According to the Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ), this reduction represents the lowest rate recorded since poverty rates were first measured in 1989.Director General of the PIOJ, Dr. Wayne Henry, presented the data during the quarterly press briefing this morning.

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The Planning Institute of Jamaica (PIOJ) is reporting that the economy grew by an estimated 0.8 per cent between January and March this year when compared to the same period in 2024.PIOJ's Director General, Dr. Wayne Henry, made the disclosure during a press briefing this morning.

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Despite concerns that uncertainties in the United States (US) will affect Jamaica's tourism, the country's Central Bank is projecting continued growth in the sector.

Bank of Jamaica's Deputy Governor,Robert Stennett, explained that though persons might be hesitant to travel to Jamaica from the US at this time, the island will still benefit from visitors from other countries.

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The government has allocated over $170 million dollars towards mitigation works to be carried out across the island ahead of what's expected to be a very active 2025 hurricane season.

Works Minister Robert Morgan said based on what happened during Beryl and Rafael, the government is being proactive.

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“Enough is enough”...that declaration came from Gender Affairs Minister Olivia Grange, as she once more appealed for greater action to stop violence against women and girls.

The minister was presenting a statement to the lower house yesterday, in the wake of some recent horrific incidents.

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Persons found to be vandalising and stealing from telecommunications company sites will soon face increased penalties.

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Transport Minister Daryl Vaz has suggested that the money parents save, when their children use the dedicated rural school bus system, could buy a pro box motor car.

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Classes are set to proceed as usual at the Parry Town primary and infant school in St. Ann, tomorrow. This after water was trucked to the school today.

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The Opposition People's National Party (PNP) has called for a fulsome investigation into the purchase of neurosurgical drills by the South East Regional Health Authority (SERHA).

Spokesman on Health Dr. Alfred Dawes says two files on the party's probe into the matter will be submitted to the Auditor General and the Integrity Commission for a full investigation.

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Classes at the Parry Town Primary and Infant School in St. Ann will be dismissed early today due to ongoing water issues.

According to Chairman of the school board, Ian Bell, the school and the surrounding community have been without water since last Monday.

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