IRIE FM

The Nurses Association of Jamaica (NAJ) says it is awaiting its second call to meet with the Finance Ministry to continue wage negotiations. Speaking with IRIE FM News today, NAJ President, Dawn Marie Richards, says the union submitted its negotiating proposal to the Ministry some time ago. She notes that the association met with the […]

Vice Chairman of the National Road Safety Council (NRSC), Dr. Lucien Jones has expressed disappointment, following the Government’s decision to delay the implementation of the traffic ticket demerit points system. The system was initially set to take effect on October 1. In a recent meeting with government officials and other stakeholders, it was agreed that […]

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has highlighted the contributions of Caribbean icons, including Jamaican Dancehall star Sean Paul and legendary West Indies cricketer Shivnarine Chanderpaul.   Mamdani made the remarks while hosting a Caribbean Heritage Reception at Gracie Mansion on August 27, where he reflected on his connection to the Caribbean community and the […]

Medical professionals who continue to shirk their duties, and those who are found to be negligent, will be under the Health Ministry’s radar as it intensifies accountability measures. Portfolio Minister, Dr. Christopher Tufton says the move is part of greater efforts to address deficiencies within the sector, especially regarding patient care. Dr. Tufton stresses the […]

The police are appealing to school administrators to be honest with them about disciplinary challenges faced by institutions. This as early disclosure allows for better risk assessment and intervention before problems escalate. National Safe School Coordinator Sergeant Andrew Williams made the call during the police’s Force for Good Podcast yesterday. He said there is a […]

With the new academic year fast approaching, a call is being made for students and other commuters to ensure they travel with licensed taxi operators if they choose them as their mode of transport. President of the St. James Taxi Association, Deon Chance told IRIE FM News that while keeping passengers safe is a priority […]

The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) says there will be increased patrols by school resource officers (SROs) in the upcoming academic year.   SROs are specialised JCF officers assigned to schools to maintain discipline, protect students and foster safe-learning-environments as part of the safe schools programme. Speaking during the JCF’s Force4Good podcast last evening, National Safe School […]

Parliamentary Secretary in the Education Ministry, Senator Marlon Morgan is urging school leaders to intensify water conservation and rainwater harvesting efforts as the new school year approaches.  This, as drought conditions continue to worsen.  Senator Morgan suggested that rain water be used for sanitary conveniences. He reiterated that weather conditions cannot be controlled so administrators […]

Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness has announced that the Government will provide a relocation grant, to persons who lost their homes in a demolition exercise in Cooper’s Pen, Trelawny. He said individuals can use the funds to support rebuilding efforts and purchase household items. Dr. Holness was responding to residents’ calls for compensation for items […]

Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness noted that lands being sought for displaced residents of Cooper’s Pen in Trelawny will not be free. The Government is exploring options for relocating the affected residents, to include lands nearby. Dr Holness said the lots will be provided through various options such as lease arrangements. Dr Holness urged the […]

The Transport Operators Development and Sustainable Services (TODSS), has welcomed the decision of the government to delay implementation of the traffic ticket demerit points system.   The system was initially set to take effect on October 1.   Motorists, especially taxi operators, raised concern about the system and called for it to be reviewed.   […]

Scores of relatives, friends, community members and politicians turned up today to bid farewell to 10 year old Shani Coke of Troy, Trelawny.   The young girl was sexually assaulted and killed, last month.   The man accused of the attack, Delroy Coke, was set upon by angry residents and killed.   There was a […]

Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness says he is contemplating whether or not to use emergency powers to address matters relating to the resettlement of residents of Cooper’s Pen in Trelawny. About 40 families were affected by the demolition of their homes earlier this month, stemming from an extensive court battle between themselves and the property […]

Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness has chastised persons he claims recently relocated to Cooper’s Pen, in Trelawny, with an intention to deceive the Government and benefit from support initiatives. Dr Holness made the comment today while visiting Coopers Pen, and meeting affected residents, following the demolition exercise earlier this month. The Government plans to find […]

The Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) has welcomed the visit by Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holnes to Coopers Pen in Trelawny today, and called on him to honour the commitments made. Dr Holness visited the community this morning, following a demolition exercise earlier this month that affected 40 families. In a statement, Spokesperson on Land, […]

Students who turn up at school in breach of grooming or uniform rules must still be allowed through the school gates. That’s according to Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Senator Marlon Morgan. He said disciplinary measures should be administered inside the institution rather than by denying children access to classes. He reinforced the […]

Reggae veteran Barrington Levy is calling for a return to the era of vinyl records, as he voices concerns about the economics of music in today’s streaming driven landscape.   Barrington Levy shared his views during an interview with UK based platform Nobody Is Really Watching at the WOMAD Festival, where he reflected on the […]

Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness told residents of Coopers Pen, Trelawny that he has no power to keep them on that property. He made the statement during a visit to the area this morning. According to the Prime Minister, the conversation should be focused on what alternatives can be presented to residents, to assist them […]

By: Clement Reid and Sugar Ray Thomas Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness says he will be providing back to school support to residents in Cooper’s Pen who were displaced due to the demolition exercise earlier this month. While noting that the residents should be preparing themselves to relocate, he promised that they should receive back […]

A call is being made for the Government and relevant agencies to urgently assess the damage associated with yesterday’s fire along Hagley Park Road in St. Andrew, and provide assistance to affected residents, workers and business owners. The blaze, which first erupted at Superior Auto Parts around midday, reportedly spread to nearby buildings and homes. […]

Employees of Superior Parts Limited have criticized the response of firefighters to yesterday’s blaze at their St. Andrew establishment. Their criticism comes amidst commendations from Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie. In a release yesterday, Mr. McKenzie lauded the “swift and sustained response” of the Jamaica Fire Brigade (JFB). He also praised the National Water Commission […]

The Ministry of Finance and the Jamaica Confederation of Trade Unions (JCTU) have formally signed the wage agreement for public sector workers.  The union accepted the offer of a one off payment of $80,000 as well as 5% increase.   Speaking at the signing ceremony earlier this evening Minister of Finance and Public Service Fayval Williams […]

Some employees of Superior Parts Limited say they are devastated after a massive fire engulfed the business establishment on Hagley Park Road in St. Andrew today. Reports are that the fire began at about midday at Superior Parts and quickly spread to nearby buildings, including homes. One worker, who said he has been with the […]

Firefighters are currently battling a massive fire at Superior Parts Limited on Hagley Park Road in Kingston. Reports are that the fire started at about mid-day.  When IRIE FM News went to the location, it was observed that the fire had spread to adjoining buildings.  There is no report of injury, occupants of the building […]

  The St Ann police say there’s a shortage of spaces to accommodate accused persons in their custody. This is due to the St Ann’s Bay police station lock up being closed for reconstruction. The update was provided by Commander for the St Ann Police Division, Senior Superintendent (SSP) Carlos Russell. SSP Russell added that […]

State Minister for Commerce, Delano Seiveright says the global attention from upcoming entertainment event, BZR WKND (Bizarre Weekend), will translate into enhanced economic activity in Jamaica. The multi-day music festival will be held from October 16 to 19. Speaking at the media launch yesterday, Mr Seiveright said the event is expected to generate millions of […]

The Social Security Ministry is continuing assessments of Coopers Pen residents to ensure support is provided to them, following the recent demolition of houses in the Trelawny community. About 40 families have been left without homes, following the demolition exercise 2 weeks ago. Following the incident , ministry personnel visited the area to conduct a […]

The Major Organized Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) says it has been involved in a series of operations aimed at executing search and seizure warrants at a number of locations across the Corporate Area. Director of Communications at MOCA Major Basil Jarrett said the operations yesterday are a part of an ongoing investigation.  

The Agriculture Minister says the multi-million dollar farm road project in Newcombe Valley, St. Elizabeth is indicative of the government’s continued investment in agriculture. Mr. Green officially opened the road during a ceremony today. The road is expected to improve access for farmers and boost agricultural production. The roadway was completed under last year’s farm […]

With the new academic year set to begin on September 7, at least two taxi associations are anticipating the financial boost that it will bring to the sector. During the summer break, several taxi operators lamented the reduction in commuters, which affected their income. Now, with classes scheduled to resume in a few weeks, they […]

Former World 100 meters record holder Asafa Powell has confirmed he will be taking up an offer to lend his expertise in assisting athletes in Ghana. This arose out of the recent visit to the island by Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama who extended the invitation during his four-day state visit to Jamaica. Powell is […]

Over one million dollars in cash and prizes will be up for grabs in the inaugural St Mary Futsal tournament kicks off this Sunday August 30, with the opening in Highgate at the Highgate Community Center. The four week tournament will also have stops in Port Maria on September 5, Annotto Bay September 12 and […]

The Cubans who entered Jamaica illegally on Monday have been charged.   The six  arrived by boat at Harvey Beach in Coral Gardens, Montego bay, St. James. The police were alerted and took them into custody. They were subsequently handed over to immigration authorities. Director of Communication at the Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA) Kauna […]

With the new academic year to begin next month, schools in drought affected communities are making preparations to ensure they have adequate water supply. Yesterday, Water Minister Matthew Samuda expressed that no school should have to close because of water challenges and the national water commission has been tasked with trucking water to schools where […]

The Education Ministry has implored contractors carrying out repair works on schools damaged by Hurricane Melissa to expedite the process. Several schools suffered varying impacts from the storm and are at different stages of reconstruction. Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Senator Marlon Morgan, visited the schools on Monday to assess the progress of […]

The Water Ministry will be allocating additional funds towards the trucking of water to communities severely impacted by the ongoing drought. Portfolio Minister Matthew Samuda gave the update yesterday, but did not state an amount. Last month, the Ministry allocated $86 million towards the initiative, with the funds channelled through members of Parliament. Mr. Samuda […]

Approximately 1,000 residents across Bunkers Hill and neighbouring communities in Clarendon are to benefit from improved access to potable water, following the commissioning of the $91.6 million Bunkers Hill Water Supply Project. The project was implemented by Rural Water Supply Limited (RWSL) and handed over to the National Water Commission (NWC) for ongoing operation and […]

Makeshift classrooms are being erected at the Ocho Rios Primary School in St. Ann to ensure the institution maintains single-shift operation when classes resume next month for the new academic year. The school officially transitioned from the shift system to a traditional all-day schedule in September 2024. A recent fire impacted the school’s infrastructure. Repair […]

  Gussie Clarke, the ace producer behind several reggae hits, including Gregory Isaacs’ “Rumours,” The Mighty Diamonds’ “Pass the Koutchie,” J.C. Lodge’s “Telephone Love,” and Shabba Ranks’ “Mr. Loverman,” is building a state-of-the-art recording studio for the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts.   The project is now at an advanced stage […]

The Government is assessing community mediation practices in Singapore to see how best some can be implemented in Jamaica’s justice system. The assessment is among several activities to be undertaken in the south-east Asian country by Justice Minister Delroy Chuck and members of the Dispute Resolution Foundation (DRF). The delegation is participating in the Singapore […]

The National Water Commission (NWC) is urging the public to continue reporting water leaks, as it works to respond more quickly to reports. The call comes after residents in Sedburgh, Manchester, reported a water leak near the Holmwood Technical High School, while some residents reported having little or no water in their pipes. NWC Acting […]

The Jamaica Environment Trust (JET) is raising concerns about permits issued by the Natural Resources Conservation Authority (NRCA) for reported wetland removal and development along an approximately five-kilometre stretch of the north coast road in Falmouth, Trelawny. In a statement, JET highlighted six permits it said are associated with five sites in the area. Chief […]

The Jamaica Teachers’ Association wants the Government to clamp down on parents of students on the Programme of Advancement through Health and Education (PATH) who do not attend parent-teacher meetings. According to President Lasonja Harrison, only parents who attend at least three-quarters of annual PTA meetings should receive PATH benefits. She says such a measure […]

Eleven more men are expected to file a lawsuit against the State in relation to their detention prior to the demolition of houses in Cooper’s Pen, Trelawny, two weeks ago. Attorney Donnovan Collins, whose law firm is handling the proceedings, says instructions from the men are being finalised before the lawsuit is filed in the […]

Some small business owners are expressing concern about the impact of the water restrictions, as the National Water Commission’s (NWC) adjusted supply schedule for Kingston and St. Andrew takes effect today. Under the new schedule, water will be supplied between 6 A.M. and 6 P.M. daily until further notice. The NWC says the measure is […]

Opposition Spokesperson on Housing and Sustainable Living, Senator Dr. Floyd Morris is chastising the Government for failing to honour its commitment to the residents of Ruthven Towers Apartments in New Kingston. According to Senator Morris, some four years after the apartments were sold to the residents, they are still unable to get their property documents. […]

Executive Director of Jamaicans for Justice, (JFJ), Mickel Jackson is calling on Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness and Opposition Leader Mark Golding to resume talks on constitutional reform. Talks have stalled with the Opposition-rejecting suggestions that it’s delaying Jamaica’s transition to a republic. It says, Government’s failure to engage in meaningful bi-partisan-dialogue is the reason […]

  President of the All Voice Route Taxi Association, Lorraine Finnikin is questioning the motive of individuals who are developing flyers, hinting at protest action by public transport operators next month. The flyers suggest that the alleged 5-day taxi strike will begin on September 7 which is the start of the new school year. The […]

Head of the St Elizabeth police, Superintendent Coleridge Minto is calling for early intervention in conflicts to prevent escalation to murders. Speaking at the St Elizabeth Justices of the Peace (JPs) Association awards ceremony, yesterday, He highlighted murders in the parish and their link to interpersonal conflicts. He said while overall major crimes are down […]

The Third Government run shelter for victims of domestic abuse has been completed. Gender Minister Olivia Grange expressed satisfaction with the construction, as she toured the facility, on Thursday. This is the final of the three shelters Ms Grange committed to establish to provide safe spaces for women who live in abusive relationships. The Gender […]