exposed to technology alongside traditional learning methods, creating a balanced approach that helps prepare them for the direction the world is heading in while strengthening essential foundational skills.

When you think of literacy, what comes to mind? For many, it may be the image of a child flipping through the pages of a book, reading line by line. But in today's digital age, literacy has taken a broader shape, one that blends the traditional practices of reading and writing with modern technology. Across Jamaica, schools are finding creative ways to help students navigate this new landscape. At Jesse Rupaul Primary School, literacy is more than just reading. It's about preparing students to thrive in a digital world. And so teachers as well as administrators are redefining how children learn, building confident readers, thinkers, and content creators with the use of digital tools. A recent literacy day highlighted these outcomes. Today having learned the different modalities or method of using their devices to create informative content, we see them moving beyond this day uh becoming more efficient at using their devices to creating content such as writing their own stories, sharing information with their friends and you know cuz we understand that our students they are very intimate with their devices. Another is that it enable the students to be content creators. So they create content such as being an author, being an illustrator, being a storyteller using their various devices. Still traditional practices remain a cornerstone. At our grade 1 to three, we every afternoon after lunch, we ask that they drop everything and read. We also practice it at the upper school level as well. We have also introduced our library to our students last school year. So our students do have sessions with our librarian to assist in developing their literacy skills and this year we have all grades currently creating an intervention plan for critical thinking. Writing is very important in literacy and so it is also one of our focus area this year to ensure that all our students are able to form their letters properly, write a proper sentence and of course to create essays, letter writing and so forth. Through read aloud sessions, peer readings and small group activities, Jesse Rapal is showing that literacy in the digital era is both innovative and inclusive.

The literacy drive is just as strong at Franklin Town Primary School, where students start their day with reading exercises designed to sharpen their focus for learning. What you will see is a parallel between the two areas of literacy, the traditional and the digital. So there is always something for everybody, right? So we can pick up a book. You will see the children picking up books to read. You will see them looking at cards and you will also see them using devices to access these same activities. Students also get an opportunity to focus exclusively on literacy for an hour each day. We put aside to teach our students explicitly about the um reading all the skills that they would need to grow. So we had that put away. We we put on our activities and the students seem to have responded very well and it's a mixed approach. We incorporated digital as well as the traditional. Now the phone names speaks about the sounds that the students would make and the letters that they would combine to give them a word. All right. So today we'll be looking at a lesson a short a phonics lesson which is the c for consonant the v for vowel and the c for consonant words. Now we do a little practice around here. We just warm up to get them the sounds of the letter A. So we ask them what they are doing and the child is taking a a nap then sat. So we're just trying to get the sound out. So this is where the child would speak. So then now they would just look at this just to make the sounds. So when they see the letter A, they will say A N R D T M C.

With the school's intervention plan, literacy rates have jumped from 36 to 56%. It works and this year we're looking for even greater gains. The literacy push does not end in the classroom. Parents are seen as vital partners in the effort to build lifelong readers. Parents can assist with literacy by giving their child a device, one that will be monitored and the activities curated, the apps that they use curated properly. So you pick those apps whether it is for phonics for comprehension for reading and outside of that promote this literacy in your home by doing your reading calling them to read by blending home support with schoolbased strategies. The literacy movement aims to produce students who are not only functional in language but also equipped to thrive in a world where traditional and digital literacy go hand in hand. The message from Jesse Rupaul and Franklin Town is clear. Literacy in Jamaica is evolving. It's no longer confined to books or solely to devices, but lies in the careful balance between both.

This has been Jamaica Magazine. Thanks for tuning in. Join us again tomorrow for another lineup geared towards providing you with information on the government's policies and initiatives for building a better Jamaica. You may visit our website jis.gov.jm to rewatch this show or catch up on others we have on the site. I'm Theodore Henry thanking you for watching on behalf of our production team here at the JIS.

This has been a production of the Jamaica Information Service, the voice of Jamaica.