St. Mary Municipal Corporation brings the heat -Cops culinary conquest at Local Government & Community Month 2023 Cook-Off Competition

Posted on November 30, 2023November 30, 2023

ANNOTTO BAY, St. Mary: A Taste of St. Mary team was an exception to the proverb about too many cooks spoiling the broth as it copped the 2023 staging of the Local Government and Community Month (LGCM) Cook-Off Competition.

“The St. Mary Municipal Corporation (MC) team approached the Cook-Off like we were entering a formal, professional cooking competition and that guided every action we took.,” said Chief Executive Officer Ethlyn Douglas.

“We selected members of staff and Councillors who had culinary skills, we had meetings to discuss the menu, our team look, from setting up the work space to during the competition, our booth, our theme and our team’s name.”

The St. Mary team tantalized the tastebuds of the three-members judging panel during the competition at Gray’s Inn Agricultural Complex in St Mary on November 24.

Their winning dish was the ‘Mackerel Steak’ (served with Coconut Annatto Sauce, Sweet Potato Duchess and Carrot & String Bean Medley) and their drink showing off the versatility of June Plum was coined ‘St. Mary’s Delight’.

The other teams rounding off the top three spots were the Westmoreland Municipal Corporation and the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development in second and third place, respectively.

The Cook-Off Competition was conceptualized in 2015 as part of LGCM activities and consists of two rounds. Judging is done after each round for a drink and the main course. This year, the main ingredients were mackerel (pickled or tinned) saltfish and June plum for the drink.

The contest is open only to individuals employed by the Ministry, its Portfolio Agencies, and the Municipal Corporations.

This year’s competition had 12 entrants to include 2022 winners the St. Elizabeth MC; Hanover MC; St. Ann MC; NEPM Waste Management Limited; the Jamaica Fire Brigade represented by the St. Mary Fire Department; Portland MC; the Municipality of Portmore; Vineyard Town Golden Age Home and the Manchester MC.

The entrants are judged on use of ingredients; originality of recipe; creativity of team name and uniforms; team conduct; team organization and booth décor.

“Another aspect of our preparation that I believe assisted greatly in our win was that we tested our menu. Days before the competition, we timed the preparation of the dishes, tasted same, and gave feedback on how to enhance our menu,” added Miss Douglas.

“We worked together, fully demonstrated team work during the execution. All members, even the reserves, had an opportunity to perform.”

LGCM is celebrated annually in November and this year observed the theme: ‘Local Government: Creating a Legacy of Improved Social Services’.

The St. Mary team comprised Mayor Richard Creary, Councillors Leroy Sewell, Mitsy Hudson-Hicks, Doreen Hutchinson and Levan Freeman along with CEO Douglas, Secretary Brittania Hydol and Hanif Morrison, Building Officer.

 

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND COMMUNITY MONTH 2023 MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Posted on November 29, 2023

“Local Government: Creating A Legacy of Improved Social Services.”

The theme of this year’s celebration of Local Government and Community Month is a reflection of the impact and potential of the system of local government on every aspect of national life. It creates an opportunity to assess the work that we have done together over the last seven years to make clear and measurable improvements to the lives of our citizens. The theme is also a stirring reminder about our purpose, the reason why we serve.

The Old Testament book of Exodus refers to the seventh year as one of rest, following the previous six years of hard work and gathering the fruit of one’s labour. In the modern era however, this seventh year is for us, one of renewed dedication to service to our fellow citizens. They are demanding more of us as local elected representatives and as local administrators in our Municipal jurisdictions, and we must continue to answer the call. There is little time to rest. It is through hard work and perseverance that we have recorded significant improvements in the services offered by the Local Authorities and by our Agencies: the Social Development Commission, the Jamaica Fire Brigade, the National Solid Waste Management Authority, the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management, and the Board of Supervision. Similarly, our citizens continue to benefit from innovative interventions created by this Administration such as the Municipal Social Assistance Programme, the Water Shops and the Youth Summer Employment Programme, which addresses their needs in their communities as well as their aspirations. My commitment on accepting duty as Minister in 2016, was to transform the image of Local Government through better governance and service provision, and to elevate it into respectability in the eyes of the Jamaican people. Now, seven years later, much has been done to achieve this objective. The processes of modernization and service improvement continued even through 2020 to 2022, two of the most challenging years that this country – and indeed the world – have ever experienced.

There is much of which we should be proud. At the same time, there is still much labour that we must carry out to cement the legacy of improved social services. One of these, which falls on all of us as servants within the local government system, is to impress on our people that their co-operation through personal responsibility, is as critical to social transformation as the services and resources that are, and will be provided to them through Local Government. Our fire statistics will plunge, if more of our citizens practice fire safety every day. The work of the NSWMA and the ODPEM will be even more effective, if there is less illegal dumping. As we continue to address the requirements of our people, we must rise to the challenge of imparting this vital message. The hands of local government must clap in rhythm with the hands of the citizens we serve.

Hon. Desmond McKenzie CD, MP, JP
Minister

Municipal Corporations’ Building Units to be boosted

Posted on November 27, 2023

The capacity of the building units inside the Municipal Corporations will be increased with additional officers to strengthen the enforcement of building approval procedures.

According to Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Honourable Desmond McKenzie, the move is timely given the surge in construction projects- both at the commercial and residential levels- across the country.

“We are increasing the number of building officers to strengthen the ability of the local authority to respond effectively. With the current staffing levels, it is impossible to monitor developments across the country adequately,” he said.

“I am giving notice that the local authorities will not sit back and allow illegal construction to take place and then persons turn around and be critical, even suggesting that they are taking bribes in order to facilitate illegal construction.”

The Minister stressed that the current trend to disregard building approval procedures is worrying. He also noted that some established developers move away from approved building plans during construction.

“They put up dry wall partitions and they use all sorts of methods to bypass the approval process.”

Minister McKenzie, who was speaking at a retirement function hosted by the St. Ann Municipal Corporation on November 12, also announced the establishment of a committee to evaluate and provide recommendations on the Government’s response to building violations post-approval.

The committee will comprise private-sector individuals and experts in the building industry.

He charged that there is need for collective responsibility despite the local authorities being the sole legitimate entities for granting building approvals.

“The role and emphasis on proper building observation and persons (adhering) to approvals are not just the responsibility of the local authorities by themselves.”

Local Gov’t Minister hosts annual Youth Mayors’ Forum – $1 Million for each Junior Council Project

Posted on November 22, 2023

RUNAWAY BAY, St. Ann: Minister of Local Government and Community Development, Honourable Desmond McKenzie, has committed J$1 million each to the 14 Junior Councils to undertake their group projects during their one-year term.

The Minister hosted the new cohort of Youth Mayors, representing the respective Municipal Corporations and the Municipality of Portmore, at a forum in Runaway Bay, St. Ann on November 16.

The Youth Mayor presented their proposed group projects and their impact on their communities. The initiatives ranged from the provision of water tanks to schools as well as the renovation of football fields, bus stops and infirmaries to catering to the mentally ill.

“As I listened to all of your presentations they were of high quality, well put together, and most importantly, they were excellently delivered, and I must commend you,” stated Minister McKenzie.

“Local Government is the stable for producing outstanding political leaders.”

He used the Youth Mayors’ Forum to highlight the role of local government in nurturing future political leaders, as he encouraged the young leaders to view their roles as “stepping stones” into the complex world of politics.

“I want to encourage you, because a lot of people feel that if you’re going into politics, you must walk in and become a Member of Parliament. While it is good to have ambition, it is also good to experience what it is all about by being a [Local Government] Councillor,” the Minister added.

He urged the Youth Mayors to recognise the importance of gaining experience as a parochial representative (Councillor) before pursuing higher political ambitions, as he alluded to the challenges and the responsibilities of the role.

Minister McKenzie also acknowledged the efforts of the Youth Mayors on the brilliance exhibited during their presentations. He noted the continuous improvement in the forum’s quality since its introduction in 2016.

He also encouraged them to remain engaged in politics even after their term has ended.

The Minister expressed gratitude to the youth leaders for their participation in the programme and challenged them to ensure the successful execution of their projects.

The Youth Mayors’ Forum form part of the activities of Local Government and Community Month, which is observed in November each year.

MESSAGE FROM THE MOST HON. ANDREW HOLNESS, ON, PC, MP PRIME MINISTER Local Government and Community Month 2023

Posted on November 15, 2023

The Government is pleased to acknowledge and celebrate the essence of our local communities and the vital role of our local government system. Indeed, the government appreciates the remarkable contributions of our local authorities and their enduring commitment to the well-being of our society.

The Ministry of Local Government and Community Development is an important component of this government that accompanies citizens through the stages of their lives. The services of the local authorities have been integral in facilitating the development of communities that can deliver sustainable first world services through modern, participatory, autonomous, and adaptive systems, for the benefit of all citizens.

As we celebrate Local Government month this November under the theme: Creating A Legacy of Improved Social Services’ we acknowledge the values that underpin the foundation of our communities and our nation as a whole.  Indeed, local government encapsulates the pivotal role that our local authorities play in fostering social care, unity, and progress within our neighbourhoods.

Over the years, this Ministry has achieved record breaking performances in areas such as infrastructure, construction and rehabilitation, upgrading of markets, municipal buildings, fire stations, infirmaries, streetlight, and constructing houses for the indigent population.

I commend the Ministry of Local Government for its work in caring for the homeless among our population, setting up night shelters in various parishes, the integral role it plays in the preparation for natural disasters, opening recreational parks, the beautification of our towns and cities and ensuring that the enforcement of anti-litter and building laws are priority on the government’s agenda.  We will continue to strategically expand the capacity of the authorities to further upgrade the National Solid Waste Management Authority, NSWMA, as we believe every Jamaican should have the opportunity to live in a clean community.

Indeed, we have set the standard high. The government remains committed to fulfilling the needs of every Jamaican through the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development. We will work to develop and refine strategies, forge partnerships to promote sustainable development and advance Jamaica to first-world status.

It is imperative that we acknowledge and honour the tireless efforts of those who work diligently within our local government, striving to improve the lives of our citizens and build a brighter future for generations to come. Let us use this month as an opportunity to reflect on the significance of their contributions and to actively engage in initiatives that promote the betterment of our communities.

Together, let us continue to work hand in hand, fostering a legacy of enhanced social services and reinforcing the bonds that strengthen the fabric of our beloved nation.

 

The Most Hon. Andrew Holness, ON, PC, MP

Prime Minister

 

LOCAL GOVERNMENT MINISTER MOURNS PASSING OF VETERAN ST. ANN FIREFIGHTER

Posted on November 15, 2023

Minister of Local Government and Community Development Hon. Desmond McKenzie is mourning the untimely death of Sergeant Lynford Hendricks, who passed away in hospital earlier on Monday.

“Sergeant Hendricks was an active and highly respected member of the firefighting professionals assigned to the Ocho Rios Fire Station. He was admitted to hospital last week, then transferred to another hospital in Kingston and was being treated when this unwelcome news emerged. Had he lived just another 39 days, he would have celebrated 26 years of distinguished service to this country, through the Jamaica Fire Brigade.

“Sadly also, Sergeant Hendricks died on the birthday of his former colleague Firefighter Larenzo Douse, who was killed in a motor vehicle accident on the Ocho Rios Main Road in November 2022. The preparations for officially renaming the Ocho Rios Fire Station in honour of Firefighter Douse are well underway, and  the death of Sergeant Hendricks has created an additional dimension of grief and pain for all the firefighters in St. Ann and beyond.

“This is a terrible time. I know that the Commissioner of the Fire Brigade and a host of personnel are extending themselves to offer support. The Ministry grieves, and I grieve at the loss of Sergeant Hendricks, and we extend to all his loved ones and friends our deepest condolences. We hope that in the coming days they will experience some level of healing. May he rest in peace and light eternal shine on him.”

Governor General’s Message for Local Government & Community Month 2023

Posted on November 9, 2023November 9, 2023

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND COMMUNITY MONTH 2023

“Local Government: Creating A Legacy of Improved Social Services.”

As we stand on the threshold of Local Government and Community Month November 2023, we are reminded of the profound impact our local government system has on the very fabric of our nation. It’s an honor to greet you today and commend you on this very apt theme “Creating a Legacy of Improved Social Services.” Local Government is the bedrock of national development. It is at the grassroots that we see the purest form of governance, touching lives directly where it matters most. By preserving and developing our communities, local governments craft a legacy that spans generations.

This year’s theme is not just a call to action; it is a call to continued commitment to strive continuously until you reach your goals for 2030. We recognize the tireless efforts of our local authorities, who are the

custodians of social care and cohesion. It is their unique role that ensures every child, adult, and elder has access to the services they need to lead dignified lives. This Ministry stands as a testament to this dedication. We are committed to not only maintaining but elevating the standard of social services. Through innovative policies and compassionate outreach, we strive to ensure that no one is left behind in our quest for a prosperous future. Let us pledge, as a community and as a nation, to support our local governments in their mission to serve. Let’s join hands to create a legacy where improved social services are not a privilege but a right for all.

Thank you for your unwavering support to the cause of your local authorities and as you reflect on ways you can help in your local communities; I trust that your collective spirit will be renewed to serve our people with greater zeal. May God bless you in your service to Him and His people.

 

10 Additional Municipal Corporations Receive Technological Devices Valued $12.3M

Posted on November 8, 2023

JIS NEWS, Kingston: Ten additional Municipal Corporations are being provided with FortiGate devices, valued at approximately $12.3 million, to strengthen their digital framework and boost their technological capabilities.

The Ministry of Local Government and Community Development, through collaboration with the National Works Agency (NWA), e-Gov Jamaica Limited and the Universal Service Fund (USF), was able to procure FortiGate Firewalls to improve the Corporations’ information and communications technology (ICT) security and connectivity.

The devices are already being utilised in four other local authorities.
The devices, inclusive of 12 FortiGate routers, 11 FortiGate access points, and the accompanying three-year support, were handed over to the Ministry of Local Government and Community Development on Hagley Park Road in Kingston on November 3 by the USF.

Addressing the presentation ceremony, Portfolio Minister, Honourable Desmond McKenzie, said the devices will assist in boosting service delivery at the Municipal Corporations.

Noting that this represents a significant milestone in the work of the local authorities, Mr. McKenzie said the provisions “will enable us to increase our capacity to deliver, especially when it comes on to building applications”.

“One of the ways that we are looking to strengthen the work of the local authorities is to move into the age of technology. There are some Municipal Corporations, even as we speak, that have real Internet challenges at some of the locations. So, what we are developing here is a cross-government approach to increase technology [and] to increase the potential for service delivery,” he pointed out.

The Minister said ICT integration in the operations of the local authorities is critical, as they have a vast area of service responsibilities. These relate to building applications, places of amusement licenses, hairdressers, and barbers.

Mr. McKenzie urged the Chief Executive Officers of the various Municipal Corporations to ensure that information technology officers receive continuous training in new apparatuses.

“They must be exposed to the latest technology that is available,” he further underscored.

Human Resource and Administration Manager at the USF, Shanice Cornwall, said provision of the devices forms part of Jamaica’s digital transformation.

She said the agency will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that the country’s digital landscape is robust and inclusive.

Chief Executive Officer, St. Ann Municipal Corporation, Jennifer Brown Cunningham, expressed gratitude for the devices.

“We have been on this journey for a little while with e-Gov, the NWA and also with USF, in building out the backbone of this infrastructure that is required for us to be feeding to all of the other Ministries that will benefit from having this programme on the ground,” she said.

Under the Government’s National Broad Band Initiative, the Municipal Corporations have been outfitted with the necessary equipment from the GovNet project.

This serves as an Internet-connection hub for the courts, schools, the NWA’s offices, and the Jamaica Fire Brigade, and allows the Municipal Corporations to have access to AMANDA using the broadband.

The AMANDA (Application Management and Data Automation) system is a web-based system aimed at providing greater transparency in the building approval process and relies heavily on Internet connection to provide faster services.

 

PERSONS ENCOURAGED TO INSPECT BUILDINGS FOR POSSIBLE EARTHQUAKE DAMAGE

Posted on November 1, 2023

KINGSTON, (JIS):

Jamaicans are encouraged to continue inspecting their buildings for cracks, shifts in pillars, posts and other beams and structural members, and to seek a professional assessment if there is any damage.

This reminder came from Acting Director General, Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM), Richard Thompson, during a press conference at the Office of the Prime Minister on Wednesday (October 30) following a 5.6 magnitude earthquake that impacted sections of Jamaica earlier on the day.

He said the inspection and assessment is to ensure that buildings are safe, while also encouraging persons to check for gas leaks.

Mr. Thompson further urged Jamaicans to take precautionary measures in the event of an earthquake.

“We preach to the public all the time as it relates to the ‘drop, cover, hold’ principle, and I know sometimes when you have not experienced anything of this nature, you tend to forget some of these principles,” he said.

Mr. Thompson also reminded persons to exit their buildings by using the stairs and  not elevators.

He suggested that a warden system should be established within offices  to manage the movement of personnel and check buildings before re-entry.

The Acting Director General also urged Jamaicans to remain alert during these natural disasters.

“One of the things that occurred during the event was that it [made] it a bit difficult for the response personnel to call within their call groups or have discussions about the event because many persons were on their phones.

“We want to remind persons that during an incident of this nature, we know it gets a little dramatic and persons want to call each other. But we are asking persons not to use cellphones during these kinds of incidents unless it is absolutely necessary,” he maintained.

Mr. Thompson said ODPEM continues to do its checks, working closely with the other response entities.

Meanwhile, he advised that following the earthquake, consultation with the Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre determined that no tsunami was generated by the seismic activity.