ONE-MINUTE READS ... News from across Jamaica

Neita Garvey wants action to deal with solid waste

Opposition spokesperson on local government, Natalie Neita Garvey, has called for urgent measures to combat the disgraceful solid waste pile-up.

She urged Desmond McKenzie, the portfolio minister, to take swift action to address the issue.

"Communities and business districts are grappling with an alarming accumulation of waste that poses a clear and present danger to public health," Neita Garvey said.

Expressing disappointment in the National Solid Waste Management Authority's (NSWMA) performance despite recent additions to its fleet, Neita Garvey stressed the urgent need for proactive measures. She called upon both the NSWMA board and the minister to take decisive action, ensuring the proper collection and disposal of solid waste in line with the authority's mandate.

"It's imperative for the NSWMA and responsible authorities to promptly address this crisis and fulfil their duty in waste management," Neita Garvey said.

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8,500 domestic violence reported to police

A staggering 8,500 cases of domestic violence were reported to the police last year.

Commissioner of Police Antony Anderson said 6,000 reports were made at the 10 domestic violence centres across the country, while the others were made at police stations.

Anderson said the shift in reporting indicates a significant change in public perception and trust in the police force's ability to handle such sensitive matters.

"A lot of what we do as the police force is not confined to only the other hard side of policing," he said.

The top cop reflected on the potential outcomes had these centres not existed.

"If we hadn't had those centres, I'm not sure how many of that 6,000 would actually be reported at all," he said.

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Fraudsters target NHT customers

National Housing Trust (NHT) contributors are being urged to be extra vigilant of phishing attacks, following reports of fraudulent emails claiming to be coming from the entity.

Fraudsters have been using various online methods to trick persons into verifying personal information by clicking on a link or attachment in order to receive their NHT contributions refund.

However, Dwayne Berbick, assistant general manager for corporate communications and public affairs at the NHT, is urging contributors to protect their personal information so that it does not fall into the wrong hands and to guard against becoming victims of other cybercrimes.

"If there is a challenge with your application, you will get a notification from the NHT asking you to make direct contact with us. The process does not involve responding to an email or clicking on any attachment or link," he said.

Multiple cases of falsified communication have been reported to the NHT since January 1 when the organisation began accepting refund applications for contributions made in 2016.

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Constituencies get $40 million for repair works

The Government has allocated $40 million to each constituency to undertake critical repairs and rehabilitation in their areas.

The allocation is in response to severe weather events that impact the island.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness said the recent weather events in Portland highlighted the need for a more comprehensive approach to road maintenance.

"We cannot merely react to damages; we must proactively work to prevent them and extend the lifespan of our roads," Holness said.

He noted that a ground-breaking initiative, the Spark Programme, has been introduced with a budget allocation of $20 billion solely dedicated to road repairs and rehabilitation.

"This significant allocation may sound substantial, but it is crucial to recognise the vast demands across the country. We acknowledge the need for community involvement to ensure the effective allocation of funds and address the priorities expressed by the people."