A crackdown on non-compliant businesses in Manchester is set to launch on October 1, as declared by Mandeville Mayor Donovan Mitchell.
The authorities, including the tax office, municipal police, building officers, and the Jamaica Constabulary Force, are fully committed to ensuring that businesses adhere to all regulations.
Mayor Mitchell noted that several barbers and hairdressers have not met critical requirements, with 13 of them visiting the municipal office last Tuesday while failing to satisfy the necessary standards.
He underscored the imperative for businesses, particularly bars, to fulfill specific requirements, such as providing designated areas for washing glasses and hands.
The crackdown is in response to public concerns about non-compliance at certain establishments. Its desired purpose is to protect public health within the parish.
Aside from enforcing hygiene regulations, the authorities make thorough tax compliance checks will be executed to guarantee that businesses meet their tax obligations.
Mayor Mitchell commented on the significance of proper registration for events and functions, which includes securing amusement licenses and obtaining council approval for billboards displayed in the town.
According to Mitchell, the compliance team will operate at full capacity starting October 1, prepared to enforce these regulations. And ensure that all businesses operate within the law.
Health and Wellness Ministry Urges Jamaicans: Lower Salt, Boost Potassium Intake.
Jamaicans are being urged by the Ministry of Health and Wellness to cut down on their salt intake.
This encouragement comes from the ministry’s National Committee on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCNCDs), following a recent study done with the University of the West Indies (UWI), which looked into the salt consumption of Jamaicans.
Professor Trevor Ferguson, the NCNCD Chairman and Director of UWI’s Epidemiology Research Unit, emphasized the importance of taking action to keep the population healthy based on these findings. Health and Wellness are important in every society.
The study found that, on average, Jamaicans eat 3.6 grams of salt each day, which is nearly twice the recommended amount.
Moreover, the study showed that potassium intake, essential for balancing sodium in the body, is very low among Jamaicans, with many not meeting the World Health Organization’s (WHO) daily recommendation of 3.5 grams.
Ferguson suggested that steps need to be taken to educate the public on how to lower sodium and increase potassium intake.
He also mentioned the importance of reducing the consumption of highly processed foods and encouraging cooking at home.
Simple changes, like using herbs and spices for flavor instead of salt, can help lower the risk of serious health issues.
Ferguson pointed out that eating potassium-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, and root vegetables can help lower the risk of heart disease, kidney stones, and bone problems.
However, the study showed that a lot of Jamaicans aren’t eating enough of these essential foods, with only a quarter of the population meeting their daily fruit needs and less than half eating enough vegetables.
“By making better food choices, reducing processed foods, and eating more fresh produce, we can all help improve our nation’s health. The study’s findings will guide us in these efforts,” Ferguson said.
Dr. Tamu Davidson, Director of the Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and Injuries Prevention Unit in the Health Ministry, mentioned that the study will help figure out the next steps.
“The study fits with the ministry’s National Strategic and Action Plan for preventing and controlling Non-Communicable Diseases. Its results will be important for future policy choices,” Davidson said.
The NCNCD was created to offer leadership and guidance to the ministry and other stakeholders on NCD prevention and control in Jamaica.
Jamaica also joined other countries in celebrating World Salt Day on Sunday, September 29.