It’s a complicated issue, and there are no easy answers. However, scientists, legal and conservation experts at a regional workshop for Caribbean Community (CARICOM) states on “the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity Beyond Areas of National Jurisdiction” (yes, a very long title) attempted to clarify key issues. The two-day workshop took place on May 20-21 in Kingston, with support from Pew Charitable Trusts and the High Seas Alliance.

SPAW Program Officer Alessandra Vanzella-Khouri at the Caribbean Environment Program (CEP) at a February, 2013 media briefing. In the background is Christopher Corbin, Program Officer for the Assessment and Management of Pollution program at the CEP. (My photo)

At the launch, the Program Officer for Specially Protected Areas and Wildlife (SPAW) at the United Nations Environment Programme – UNEP (the Caribbean Environment Programme is based in Kingston, as is the International Seabed Authority headquarters) told us that there are practically no areas of the Caribbean Sea that do not belong to any particular country. But elsewhere in the world there are vast marine areas that belong to no country at all. A few areas (in the Mediterranean and the NorthEast Atlantic, for example) have been declared protected or are under consideration for protection under different biodiversity conventions. More recently, the Abidjan Convention covering West and Central Africa began studying the possibility of similar actions. UNEP is urging greater collaboration within the region to address these issues.

This is marine biodiversity. (Photo: Mora Lab at the Department of Geography, University of Hawaii).

But which is more important – protecting the biodiversity of the “high seas” or seeking to exploit their wealth? It’s a tricky balance – if balance can, indeed, be found. Ambassador Eden Charles, Deputy Permanent Representative of Trinidad & Tobago to the United Nations, emphasized more than once that “a handful of states” as well as international private sector interests are already busy exploiting the resources of these areas. Some have apparently taken steps to establish patents on these resources. “CARICOM must stand up and be counted,” he declared. After all, the Law of the Sea Convention, which entered into force in 1982, embraces the principle that these areas of the sea that do not belong to any nation are “the common heritage of mankind.”

Ambassador Eden Charles. (Photo: United Nations)

Clearly, there are concerns. Ambassador Charles stressed the importance of an Implementing Agreement under the Law of the Sea Convention to govern and protect the high seas. Currently, no such legal framework exists. It’s pretty much a free for all. The UN will decide to open negotiations on this, and the negotiations may be challenging, one suspects. The aim of the workshop was to prepare CARICOM officials for these negotiations. “The scientists will tell the meeting what the resources are, and how they can be used sustainably,” Ambassador Charles told journalists, adding that the aim is to create greater awareness among CARICOM countries.

Secretary of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Arnaldo Brown. (Photo: Carib Journal)

To put all of this in a relevant timeframe, an intercessional meeting of the UN will take place in New York in June to discuss the parameters of this Implementing Agreement. The International Seabed Authority’s annual meeting comes up in July in Kingston. The Third International Conference on Small Island Developing States takes place in September, in Samoa. And post-2015, the United Nations is switching its focus to the Sustainable Development Goals; it is currently studying the establishment of these goals from the perspective of the Caribbean and other regions of the world.

Secretary of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Arnaldo Brown re-emphasized the “common heritage” principle and the need for “equitable distribution” of the resources of the deep seas. But, as chair of Jamaica’s National Council on Ocean and Coastal Zone Management, he is also very much aware of the problem of what he called “the unprecedented rate of loss of marine biodiversity.” Because, of course, we are not just talking about the exploitation of the mineral resources that are known to be present in the seabed: manganese, cobalt and of course, oil. We are talking about the living organisms of the deep seas and the protection thereof; and the biodiversity of these areas is as rich as that on land.

Transparency, technology transfer and information-sharing among nations (especially between developed and developing countries) is also desirable, although it may be harder to achieve. That, at least, is what CARICOM nations are working towards including in the Implementing Agreement.

This is a lovely photo from Dr. Peter Edward’s page on the NOAA website. The Jamaican is a natural resource economist for the NOAA Office of Habitat Conservation in Maryland, USA. (Photo: NOAA website)

So what was on the agenda for the two-day workshop? Well, among other topics, Dr. Karl Aiken of the Department of Life Sciences at the University of the West Indies gave an overview of the high seas resources of the Caribbean; and legal advisor at the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Thomas Greiber discussed Marine Genetic Resources. Other participating scientists were Jamaican environmental consultant Peter Espeut; High Seas Policy Advisor at the IUCN Kristina Gjerde, who talked about Capacity Building and Technology Transfer; and Dr. Peter Edwards, a Jamaican Marine Analyst and Consultant to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) based in Maryland, who discussed Environmental Impact Assessments. All the CARICOM states were represented except for Haiti, Dominica and St. Lucia, who were unable to attend this time.

The Deputy Representative of Jamaica to the United Nations Shorna-Kay Richards chatting with us in Kingston recently. (Photo: Ann-Margaret Lim)

We had the pleasure of meeting Jamaica’s Deputy Representative to the United Nations, Shorna-Kay Richards, who dropped by to talk to us after the opening ceremony. She called the high seas the “last frontier” of exploration of our planet’s resources. The developed world has the technology, and there is a need for sharing that knowledge. The biological assets of the high seas have not been considered; for example, there may well be organisms containing properties that could be used for medicinal or other purposes. It’s all very technical stuff, she pointed out; but the important thing is that “CARICOM needs an active voice.”

The high seas of the world: The “last frontier” and the “common heritage of all mankind.”

If you would like to browse a little more for information on this topic, you might find the following websites handy:

http://www.isa.org.jm/en/home International Seabed Authority

http://www.un.org/Depts/los/convention_agreements/convention_overview_convention.htm UN Convention on the Law of the Sea

http://www.sids2014.org Third International Conference on Small Island Developing States 2014

http://www.pewtrusts.org Pew Charitable Trusts

http://highseasalliance.org/ High Seas Alliance

P.S. Next Sunday, June 8 is World Oceans Day 2014.

It’s been a humid week so far, quite oppressively so. I am thankful for this evening’s wonderful Qigong practice at Trueself Centre of Being, which saved me.

I could easily get addicted to Qigong…

Have we got carried away by our own hype? A former Panama Canal Authority official has a word of caution about the glorious planned logistics hub – at least, the transshipment port part of it, which would destroy and engulf part of the Portland Bight Protected Area around Goat Islands. “I think there is an over-expectation,” said Rodolfo Sabonge at a regional meeting. He said there will be far fewer, larger ships calling at one or maybe two ports in the region. Countries like Jamaica in the Western Caribbean may be “overdoing it,” Sabonge suggested, in terms of preparation, and will have to clearly state what they have to offer. Let’s just think about this.

Opposition Leader Andrew Holness actually got some fire in his belly today in Parliament. I want to see more of that. Hold the Government accountable!

A worrying exchange: An exchange between the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament this afternoon has to get a mention here - and not only because of the disturbing tone and body language. The Prime Minister’s responses to a series of questions from Andrew Holness were severely lacking in substance. Ms. Simpson Miller appeared at times surly and defensive, answering some important questions with one terse sentence or a casual throwaway. “No, capital NO!” she exclaimed in answer to one question. (Capital no?) She appeared to resent the Opposition Leader asking pertinent questions on the Energy World International débacle. (That is, the power plant that seemed almost within our grasp, but has now slipped away).

It was an embarrassing display from Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller in Parliament today. (Photo: Gleaner)

Why did the Government ignore the report of the Contractor General (CG)? asked Mr. Holness. The CG had specifically warned that procedures had been flouted – resulting in the Inter-American Bank withdrawing funding support for the project. “We disagreed with the report,” she said flatly. She deflected questions and accused Mr. Holness of “scoring political points” and “grandstanding” when he pressed his questions further. Eventually, the exasperated Mr. Holness (by this time quite red in the face) blurted out, “It is not your country alone…When are we going to pay attention to rules in this country?” When he asked a question about what had happened to EWI’s US$7 million bid bond, she told him he would need to put such questions in writing. The Energy Minister (who surely could have answered that question, if she really could not) sat quietly by his leader’s side, his gaze fixed somewhere close to the ceiling.

PetroCaribe consultancy halted: I am a little puzzled by a news story emerging today that a risk assessment of the PetroCaribe Fund has been halted, after the consultant hired for the purpose was fired. The reasons given were “possible copyright infringement” and the fact that his bona fides could not be confirmed. This is after he had already filed reports, etc. What on earth happened? Did they not check this consultant (from overseas?) before they hired him? Is this Minister Paulwell’s ministry again?

A man of the people: The Minister responsible for entertainment, Damion Crawford.  He says, by the way, that entertainment is the “industry of the poor” and “patois is the language of the revolution.”

Mr. Crawford talks some more: Let’s backtrack a little to the loquacious MP and State Minister Damion Crawford’s “controversial” speech to party supporters. In yet another speech (does he ever stop?) he apologized in a roundabout way; and gave what turned out to be an encouraging motivational talk. He talked about the “philosophy and the culture” of the People’s National Party – which is, in case you didn’t know, to give “every man a chance.” Mr. Crawford talks a lot about the “revolution” too – a revolution of the mind. Yes, agreed a change of political mindset is needed. And Mr. Crawford wants it to be “people time.” Yay for that, but I have heard pretty much the same thing out of the mouths of Jamaican politicians, young and old, over the past two or three decades now.  (Also, patois is the “language of the revolution.”) If you wish, you can listen to all 27 minutes of the speech (and so much more interesting stuff) on Nationwide News Network’s very useful Soundcloud page.

Lottery scammers unperturbed: Something has gone awry with the struggle against lotto scammers. I am not sure if it’s anyone’s fault, at all. The Ministry of National Security has made huge efforts. Legislation has been amended. But the problem seems intractable. The media has surmised that penalties are too light.

Chairman of the St James Ministers’ Fraternal Rev Glendon Powell, who was among church leaders who demonstrated outside the University of the West Indies this week. Note the angry frown. (Photo: Jamaica Observer)

Breathing through the nose: This is a regular part of my yoga class, and certainly one group of protesters is learning breathing techniques as they continue their support for Professor Brendan Bain outside the University of the West Indies. The self-appointed leader of the group (mostly fundamentalist Christians) Reverend Al Miller, says they will demonstrate every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. That’s a pretty busy duct-tape schedule; you might find the stuff in short supply at your local hardware store. I know, I am being flippant. They have every right to demonstrate; but they have simply got it all wrong. And I am quite sure – positive – that if the Bain issue did not involve the LGBT community, they would not be out there in the heat and dust. There is nothing that galvanizes the Church more than the terrifying “gay lobby.” (Reverend Miller is to go on trial next month on charges of aiding and abetting a fugitive, Christopher “Dudus” Coke).

“Working, working, working”: Please, dear Madam Prime Minister, could you kindly drop this phrase now? At first it was quite amusing. But you have used it so many times that it has surely worn thin. It is beginning to sound like an excuse for inaction when you are under pressure from questioners (as it did today).

Now I am “bigging up”…

Prize-winners from Chess Enterprise’s 15th annual Prep/Primary Schools Championship. First were Little People Prep/Linstead, second were Hillel Prep/Kingston and third was Jesse Ripoll Primary/Kingston. (Photo: Chess Enterprise/Facebook)

• A young man called Adrian, who over the years has been quietly building his Chess Enterprise club for young people. Now, chess is a mystery to me, so I am even more in awe of these young boys and girls who compete fiercely. I happen to know that Adrian is an excellent Maths coach, too. Chess is great mental training for young people.

A projection of Robin Moore’s photos and videos of Goat Islands on the Jamaican Embassy in Washington, DC on June 3. (Photo by Laura Johnston/Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund at Conservation International).

• Conservation photographer Robin Moore, whose photos and video from Goat Islands were projected on the Jamaican Embassy in Washington, DC, last night. It attracted a lot of attention and discussion!

•  Live at Seven on CVM Television, which hosted an interesting, civilized and often humorous conversation between a young Member of Parliament, Raymond Pryce and veteran Opposition parliamentarian Mike Henry. It was about whether age matters in political leadership – and, for once, neither made any attempt to score political points. ‘Twas enjoyable.

• Mr Sherold Philibert (a lovely name), CEO of SKDP Haulage & Distribution, who is stockpiling rubber tires for conversion into rubber asphalt to pave roads. This would be cheaper than the current asphalt we use, which only seems to last five minutes anyway. He is already set up to start exporting, and plans to recycle the tires for other products too. After the last fire at Riverton City dump, in which hundreds of tires caught fire and belched chemicals into our air, this is more than welcome.

Mr. Sherold Philibert and Marisa Dalrymple-Philibert discuss their tire recycling business. (Photo: Jamaica Observer)

Gospel singer Donnie McClurkin (left) with Minister of Health Dr Fenton Ferguson at the donation ceremony. (Photo: Lionel Rookwood/Jamaica Observer)

• American gospel singer Donnie McClurkin, who has donated over J$60 million worth of medical supplies to the MInistry of Health. An extremely generous donation and I am sure much needed in our public hospitals. Thank you, sir!

It’s always so sad to list the names of those murdered in Jamaica. Since my last post on Sunday, I have noted these names, and extend my sincere condolences. These are not numbers – these are PEOPLE. Meanwhile, the police are doing a good job of seizing firearms and ammunitions all across the island, and I hope they will keep it up.

David Wilson, 18, Slipe Road, Kingston

André Ennis, 17, Felix Fox Boulevard, Kingston

Two unidentified men, Arnett Gardens, Kingston

Victor Duncan, 69, Westbrook, St. Andrew

Azan Christie, Anchovy, St. James

Rupert Taylor, 49, Mandeville, Manchester

Marlon Dyke, 34, Billards River, Clarendon

When is a Jamaican not Jamaican? When he’s Jamaipanese. Actually, the young man in question is Kirk Brown. He’s a blogger with a difference.

The only Jamaipanese man I know was waiting for us outside the uptown Kingston office where he works. We picked him up and made our way downtown, to the National Gallery. My husband hung out in the café (their coffee is one of the best cups in Kingston) while Kirk gave me an informative guided tour of an exhibit called “Japan: Kingdom of Characters.”  The exhibit, sponsored by the Japan Foundation through the Japanese Embassy in Kingston, will be closing soon (with a cosplay party from 5:00 to 11:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 14 at the National Gallery of Jamaica).

Local group Cosplayaz JA were at the opening of the “Kingdom of Characters” exhibit at the National Gallery of Jamaica. (Photo: Jamaipanese.com)

This is Jamaipanese!

You see, Kirk is truly an expert. All will be revealed if you visit his blog (which you should): http://www.jamaipanese.com. Kirk is officially Jamaica’s longest-serving blogger, having started in February 2006; as such, he won a Blogger of the Year Award. When Kirk started blogging, “I was writing for myself for the first year or two,” he said. He did acquire a following in Eastern Europe. But the blog had a purpose. Kirk had developed a fascination with Japan and all things Japanese. In January 2010 he started saving, working his way towards a visit to Japan (quite a costly undertaking) using his blog as a platform. He earned money from his blog – “At times my earnings rivaled my day job” – through advertising. He obtained private sector funding – especially from Japanese companies, who provided him with a rail pass, Internet service and other practical support. He learnt Japanese. And he got to Japan, through sheer determination, in September 2011. Naturally, he blogged daily during his travels.

The seventh-century Okadera temple in Asuka, Nara prefecture, Japan. I actually remember this place.

Nara and Kyoto were two of the places he loved the best. I would concur. My memories of those two cities are almost dream-like now…Tall trees, peaceful shrines, stone gardens, Nara’s deer park.

The Japan visit was a natural progression from his lifelong love of cartoons (animé), video games and technology. He wanted to learn more about the country that had created this extraordinary fantasy world. So he started reading up on Japanese culture and history. One of the first things that struck him about Japan, he said, was its resilience. “How could this country that was bombed to bits in World War II make such an amazing recovery?” wondered Kirk. “Look at the 1964 Olympics in Tokyo,” he observed with obvious admiration. “It was one of the most well-run Olympic games ever. And it said to the world, ‘We are here. We have come out of the ruins.’” 

Astro Boy was the creation of famous manga illustrator Osamu Tezuka back in 1952. With his chubby face, huge round eyes and rocket-propelled feet, he was both lovable and a fierce crusader for peace.

One of the symbols of this period of renewal, Kirk told me, was Astro Boy (or Tetsuwan Atom – Mighty Atom). The animé emerged in 1963 (so he was there for the Olympics) and was an instant hit. A robot with the body of a child, Astro Boy started life as a manga character (a manga is a hand-drawn cartoon or comic). “Most animé start out as manga,” Kirk told me. I asked him if the Japanese comics were influenced by the likes of DC and Marvel Comics in the United States in the early days. “Japanese manga developed alongside American comics in the 1950s and 1960s,” he told me. The heroic characters emerged from the war years, as expressions of hope and renewal – but in very different cultural forms.

Ultraman in the manga, fighting good old Godzilla (who keeps making a comeback).

After Astro Boy, we moved on to meet Ultraman. He hails from a distant planet and “he gets bigger,” as Kirk put it, when his enemies turn up (the enemies being mostly ghosts and monsters). Ultraman is pretty straightforward stuff: “He’s about good vs evil,” said Kirk. The television series – one of the first broadcast in color in Japan – was enormously successful. Oh, by the way, have you heard of Godzilla? He has been resurrected in film again recently. Well, Ultraman fought him, too. Remember, he can expand in size. No big deal.

We moved along to the seventies, a vibrant period for Japanese “characters.” Now, at this point I should actually explain that I myself lived in Japan for nearly three years in the seventies, and vividly remember the monster shows on my small television, sitting on the tatami matted floor of my tiny apartment. I found these shows hilarious and somewhat addictive, interspersed rather incongruously with regular episodes of “Sesame Street” dubbed into Japanese.

When she was first launched, I don’t remember Hello Kitty being so…pink.

So, I remember well when Hello Kitty hit the Tokyo department stores; it was 1974. She caught on fast and she is absolutely huge to this day. “Many Japanese grew up with Hello Kitty,” Kirk reminded me. She is a round-faced white cat with a red bow on one ear, no mouth, and a completely expressionless face. She was (and still is) a brand, created  by a marketing firm called Sanrio. Hello Kitty is a kawaii (cute) character, and she was “born” in…London! In 1970s Japan, Britain was very much in vogue, for some reason. Being British myself, I think I benefited from this when living there; I taught English to businessmen, housewives, factory workers and kindergarten children with a British accent. Anyway, you can find Hello Kitty at http://www.hellokitty.com.

The Hello Kitty bedroom at the exhibit would give me nightmares if I had to sleep in it. (Photo: jamaipanese.com)

Hello Kitty is rather unusual, because she is a huge merchandising phenomenon. At the exhibit there was a bedroom furnished with Hello Kitty paraphernalia: clocks, bedspreads, balloons, dolls, bags, pictures, calendars, cushions etc. The predominant color was – yes, you’ve guessed it, pink. On the website you will find clothing for women, teens, children and babies. You can buy a Hello Kitty case for your iPhone, and Hello Kitty luggage. And so on, and on. I’ve just discovered that people have Hello Kitty weddings!

How about getting married in a Hello Kitty wedding dress? Pink, of course.

Victory Gundam.

OK, so Hello Kitty is a bit extreme. Let’s get back to the regular stuff. Mobile Suit Gundam, for example. When I asked Kirk what his favorite character was, he admitted a great fondness for Gundam. The animated television series premiered in 1979, and started a new trend. Gundam is futuristic, the stuff of science-fiction movies. It is more sophisticated than the good guy/bad guy scenarios of the fifties and sixties, and this appeals to Kirk. “There are deeply overlapping stories in Gundam,” he told me, “and adult, complex themes.” He hastened to point out to me that Gundam is “a peacemaker” among warring interplanetary colonies.

A scene from Gundam Wing. Something pretty intense is going on here.

When I saw Gundam at the exhibit he reminded me of Transformers – and he was an influence. Gundam remains very popular, with many different versions, television series, video games and tons of merchandising too. Kirk prefers the “more classic Gundam,” but he does like one which emerged in the 1990s, Gundam Wing.

By the way, among the more modern stuff, Kirk also recommends the manga and graphic novels called “Fullmetal Alchemist,” first published in 2001. It’s the story of  two brothers’ search for the philosopher’s stone. And then of course, in the 1990s, there was the well-known Pokémon, which made its appearance as a video game for Nintendo’s Game Boy console in 1996. Pokémon is a collection of cute animals with “special powers” - rather like cuddly X-Men.

Pikachu is an adorable…rodent, of some sort, I think.

Generally, though, Kirk has traditional tastes.  “It has become more commercialized,” he told me, “less of an art. Nowadays it is the rehashing of old ideas, making them more modern.” He prefers the originals. Is the manga/animé form of cultural expression running out of ideas?

Creepy Sento-kun in a Nara store. No, I wouldn’t like to meet him on a dark night.

He also has mixed feelings about the assimilation of characters into every facet of Japanese life. There are characters everywhere. Some are not very well-designed and have been complete failures. For example, the Japanese Government gave each prefecture (like a parish or state) a character of its own, a mascot.  The character for Nara prefecture is called Sento-kun. He is a Buddhist monk with antlers on his head (reflecting the famous temples and Nara’s deer park). Religious people were unhappy and Nara residents in general reacted negatively, calling poor Sento-kun “kimochi warui” (literally “bad feeling” - or creepy, unpleasant). 

For collectors, the world of manga/animé is a rich landscape. The National Gallery  exhibit included some beautifully detailed figures in glass cases. This is another aspect of Japanese culture; I vividly recall collections of richly dressed traditional dolls in similar glass cases, proudly displayed in people’s homes. And they were expensive, too.

A collection of figurines at the exhibit. (Photo: jamaipanese.com)

What is the significance of the animé, I asked Kirk? “The animé is how the Japanese express their cultural concerns,” he told me. “The same animé – the same story or character – can appeal to a ten-year-old or a forty-year-old. They are getting different messages, at different levels.” I found this somehow touching. Housewives have their favorite characters; so do teenage girls. Businessmen (salarymen as they are called) have their favorite manga that they read during their commute to work. The characters reassure them; they are predictable and safe. Perhaps, in some way, they help the Japanese people find their way through the stress of modern society. Almost like guides, companions.

Jamaipanese with his favorite, Gundam, at the exhibition opening. (Photo contributed by Kirk Brown)

So what of the future for Kirk “Jamaipanese” Brown? He has just completed his second year studying IT at the University of Technology (did I mention that he also co-administers a tech blog, http://www.GEEZAM.com ?) On the tenth anniversary of his Jamaipanese blog – February 2016 – he hopes to have a book out. He would like to do more work with the younger generation of Jamaicans. What advice would he give to a Jamaican teen, I asked him? “Don’t stick in your shell. Don’t stay in a limited mindset. Jamaica is very small. Get out there and explore!” He also worries about the “instant gratification” culture. Persistence and patience are important assets for young people (Kirk is a perfect role model in that respect).

And of course, he is planning another trip to Japan in 2016. I hope he will take me in his suitcase…

I would like to thank Jamaipanese for being my personal guide and companion through the dream-like world of this fascinating exhibit – which may be coming to a city near you in the future. Look out for it, and get to know the characters. Get to know Japan!

“Magical girls”: Sailor Moon is a popular anime, developed from a 1992 manga magazine. Women have their place in the anime world – although often over-sexualized, they are usually empowered and empowering.

An evening of poetry at Bookophilia, our friendly neighborhood bookstore, is always an interesting experience. Earlier this evening, poets had to contend with the Friday night traffic, which roared behind us on busy Hope Road. Scottish poet Rab Wilson read one poem to the accompaniment of a stentorian car alarm, whose regular blasts provided a kind of counterpoint rhythm. He seemed to enjoy it. And somehow, I take pleasure in hearing literature out there in the hot evening air, when it really hasn’t cooled down enough to make any difference and when the city is still restless. By the time I left, it had quieted down a little. A humid half-moon was up.

Roland Watson-Grant, the only prose writer at this evening’s event, read from his novel “Sketcher” which is published by Alma Books.

Unfortunately, I arrived a little late. And Bookophilia events always start on time, which is admirable. Roland Watson-Grant was already reading from his debut novel “Sketcher,” published by Alma Books. The protagonist is a young boy called Skid, growing up in a swamp near New Orleans. It was only afterwards that I realized that Mr. Watson-Grant himself grew up in something resembling a swamp – the district of New Haven on the outskirts of Kingston. I recall one visit there and found it so neglected that I blogged about it, rather harshly. Probably no one should be living there. I wish I had sat down and talked to the author about how he became a poet. Was it an escape?

Philippa “Saffron” Sauterel sat at a table to read. Her poetry seems to half-unlock mysteries. The other half is for you to figure out.

The beautiful Philippa Sauterel (her stage name is Saffron) was concerned that one or two of her poems might be a little too “adult,” and wondered if there were any children in the audience. There was only one – her son. He was sitting next to me, and seemed unperturbed. But he and I were somewhat distracted by a large flying insect, which landed on the stage, climbed the microphone cable resting on the white tablecloth – but abruptly departed when Saffron laughed coolly and waved her hand. “It’s the tropics,” she said.

Raymond Mair’s reading had an air of nostalgia.

A long-standing member of the Poetry Society of Jamaica, Raymond Mair has a wonderfully resonant reading voice. He read from his 2012 collection “Shards of Remembering.” An air of nostalgia pervaded the poems he read, with touches of gentle, wry humor. I loved “Saturday Funeral” and “Cuban Love Song.”

Ann-Margaret Lim read from her “The Festival of Wild Orchid” published by Peepal Tree Press, plus one or two new poems.

Ann-Margaret Lim seemed to read her poetry from a position of inner strength and passion. She has grown tremendously in her interpretation and the actual performance of her poems; some that I was familiar with from her collection “The Festival of Wild Orchid” sounded quite different than when I had heard her read them before. Her voice was stronger, with a kind of flowing, urgent strength. The audience fluttered appreciatively, and so did I.

Millicent Graham is the instigator/founder of The Drawing Room Project, a creative venture that nurtures new Jamaican writers.

Millicent “Toni” Graham read from her two collections of poetry, published by Peepal Tree Press: “The Damp in Things” (2009) and “The Way Home,” recently published. In contrast to her gentle, almost shy demeanor, you immediately trip over brilliant images and strong emotions in her work. I love the poem “Dawn,”  which is so evocative of morning in the city of Kingston. I am indebted to Millicent for reawakening my interest in poetry – and especially for her Drawing Room Project, which nurtures young writers and explores the nature of inspiration and collaboration.

Scottish poet Rab Wilson is a former miner and worked as a mental health nurse for many years.

I don’t think I have ever heard the cadences of the Scots language in Jamaica. Not ever. Rarely, even, a regular Scottish accent. And yet, as Rab Wilson pointed out, there are more Campbells in the Jamaican phone book than there are in the Scottish one.  He began his reading with the Scottish national poet, Robbie Burns, in whose long shadow every Scottish poet lives. “Tae the Mouse” is the somewhat plaintive tale of a mouse who, unfortunately, did not escape the sudden arrival of a plough. His life was literally turned upside down. Mr. Wilson also read from a rather interesting book that I would like to get my hands on, a collection of poetry in Scots, inspired by the all-encompassing Mr. Burns. A triptych of poems about the mental health patients that he used to care for was haunting and (in the third poem) triumphantly funny.

I am not sure that the audience understood much of the language – I found it difficult at times, as I am not so accustomed to the many regional dialects and accents of the UK, any more – and Scots is really a different language altogether. But we delighted in its musicality and richness, and we enjoyed Mr. Wilson’s open humor and his generosity of spirit. He really seemed to appreciate Jamaicans’ love of poetry.

We ended happily with Mr. Watson-Grant doing an on-the-spot quiz for giveaways – signed copies of his novel and T shirts. One book went to a young woman called Kacy, who is working on a poetry collection. Saffron won a T shirt. Many of us retired to the cool interior of Bookophilia, where the smell of coffee wafted through the air. Much chatting and enjoyment ensued, while Ann-Margaret’s daughter Kayla slept deeply and peacefully in the children’s section.

Roland Watson-Grant chats with a book-buyer while autographing his novel inside Bookophilia.

By the way, this was a little “braata”  from the Calabash International Literary Festival, which took place last weekend by the warm seas of Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth. It’s every two years now. I missed it this year, but do not intend to miss it again. 

Orchid and poems.

I had planned a post for World Oceans Day today – it did not materialize. I hope some Jamaicans celebrated it by doing something for our beautiful Caribbean sea. Well, if not today, then from now onwards. It is far, far more important to us than we may think…

All at sea: From my treasured photos of our trip to Goat Islands last September.

Gender-based violence: The Sunday Gleaner took on the ongoing tragedy of domestic violence in Jamaica for its front page. So far this year at least 24 Jamaicans have been killed by their spouses and at least 39 cases of assault related to domestic violence have taken place – but these are only the cases that have come to the police. Violence against women is far more deep-rooted and widespread than these numbers suggest. I don’t know what the male psychologist is trying to say about violence “on the women side” being on the increase, but agree with the 51% Coalition’s Judith Wedderburn that “it comes down to an issue of power.”

Judith Wedderburn (far left) with Linnette Vassell, Brenda Wyss and Dorothy Whyte at a 51% Coalition event last year. (My photo)

Sunk to a new low: The Sunday Observer took its homophobia a step further this weekend. This is their front page today, with an inside story by Karyl Walker (who edits their crime desk) adding one more layer of bigotry to the newspaper’s “coverage.” Yes, gays are criminals, too! Wearing pink lipstick. But hey, maybe this disproves your belief, Mr. Walker et al, that gays are so “different.” They can be gunmen too like the heterosexuals!  Welcome them to the club!

The front page of today’s “Sunday Observer.” Congratulations to the editors and to reporter Karyl Walker – a new low has been reached.

Giorgio Valentini is the World Bank Country Representative for Jamaica, Guyana, Trindad and Tobago and Suriname. He made some interesting comments on Jamaica recently – including the suggestion that the Jamaican mindset is too insular; he sees this in the tourism and agricultural sectors in particular, he says, where players are unwilling to work together for the common good. We really must “think global” (and act global?), Mr. Valentini said.

World Bank representative Giorgio Valentini.

“Curry” in a bad state: Coronation Market (nicknamed “Curry”) in downtown Kingston, the largest market in the English-speaking Caribbean, is in very poor shape indeed, I hear. Talk show host and Senator Marlene Malahoo Forte recently hosted an outside broadcast from the market; every vendor had a complaint about poor conditions, lack of sanitary conveniences, etc. Walking round the market later, the good Senator was shocked by the appalling conditions – stinking garbage (mostly vegetable matter) in piles, and even two homeless men who live there – one apparently near death. Her description has put me off ever going to shop there.

About three years ago Digicel Foundation pumped millions of dollars into the renovation of about one third of the two-acre site. “Even the greatest cynic, I think, would be impressed with the new Coronation Market,” said the then Town Clerk. Well, we are cynical now… Can’t the National Solid Waste Management Agency (NSWMA) at least clear the garbage? Hardly the “tourist attraction” Digicel Foundation envisaged.

Renovation under way at Coronation Market in October, 2010. (Photo: Christopher Serju/Gleaner)

Talking of the NSWMA, I have over two weeks’ worth of garbage outside my gate waiting in vain to be collected. I understand they have “problems.”

The March 2013 fire at the Wyndham Kingston Hotel. (Photo: Gleaner)

Kingston is getting a new hotel: While the Wyndham (former Hilton) Hotel in Kingston remains closed after a fire  on March 14, 2013, (and workers protest outside that they have not received payment) its future remains uncertain. Meanwhile, a new 130-room Marriott Courtyard Hotel is shooting up on the other side of Emancipation Park – less than half the size of the Wyndham, which had been up for auction just before the fire. As they say, “what’s up” with the Wyndham?  

An uncomfortable story: Clearly at a loss for a real news story, RJR News this week led one of its evening newscasts with a report that a prisoner at Kingston’s Constant Spring police lockup will have to undergo surgery to remove a cell phone from his rectum. So this is the best we can do for news?

Prime Minister the Most Hon. Portia Simpson Miller holds aloft a replica of a ship crafted by a resident of Majesty Gardens, in her South West St. Andrew constituency. Mrs. Simpson Miller received the gift after addressing the launch of the Majesty Gardens Community Development Education Programme on June 5.

The majesty of Majesty Gardens: 150 adult residents of the Prime Minister’s favorite slum, which goes by the gorgeous name of Majesty Gardens, are to benefit from an “empowerment program,” which will basically teach them to read and write as well as “life skills.” What a sad reflection on this impoverished area of South West St. Andrew (Kingston) – a constituency that Portia Simpson Miller has represented for some three decades, now. But the Prime Minister says she is “proud” of being able to help the “most vulnerable among us” - that is, her beloved poor. Meanwhile, CVM Television ran a biting report on the PM’s visit, focusing on a veritable cobweb of wires over the heads of the dignitaries and accompanying police guards – illegal connections to the Jamaica Public Service Co. Did you look up, Madam Prime Minister?

Minister of Science, Technology, Energy and Mining, Hon. Phillip Paulwell (centre), in discussion with Managing Director, ATL Group of Companies, Danville Walker (left), and Business to Business Sales General Manager, Panasonic Latin America, Rafael Linares, during the ATL/Panasonic Energy Forum in Kingston on Wednesday, June 4. (Photo: JIS)

“The top Caribbean country in renewables”:  Energy Minister Phillip Paulwell has pronounced that Jamaica will be tops in the next few years. But I have only heard him mention renewable energy as an afterthought in his public speeches. And I am actually becoming a little wary of this Minister’s grand announcements (understandably, right?) But the Minister says Jamaica will have an additional 78 MW of renewable energy from two wind projects (58 MW) and solar (20 MW). We already have 50 MW of wind and hydropower, he says. Three bidders have been selected for the three projects, and let’s hope all the t’s are crossed and i’s dotted in respect of the bidding process. Please, Minister Paulwell!

Smoke and mirrors? A telling article by Gordon Robinson (a lawyer and columnist) suggests we have all been duped. No, Minister Paulwell has not been removed from the power plant bidding process, as we perhaps thought. He has been brought in again by a side door by the Prime Minister, who has made it clear that the Minister will still be involved and “is more in charge of the power plant project than before he messed it up. A politically appointed committee for whom nobody voted; not created by any act of Parliament; and nobody can hold accountable will join together with the Minister to wrest the process from the arms of the independent, lawfully constituted authority.” I’m quoting Mr. Robinson there from his Sunday Gleaner column.

The air we breathe: I have commented on this frequently before, but a relative of ours who lives on the lower slopes of Red Hills showed me a photo of the view every morning from her house. There was a thick layer of smog across the city – more intense on her side, which is closer to the Riverton City dump – but continuing right across to the other side of the city. I must get that photo from her. Down in our house in the middle of town, we cannot see it. But I can smell the pollution in the air sometimes. Has NEPA (or anyone) done a reading of the air quality recently in Kingston? What are we taking into our lungs? Our relative also says that many of her neighbors burn garden waste – a persistent habit of Jamaicans, although our neighbors are not so bad these days – polluting the atmosphere further and contributing to global warming.

At this rate we will soon be wearing oxygen masks!

Meanwhile, booths are fully booked out at the Jamaica Alternative Energy Expo at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel (June 23 and 24, admission free). I have a feeling the place will be packed!

My deepest condolences to the families who are grieving the deaths of…

Keith Blackstock, 42, Mocho, Clarendon

David Waugh, 16, and Tafari Mitchell, 23, in Bryan’s Crescent, Clarendon (both shot dead by licensed firearm holder)

Ramon Alexis Brissett, 26, Rock District, Trelawny (Haitian national)

Congratulations to…

• The Jamaica Constabulary Force, who captured a most-wanted alleged gangster on Thursday; he had run away from West Kingston to Westmoreland. The important thing is that not a shot was fired during his capture. Police say Ryan “Little Blacks” Bembridge was responsible for much of the recent violence in the area. Congrats to the police, job well done. I understand, too, that some progress is being made with the “lotto scammers” – over 100 charged this year.

Mrs. Sonia Rowe, Director at the Pringle Home for Children and Mr. Leroy Anderson, Director at the Jamaica National Children’s Home ( left) collect cheques, valued at US$2,812.80 each, at the Foreign Ministry’s New Kingston address.

• The Jamaican Embassy in Japan, which recently donated nearly US$3,000 each to the United Church-Pringle Home for Children in Carron Hall, St. Mary and the Jamaica National Children’s Home in Papine, Kingston. The money was collected through the Japan-Latin American and Caribbean Ladies’ Association’s activities.

Organizers teach onlookers about our protected crocodiles at the “Croc Fair” at Hope Zoo yesterday. (Photo: NEPA/Facebook)

• The National Environment & Planning Agency (NEPA) and especially young Ricardo Miller for organizing “My Croc Adventure and Enviro Fair” at the Hope Zoo at the end of National Environment Week yesterday. Sadly I was unable to go at the last minute, but I hear it was a great success. The aim of the Fair was “to sensitize the general public about the endangered American Crocodile in Jamaica” noting that “in recent years the crocodile population on the island has undergone a rapid decline due to habitat loss, poorly planned developments and wanton killings.”

• All those who supported and participated in the Jamaica Environment Trust’s week-long fund-raising effort – a series of “get fit and go green” sessions at several gyms (and my yoga place, TrueSelf Centre of Being). I hope JET raised lots of money for its ongoing programs as well as the #savegoatislands campaign.

On the road: The amended Road Traffic Act is due to be passed (hopefully) in the next two months; it will include much tougher penalties for traffic offenses, including speeding/dangerous driving. It can’t come a moment too soon, as the carnage on our roads continue. I am glad Vice Chair of the National Road Safety Council Dr. Lucien Jones agrees with my belief that the vast majority of road accidents are caused by SPEEDING. 141 Jamaicans have died on the roads between January 1 and June 6 – an increase over the 125 for the same period in 2013. Meanwhile, there were two hit-and-run accidents, among several other deaths on the road: 54-year-old Ralph Chambers was hit off his pedal bike and killed on the Windsor Heights main road on Saturday, and 76-year-old Evelyn Nicholson died after being hit by a motorcycle as she tried to cross Passage Fort Drive in St. Catherine on Friday.

Dr. Lucien Jones, Vice-Chairman, National Road Safety Council – Gleaner file photo

A religious protester outside the University of the West Indies. I am still not clear what God has to do with the dismissal of Professor Brendan Bain. (Photo: Gleaner)

Our friends at the UN Environment Programme – the Caribbean Environment Programme based here in Kingston – have a major focus: our beautiful Caribbean Sea. On World Environment Day, UNEP-CEP announced that it will be producing the first-ever report on the state of our marine environment here in the Caribbean. A meeting is currently under way in Nicaragua to discuss the worrisome issue of marine pollution. It’s good to note, also, that UNEP-CEP is also revamping its communication and outreach efforts. So expect to see much more of them in social media!

Nelson Andrade Colmenares (right) makes a point at a UNEP-CEP press briefing. Listening in are UNEP’s Christopher Corbin and Alessandra Vanzella-Khouri. (My photo)

Date: June 9, 2014

UNEP CEP TO DEVELOP FIRST REGIONAL STATE OF THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT REPORT FOR THE CARIBBEAN SEA

Kingston, Jamaica, June 6, 2014 – As countries “Raised their Voices and Not the Sea Level” in celebration of World Environment Day, and commemorated World Oceans Day under the theme “Together We Have the Power to Protect the Oceans”, UNEP’s Caribbean Environment Programme has committed to develop the first State of Marine Environment Report for the Caribbean Sea.

Nelson Andrade Colmenares, Coordinator of the Kingston-based UNEP office, which also serves as Secretariat to the Cartagena Convention for the Protection and Development of the Caribbean Sea, highlighted that “The development of such a report will be critical to obtain a better understanding of the current status of our coastal and marine resources, to identify trends as well as new threats”. The UNEP CEP has been based in Jamaica for the past 27 years working with many partners to protect and sustain the Caribbean Sea and the goods and services which it provides for the people of the Wider Caribbean Region.

The sustainable development of the Wider Caribbean Region will require improved management of the region’s fragile marine resources and according to Andrade, “reliable and credible scientific data and information will be an invaluable decision-making tool, and assist in the evaluation of the effectiveness of existing national policies, laws and regulations.”

The first State of Marine Environment Report for the Caribbean will build upon efforts by many regional agencies, projects and partners who have been working with UNEP CEP for the protection and development of the Wider Caribbean Region. The detailed content and approach will be discussed at an upcoming meeting of regional technical and scientific experts to be held in Nicaragua from June 10^th to 13^th who will be discussing a range of issues relating to the pollution of the marine environment.

The Caribbean Environment Programme is one of the UNEP’s Regional Seas Programmes, which celebrates its 40th Anniversary this year – International Year for SIDS. More than 143 countries participate in the 13 Regional Seas Programmes globally and it has emerged as an inspiring example of how to implement a regional approach to protecting the coastal and marine environment while effectively managing the use of natural resources.

Mr. Christopher Corbin, Programme Officer with responsibility for Pollution at the UNEP CEP office, outlined that as the Secretariat begins the development of this regional report, new communication and outreach materials have also been developed that will be launched on World Oceans Day this year. These include a new website (www.cep.unep.org) and a new Video that showcases the value of the Caribbean Sea, major sources and impacts of pollution and the benefits of regional agreements such as the Cartagena Convention and the Protocol Concerning Pollution from land-based Sources and Activities (LBS Protocol).

Poor land use and agricultural practices and the lack of effective wastewater and industrial treatment contribute a range of pollutants such as sediment, fertilizers, pesticides, heavy metals, pathogens, oil and nutrients directly or indirectly into the Caribbean Sea. Pollution not only poses threats to human health but can negatively impact on coral reefs which provide USD 375 million in goods and services annually to coastal economies through activities such as tourism, fisheries and maritime transportation.

These new communication and outreach efforts along with the increased use of social media such as Facebook and Twitter will ensure that information on the marine environment is not only used to improve national and regional decision-making but to improve awareness of why we need to protect the Caribbean Sea and its vulnerable yet valuable resources.

For further information please contact, Miss Pietra Brown ,United Nations Volunteer-Communications Officer , at UNEP CEP by telephone: +876-922-9267-9,Fax:+876- 922-9292, Email: pb@cep.unep.org.Also, feel free to visit the website at: http://www.cep.unep.org, our Facebook page at UNEP-Caribbean Environment Programme and out Twitter @UNEP_CEP.

 About UNEP’s Caribbean Environment Programme (CEP)

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) established the Caribbean Environment Programme (CEP) in 1981 under the framework of its Regional Seas Programme. It was developed taking into consideration the importance and value of the Wider Caribbean Region’s fragile and vulnerable coastal and marine ecosystems, including an abundance ofmainly endemic flora and fauna.

A Caribbean Action Plan was adopted by the Countries of the Wider Caribbean Region (WCR) and that led to the development and adoption of the Cartagena Convention on 24 March 1983. This Convention is the first regionally binding treaty of its kind that seeks to protect and develop the marine environment of the WCR. Since its entry into force on 11 October 1986, 25 of the 28 Wider Caribbean Region countries have become contracting parties.

The Convention is supported by three Protocols:

• Protocol concerning Cooperation in combating Oil Spills, which entered into force on October 11, 1986;
• Protocol concerning Specially Protected Areas and Wildlife (SPAW), which entered into force on June 18, 2000;
• Protocol concerning Pollution from Land-based sources and activities (LBS), which entered into force on August 13, 2010.

In addition, each Protocol is served by a Regional Activity Centre (RAC). These centres are based in Curacao (Regional Marine Pollution Emergency Information and Training Centre for the Wider Caribbean, RAC/REMPEITC) for the Oil Spills Protocol; in Guadeloupe (RAC/SPAW RAC for the SPAW Protocol and in Cuba, Centre of Engineering and Environmental Management of Coasts and Bays and in Trinidad & Tobago, theInstitute of Marine Affairs, both for the LBS Protocol. As they endeavour to protect the Caribbean Sea and sustain our future, we look forward to their continued effort to preserve our Caribbean Sea by facilitating the implementation of the Cartagena Convention and its Protocols in the Wider Caribbean Region. 

The Regional Coordinating Unit (UNEP-CAR/RCU), established in 1986, serves as the Secretariat to the Cartagena Convention and is based in Kingston, Jamaica.

To find out more about the UNEP CAR-RCU and the SPAWProtocol, please visit the www.cep.unep.org

Rainbow over Grenada, from the sea. (My photo)

Who, what and where is the Jamaican diaspora?

It’s a funny word, that used to have a line underneath it when I typed it in a document, as if it wasn’t real. But the Jamaican diaspora, wherever it may find itself, is very real, indeed. Real people living real lives, working, raising families…and cherishing a heartfelt love for the island, whether they were born there or not.

The word “diaspora” comes from the Greek, meaning a “scattering.” In the 21st century, this scattering is commonplace. My brother (in Australia) and I (in Jamaica) are really members of the UK diaspora, if you like. An estimated 215 million people globally live outside their country of birth. As far as Jamaica is concerned, with a population of just under three million, there are 1.8 million living in the United States (by far the largest diaspora); 650,000 in the United Kingston; and 300,000 in Canada. At a press briefing yesterday to launch the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Diaspora Mapping Project, State Minister Arnaldo Brown suggested that these numbers are quite conservative. There are also communities throughout the Caribbean, Central and South America and Europe.

(l-r) Director of Diaspora and Consular Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Lloyd Wilks; Minister of State Hon. Arnaldo Brown; and Programme Assistant at IOM Rukiya Brown. (Photo: Jamaica Information Service)

What is the aim of this project, which is supported by the UN International Organization for Migration (IOM)? The Jamaican Government sees it as another step in the direction of really connecting with the diaspora in a meaningful way that will bring results – largely, it is hoped, by contributing to Jamaica’s economic growth and development. As Minister Brown rightly noted, “Diasporas often coalesce around an issue” and for the Government, investment and trade is an important area of engagement and dialogue. It’s not a one-way street; the aim is also to empower diaspora members. There are many potential benefits for all. The Government has identified key growth areas as follows: logistics; agriculture; manufacturing; ICT; creative industries; energy and mining; and health and wellness tourism.

Well, the platform for all this is a website: http://www.mapjadiaspora.iom.int - which Minister Brown described as “long talked about, long overdue.” Kudos to the IOM for their major input in this clear and well laid out site, which the IOM’s Rukiya Brown – herself a young “returning resident” – guided us through. You will find a survey on the website. This is for individuals and diaspora groups – e.g. a Jamaica Birmingham Association, etc. The confidential survey seeks to determine the skills and experience of Jamaicans in the diaspora, and to get a sense of whether they are interested in and willing to contribute to Jamaica’s development in some way. On the other hand, it also seeks to determine the needs and concerns of Jamaicans living overseas. There is also a section for Returning Residents (that is, those Jamaicans who have returned to live on the island after living overseas) which is to be developed further but currently contains an information booklet.

Rukiya Brown of the International Organization on Migration (IOM) talks to Minister Arnaldo Brown. (Photo: Jamaica Information Service)

The survey will eventually form the basis of a diaspora database, to be administered by the Jamaica Diaspora Institute (headed by Professor Neville Ying). It will also have social media interfaces. As always with databases maintained by governments, one expects good guarantees of security, as with the survey itself.

Kudos are due to local corporate sponsors for the project: Jamaica National Building Society, Victoria Mutual Building Society, GraceKennedy, LIME and J Wray & Nephew. The Jamaica Tourist Board and JAMPRO have been key partners on the Government side. International partners the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have also provided technical and financial assistance for the Jamaican Government’s work with the diaspora, with the ongoing support of the diplomatic community in Jamaica – several of whom attended the press briefing and launch yesterday.

Last year, I commented in my blog that I wasn’t hearing much about the Government’s work with the diaspora; I’m now convinced that a lot of work has been quietly going on. The IOM is supporting the development of a Migration Profile document for Jamaica, besides the National Policy and Action Plan on Migration and Development (now in its final stages) and the Diaspora Policy. The Jamaica Diaspora Foundation and the Diaspora Institute are up and running.

(l-r) Lloyd Wilks, Canadian High Commissioner Robert Ready and Minister of State Arnaldo Brown chat at yesterday’s launch of the Diaspora Mapping Project. (Photo: Jamaica Information Service)

By the way, the diaspora has contributed over US$2 billion in remittances to Jamaica in the past two years. This does not include the amazing charitable work, donations, personal gifts and outreach in Jamaica by many individuals and organizations. These visits are ongoing – almost every week – and I have often praised their generosity. We cannot doubt that remittances remain a huge part of the financial contribution of our diaspora though. As Minister Brown pointed out, this activity is not policy-directed, but “it does make a great difference in poverty alleviation in Jamaica and is reflected in our GDP.”

So, if you are a member of the Jamaican diaspora – wherever you are in the world – I urge you to fill out the survey form, get connected and get engaged. Do support the Jamaican Government as it aims to register a minimum of 100,000 people. There is strength in numbers!

By the way, the 4th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora UK Conference will take place in Edgbaston, Birmingham from June 13- 15. This week! So if you are a Jamaican living in the UK – why don’t you check it out, get in touch and go along to find out what is happening? More details at http://conference.jamaicandiasporauk.org.

As Jamaicans would say, “link up” ! The world is getting smaller, every day – one of those clichés which happen to be true.

It’s a complicated issue, and there are no easy answers. However, scientists, legal and conservation experts at a regional workshop for Caribbean Community (CARICOM) states on “the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity Beyond Areas of National Jurisdiction” (yes, a very long title) attempted to clarify key issues. The two-day workshop took place on May 20-21 in Kingston, with support from Pew Charitable Trusts and the High Seas Alliance.

SPAW Program Officer Alessandra Vanzella-Khouri at the Caribbean Environment Program (CEP) at a February, 2013 media briefing. In the background is Christopher Corbin, Program Officer for the Assessment and Management of Pollution program at the CEP. (My photo)

At the launch, the Program Officer for Specially Protected Areas and Wildlife (SPAW) at the United Nations Environment Programme – UNEP (the Caribbean Environment Programme is based in Kingston, as is the International Seabed Authority headquarters) told us that there are practically no areas of the Caribbean Sea that do not belong to any particular country. But elsewhere in the world there are vast marine areas that belong to no country at all. A few areas (in the Mediterranean and the NorthEast Atlantic, for example) have been declared protected or are under consideration for protection under different biodiversity conventions. More recently, the Abidjan Convention covering West and Central Africa began studying the possibility of similar actions. UNEP is urging greater collaboration within the region to address these issues.

This is marine biodiversity. (Photo: Mora Lab at the Department of Geography, University of Hawaii).

But which is more important – protecting the biodiversity of the “high seas” or seeking to exploit their wealth? It’s a tricky balance – if balance can, indeed, be found. Ambassador Eden Charles, Deputy Permanent Representative of Trinidad & Tobago to the United Nations, emphasized more than once that “a handful of states” as well as international private sector interests are already busy exploiting the resources of these areas. Some have apparently taken steps to establish patents on these resources. “CARICOM must stand up and be counted,” he declared. After all, the Law of the Sea Convention, which entered into force in 1982, embraces the principle that these areas of the sea that do not belong to any nation are “the common heritage of mankind.”

Ambassador Eden Charles. (Photo: United Nations)

Clearly, there are concerns. Ambassador Charles stressed the importance of an Implementing Agreement under the Law of the Sea Convention to govern and protect the high seas. Currently, no such legal framework exists. It’s pretty much a free for all. The UN will decide to open negotiations on this, and the negotiations may be challenging, one suspects. The aim of the workshop was to prepare CARICOM officials for these negotiations. “The scientists will tell the meeting what the resources are, and how they can be used sustainably,” Ambassador Charles told journalists, adding that the aim is to create greater awareness among CARICOM countries.

Secretary of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Arnaldo Brown. (Photo: Carib Journal)

To put all of this in a relevant timeframe, an intercessional meeting of the UN will take place in New York in June to discuss the parameters of this Implementing Agreement. The International Seabed Authority’s annual meeting comes up in July in Kingston. The Third International Conference on Small Island Developing States takes place in September, in Samoa. And post-2015, the United Nations is switching its focus to the Sustainable Development Goals; it is currently studying the establishment of these goals from the perspective of the Caribbean and other regions of the world.

Secretary of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Arnaldo Brown re-emphasized the “common heritage” principle and the need for “equitable distribution” of the resources of the deep seas. But, as chair of Jamaica’s National Council on Ocean and Coastal Zone Management, he is also very much aware of the problem of what he called “the unprecedented rate of loss of marine biodiversity.” Because, of course, we are not just talking about the exploitation of the mineral resources that are known to be present in the seabed: manganese, cobalt and of course, oil. We are talking about the living organisms of the deep seas and the protection thereof; and the biodiversity of these areas is as rich as that on land.

Transparency, technology transfer and information-sharing among nations (especially between developed and developing countries) is also desirable, although it may be harder to achieve. That, at least, is what CARICOM nations are working towards including in the Implementing Agreement.

This is a lovely photo from Dr. Peter Edward’s page on the NOAA website. The Jamaican is a natural resource economist for the NOAA Office of Habitat Conservation in Maryland, USA. (Photo: NOAA website)

So what was on the agenda for the two-day workshop? Well, among other topics, Dr. Karl Aiken of the Department of Life Sciences at the University of the West Indies gave an overview of the high seas resources of the Caribbean; and legal advisor at the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Thomas Greiber discussed Marine Genetic Resources. Other participating scientists were Jamaican environmental consultant Peter Espeut; High Seas Policy Advisor at the IUCN Kristina Gjerde, who talked about Capacity Building and Technology Transfer; and Dr. Peter Edwards, a Jamaican Marine Analyst and Consultant to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) based in Maryland, who discussed Environmental Impact Assessments. All the CARICOM states were represented except for Haiti, Dominica and St. Lucia, who were unable to attend this time.

The Deputy Representative of Jamaica to the United Nations Shorna-Kay Richards chatting with us in Kingston recently. (Photo: Ann-Margaret Lim)

We had the pleasure of meeting Jamaica’s Deputy Representative to the United Nations, Shorna-Kay Richards, who dropped by to talk to us after the opening ceremony. She called the high seas the “last frontier” of exploration of our planet’s resources. The developed world has the technology, and there is a need for sharing that knowledge. The biological assets of the high seas have not been considered; for example, there may well be organisms containing properties that could be used for medicinal or other purposes. It’s all very technical stuff, she pointed out; but the important thing is that “CARICOM needs an active voice.”

The high seas of the world: The “last frontier” and the “common heritage of all mankind.”

If you would like to browse a little more for information on this topic, you might find the following websites handy:

http://www.isa.org.jm/en/home International Seabed Authority

http://www.un.org/Depts/los/convention_agreements/convention_overview_convention.htm UN Convention on the Law of the Sea

http://www.sids2014.org Third International Conference on Small Island Developing States 2014

http://www.pewtrusts.org Pew Charitable Trusts

http://highseasalliance.org/ High Seas Alliance

P.S. Next Sunday, June 8 is World Oceans Day 2014.

It’s been a humid week so far, quite oppressively so. I am thankful for this evening’s wonderful Qigong practice at Trueself Centre of Being, which saved me.

I could easily get addicted to Qigong…

Have we got carried away by our own hype? A former Panama Canal Authority official has a word of caution about the glorious planned logistics hub – at least, the transshipment port part of it, which would destroy and engulf part of the Portland Bight Protected Area around Goat Islands. “I think there is an over-expectation,” said Rodolfo Sabonge at a regional meeting. He said there will be far fewer, larger ships calling at one or maybe two ports in the region. Countries like Jamaica in the Western Caribbean may be “overdoing it,” Sabonge suggested, in terms of preparation, and will have to clearly state what they have to offer. Let’s just think about this.

Opposition Leader Andrew Holness actually got some fire in his belly today in Parliament. I want to see more of that. Hold the Government accountable!

A worrying exchange: An exchange between the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament this afternoon has to get a mention here - and not only because of the disturbing tone and body language. The Prime Minister’s responses to a series of questions from Andrew Holness were severely lacking in substance. Ms. Simpson Miller appeared at times surly and defensive, answering some important questions with one terse sentence or a casual throwaway. “No, capital NO!” she exclaimed in answer to one question. (Capital no?) She appeared to resent the Opposition Leader asking pertinent questions on the Energy World International débacle. (That is, the power plant that seemed almost within our grasp, but has now slipped away).

It was an embarrassing display from Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller in Parliament today. (Photo: Gleaner)

Why did the Government ignore the report of the Contractor General (CG)? asked Mr. Holness. The CG had specifically warned that procedures had been flouted – resulting in the Inter-American Bank withdrawing funding support for the project. “We disagreed with the report,” she said flatly. She deflected questions and accused Mr. Holness of “scoring political points” and “grandstanding” when he pressed his questions further. Eventually, the exasperated Mr. Holness (by this time quite red in the face) blurted out, “It is not your country alone…When are we going to pay attention to rules in this country?” When he asked a question about what had happened to EWI’s US$7 million bid bond, she told him he would need to put such questions in writing. The Energy Minister (who surely could have answered that question, if she really could not) sat quietly by his leader’s side, his gaze fixed somewhere close to the ceiling.

PetroCaribe consultancy halted: I am a little puzzled by a news story emerging today that a risk assessment of the PetroCaribe Fund has been halted, after the consultant hired for the purpose was fired. The reasons given were “possible copyright infringement” and the fact that his bona fides could not be confirmed. This is after he had already filed reports, etc. What on earth happened? Did they not check this consultant (from overseas?) before they hired him? Is this Minister Paulwell’s ministry again?

A man of the people: The Minister responsible for entertainment, Damion Crawford.  He says, by the way, that entertainment is the “industry of the poor” and “patois is the language of the revolution.”

Mr. Crawford talks some more: Let’s backtrack a little to the loquacious MP and State Minister Damion Crawford’s “controversial” speech to party supporters. In yet another speech (does he ever stop?) he apologized in a roundabout way; and gave what turned out to be an encouraging motivational talk. He talked about the “philosophy and the culture” of the People’s National Party – which is, in case you didn’t know, to give “every man a chance.” Mr. Crawford talks a lot about the “revolution” too – a revolution of the mind. Yes, agreed a change of political mindset is needed. And Mr. Crawford wants it to be “people time.” Yay for that, but I have heard pretty much the same thing out of the mouths of Jamaican politicians, young and old, over the past two or three decades now.  (Also, patois is the “language of the revolution.”) If you wish, you can listen to all 27 minutes of the speech (and so much more interesting stuff) on Nationwide News Network’s very useful Soundcloud page.

Lottery scammers unperturbed: Something has gone awry with the struggle against lotto scammers. I am not sure if it’s anyone’s fault, at all. The Ministry of National Security has made huge efforts. Legislation has been amended. But the problem seems intractable. The media has surmised that penalties are too light.

Chairman of the St James Ministers’ Fraternal Rev Glendon Powell, who was among church leaders who demonstrated outside the University of the West Indies this week. Note the angry frown. (Photo: Jamaica Observer)

Breathing through the nose: This is a regular part of my yoga class, and certainly one group of protesters is learning breathing techniques as they continue their support for Professor Brendan Bain outside the University of the West Indies. The self-appointed leader of the group (mostly fundamentalist Christians) Reverend Al Miller, says they will demonstrate every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. That’s a pretty busy duct-tape schedule; you might find the stuff in short supply at your local hardware store. I know, I am being flippant. They have every right to demonstrate; but they have simply got it all wrong. And I am quite sure – positive – that if the Bain issue did not involve the LGBT community, they would not be out there in the heat and dust. There is nothing that galvanizes the Church more than the terrifying “gay lobby.” (Reverend Miller is to go on trial next month on charges of aiding and abetting a fugitive, Christopher “Dudus” Coke).

“Working, working, working”: Please, dear Madam Prime Minister, could you kindly drop this phrase now? At first it was quite amusing. But you have used it so many times that it has surely worn thin. It is beginning to sound like an excuse for inaction when you are under pressure from questioners (as it did today).

Now I am “bigging up”…

Prize-winners from Chess Enterprise’s 15th annual Prep/Primary Schools Championship. First were Little People Prep/Linstead, second were Hillel Prep/Kingston and third was Jesse Ripoll Primary/Kingston. (Photo: Chess Enterprise/Facebook)

• A young man called Adrian, who over the years has been quietly building his Chess Enterprise club for young people. Now, chess is a mystery to me, so I am even more in awe of these young boys and girls who compete fiercely. I happen to know that Adrian is an excellent Maths coach, too. Chess is great mental training for young people.

A projection of Robin Moore’s photos and videos of Goat Islands on the Jamaican Embassy in Washington, DC on June 3. (Photo by Laura Johnston/Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund at Conservation International).

• Conservation photographer Robin Moore, whose photos and video from Goat Islands were projected on the Jamaican Embassy in Washington, DC, last night. It attracted a lot of attention and discussion!

•  Live at Seven on CVM Television, which hosted an interesting, civilized and often humorous conversation between a young Member of Parliament, Raymond Pryce and veteran Opposition parliamentarian Mike Henry. It was about whether age matters in political leadership – and, for once, neither made any attempt to score political points. ‘Twas enjoyable.

• Mr Sherold Philibert (a lovely name), CEO of SKDP Haulage & Distribution, who is stockpiling rubber tires for conversion into rubber asphalt to pave roads. This would be cheaper than the current asphalt we use, which only seems to last five minutes anyway. He is already set up to start exporting, and plans to recycle the tires for other products too. After the last fire at Riverton City dump, in which hundreds of tires caught fire and belched chemicals into our air, this is more than welcome.

Mr. Sherold Philibert and Marisa Dalrymple-Philibert discuss their tire recycling business. (Photo: Jamaica Observer)

Gospel singer Donnie McClurkin (left) with Minister of Health Dr Fenton Ferguson at the donation ceremony. (Photo: Lionel Rookwood/Jamaica Observer)

• American gospel singer Donnie McClurkin, who has donated over J$60 million worth of medical supplies to the MInistry of Health. An extremely generous donation and I am sure much needed in our public hospitals. Thank you, sir!

It’s always so sad to list the names of those murdered in Jamaica. Since my last post on Sunday, I have noted these names, and extend my sincere condolences. These are not numbers – these are PEOPLE. Meanwhile, the police are doing a good job of seizing firearms and ammunitions all across the island, and I hope they will keep it up.

David Wilson, 18, Slipe Road, Kingston

André Ennis, 17, Felix Fox Boulevard, Kingston

Two unidentified men, Arnett Gardens, Kingston

Victor Duncan, 69, Westbrook, St. Andrew

Azan Christie, Anchovy, St. James

Rupert Taylor, 49, Mandeville, Manchester

Marlon Dyke, 34, Billards River, Clarendon

When is a Jamaican not Jamaican? When he’s Jamaipanese. Actually, the young man in question is Kirk Brown. He’s a blogger with a difference.

The only Jamaipanese man I know was waiting for us outside the uptown Kingston office where he works. We picked him up and made our way downtown, to the National Gallery. My husband hung out in the café (their coffee is one of the best cups in Kingston) while Kirk gave me an informative guided tour of an exhibit called “Japan: Kingdom of Characters.”  The exhibit, sponsored by the Japan Foundation through the Japanese Embassy in Kingston, will be closing soon (with a cosplay party from 5:00 to 11:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 14 at the National Gallery of Jamaica).

Local group Cosplayaz JA were at the opening of the “Kingdom of Characters” exhibit at the National Gallery of Jamaica. (Photo: Jamaipanese.com)

This is Jamaipanese!

You see, Kirk is truly an expert. All will be revealed if you visit his blog (which you should): http://www.jamaipanese.com. Kirk is officially Jamaica’s longest-serving blogger, having started in February 2006; as such, he won a Blogger of the Year Award. When Kirk started blogging, “I was writing for myself for the first year or two,” he said. He did acquire a following in Eastern Europe. But the blog had a purpose. Kirk had developed a fascination with Japan and all things Japanese. In January 2010 he started saving, working his way towards a visit to Japan (quite a costly undertaking) using his blog as a platform. He earned money from his blog – “At times my earnings rivaled my day job” – through advertising. He obtained private sector funding – especially from Japanese companies, who provided him with a rail pass, Internet service and other practical support. He learnt Japanese. And he got to Japan, through sheer determination, in September 2011. Naturally, he blogged daily during his travels.

The seventh-century Okadera temple in Asuka, Nara prefecture, Japan. I actually remember this place.

Nara and Kyoto were two of the places he loved the best. I would concur. My memories of those two cities are almost dream-like now…Tall trees, peaceful shrines, stone gardens, Nara’s deer park.

The Japan visit was a natural progression from his lifelong love of cartoons (animé), video games and technology. He wanted to learn more about the country that had created this extraordinary fantasy world. So he started reading up on Japanese culture and history. One of the first things that struck him about Japan, he said, was its resilience. “How could this country that was bombed to bits in World War II make such an amazing recovery?” wondered Kirk. “Look at the 1964 Olympics in Tokyo,” he observed with obvious admiration. “It was one of the most well-run Olympic games ever. And it said to the world, ‘We are here. We have come out of the ruins.’” 

Astro Boy was the creation of famous manga illustrator Osamu Tezuka back in 1952. With his chubby face, huge round eyes and rocket-propelled feet, he was both lovable and a fierce crusader for peace.

One of the symbols of this period of renewal, Kirk told me, was Astro Boy (or Tetsuwan Atom – Mighty Atom). The animé emerged in 1963 (so he was there for the Olympics) and was an instant hit. A robot with the body of a child, Astro Boy started life as a manga character (a manga is a hand-drawn cartoon or comic). “Most animé start out as manga,” Kirk told me. I asked him if the Japanese comics were influenced by the likes of DC and Marvel Comics in the United States in the early days. “Japanese manga developed alongside American comics in the 1950s and 1960s,” he told me. The heroic characters emerged from the war years, as expressions of hope and renewal – but in very different cultural forms.

Ultraman in the manga, fighting good old Godzilla (who keeps making a comeback).

After Astro Boy, we moved on to meet Ultraman. He hails from a distant planet and “he gets bigger,” as Kirk put it, when his enemies turn up (the enemies being mostly ghosts and monsters). Ultraman is pretty straightforward stuff: “He’s about good vs evil,” said Kirk. The television series – one of the first broadcast in color in Japan – was enormously successful. Oh, by the way, have you heard of Godzilla? He has been resurrected in film again recently. Well, Ultraman fought him, too. Remember, he can expand in size. No big deal.

We moved along to the seventies, a vibrant period for Japanese “characters.” Now, at this point I should actually explain that I myself lived in Japan for nearly three years in the seventies, and vividly remember the monster shows on my small television, sitting on the tatami matted floor of my tiny apartment. I found these shows hilarious and somewhat addictive, interspersed rather incongruously with regular episodes of “Sesame Street” dubbed into Japanese.

When she was first launched, I don’t remember Hello Kitty being so…pink.

So, I remember well when Hello Kitty hit the Tokyo department stores; it was 1974. She caught on fast and she is absolutely huge to this day. “Many Japanese grew up with Hello Kitty,” Kirk reminded me. She is a round-faced white cat with a red bow on one ear, no mouth, and a completely expressionless face. She was (and still is) a brand, created  by a marketing firm called Sanrio. Hello Kitty is a kawaii (cute) character, and she was “born” in…London! In 1970s Japan, Britain was very much in vogue, for some reason. Being British myself, I think I benefited from this when living there; I taught English to businessmen, housewives, factory workers and kindergarten children with a British accent. Anyway, you can find Hello Kitty at http://www.hellokitty.com.

The Hello Kitty bedroom at the exhibit would give me nightmares if I had to sleep in it. (Photo: jamaipanese.com)

Hello Kitty is rather unusual, because she is a huge merchandising phenomenon. At the exhibit there was a bedroom furnished with Hello Kitty paraphernalia: clocks, bedspreads, balloons, dolls, bags, pictures, calendars, cushions etc. The predominant color was – yes, you’ve guessed it, pink. On the website you will find clothing for women, teens, children and babies. You can buy a Hello Kitty case for your iPhone, and Hello Kitty luggage. And so on, and on. I’ve just discovered that people have Hello Kitty weddings!

How about getting married in a Hello Kitty wedding dress? Pink, of course.

Victory Gundam.

OK, so Hello Kitty is a bit extreme. Let’s get back to the regular stuff. Mobile Suit Gundam, for example. When I asked Kirk what his favorite character was, he admitted a great fondness for Gundam. The animated television series premiered in 1979, and started a new trend. Gundam is futuristic, the stuff of science-fiction movies. It is more sophisticated than the good guy/bad guy scenarios of the fifties and sixties, and this appeals to Kirk. “There are deeply overlapping stories in Gundam,” he told me, “and adult, complex themes.” He hastened to point out to me that Gundam is “a peacemaker” among warring interplanetary colonies.

A scene from Gundam Wing. Something pretty intense is going on here.

When I saw Gundam at the exhibit he reminded me of Transformers – and he was an influence. Gundam remains very popular, with many different versions, television series, video games and tons of merchandising too. Kirk prefers the “more classic Gundam,” but he does like one which emerged in the 1990s, Gundam Wing.

By the way, among the more modern stuff, Kirk also recommends the manga and graphic novels called “Fullmetal Alchemist,” first published in 2001. It’s the story of  two brothers’ search for the philosopher’s stone. And then of course, in the 1990s, there was the well-known Pokémon, which made its appearance as a video game for Nintendo’s Game Boy console in 1996. Pokémon is a collection of cute animals with “special powers” - rather like cuddly X-Men.

Pikachu is an adorable…rodent, of some sort, I think.

Generally, though, Kirk has traditional tastes.  “It has become more commercialized,” he told me, “less of an art. Nowadays it is the rehashing of old ideas, making them more modern.” He prefers the originals. Is the manga/animé form of cultural expression running out of ideas?

Creepy Sento-kun in a Nara store. No, I wouldn’t like to meet him on a dark night.

He also has mixed feelings about the assimilation of characters into every facet of Japanese life. There are characters everywhere. Some are not very well-designed and have been complete failures. For example, the Japanese Government gave each prefecture (like a parish or state) a character of its own, a mascot.  The character for Nara prefecture is called Sento-kun. He is a Buddhist monk with antlers on his head (reflecting the famous temples and Nara’s deer park). Religious people were unhappy and Nara residents in general reacted negatively, calling poor Sento-kun “kimochi warui” (literally “bad feeling” - or creepy, unpleasant). 

For collectors, the world of manga/animé is a rich landscape. The National Gallery  exhibit included some beautifully detailed figures in glass cases. This is another aspect of Japanese culture; I vividly recall collections of richly dressed traditional dolls in similar glass cases, proudly displayed in people’s homes. And they were expensive, too.

A collection of figurines at the exhibit. (Photo: jamaipanese.com)

What is the significance of the animé, I asked Kirk? “The animé is how the Japanese express their cultural concerns,” he told me. “The same animé – the same story or character – can appeal to a ten-year-old or a forty-year-old. They are getting different messages, at different levels.” I found this somehow touching. Housewives have their favorite characters; so do teenage girls. Businessmen (salarymen as they are called) have their favorite manga that they read during their commute to work. The characters reassure them; they are predictable and safe. Perhaps, in some way, they help the Japanese people find their way through the stress of modern society. Almost like guides, companions.

Jamaipanese with his favorite, Gundam, at the exhibition opening. (Photo contributed by Kirk Brown)

So what of the future for Kirk “Jamaipanese” Brown? He has just completed his second year studying IT at the University of Technology (did I mention that he also co-administers a tech blog, http://www.GEEZAM.com ?) On the tenth anniversary of his Jamaipanese blog – February 2016 – he hopes to have a book out. He would like to do more work with the younger generation of Jamaicans. What advice would he give to a Jamaican teen, I asked him? “Don’t stick in your shell. Don’t stay in a limited mindset. Jamaica is very small. Get out there and explore!” He also worries about the “instant gratification” culture. Persistence and patience are important assets for young people (Kirk is a perfect role model in that respect).

And of course, he is planning another trip to Japan in 2016. I hope he will take me in his suitcase…

I would like to thank Jamaipanese for being my personal guide and companion through the dream-like world of this fascinating exhibit – which may be coming to a city near you in the future. Look out for it, and get to know the characters. Get to know Japan!

“Magical girls”: Sailor Moon is a popular anime, developed from a 1992 manga magazine. Women have their place in the anime world – although often over-sexualized, they are usually empowered and empowering.

An evening of poetry at Bookophilia, our friendly neighborhood bookstore, is always an interesting experience. Earlier this evening, poets had to contend with the Friday night traffic, which roared behind us on busy Hope Road. Scottish poet Rab Wilson read one poem to the accompaniment of a stentorian car alarm, whose regular blasts provided a kind of counterpoint rhythm. He seemed to enjoy it. And somehow, I take pleasure in hearing literature out there in the hot evening air, when it really hasn’t cooled down enough to make any difference and when the city is still restless. By the time I left, it had quieted down a little. A humid half-moon was up.

Roland Watson-Grant, the only prose writer at this evening’s event, read from his novel “Sketcher” which is published by Alma Books.

Unfortunately, I arrived a little late. And Bookophilia events always start on time, which is admirable. Roland Watson-Grant was already reading from his debut novel “Sketcher,” published by Alma Books. The protagonist is a young boy called Skid, growing up in a swamp near New Orleans. It was only afterwards that I realized that Mr. Watson-Grant himself grew up in something resembling a swamp – the district of New Haven on the outskirts of Kingston. I recall one visit there and found it so neglected that I blogged about it, rather harshly. Probably no one should be living there. I wish I had sat down and talked to the author about how he became a poet. Was it an escape?

Philippa “Saffron” Sauterel sat at a table to read. Her poetry seems to half-unlock mysteries. The other half is for you to figure out.

The beautiful Philippa Sauterel (her stage name is Saffron) was concerned that one or two of her poems might be a little too “adult,” and wondered if there were any children in the audience. There was only one – her son. He was sitting next to me, and seemed unperturbed. But he and I were somewhat distracted by a large flying insect, which landed on the stage, climbed the microphone cable resting on the white tablecloth – but abruptly departed when Saffron laughed coolly and waved her hand. “It’s the tropics,” she said.

Raymond Mair’s reading had an air of nostalgia.

A long-standing member of the Poetry Society of Jamaica, Raymond Mair has a wonderfully resonant reading voice. He read from his 2012 collection “Shards of Remembering.” An air of nostalgia pervaded the poems he read, with touches of gentle, wry humor. I loved “Saturday Funeral” and “Cuban Love Song.”

Ann-Margaret Lim read from her “The Festival of Wild Orchid” published by Peepal Tree Press, plus one or two new poems.

Ann-Margaret Lim seemed to read her poetry from a position of inner strength and passion. She has grown tremendously in her interpretation and the actual performance of her poems; some that I was familiar with from her collection “The Festival of Wild Orchid” sounded quite different than when I had heard her read them before. Her voice was stronger, with a kind of flowing, urgent strength. The audience fluttered appreciatively, and so did I.

Millicent Graham is the instigator/founder of The Drawing Room Project, a creative venture that nurtures new Jamaican writers.

Millicent “Toni” Graham read from her two collections of poetry, published by Peepal Tree Press: “The Damp in Things” (2009) and “The Way Home,” recently published. In contrast to her gentle, almost shy demeanor, you immediately trip over brilliant images and strong emotions in her work. I love the poem “Dawn,”  which is so evocative of morning in the city of Kingston. I am indebted to Millicent for reawakening my interest in poetry – and especially for her Drawing Room Project, which nurtures young writers and explores the nature of inspiration and collaboration.

Scottish poet Rab Wilson is a former miner and worked as a mental health nurse for many years.

I don’t think I have ever heard the cadences of the Scots language in Jamaica. Not ever. Rarely, even, a regular Scottish accent. And yet, as Rab Wilson pointed out, there are more Campbells in the Jamaican phone book than there are in the Scottish one.  He began his reading with the Scottish national poet, Robbie Burns, in whose long shadow every Scottish poet lives. “Tae the Mouse” is the somewhat plaintive tale of a mouse who, unfortunately, did not escape the sudden arrival of a plough. His life was literally turned upside down. Mr. Wilson also read from a rather interesting book that I would like to get my hands on, a collection of poetry in Scots, inspired by the all-encompassing Mr. Burns. A triptych of poems about the mental health patients that he used to care for was haunting and (in the third poem) triumphantly funny.

I am not sure that the audience understood much of the language – I found it difficult at times, as I am not so accustomed to the many regional dialects and accents of the UK, any more – and Scots is really a different language altogether. But we delighted in its musicality and richness, and we enjoyed Mr. Wilson’s open humor and his generosity of spirit. He really seemed to appreciate Jamaicans’ love of poetry.

We ended happily with Mr. Watson-Grant doing an on-the-spot quiz for giveaways – signed copies of his novel and T shirts. One book went to a young woman called Kacy, who is working on a poetry collection. Saffron won a T shirt. Many of us retired to the cool interior of Bookophilia, where the smell of coffee wafted through the air. Much chatting and enjoyment ensued, while Ann-Margaret’s daughter Kayla slept deeply and peacefully in the children’s section.

Roland Watson-Grant chats with a book-buyer while autographing his novel inside Bookophilia.

By the way, this was a little “braata”  from the Calabash International Literary Festival, which took place last weekend by the warm seas of Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth. It’s every two years now. I missed it this year, but do not intend to miss it again. 

Orchid and poems.

I had planned a post for World Oceans Day today – it did not materialize. I hope some Jamaicans celebrated it by doing something for our beautiful Caribbean sea. Well, if not today, then from now onwards. It is far, far more important to us than we may think…

All at sea: From my treasured photos of our trip to Goat Islands last September.

Gender-based violence: The Sunday Gleaner took on the ongoing tragedy of domestic violence in Jamaica for its front page. So far this year at least 24 Jamaicans have been killed by their spouses and at least 39 cases of assault related to domestic violence have taken place – but these are only the cases that have come to the police. Violence against women is far more deep-rooted and widespread than these numbers suggest. I don’t know what the male psychologist is trying to say about violence “on the women side” being on the increase, but agree with the 51% Coalition’s Judith Wedderburn that “it comes down to an issue of power.”

Judith Wedderburn (far left) with Linnette Vassell, Brenda Wyss and Dorothy Whyte at a 51% Coalition event last year. (My photo)

Sunk to a new low: The Sunday Observer took its homophobia a step further this weekend. This is their front page today, with an inside story by Karyl Walker (who edits their crime desk) adding one more layer of bigotry to the newspaper’s “coverage.” Yes, gays are criminals, too! Wearing pink lipstick. But hey, maybe this disproves your belief, Mr. Walker et al, that gays are so “different.” They can be gunmen too like the heterosexuals!  Welcome them to the club!

The front page of today’s “Sunday Observer.” Congratulations to the editors and to reporter Karyl Walker – a new low has been reached.

Giorgio Valentini is the World Bank Country Representative for Jamaica, Guyana, Trindad and Tobago and Suriname. He made some interesting comments on Jamaica recently – including the suggestion that the Jamaican mindset is too insular; he sees this in the tourism and agricultural sectors in particular, he says, where players are unwilling to work together for the common good. We really must “think global” (and act global?), Mr. Valentini said.

World Bank representative Giorgio Valentini.

“Curry” in a bad state: Coronation Market (nicknamed “Curry”) in downtown Kingston, the largest market in the English-speaking Caribbean, is in very poor shape indeed, I hear. Talk show host and Senator Marlene Malahoo Forte recently hosted an outside broadcast from the market; every vendor had a complaint about poor conditions, lack of sanitary conveniences, etc. Walking round the market later, the good Senator was shocked by the appalling conditions – stinking garbage (mostly vegetable matter) in piles, and even two homeless men who live there – one apparently near death. Her description has put me off ever going to shop there.

About three years ago Digicel Foundation pumped millions of dollars into the renovation of about one third of the two-acre site. “Even the greatest cynic, I think, would be impressed with the new Coronation Market,” said the then Town Clerk. Well, we are cynical now… Can’t the National Solid Waste Management Agency (NSWMA) at least clear the garbage? Hardly the “tourist attraction” Digicel Foundation envisaged.

Renovation under way at Coronation Market in October, 2010. (Photo: Christopher Serju/Gleaner)

Talking of the NSWMA, I have over two weeks’ worth of garbage outside my gate waiting in vain to be collected. I understand they have “problems.”

The March 2013 fire at the Wyndham Kingston Hotel. (Photo: Gleaner)

Kingston is getting a new hotel: While the Wyndham (former Hilton) Hotel in Kingston remains closed after a fire  on March 14, 2013, (and workers protest outside that they have not received payment) its future remains uncertain. Meanwhile, a new 130-room Marriott Courtyard Hotel is shooting up on the other side of Emancipation Park – less than half the size of the Wyndham, which had been up for auction just before the fire. As they say, “what’s up” with the Wyndham?  

An uncomfortable story: Clearly at a loss for a real news story, RJR News this week led one of its evening newscasts with a report that a prisoner at Kingston’s Constant Spring police lockup will have to undergo surgery to remove a cell phone from his rectum. So this is the best we can do for news?

Prime Minister the Most Hon. Portia Simpson Miller holds aloft a replica of a ship crafted by a resident of Majesty Gardens, in her South West St. Andrew constituency. Mrs. Simpson Miller received the gift after addressing the launch of the Majesty Gardens Community Development Education Programme on June 5.

The majesty of Majesty Gardens: 150 adult residents of the Prime Minister’s favorite slum, which goes by the gorgeous name of Majesty Gardens, are to benefit from an “empowerment program,” which will basically teach them to read and write as well as “life skills.” What a sad reflection on this impoverished area of South West St. Andrew (Kingston) – a constituency that Portia Simpson Miller has represented for some three decades, now. But the Prime Minister says she is “proud” of being able to help the “most vulnerable among us” - that is, her beloved poor. Meanwhile, CVM Television ran a biting report on the PM’s visit, focusing on a veritable cobweb of wires over the heads of the dignitaries and accompanying police guards – illegal connections to the Jamaica Public Service Co. Did you look up, Madam Prime Minister?

Minister of Science, Technology, Energy and Mining, Hon. Phillip Paulwell (centre), in discussion with Managing Director, ATL Group of Companies, Danville Walker (left), and Business to Business Sales General Manager, Panasonic Latin America, Rafael Linares, during the ATL/Panasonic Energy Forum in Kingston on Wednesday, June 4. (Photo: JIS)

“The top Caribbean country in renewables”:  Energy Minister Phillip Paulwell has pronounced that Jamaica will be tops in the next few years. But I have only heard him mention renewable energy as an afterthought in his public speeches. And I am actually becoming a little wary of this Minister’s grand announcements (understandably, right?) But the Minister says Jamaica will have an additional 78 MW of renewable energy from two wind projects (58 MW) and solar (20 MW). We already have 50 MW of wind and hydropower, he says. Three bidders have been selected for the three projects, and let’s hope all the t’s are crossed and i’s dotted in respect of the bidding process. Please, Minister Paulwell!

Smoke and mirrors? A telling article by Gordon Robinson (a lawyer and columnist) suggests we have all been duped. No, Minister Paulwell has not been removed from the power plant bidding process, as we perhaps thought. He has been brought in again by a side door by the Prime Minister, who has made it clear that the Minister will still be involved and “is more in charge of the power plant project than before he messed it up. A politically appointed committee for whom nobody voted; not created by any act of Parliament; and nobody can hold accountable will join together with the Minister to wrest the process from the arms of the independent, lawfully constituted authority.” I’m quoting Mr. Robinson there from his Sunday Gleaner column.

The air we breathe: I have commented on this frequently before, but a relative of ours who lives on the lower slopes of Red Hills showed me a photo of the view every morning from her house. There was a thick layer of smog across the city – more intense on her side, which is closer to the Riverton City dump – but continuing right across to the other side of the city. I must get that photo from her. Down in our house in the middle of town, we cannot see it. But I can smell the pollution in the air sometimes. Has NEPA (or anyone) done a reading of the air quality recently in Kingston? What are we taking into our lungs? Our relative also says that many of her neighbors burn garden waste – a persistent habit of Jamaicans, although our neighbors are not so bad these days – polluting the atmosphere further and contributing to global warming.

At this rate we will soon be wearing oxygen masks!

Meanwhile, booths are fully booked out at the Jamaica Alternative Energy Expo at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel (June 23 and 24, admission free). I have a feeling the place will be packed!

My deepest condolences to the families who are grieving the deaths of…

Keith Blackstock, 42, Mocho, Clarendon

David Waugh, 16, and Tafari Mitchell, 23, in Bryan’s Crescent, Clarendon (both shot dead by licensed firearm holder)

Ramon Alexis Brissett, 26, Rock District, Trelawny (Haitian national)

Congratulations to…

• The Jamaica Constabulary Force, who captured a most-wanted alleged gangster on Thursday; he had run away from West Kingston to Westmoreland. The important thing is that not a shot was fired during his capture. Police say Ryan “Little Blacks” Bembridge was responsible for much of the recent violence in the area. Congrats to the police, job well done. I understand, too, that some progress is being made with the “lotto scammers” – over 100 charged this year.

Mrs. Sonia Rowe, Director at the Pringle Home for Children and Mr. Leroy Anderson, Director at the Jamaica National Children’s Home ( left) collect cheques, valued at US$2,812.80 each, at the Foreign Ministry’s New Kingston address.

• The Jamaican Embassy in Japan, which recently donated nearly US$3,000 each to the United Church-Pringle Home for Children in Carron Hall, St. Mary and the Jamaica National Children’s Home in Papine, Kingston. The money was collected through the Japan-Latin American and Caribbean Ladies’ Association’s activities.

Organizers teach onlookers about our protected crocodiles at the “Croc Fair” at Hope Zoo yesterday. (Photo: NEPA/Facebook)

• The National Environment & Planning Agency (NEPA) and especially young Ricardo Miller for organizing “My Croc Adventure and Enviro Fair” at the Hope Zoo at the end of National Environment Week yesterday. Sadly I was unable to go at the last minute, but I hear it was a great success. The aim of the Fair was “to sensitize the general public about the endangered American Crocodile in Jamaica” noting that “in recent years the crocodile population on the island has undergone a rapid decline due to habitat loss, poorly planned developments and wanton killings.”

• All those who supported and participated in the Jamaica Environment Trust’s week-long fund-raising effort – a series of “get fit and go green” sessions at several gyms (and my yoga place, TrueSelf Centre of Being). I hope JET raised lots of money for its ongoing programs as well as the #savegoatislands campaign.

On the road: The amended Road Traffic Act is due to be passed (hopefully) in the next two months; it will include much tougher penalties for traffic offenses, including speeding/dangerous driving. It can’t come a moment too soon, as the carnage on our roads continue. I am glad Vice Chair of the National Road Safety Council Dr. Lucien Jones agrees with my belief that the vast majority of road accidents are caused by SPEEDING. 141 Jamaicans have died on the roads between January 1 and June 6 – an increase over the 125 for the same period in 2013. Meanwhile, there were two hit-and-run accidents, among several other deaths on the road: 54-year-old Ralph Chambers was hit off his pedal bike and killed on the Windsor Heights main road on Saturday, and 76-year-old Evelyn Nicholson died after being hit by a motorcycle as she tried to cross Passage Fort Drive in St. Catherine on Friday.

Dr. Lucien Jones, Vice-Chairman, National Road Safety Council – Gleaner file photo

A religious protester outside the University of the West Indies. I am still not clear what God has to do with the dismissal of Professor Brendan Bain. (Photo: Gleaner)

Our friends at the UN Environment Programme – the Caribbean Environment Programme based here in Kingston – have a major focus: our beautiful Caribbean Sea. On World Environment Day, UNEP-CEP announced that it will be producing the first-ever report on the state of our marine environment here in the Caribbean. A meeting is currently under way in Nicaragua to discuss the worrisome issue of marine pollution. It’s good to note, also, that UNEP-CEP is also revamping its communication and outreach efforts. So expect to see much more of them in social media!

Nelson Andrade Colmenares (right) makes a point at a UNEP-CEP press briefing. Listening in are UNEP’s Christopher Corbin and Alessandra Vanzella-Khouri. (My photo)

Date: June 9, 2014

UNEP CEP TO DEVELOP FIRST REGIONAL STATE OF THE MARINE ENVIRONMENT REPORT FOR THE CARIBBEAN SEA

Kingston, Jamaica, June 6, 2014 – As countries “Raised their Voices and Not the Sea Level” in celebration of World Environment Day, and commemorated World Oceans Day under the theme “Together We Have the Power to Protect the Oceans”, UNEP’s Caribbean Environment Programme has committed to develop the first State of Marine Environment Report for the Caribbean Sea.

Nelson Andrade Colmenares, Coordinator of the Kingston-based UNEP office, which also serves as Secretariat to the Cartagena Convention for the Protection and Development of the Caribbean Sea, highlighted that “The development of such a report will be critical to obtain a better understanding of the current status of our coastal and marine resources, to identify trends as well as new threats”. The UNEP CEP has been based in Jamaica for the past 27 years working with many partners to protect and sustain the Caribbean Sea and the goods and services which it provides for the people of the Wider Caribbean Region.

The sustainable development of the Wider Caribbean Region will require improved management of the region’s fragile marine resources and according to Andrade, “reliable and credible scientific data and information will be an invaluable decision-making tool, and assist in the evaluation of the effectiveness of existing national policies, laws and regulations.”

The first State of Marine Environment Report for the Caribbean will build upon efforts by many regional agencies, projects and partners who have been working with UNEP CEP for the protection and development of the Wider Caribbean Region. The detailed content and approach will be discussed at an upcoming meeting of regional technical and scientific experts to be held in Nicaragua from June 10^th to 13^th who will be discussing a range of issues relating to the pollution of the marine environment.

The Caribbean Environment Programme is one of the UNEP’s Regional Seas Programmes, which celebrates its 40th Anniversary this year – International Year for SIDS. More than 143 countries participate in the 13 Regional Seas Programmes globally and it has emerged as an inspiring example of how to implement a regional approach to protecting the coastal and marine environment while effectively managing the use of natural resources.

Mr. Christopher Corbin, Programme Officer with responsibility for Pollution at the UNEP CEP office, outlined that as the Secretariat begins the development of this regional report, new communication and outreach materials have also been developed that will be launched on World Oceans Day this year. These include a new website (www.cep.unep.org) and a new Video that showcases the value of the Caribbean Sea, major sources and impacts of pollution and the benefits of regional agreements such as the Cartagena Convention and the Protocol Concerning Pollution from land-based Sources and Activities (LBS Protocol).

Poor land use and agricultural practices and the lack of effective wastewater and industrial treatment contribute a range of pollutants such as sediment, fertilizers, pesticides, heavy metals, pathogens, oil and nutrients directly or indirectly into the Caribbean Sea. Pollution not only poses threats to human health but can negatively impact on coral reefs which provide USD 375 million in goods and services annually to coastal economies through activities such as tourism, fisheries and maritime transportation.

These new communication and outreach efforts along with the increased use of social media such as Facebook and Twitter will ensure that information on the marine environment is not only used to improve national and regional decision-making but to improve awareness of why we need to protect the Caribbean Sea and its vulnerable yet valuable resources.

For further information please contact, Miss Pietra Brown ,United Nations Volunteer-Communications Officer , at UNEP CEP by telephone: +876-922-9267-9,Fax:+876- 922-9292, Email: pb@cep.unep.org.Also, feel free to visit the website at: http://www.cep.unep.org, our Facebook page at UNEP-Caribbean Environment Programme and out Twitter @UNEP_CEP.

 About UNEP’s Caribbean Environment Programme (CEP)

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) established the Caribbean Environment Programme (CEP) in 1981 under the framework of its Regional Seas Programme. It was developed taking into consideration the importance and value of the Wider Caribbean Region’s fragile and vulnerable coastal and marine ecosystems, including an abundance ofmainly endemic flora and fauna.

A Caribbean Action Plan was adopted by the Countries of the Wider Caribbean Region (WCR) and that led to the development and adoption of the Cartagena Convention on 24 March 1983. This Convention is the first regionally binding treaty of its kind that seeks to protect and develop the marine environment of the WCR. Since its entry into force on 11 October 1986, 25 of the 28 Wider Caribbean Region countries have become contracting parties.

The Convention is supported by three Protocols:

• Protocol concerning Cooperation in combating Oil Spills, which entered into force on October 11, 1986;
• Protocol concerning Specially Protected Areas and Wildlife (SPAW), which entered into force on June 18, 2000;
• Protocol concerning Pollution from Land-based sources and activities (LBS), which entered into force on August 13, 2010.

In addition, each Protocol is served by a Regional Activity Centre (RAC). These centres are based in Curacao (Regional Marine Pollution Emergency Information and Training Centre for the Wider Caribbean, RAC/REMPEITC) for the Oil Spills Protocol; in Guadeloupe (RAC/SPAW RAC for the SPAW Protocol and in Cuba, Centre of Engineering and Environmental Management of Coasts and Bays and in Trinidad & Tobago, theInstitute of Marine Affairs, both for the LBS Protocol. As they endeavour to protect the Caribbean Sea and sustain our future, we look forward to their continued effort to preserve our Caribbean Sea by facilitating the implementation of the Cartagena Convention and its Protocols in the Wider Caribbean Region. 

The Regional Coordinating Unit (UNEP-CAR/RCU), established in 1986, serves as the Secretariat to the Cartagena Convention and is based in Kingston, Jamaica.

To find out more about the UNEP CAR-RCU and the SPAWProtocol, please visit the www.cep.unep.org

Rainbow over Grenada, from the sea. (My photo)

Who, what and where is the Jamaican diaspora?

It’s a funny word, that used to have a line underneath it when I typed it in a document, as if it wasn’t real. But the Jamaican diaspora, wherever it may find itself, is very real, indeed. Real people living real lives, working, raising families…and cherishing a heartfelt love for the island, whether they were born there or not.

The word “diaspora” comes from the Greek, meaning a “scattering.” In the 21st century, this scattering is commonplace. My brother (in Australia) and I (in Jamaica) are really members of the UK diaspora, if you like. An estimated 215 million people globally live outside their country of birth. As far as Jamaica is concerned, with a population of just under three million, there are 1.8 million living in the United States (by far the largest diaspora); 650,000 in the United Kingston; and 300,000 in Canada. At a press briefing yesterday to launch the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Diaspora Mapping Project, State Minister Arnaldo Brown suggested that these numbers are quite conservative. There are also communities throughout the Caribbean, Central and South America and Europe.

(l-r) Director of Diaspora and Consular Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Lloyd Wilks; Minister of State Hon. Arnaldo Brown; and Programme Assistant at IOM Rukiya Brown. (Photo: Jamaica Information Service)

What is the aim of this project, which is supported by the UN International Organization for Migration (IOM)? The Jamaican Government sees it as another step in the direction of really connecting with the diaspora in a meaningful way that will bring results – largely, it is hoped, by contributing to Jamaica’s economic growth and development. As Minister Brown rightly noted, “Diasporas often coalesce around an issue” and for the Government, investment and trade is an important area of engagement and dialogue. It’s not a one-way street; the aim is also to empower diaspora members. There are many potential benefits for all. The Government has identified key growth areas as follows: logistics; agriculture; manufacturing; ICT; creative industries; energy and mining; and health and wellness tourism.

Well, the platform for all this is a website: http://www.mapjadiaspora.iom.int - which Minister Brown described as “long talked about, long overdue.” Kudos to the IOM for their major input in this clear and well laid out site, which the IOM’s Rukiya Brown – herself a young “returning resident” – guided us through. You will find a survey on the website. This is for individuals and diaspora groups – e.g. a Jamaica Birmingham Association, etc. The confidential survey seeks to determine the skills and experience of Jamaicans in the diaspora, and to get a sense of whether they are interested in and willing to contribute to Jamaica’s development in some way. On the other hand, it also seeks to determine the needs and concerns of Jamaicans living overseas. There is also a section for Returning Residents (that is, those Jamaicans who have returned to live on the island after living overseas) which is to be developed further but currently contains an information booklet.

Rukiya Brown of the International Organization on Migration (IOM) talks to Minister Arnaldo Brown. (Photo: Jamaica Information Service)

The survey will eventually form the basis of a diaspora database, to be administered by the Jamaica Diaspora Institute (headed by Professor Neville Ying). It will also have social media interfaces. As always with databases maintained by governments, one expects good guarantees of security, as with the survey itself.

Kudos are due to local corporate sponsors for the project: Jamaica National Building Society, Victoria Mutual Building Society, GraceKennedy, LIME and J Wray & Nephew. The Jamaica Tourist Board and JAMPRO have been key partners on the Government side. International partners the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have also provided technical and financial assistance for the Jamaican Government’s work with the diaspora, with the ongoing support of the diplomatic community in Jamaica – several of whom attended the press briefing and launch yesterday.

Last year, I commented in my blog that I wasn’t hearing much about the Government’s work with the diaspora; I’m now convinced that a lot of work has been quietly going on. The IOM is supporting the development of a Migration Profile document for Jamaica, besides the National Policy and Action Plan on Migration and Development (now in its final stages) and the Diaspora Policy. The Jamaica Diaspora Foundation and the Diaspora Institute are up and running.

(l-r)  Percival LaTouche, President of the Association for the Resettlement of Returning Residents; Canadian High Commissioner to Jamaica Robert Ready and Minister of State Arnaldo Brown chat at yesterday’s launch of the Diaspora Mapping Project. (Photo: Jamaica Information Service)

Percival Latouche, a returning resident and President , Association for Resettlement of Returning Residents.

By the way, the diaspora has contributed over US$2 billion in remittances to Jamaica in the past two years. This does not include the amazing charitable work, donations, personal gifts and outreach in Jamaica by many individuals and organizations. These visits are ongoing – almost every week – and I have often praised their generosity. We cannot doubt that remittances remain a huge part of the financial contribution of our diaspora though. As Minister Brown pointed out, this activity is not policy-directed, but “it does make a great difference in poverty alleviation in Jamaica and is reflected in our GDP.”

So, if you are a member of the Jamaican diaspora – wherever you are in the world – I urge you to fill out the survey form, get connected and get engaged. Do support the Jamaican Government as it aims to register a minimum of 100,000 people. There is strength in numbers!

By the way, the 4th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora UK Conference will take place in Edgbaston, Birmingham from June 13- 15. This week! So if you are a Jamaican living in the UK – why don’t you check it out, get in touch and go along to find out what is happening? More details at http://conference.jamaicandiasporauk.org.

As Jamaicans would say, “link up” ! The world is getting smaller, every day – one of those clichés which happen to be true.

Dr. Suzanne Palmer, a lecturer in coral reef ecology at the University of the West Indies, has received funding from the Waitt Foundation Rapid Ocean Conservation Grants Program to carry out an assessment of the coral reefs and marine nurseries within the Portland Bight Protected Area (PBPA).

Dr. Palmer and team are using the AGRRA (Atlantic Gulf Rapid Reef Assessment) method to assess the condition of coral reefs in the PBPA (corals, benthos, fish), together with the abundance and sizes of key fish species within associated marine nursery areas (seagrass beds and mangroves). The survey team comprises Dr. Suzanne Palmer, Sean Green, Loúreene Jones, Ivana Kenny, Achsah Mitchell, Kimani Kitson-Walters, Kayla Blake, Brandon Hay, Monique Curtis, and Yannique Ewers.

AGRRA Wreck Reef survey team at the Port Royal Marine Laboratory, UWI, Mona. Standing from left: Sean Green, Ivana Kenny, Achsah Mitchell, Dr. Suzanne Palmer, Kimani Kitson-Walters. Sitting: Kayla Blake. (Photo: Jamaica Environment Trust)

The proposed plan to establish a transshipment port within the largest protected area in Jamaica has created significant controversy nationally and internationally. Over the past 10 months there have been numerous reports, articles, and campaigns highlighting the ecological services and biodiversity of the Portland Bight Protected Area that would be at risk from the development. However, to date very little factual evidence has been presented on the marine ecosystem services of the PBPA. Dr. Palmer and her team adopt an evidence-based approach to answer the following research questions: What is the current condition of coral reefs within the PBPA? What is the abundance and average size of key fish species within the PBPA marine nursery areas? How healthy are contemporary coral reef ecosystems in the PBPA today and which ecosystem components are most sensitive to the proposed development?

Working with the Caribbean Coastal Area Management Foundation (C-CAM), Jamaica Environment Trust (JET), and Dr. Judith Lang (AGRRA Scientific Coordinator), Dr. Palmer and the team will disseminate results through a public pamphlet, a scientific report, community meetings, and a public conference. It is anticipated that the scientific assessment, photographs, and associated recommendations will raise public awareness and knowledge on the value of the marine ecosystem services of the PBPA.

Look out for updates and photographs from the project through Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/jamentrust
https://www.facebook.com/groups/ccamjamaica/?fref=ts

Contact:
Suzanne Palmer (University of the West Indies, Mona) suzanne.palmer@uwimona.edu.jm
Llewelyn Meggs (Jamaica Environment Trust) lmeggs.jet@gmail.com

Survey Team members Kimani Kitson-Walters (left) and Achsah Mitchell. (Photo: Jamaica Environment Trust)

It’s been miserably hot and dry in central Kingston this week so far. 32 degrees but feels hotter, and absolutely no sign of any rain. Sadly, since the fuss about the Meteorological Service of Jamaica’s Twitter account, they have not been tweeting very regularly. Perhaps you manage more than once a day, Met Office? Just saying – it being the hurricane season, and all…

Ummm… Well, as you can see, my household hasn’t quite decided which team we are supporting in the World Cup – but let’s say these are our Top Three. Our dog outside, meanwhile, is quite unconcerned…

Sports fever, but… World Cup fever has suddenly gripped Jamaica, and vendors in Kingston have been doing a brisk trade selling the flags of competing teams. I have spotted several Brazilian flags and a few from Argentina, Germany and the like fluttering from car windows as Jamaicans support their favorites. On the home front though, things have been a little dismal. Our Reggae Boyz football team was soundly walloped by France (8-0) last week. And today, New Zealand emphatically beat the West Indies cricket team by 186 runs in a first-ever win at Kingston’s Sabina Park. The next two test matches will take place in Trinidad (June 16-20) and Barbados (June 26-30). Well, at least Jamaica’s female athletes aren’t letting us down (see below).

Opposition Leader Andrew Holness. (Photo: Gleaner)

Bending the rules? The Opposition Jamaica Labour Party went on the offensive this week, after its leader’s quite unusual assertiveness in the Lower House last week while questioning the Prime Minister. Andrew Holness claims that the current People’s National Party administration is cleverly creating its own alternative system of governance, bypassing the rules and regulations. Is he right? Mr. Holness stated at a press briefing yesterday: “I have reached the point now where I cannot support the Electricity Sector Enterprise Team.” More to follow?

Contractor General Dirk Harrison (Photo: Jamaica Observer)

“Strengthening the OCG”?  In the December 20, 2011 televised Leadership Debate, Portia Simpson Miller pledged: “In terms of fighting corruption, I will not tolerate any form of corruption in a People’s National Party government and that’s why when I’m returned to power, as Prime Minister, I will ensure the strengthening of these institutions, like the Office of the Contractor General (OCG).”  Something has gone awry, hasn’t it? Why, this administration has already taken the OCG to court!

While it has created an enormous amount of environmental destruction, the bauxite sector is nevertheless a major employer in several rural communities and the closure of plants has resulted in considerable economic hardship in those communities.

Bauxite woes continue: Now the Managing Director of Bauxite Mining Limited Coy Roache, in remarks at a press briefing today, seemed to blame the OCG for somehow blocking the sale of the Jamaican Government’s seven per cent share in the WINDALCO mining interest to UC Rusal, resulting in an increased debt to Rusal -which now stands at US$21.5 million (the latter was quite a revelation, wasn’t it?) Well, Minister Paulwell has announced the sale of the Government’s share to the parent company for US$11 million, which will go towards the debt. In the same breath the Minister is reportedly “threatening” to revoke UC Rusal’s license if the company does not indicate to him when it will reopen the Alpart and Kirkvine plants. The Minister claims the bauxite sector is looking healthy and that other companies are interested, but is this so? UC Rusal itself, a couple of months back, declared losses of US$3.2 billion. Jamaica is only a small part of its operations. Are they really likely to reopen? Is the Minister in any position to threaten UC Rusal? Meanwhile, the closed plants will soon begin to fall into disrepair. But is this the cue for our knights in shining armor, the Chinese, to roll into town on their steeds? Now  Jamalco (majority owner is Alcoa) is forging ahead and acquiring new lands for mining in Manchester, but says it is not increasing capacity. Its output has improved marginally but is still way below 2009 figures. Hmm.

Businessman Richard Byles, who heads the Economic Programme Oversight Committee.

Energy anxiety: Once again, the chair of the private sector Economic Programme Oversight Committee (EPOC) Richard Byles has appeared on television with a strained look on his face as he stares down a long, shiny conference room table. Mr. Byles’ concern is – yes, you’ve guessed it – energy. Noting that “It’s seven years, about, that we have been bungling this in one way or another,” Mr. Byles points out these kind of shenanigans are not exactly going to inspire potential investors with confidence. As if we didn’t know that. Meanwhile, a manufacturer said on radio this morning that if electricity rates were considerably reduced in Jamaica there would be a flood of investment, with new factories opening.  If. Well, Minister Paulwell says this is what he is focused on – reducing rates “for the Jamaican people.” If that’s his priority, why is he making such a hash of it?

In very casual clothing, Dr Fritz Pinnock (foreground), executive director of the Caribbean Maritime Institute, addresses the touring party on Little Goat Island. (Photo: Gleaner)

Who is Mr. Cameron? A rather muddled report by Gary Spaulding (who is usually so good) about the Goat Islands issue certainly did “raise questions.” Minister Omar Davies’ chief mouthpiece on the issue, Fritz Pinnock, who heads the Caribbean Maritime Institute, took a group of reporters to Little Goat Island, to “prove” to them that the area is degraded, the Americans flattened it for a base in World War II, etc. Notably, Dr. Pinnock avoided the much larger, pristine Great Goat Island, which has been proposed as a special conservation area for critically endangered species and has been prepared for this use in recent years by national and international scientists – and with substantial national and international funding. Oh, the good Dr. Pinnock didn’t mention that? Nor did Mr. Spaulding, who did speak to a “veteran fisherman of Old Harbour Bay,“ Errol Cameron. Mr. Cameron claimed he had “worked with” the dreaded “environmentalists” for years; and proceeded to denigrate them. (He is a bit of a mystery. Said environmentalists don’t seem to know him!) But Mr. Cameron did admit that there were fish in the area. According to Dr. Pinnock, there are none. A more detailed report in the Jamaica Observer included Dr. Pinnock’s casual comment that Great Goat Island was just “a further amplification of the bush.” The report (including some silly comments from reporters) would be laughable if it wasn’t so sad.

IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde. (Photo: AP)

IMF head to visit Jamaica: The Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Christine Lagarde and a delegation will visit Jamaica on June 27-28. The IMF has so far been cautiously positive (if you know what I mean) about Jamaica’s performance to date under its stringent four-year régime. Will this visit simply be a nice pat on the back for Finance Minister Peter Phillips? God knows, we do need some good PR so some encouraging words from Mme. Lagarde would not go amiss, would they.

Special “big ups” to…

Elaine Duncan proudly holds her first place trophy during the GraceKennedy/Heather Little-White Household Worker of the Year awards ceremony held recently. (Photo: Gladstone Taylor/Gleaner)

• The GraceKennedy Household Helper of the Year, 42-year-old Elaine Duncan, who staggered under a huge trophy presented by the company. For those who don’t know, the “helper” is the stalwart supporter of Jamaica’s upper and middle classes, without which they would likely collapse: “unsung heroes” indeed, as GraceKennedy CEO Don Wehby observed. The award is named after Heather Little-White, a wonderful woman who passed away recently and was known for her support for domestic helpers.
• Ms. Kaliese Spencer, a terrific Jamaican hurdler who is in impressive form at the moment. She just won the women’s 400 metres hurdles at the Bislett Games in Oslo, Norway.

Jamaican hurdler Kaliese Spencer – in fine form.

An unidentified man was found with gunshot wounds in St. John’s Road, St. Catherine.

The police shot and killed an alleged car thief, Wayne Graham, in Eltham View also in St. Catherine.

A resident of Palmetto, James Brown, 26, was reportedly chopped to death by a mob in rural Woodside, St. Mary; he was accused of rape and several robberies in the area.

46-year-old contractor Owen Bunny (“Frenchie”) was shot and killed in Spanish Town by men on a motorcycle. 

A teacher of Business Studies at Excelsior High School, 40-year-old Nigel Riley, was found dead with his throat slashed on a football field near Old Harbour, St. Catherine.

My deepest sympathies to the families of all those who died violently in the past three days, listed above.

On our roads, the madness continues: A motorist reportedly overtook several cars before crashing at high speed on the Portmore leg of Highway 2000 this morning. His car actually broke up into several parts. The driver is in stable condition in hospital, very lucky to be alive. A motorcyclist on a rural road in Hanover died after overtaking a bus and crashing into an oncoming vehicle. His pillion passenger is seriously injured.

The scene of a motorcycle crash today near Green Island, Hanover.

This motor car burst into several parts after crashing earlier this morning on the Portmore Leg of Highway 2000. – (Photo: Gladstone Taylor/Gleaner)

It’s a complicated issue, and there are no easy answers. However, scientists, legal and conservation experts at a regional workshop for Caribbean Community (CARICOM) states on “the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity Beyond Areas of National Jurisdiction” (yes, a very long title) attempted to clarify key issues. The two-day workshop took place on May 20-21 in Kingston, with support from Pew Charitable Trusts and the High Seas Alliance.

SPAW Program Officer Alessandra Vanzella-Khouri at the Caribbean Environment Program (CEP) at a February, 2013 media briefing. In the background is Christopher Corbin, Program Officer for the Assessment and Management of Pollution program at the CEP. (My photo)

At the launch, the Program Officer for Specially Protected Areas and Wildlife (SPAW) at the United Nations Environment Programme – UNEP (the Caribbean Environment Programme is based in Kingston, as is the International Seabed Authority headquarters) told us that there are practically no areas of the Caribbean Sea that do not belong to any particular country. But elsewhere in the world there are vast marine areas that belong to no country at all. A few areas (in the Mediterranean and the NorthEast Atlantic, for example) have been declared protected or are under consideration for protection under different biodiversity conventions. More recently, the Abidjan Convention covering West and Central Africa began studying the possibility of similar actions. UNEP is urging greater collaboration within the region to address these issues.

This is marine biodiversity. (Photo: Mora Lab at the Department of Geography, University of Hawaii).

But which is more important – protecting the biodiversity of the “high seas” or seeking to exploit their wealth? It’s a tricky balance – if balance can, indeed, be found. Ambassador Eden Charles, Deputy Permanent Representative of Trinidad & Tobago to the United Nations, emphasized more than once that “a handful of states” as well as international private sector interests are already busy exploiting the resources of these areas. Some have apparently taken steps to establish patents on these resources. “CARICOM must stand up and be counted,” he declared. After all, the Law of the Sea Convention, which entered into force in 1982, embraces the principle that these areas of the sea that do not belong to any nation are “the common heritage of mankind.”

Ambassador Eden Charles. (Photo: United Nations)

Clearly, there are concerns. Ambassador Charles stressed the importance of an Implementing Agreement under the Law of the Sea Convention to govern and protect the high seas. Currently, no such legal framework exists. It’s pretty much a free for all. The UN will decide to open negotiations on this, and the negotiations may be challenging, one suspects. The aim of the workshop was to prepare CARICOM officials for these negotiations. “The scientists will tell the meeting what the resources are, and how they can be used sustainably,” Ambassador Charles told journalists, adding that the aim is to create greater awareness among CARICOM countries.

Secretary of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Arnaldo Brown. (Photo: Carib Journal)

To put all of this in a relevant timeframe, an intercessional meeting of the UN will take place in New York in June to discuss the parameters of this Implementing Agreement. The International Seabed Authority’s annual meeting comes up in July in Kingston. The Third International Conference on Small Island Developing States takes place in September, in Samoa. And post-2015, the United Nations is switching its focus to the Sustainable Development Goals; it is currently studying the establishment of these goals from the perspective of the Caribbean and other regions of the world.

Secretary of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Arnaldo Brown re-emphasized the “common heritage” principle and the need for “equitable distribution” of the resources of the deep seas. But, as chair of Jamaica’s National Council on Ocean and Coastal Zone Management, he is also very much aware of the problem of what he called “the unprecedented rate of loss of marine biodiversity.” Because, of course, we are not just talking about the exploitation of the mineral resources that are known to be present in the seabed: manganese, cobalt and of course, oil. We are talking about the living organisms of the deep seas and the protection thereof; and the biodiversity of these areas is as rich as that on land.

Transparency, technology transfer and information-sharing among nations (especially between developed and developing countries) is also desirable, although it may be harder to achieve. That, at least, is what CARICOM nations are working towards including in the Implementing Agreement.

This is a lovely photo from Dr. Peter Edward’s page on the NOAA website. The Jamaican is a natural resource economist for the NOAA Office of Habitat Conservation in Maryland, USA. (Photo: NOAA website)

So what was on the agenda for the two-day workshop? Well, among other topics, Dr. Karl Aiken of the Department of Life Sciences at the University of the West Indies gave an overview of the high seas resources of the Caribbean; and legal advisor at the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Thomas Greiber discussed Marine Genetic Resources. Other participating scientists were Jamaican environmental consultant Peter Espeut; High Seas Policy Advisor at the IUCN Kristina Gjerde, who talked about Capacity Building and Technology Transfer; and Dr. Peter Edwards, a Jamaican Marine Analyst and Consultant to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) based in Maryland, who discussed Environmental Impact Assessments. All the CARICOM states were represented except for Haiti, Dominica and St. Lucia, who were unable to attend this time.

The Deputy Representative of Jamaica to the United Nations Shorna-Kay Richards chatting with us in Kingston recently. (Photo: Ann-Margaret Lim)

We had the pleasure of meeting Jamaica’s Deputy Representative to the United Nations, Shorna-Kay Richards, who dropped by to talk to us after the opening ceremony. She called the high seas the “last frontier” of exploration of our planet’s resources. The developed world has the technology, and there is a need for sharing that knowledge. The biological assets of the high seas have not been considered; for example, there may well be organisms containing properties that could be used for medicinal or other purposes. It’s all very technical stuff, she pointed out; but the important thing is that “CARICOM needs an active voice.”

The high seas of the world: The “last frontier” and the “common heritage of all mankind.”

If you would like to browse a little more for information on this topic, you might find the following websites handy:

http://www.isa.org.jm/en/home International Seabed Authority

http://www.un.org/Depts/los/convention_agreements/convention_overview_convention.htm UN Convention on the Law of the Sea

http://www.sids2014.org Third International Conference on Small Island Developing States 2014

http://www.pewtrusts.org Pew Charitable Trusts

http://highseasalliance.org/ High Seas Alliance

P.S. Next Sunday, June 8 is World Oceans Day 2014.