Tag: Access to Information Act

Worrying News from Cockpit Country: JET Says Bauxite Mining Remains a Threat

May 30, 2019

The issues and queries surrounding the Cockpit Country are so complex and numerous that I will definitely be writing about it again very soon. There are many aspects to it. It’s true to say, though, that overall concerns are growing, and residents are growing increasingly anxious, about the impact of bauxite mining on their health … More Worrying News from Cockpit Country: JET Says Bauxite Mining Remains a Threat

Human Rights Day in Jamaica: Against a Background of the Arts, Much to Be Done

December 11, 2018

Human Rights Day this year was particularly significant for the world. We have to think “world” on Human Rights Day, and then get out our magnifying glasses and zoom in on a map of Jamaica and the Caribbean. For all of us, it was the 70th Anniversary of the signing of the Universal Declaration of … More Human Rights Day in Jamaica: Against a Background of the Arts, Much to Be Done

No Written Rules Banning Sleeveless Dresses: An Access to Information Story

July 17, 2018

Originally posted on Right Steps & Poui Trees:
I look at the Gleaner this morning and see that the issue of the banning of women wearing sleeveless dresses is again in the news here in Jamaica. The Gleaner’s editorial entitled “Dressing Sleeveless in Jamaica” was sparked by social media commentary pointing out “that women in Jamaica…

Cockpit Country Communities Raise Concerns About Protected Area

July 11, 2018

Earlier today, I was talking to a friend about outstanding concerns relating to the Cockpit Country boundaries. By the time I got home, coincidentally, the following press release from Jamaica Environment Trust had landed in my inbox. It’s very important to have this direct feedback from the communities affected, and this detailed response shows that … More Cockpit Country Communities Raise Concerns About Protected Area

Sand mining at Duncans Bay – why did NEPA change its mind?

July 10, 2017

This is an extremely disturbing turn of events. Duncans Bay has a beautiful beach that also has great environmental value. How can the Jamaican Government support climate change adaptation (and it has expressed concern several times over the impact on our coastlines) – while at the same time allowing the removal of sand from the coast? … More Sand mining at Duncans Bay – why did NEPA change its mind?

Crimes Committed by People on Bail: An Access to Information Story

October 22, 2016

Originally posted on Right Steps & Poui Trees:
Jamaica’s Access to Information (ATI) Act was passed in 2002 and I believe, despite some of the weaknesses which remain in its provisions, it is an extremely important and potentially powerful tool for members of the public. The following objectives are stated in the legislation: In addition…

Negril Chamber of Commerce: Investors Can’t Just Do As They Please at Jamaica’s Expense

May 11, 2016

Here is a press release from the Negril Chamber of Commerce regarding the collapse of the Royalton Negril hotel building. The Chamber has been following the issue of the former Grand Lido Hotel very closely and has been very active in seeking information on the project – as well as persistently advocating on several other … More Negril Chamber of Commerce: Investors Can’t Just Do As They Please at Jamaica’s Expense

Both Royalton Hotels in Breach of Their Environmental Permits; JET Calls on New Environmental Minister to Take Strong ENFORCEMENT ACTION

April 5, 2016

This is, again, disturbing news involving tourist developments that are already under way – in breach of Jamaica’s environmental laws. I trust that swift action will be taken. Here is the Jamaica Environment Trust’s press release. April 5, 2016 Having received reports of concerns about the construction and renovation of both Royalton Hotels (one in … More Both Royalton Hotels in Breach of Their Environmental Permits; JET Calls on New Environmental Minister to Take Strong ENFORCEMENT ACTION

Responses from National Integrity Action, Press Association of Jamaica and Private Sector Groups to PNP Withdrawal from Television Debates

February 12, 2016

There have been strong reactions to yesterday’s statement from the incumbent People’s National Party (PNP) outlining its stance on televised political debates prior to the February 25 general elections. The PNP’s statement was issued a short time after both parties signed a Political Code of Conduct. Its letter to the Jamaica Debates Commission is also … More Responses from National Integrity Action, Press Association of Jamaica and Private Sector Groups to PNP Withdrawal from Television Debates

“This Dangerous Tendency”: National Integrity Action Airs Concerns Over Proposed Civil Society Legislation

September 23, 2015

Well. One can always count on Jamaican civil society to express itself with vigor and conviction, and this morning was no exception at Gordon House – the unimpressive and cramped building where our Parliament sits in downtown Kingston. Executive Director Professor Trevor Munroe and members of the anti-corruption body National Integrity Action (NIA) – including … More “This Dangerous Tendency”: National Integrity Action Airs Concerns Over Proposed Civil Society Legislation