Following a surge of public complaints regarding severe traffic disruptions, Water Minister Matthew Samuda has directed the National Water Commission (NWC) to conduct an immediate review of all active construction and emergency repair sites across the Corporate Area.
British High Commissioner to Jamaica, Alicia Herbert, is among those welcoming the decision by the Privy Council to waive fees for litigants and legal teams appearing before the UK-based court.
The High Commissioner’s comments follow the announcement of the new arrangement, which has been seen as a positive development for Jamaicans and other Commonwealth citizens whose matters come before the Privy Council.
“I warmly welcome the announcement of a free, streamlined process for visa applications for litigants and legal teams appearing before the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council. It is a positive step and responds to longstanding concerns raised by Jamaicans. I look forward to working with all relevant stakeholders to support its smooth implementation. This further reflects our shared commitment to supporting meaningful access to justice,” High Commissioner Herbert said.
Under the new process, once a JCPC hearing date has been confirmed, counsel will use the Court’s case management portal to identify those attending the hearing in person and indicate which participants require a visa.
The JCPC will confirm an applicant’s connection to the case and provide an invitation letter and further guidance on the visa application process.
Visa applications will continue to undergo the usual checks, and the UK Home Office may request additional information in some circumstances.
On Thursday, Foreign Minister Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, in welcoming the measure, noted that it comes amid longstanding discussions between Jamaica and the UK around the ability of litigants and their legal representatives to travel to the UK to participate in Privy Council proceedings.
Family members wishing to travel with their loved ones will be required to pay the usual visa fees.
Such a tragic story. I can’t believe something so serious happened over something as simple as hamburger buns.
YES sad indeed, let us continue to pray for the family members and friends left behind.