Wednesday, 29 September 2021

What's Happening, September 29, 2021

Bark Di Trute Featured In The Jamaica Observer

A very old lady whose husband is well known internationally, contacted me and complained about the direction in which her country was going. She said she was not happy. I challenged her to do something about it and she said to me that she is an old person. She was also in fear of her life and therefore would not want to comment on certain things.

She felt at her stage she could not make a difference to Jamaica. I suggested to her to write me a letter and I would publish in on my blog. She was reluctant initially, but she eventually wrote the letter. The blog not only caught the eyes of many of our political leaders and ordinary citizens but also the Jamaica Observer newspaper. The blog was featured in the Jamaica Observer. Click on the link below to read the article:

When You Think Of Doing Something Stupid Watch This Before




We No Tief Wi Just Teck!!!

I got a report that a truck carrying cement overturned in Maxfields in Westmoreland. As expected, most of the adults nearby became thieves and they relieved the truck of its load of cement. I wonder what these same persons would say if someone broke into their homes and stole everything.  It is clear that stealing is seen as 'a no nutten' in this country. We should therefore not complain if our political leaders help themselves to some of the cookies in the cookie jar. Many of us don't seem to have a problem with stealing if we are benefitting from the stolen goods. 

Do you remember when it was alleged that a well known Jamaican had stolen funds, many persons commented that the person was fool why he got caught!


No Vaccine No Entry

We know that if the USA requires us to take the vaccine before we enter that country, then we will all take the vaccine. We probably need to say to persons that they cannot enter an office until they are vaccinated.

Persons are afraid to take a vaccine made by scientists yet we eat from anybody on the street, we sometimes have sex with people who we hardly know, we take concoctions from the obeah man without wondering if it can kill us and we allow ordinary persons to con us all the while. yet we don't trust a vaccine which can save our lives.

We might have to dump vials of vaccine running into the thousands because persons fail to take the vaccines in Jamaica. I hope in future if these persons have to go to the hospital due to getting the virus, they will have to pay for their medical treatment, insurance companies will not honour claims if such persons fail to take the vaccines and they will not be able to get certain jobs. What would be interesting is if after awhile, persons are required  to pay to get the vaccine!

No Masks - Packed In An Open Back Van

These persons were packed in an open back vehicle heading in a westerly direction on Washington Boulevard at the intersection of Molynes Road in Kingston. Apparently they cannot catch Covid-19 like that! They obviously do not fear the police either.







Senior Citizens' Week Message Form Hon. Karl Samuda, OJ, CD, MP

Hon. Karl Samuda,
OJ, CD, MP

Senior Citizens' Week, being observed from September 26 to October 1, is that time of year that we dedicate to recognizing and honoring our citizens 60 years and older, for their contribution to nation building.  It is also a time when we reflect on our achievements, evaluate and strengthen our efforts to ensure that Senior Citizens live and participate actively in a society that guarantees their rights, promotes their responsibilities, recognizes their capabilities and contributions, and facilitates their enjoyment of a life of fulfilment, health and security.

The theme “Recovering with Resilience” speaks to the character of our nation’s older persons in the fight to adjust to and recover from the health, socio-economic and psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The impact of the global health crisis has been significant for the older adult population, and it continues to affect their health and wellness, safety, income and food security and their social engagement and participation. 

Regrettably, we continue to experience the passing of seniors from COVID 19 complications. I share the grief and empathize with those currently ailing. As Minister with responsibility for seniors, I join with the health team and all well-thinking Jamaicans to encourage older persons to observe the infection prevention protocols: wear your masks, sanitize or wash your hands, avoid crowds, stay 6 feet away from others and get vaccinated. 

I am committed to improving the well-being of our seniors. The Revised National Policy for Senior Citizens has been approved by Cabinet and will shortly be tabled in Parliament. The Ministry continues to provide services for the elderly including the Social Pension for persons 75 and older, PATH, NIS pensions, various social assistance grants and emergency relief and special accommodations during the pandemic. The National Council for Senior Citizens continues to engage and advocate for healthy, active and productive ageing for seniors. The seniors’ toll free line (888) SENIORS remains operational during business hours as a point of contact for them.  

This Senior Citizens Week, I encourage all Jamaicans to be more respectful of the rights of older persons. I denounce and condemn violence in all forms but especially against senior citizens and encourage greater support, care, inclusion and protection. I commend all Jamaicans including our church and corporate partners who contribute to an enabling and supportive environment for seniors. 

We join the United Nations to promote Digital Equity for all ages, bringing awareness of the importance of digital inclusion of seniors while tackling stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination associated with digitalization. 

Ageing is not just about seniors, it is a process that spans all generations. Let us show appreciation for our older citizens who have and continue to contribute to national development.  To all Jamaicans, 60 years and older

HAPPY SENIOR CITIZENS’ WEEK!


Hon. Karl Samuda, OJ, CD, MP 
Minister of Labour and Social Security
Senior Citizens’ Week 2021
_______________________________________________________________


______________________________________________________________________________



Tuesday, 28 September 2021

Oh Yes - Jamaican Artistes Still Produce Good Clean Songs!

A number of Jamaican artistes are working together and assisting one another in the music business under the banner of Artistes For Change.  Let me express thanks to the various Artistes who are supporting the concept and are therefore keeping our Jamaican flag flying high. They are keeping brand Jamaica alive internationally. 

You can play you part in supporting these artistes by sharing this post today and also sharing the channel. If you are a broadcaster then please play music from this channel. I  will feature some of the artistes and their music today. See the list below:


  1. If God Is For Us - Freddie McGregor
  2. Medley - Humble
  3. Lloyd Lovindeer - Jook Dem
  4. Rise and Come - Sam Carty
  5. A Fiwi Country - Latty Guzang
  6. Althea Hewitt - Power In Love
  7. Pam Hall - Want U 4Ever
  8. Rough - Alley Bless
  9. Mr. Steele - Soon Come Back
  10. Atuela - Lonely


Althea Hewitt

Freddie McGregor

HUMBLE

Sam Carty

Mr. Steele

Alley Bless

Latty Guzang


Pam Hall


Lloyd Lovindeer


Monday, 27 September 2021

Professor Verene Shepherd Addresses The UN General Assembly

Prof. Verene Shepherd.

Professor Verene Shepherd delivered a speech at the UN General Assembly  at a high level meeting to commemorate the 20th Anniversary of the Anti-Racism Conference held in Durban, South Africa in 2001. The speech was delivered in New York on September 22, 2021.

Professor Verene Shepherd is a Professor at the University of the West Indies at the Mona Campus and she has given many lectures internationally about slavery and it's impact on humanity.

She host the programme 'Talking History' aired on Saturdays from 0900 to1100 EST on Nationwide News Network.



More Readings:


Sunday, 26 September 2021

What's Happenng, September 26, 2021

Nastiness A Way Of Life In Papine - The University Town!!!

It is amazing that we have the KSAC, we have a police force, we have councillors and we have members of parliament yet have a look at the Papine Market in Kingston. Covid-19 is still with us and I wonder what will join Covid-19 soon? You will notice that not only the rats are facilitated but the mosquitos are also welcomed. We need a sign at the Papine Market which says, 'Human beings are not welcomed' or one which says, ' Human beings enter at your own risk'.


Trouble Brewing At A Government Organization

At an online nine-night for a staff member of a government agency where the permanent secretary, board members and other officials were in attendance, the staff used the opportunity to vent their feelings at the management of the organization.

It was an embarrassing situation but my information is that the staff are very frustrated with the situation there and the recent audit reports have indicated that all is not well at this organization. The Prime Minister is aware of the challenges at this organization and he should address it as soon as possible because it could become another embarrassment for the government. The following is one of the many messages of protest posted on ZOOM during the nine-night:

A Close One For AYS Supporter


On Tuesday, Sept 21, 2021, at 2:45 pm at the intersection of Cowper Drive and Washington Boulevard, reports are that a driver failed to stop at the stop sign and the vehicle which was being driven, rammed into another car which had the green light to go.

Video And Pictures Of Accident







That Diplomatic Passport


Persons are saying that before one gets a diplomatic passport we should ensure that the holder of the passports is aware of how to behave in a diplomatic manner especially when they are overseas and they are representing Jamaica. Reports are that some holders are not aware of what diplomatic behaviour is all about. Those who make decisions as to who should get diplomatic passport should due their background checks first. It is not just about the hype. 

Let us see how long that diplomatic passport remains in hand!



The People We Honour!!!

PM Andrew Holness
In a previous post, I expressed concern about the persons who have received national awards. Today I will say that there are question marks over the heads of some persons who have received  national awards. 

As a nation, if we recognize persons who are not of high moral standing, this not only affects the credibility of the award, but it also sends the wrong message to the country. A nation cannot just give awards to persons because they are popular in an area and there are clouds over their heads. After awhile persons might start to think that having a cloud over your head is a pre-requisite to getting a national award.

I have seen a leader in the church who the community accused of playing around with little girls and he received the OD. This is a church leader who adopted children saying that he was taking care of them but persons believed otherwise. It is a pity that at my age then, I did not realize the seriousness of what was happening. 

We have had a leader who was convicted and charged for more than one offence getting a national award! Another individual getting an OJ and the stories going around about that person cannot be repeated on this page.

Social media is now abuzz with the interesting news about a Jamaican who has received a diplomatic passport. Read this Jamaica Observer article and you will see some names that might be linked to person who are known internationally. These persons are not convicted of a crime but the story is very interesting - Jamaica Observer article.


There are also stories going around about persons who it is alleged sit on government boards and get sweet heart deals. Some Jamaicans are saying that these persons have top level connections - Jamaica
 Gleaner.

The challenge is when public servants or other citizens do anything such as even stealing some ackees they are taken in her Majesty's limousine to one of her hotels were the await trials which could end up in an extend stay at the hotel. Others high up are just asked to just step down.

I write this piece not because I want to tear down the government, but because I want my country to succeed and there is too much debris floating on our national waters. It must be cleaned up now or else we will be in big trouble. If it is cleaned up now, then the nation will sigh a sigh of relieve. These things have been going on for too many years. The problem is, Jamaicans don't really seem to care! In reacting to an official who got arrested for I believe misappropriation of funds, Jamaicans said, "Dat dey man fool sah, 'im no know how fi tief".

Other Readings:

Friday, 24 September 2021

Sex & Relationships - A Forum Put On By TLC2

ZOOM Forum



Transforming Lives and Communities through The Learning Curve (TLC2) will be putting on a ZOOM Forum this Saturday, September 25, 2021, starting at 1830 EST  (6:30 pm  Jamaica time). You could be in a relationship for a long time or just getting involved in one, or you are not in a relationship at this time. Come and join us and learn from others. It will be an experience you will never forget. 

Come and hear from a Dr. Karen Carpenter -University Lecturer, Rodney Campbell - a broadcaster, communications consultant, Kemar Whittingham - Comunity leader and business man chaired by popular talk show host on Nationwide Radio - Vernon Derby

ZOOM Meeting ID and Password

Please note the information below for logging on to the webinar:

Zoom Meeting Website: 

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81315274758?pwd=bTFvQnZKRmxBcDdLT3BBWGxYRktzUT09

Meeting ID:  813 1527 4758

Passcode:  431897

____________________________________

TLC2

Transforming Lives and Communities through The Learning Curve (TLC2) is a charitable organization that aims to educate frontline workers and the public on effective domestic violence interventions and advocates for an end to all forms of violence. 

The team has decades of experience in developing and delivering workshops and seminars and has been formally registered as a charity in 2019.  Our training and Awareness programme, # ‘Enough is Enough’ is being supported by the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport (MCGES) and has been engaging government, civil society, and community-based organizations to better intervene in incidents of domestic violence. 

 Directors of TLC2

The Directors of TLC are Novelette Grant - former Deputy Commissioner of Police, Sharene McKenzie - Development Practitioner and Oberlene Smith-Whyte - former Superintendent of Police.

Novelette Grant - Director


Oberlene Smith-Whyte - Director


Thursday, 23 September 2021

Stop Spread Rumours On Elaine Thompson-Herah!

False news! Elaine Thompson Herah has not left the MVP club.



Children Should Be Treated As Adults For Certain Crimes




If the fine for not wearing a mask is JAD200,000 I wonder what is the fine for wearing a mask! I would like to to know if someone passes Covid-19 to someone else deliberately and that person dies, would the person passing on the virus be charged for murder? So we feel that because a youngster is not an adult he should not be charged for a crime? Mark my word the gangs are getting smarter and soon they will ensure that children carry out acts of murder for their gangs.

Some persons have written to me stating that they have a right to do what they want to do with their bodies. I wonder if that is why we feel we have the right to destroy the life of an unborn child? That child's body apparently belongs us? What is funny is that they feel that they have the right to tell me that I should not say anything about their behaviour because they have a right to to do what they want to do with their bodies. Well I have a right to say what I want to say with my month, so long I do not say anything that is libelous and I do not incite anyone to brake the law. 

If we believe that we should have the right to do what we want to do with our own bodies, then why is it if we attempt to commit suicide we can be charged by the police? Since we should have the choice to do what we want to do with own bodies, then we should be free to tell a doctor when we want to end our lives.

Finally when youngsters break some laws they should be treated like adults. A 17 year old not wearing a mask knows exactly what he is doing. If the parents cannot train their children to obey the law, then parents should pay for their children when they commit certain crimes.


What's Happening - September 23, 2021

Tornado In Manchester, Jamaica

Tornado in Manchester

I got a report yesterday about a tornado in Cobbla, Manchester. I understand that residents were very alarmed at the sight of the tornado, because that is an unusual phenomenon for them in that area. Below you will see a video of this tornado.

Video Of Tornado


Note: If you have pictures of this tornado then email them to at ayswithvernon@hotmail.com

New Political Party In Trouble With The Law

Joseph Patterson 
(TVJ picture)
It was reported by a traditional media house that Joseph Patterson lead a demonstrations in downtown Kingston yesterday. He was demonstrating against the forced usage of Covid-19 vaccine. It should be noted that citizens have not so far been forced to take the vaccine.

The  United Independent Congress' (UIC) President, Joseph Patterson declared yesterday that he will be taking legal action against the police for what he believed was very aggressive and forceful handling of people who participated in a protest for which no permission was given. The state is contending that the march and gathering had breached the Disaster Risk Management Act.

Mr. Patterson says that he is calling on all members of parliament to resign😀 When I heard that I said to myself, was this going to be a new Pantomime for the first time in a long time at the Ward Theatre?

Click to view video of UIC President being taken away in her Majesty's limousine to her Majesty's Hotel.  

The Power Of Media

The media workers travel with their pens, notebooks, cameras recorders and other instruments of their trade. The police on the other hand have tear gas, big guns, but a war against the media is a war in futility. A war against the media is a war against the people. Yesterday, police officers went downtown to deal with an illegal gathering of the United Independent Congress but ended up in a confrontation with working media persons, If this was not a matter relating to freedom of the press, then a few members of the JCF have just participated in it's greatest comedy show featuring the JCF. I wonder if the Commissioner of Police is proud of these performers. His silence on the matter is deafening.

The Jamaica Constabulary Force has some intelligent  persons so one would have hoped that the intelligent ones would have engaged the members of the media and diffuse the situation. The media can and has helped in the fight against crime, so I was indeed flabbergasted to see members of the JCF roughing up media persons yesterday. The JCF members should be happy to know that media persons were there to capture quite accurately what was taking place. Is it possible that a few rogue cops wanted to be on camera the same way that the demonstrators wanted to be on camera.

Click to see video of media person being manhandled - TVJ

Things Are Not Copacetic With The PNP

There are three registered political parties in Jamaica now, but based on recent polls, the electorate is not giving an overwhelming support to any party.  The Don Anderson' poll shows that 57 % of those polled, is made up of those who do not know which party they will vote for and some who will not vote in the next election. This is a serious sign!

The PNP is not just divided into fractions but I wonder if there is any dominant group in the PNP  at this time. The polls are showing that the party is now doing worse under the current leader. The question is who next and what next?

Recently there was a voice mail being circulated on social media purportedly to be the voice of Karen Cross a member of the PNP. The voice mail indicated that there was going to be a demonstration at PNP headquarters and today there was one.  She is probably smarter than Patterson of the UIC, so she kept her numbers small so as not to come into conflict with the law.

The Voice Purportedly To Be Of Karen Cross



Neither Are Things Copacetic With The JLP

PM Andrew Holness
The JLP's reputation continues to be impacted negatively by talk of corruption.  While those who have been charged recently have not been convicted in a court of law for corruption, many Jamaicans are upset that they continue to draw down hefty salaries.

There is also news circulating via the peoples mouth to mouth network, that persons in high government positions are linked to the corruption. This added to the reports in the media of investigations being carried on by the Auditor General and the Integrity Commission have added more fuel to the developing fire.  This will continue to have a deadly impact on the legitimacy of the government and the government's ability to lead the people. Those leaders who the people have little or no trust in, should back their bags and go. If this is done, then the JLP will not only win the next election but it will have the confidence and trust of most of the people.




Tuesday, 21 September 2021

We Deserve What We Get - Look At What We Promote

Buju Banton
Festival Song
Winner 2020
Bark Di Trute published a letter which was sent to me by an elderly lady. She called me because she was quite concerned  that convicted criminals and persons who are of ill-repute were being highly recognized in this country. You remember the  case of a deportee who was convicted for drugs offence in the United States who was well promoted and he received a big welcome, at a stage show at the National Stadium in Kingston. Jamaicans have also raised their eyebrows over the years when they learned that certain persons have been awarded the OD, CD and the OJ.

Jamaicans have been observing how some persons are being promoted as outstanding citizens, and therefore they did not see it as farfetched that a convicted murderer could be used to promote the Covid-19 vaccine.  What gives me hope is that I was able to encourage an elderly lady to have hope in her country, and to send to me that now famous letter criticizing the thought of a convicted murderer  promoting the need to get the covid-19 vaccine. 

Rev. Al Miller OD

The reaction of the public to this letter and the post in Bark Di Trute, has been fantastic.  Thanks to the Jamaica Observer for publishing this post in their newspaper. The support given to this posts tells me that now is the time for good decent Jamaicans to stand up and protect this beautiful country. It is clear to me that the idea of Kartel being used to promote the Covid-19 vaccine is just not possible. The next thing that needs to happen is that the nation must be assured that Vybz Kartel is not producing records in prison under the watchful eyes of the state. Probably the state is seeing and is blind, is hearing and is deaf.

Grace Jones OJ
One Deputy Mayor called me and said, "Vernon, any day dat man is used to promote anyt'ing, is di day I resign from everything". I got calls from MPs and many other citizens supporting the post. I believe that this discussion can now be closed because it 'will never 'appen'. 

Jamaicans have questioned the recognitions and support given to persons like Rev. Al Miller,  Grace Jones, Buju Banton and Vybz Kartel. 

Vybz Kartel
I have always said that you can judge a country by the government it elects, how it treats those who cannot stand on their own, and the persons who are promoted in the society. Years ago there was this gentleman who was recognized by the state and he was given an OD. His behaviour should have ruled him out getting that award. At a television recording I did with him, and after seeing his behaviour, I told him that his OD meant, Ordinary Dunce. I am fortunate to be here writing this post today, because if it was not for the quick action on the part of the television crew that could have been the end of Vernon. OJ has now become Ordinary Joke!

Thank the Lord for those who are not recognized, those who do not make the headlines, but they are persons of integrity and class. May God continue to bless them and Jamaica Land We Love.

Other Readings:

Note: We could go back into history and look at some of our leaders attending the funerals of persons who were regarded as criminals (Many had no convictions but that is not unusual in Jamaica). We have had persons who have worked closely with Ministers who have been charged for crimes and we are unaware of what happened to those charges. We also have heard that many of these gangs had very close links to the political parties.


Sunday, 19 September 2021

Professor Errol Morrison OJ, Speaks Out About Dealing with Covid-19 Crisis

Dear Vernon,

Prof. Errol Morrison OJ
I’ve read with empathy, the dismay expressed by concerned citizens re the PM’s response to proposals for vax ambassadors. The PM has been boxed into a corner where he now desperately searches for help. This is a result of the wrong paradigm being used to inform and educate the public about the pandemic and the methods for containment. 

The government started out on a wrong footing where politicians have been at the forefront giving information and advice with the medical experts to follow on and merely being asked to make comments on policy directions being taken.  

This paradigm needs a 180 degree shift to bring the medics out of the shadows and for them to lead the TOTAL process. Not only do they bring  scientific credibility but also their presence  and leadership removes any semblance of politicizing, which no matter how the government tries, once the politicians lead, the whole process gets mired in partisanships etc. 

It is no wonder therefore that less than 10 % of the population has been vaccinated and this hesitancy and poor turnout is also fuelled by a slew of scientific half-truths and outright falsehoods pummelling the social media. 

We need the CMO and her team plus the several medical experts who have been very vocal to take full charge of this campaign. That is the nature of the composition of personnel needed to influence the direction of this vaccination thrust and to get the population to understand the gravity of the situation. It is not a status to be trifled with and to oversimplify via entertainment and entertainers. This requires serious communication away  from all politicking and political one-upmanship. 

Further, there is this focus on Covid variants which is for the main part, a mere distraction as the core approach needed to contain the whole gamut of Coronaviruses is still vaccines, masks, physical distancing, sanitizing and frequent washing of the extremities with soap and water! 

Let’s halt this dangerous and erroneous path being taken and correct the approach NOW. Let our MEDICAL EXPERTS LEAD. 

 

Prof the Hon Errol Morrison OJ, MD, PhD 

Consultant Physician & Biomedical Researcher 

Former Director General & Advisor to the Prime Minister National Commission on Science & Technology. 

Note: 

Prof. Earl Taylor replies to Prof. Errol Morrison. 

 


Saturday, 18 September 2021

NO...NO...NO...MR. PRIME MINISTER


Dear Mr. Derby,

I read the article titled “PM Not Ruling Out Kartel as Vax Ambassador” in the Weekend Gleaner of Sept. 18-19, 2021 with dismay. The fact that PM Holness would be ambivalent in his response to such a recommendation to use Kartel as a vax ambassador is outrageous.

Kartel (aka Adidjah Palmer) may be one of the most influential figures in the country’s entertainment industry but he’s not the only one. Surely there are others in the entertainment industry without criminal records who could be enlisted. Furthermore, Palmer has reportedly recorded many songs from prison in contravention of regulations. This smacks of glorification of criminality. Our vaccination ambassadors should be people who are worthy of emulation.

We are relying on our leaders to exhibit good judgment in matters such as these.


Sincerely,

Concerned Citizen

And a convicted murderer shall lead them?


Note: I had asked Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. Christopher Tufton if there was any consideration to use this convicted murderer in the Covid-19 vaccination campaign, and he had said no.

This letter was sent to me by a couple who is recognized internationally but out of concern for their security, I have been asked not to identify them as writers of this letter.

Click HERE to read the post on Minister Christopher Tufton's response.

A number of persons have said this convicted murderer is very influential. Some might be wondering if this murderer is motivating other young persons to become an artiste, a murderer and a star?

More Reading:



Wednesday, 15 September 2021

What's Happening - September 15, 2021

MP Floyd Green

Floyd Green Resigns As Minister

MP Floyd Green and former Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, was seen in a video of a party on the government's 'lock down day. The party animals were not complying with the Covid-19 protocols. This video went viral and although MP Floyd Green is a good man, he has slipped in that he was not in compliance with laws made by his own party. If you slip then you have to slide. His apology for his action was classic.  This event should be studied and remembered by all politicians. They should know that for every act there is an action. Today MP Floyd Green resigned in Jamaica from the Cabinet of Prime Minister, Andrew Holness, and his action has strengthened our democracy. 

Andrew Bellamy
Councilor
I would not write MP Green off because he could say, "I shall Return". Hopefully he has not suffered any major back challenges from that fall on his face and he will be ready to stand up again in the future. It is a good thing that his act was not treated by the Prime Minister as youthful exuberance. Is this a sign of more political maturity in Jamaica?  If you slip you slide and then you have to offer your resignation? Today is International Day of Democracy and that is a good sign for democracy in Jamaica. I understand also that action will be taken against councilor Andrew Bellamy who was also seen in the same video.

There are other leaders who must be shaking in their boots. Let us not fool ourselves because there are leaders in politics, in professional organizations, board members and others who also need to consider packing their bags and go. Many of them are a disgrace to themselves, their families and to the country. Many rightly call for Floyd's resignation but they should also look into themselves.

Yes, there are others who have done far worse than Floyd Green, but because the public spotlight has not been focused on them, they have literally gotten away with murder. We only have to look back over the past thirty or more years, and I am sure that you can come up with a long list of leaders who should have packed their bags and left. Some have spent many years serving at the political level, on state boards and in other leadership positions such as the church and also in business. 

Floyd Green has set the example and stepped aside. Who will follow the lead? Some will say, this looks bad because here we have another Minister having to step aside. My concern is not about another Minister stepping aside, but who next should step aside. Yes, there are others who must step aside and the question is, will they wait until something becomes a public scandal before they step aside? Old time people wudda say, 'Time longer dan rope'. 

Who is next?


Other Information:

  1. Floyd Green resigns. Gleaner
  2. Gabrielle Hylton Floyd Green's advisor resigns - Jamaica Observer.
  3. Video of the party
  4. Floyd Green resigns.


Banks Must Help To Reduce The Number Of Dormant Accounts

Banks can help to reduce the incidence of dormant accounts by requiring that persons add someone to their customer information record, who can be contacted in case  the bank is unable to contact the customer. The banks also should not wait until the account becomes dormant, but send a message to the account holder prior to the account becoming dormant.

I do believe that sometimes when persons become old or they leave the country the account is not maintained and the banks have no other contact for them. Someone could suffer from dementia for example and their relatives might not know where they have bank accounts. Having one or more persons who can serve as contact persons for a customer would certainly make a difference.

Customers stand to loose billions due to their accounts becoming dormant! Many business persons are anxiously waiting to get their hands on these funds. The see it has cheap loans.

Senior Citizens and Citizens With Special Needs

Citizens standing up for
three hours at the bank.


Help me to encourage business and utility companies especially to allow senior citizens and citizens with special needs to to business at their business place between 0830 and 0930 EST. Other persons could be served if enough senior citizens and special needs persons are not waiting to be served.

Tuesday, 14 September 2021

What's Happening - September 14, 2021

Sam Carty Does Another One For The Lovers


Sam Carty with that unique voice which he has used to sing a song in the Hindu, done mento style music, written and perforemed many reggae songs and love song to melt the hearts of lovers, is at it again. This one is call 'Loving You Will Never Be The Same'.

Sam Carty is affiliated to Artiste For Change which is a group of creative persons who are working to ensure that great uplifting music of the highest standard is produced for Jamaica and the world.

Click to play 'Love Will Never Be The Same' 

This Is One Fit Lady!

This lady is certain a fit lady who no man should test. She will outlast you on the dance floor. I am still trying to ascertain which country this video was taken.



Large Crowds Gather At Vaccination Centres

Councillor Caretaker Marvin Clarke says that there was confusion at the Yallahs vaccination centre in Western St. Thomas.  He says that he is again renewing calls for the activation of more vaccination sites in the western end of the parish, and/or for one of the mobile vaccination units recently received from the Government of China, to be assigned to the western St. Thomas constituency for a 30 - 60 days period.



Roy Rayon Takes Us To Westmoreland




DSP Elsa Smith Sees Sandra Whyte Off At NMA



DSP Elsa Smith on the far left and Sandra Whyte standing next to her prior to Sandra Whyte departing for Dubai to a conference. Sandra is the General Secretary for the National Police Youth Club.

OUR Rules On JPS Rates - How Will Consumers Take It???


 (KINGSTON, Jamaica; 2021 September 14): The Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR) has made its decision on the 2021 Annual Review Application submitted by the Jamaica Public Service Company Limited (JPS) on 2021 May 5. The OUR’s decision took effect 2021 September 1 and will be reflected on customers’ 2021 October bills.

The outcome of the OUR’s rate review means an overall average increase of 1.4% in customers’ bills (non-fuel and fuel charges). JPS had requested an average increase of 3.5%. The table below shows the major decisions by the OUR, compared to the requests made by JPS. 

 Major Decisions

Description

JPS Proposed (J$M)

OUR Approved (J$M)

Approved Revenue Cap

                37,857

                 37,857

Annual Rate of Change

27.02%

19.27%

Adjusted Revenue Cap

                48,086

                 45,152

2020 Revenue True-Up (incl. WACC)

                 1,044

                     (573)

2021 Annual Revenue Target

                49,130

                 44,579

Heat Rate Target (kJ/kWh)

                  9,927

                   9,667

Overall Bill Impact (incl. fuel and IPP charges):

3.5%

1.4%

Residential Customers (RT10)

Upward of 3.8%

 Average 

1.2%

Small Commercial Customers (RT20)

2.2%

Average 

1.1%

Large Commercial Customers LV (RT40)

3% - 4%

 Average 

1.5%

Large Commercial Customers HV (RT50)

3% - 4%

 Average 

1.4%

Large Commercial Customers HV Standard (RT70)

4.30%

Average 

1.6%

 



A determination that there is a net over-recovery balance (including WACC) of J$297.1M owed by JPS to its customers with respect to the decisions in the 2018 Annual & Extraordinary Rate Review Determination Notice arising from the lapse of time between that decision and the implementation of the 2019-2024 Rate Review Determination Notice issued by the OUR in 2020 December. JPS is therefore required to apply a reduction of J$0.113 per kWh to its average non-fuel tariff over an estimated 10-month billing period to effect this repayment.             

Other Decisions By The OUR

  • The revision of Time of Use (TOU) rates for Rate 10 (residential) and Rate 20 (small commercial) customers. The revision minimizes the risk of revenue losses to JPS.  The company is required to roll out its TOU programme over the next six (6) months and engage customers in a public education programme. 
  • The maintenance of the relationship between the energy rates for Electric Vehicles at public charging facilities at Rate 10 TOU rates plus 5%. This decision was first made in the 2019-2024 JPS Rate Review Determination Notice.
  • The approval of non-fuel pre-paid rates as follows:

Rate 10 Customers 
  • J$13.85/kWh for the first 117kWh within a thirty (30)-day consumption cycle
  • J$21.03/kWh for each additional kWh thereafter within that thirty (30)-day consumption cycle
Rate 20 Customers 
  • First 10kWh - J$122.45/kWh
  • Each additional kWh - J$9.03/kWh
The IPP rate for both Rates 10 and 20 customers is to be displayed as a separate line item on bills. 

  • .Further, the OUR was of the view that the JPS’s proposed Heat Rate target of 9,927 kJ/kWh for the 2021-2022 rate adjustment period was not in line with optimal economic generation dispatch. Consequently, the 2021-2022 Heat Rate target of 9,667 kJ/kWh established in the 2019-2024 Rate Review JPS Determination Notice was maintained for the next rate adjustment period.
  • JPS’s proposal for the revision of the OUR’s determined 2021 System Losses targets was not approved. In this regard, the overall System Losses target of 23.8% specified in the 2019-2024 Rate Review JPS Determination Notice is applicable for the 2021 period.

Note: Government must now make an effort to ensure that those who steal the electricity and NWC water pay. It is not fair for decent citizens to pay for those who do not pay. 

We cannot have children growing up seeing their parents stealing and end up believing that nothing is wrong with stealing. These children will become the future leaders of the nation. 

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