Caribbean News
JAMAICA: Thousands Bid Farewell to the Late Ian Boyne
#Jamaica, January 15, 2018 – Kingston – Late Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Jamaica Information Service (JIS), Ian Anthony Boyne, CD, was eulogised 
in song, dance and glowing tributes on Sunday (January 14) as an exceptional and extraordinary man of integrity and excellence, who epitomized the beauty and diversity of a life well-lived. Such were the superlatives flowing from speakers and performers during the colourful yet dignified larger than life Service of Thanksgiving at the National Indoor Sports Centre in Kingston, which celebrated the life of the man who was a household name for over 30 years.
Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen; and Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, headed the dignitaries attending the service. Also in attendance were former Prime Ministers, Bruce Golding and the Most Hon. Portia Simpson Miller; Finance and Public Service Minister, Hon. Audley Shaw; and State Minister, Hon. Fayval Williams; Education, Youth and Information Minister, Senator Hon. Ruel Reid; Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport Minister, Hon. Olivia Grange; National Security State Minister, Senator the Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr.; and Opposition Leader, Dr. Peter Phillips, among other parliamentarians; members of the judiciary; and scores of well-wishers from the wider society.
The Governor-General, in his tribute, said Mr. Boyne was a true patriot who stimulated generations of people to think for and believe in themselves while underpinning these with high aspirations. Additionally, he said the late Chief State Liaison’s boundless energy and ease of manner imbued admiration and emulation.
“His intellectual rigour along with his genuine interests in individual achievements at all levels of society combined to make him a truly unique symbol of Jamaican genius.
“We have all, in one way or another, benefitted from the contributions of this scholarly dignified gentleman whose life was built on the foundation of personal faith and Christian witness. His passing has left a void in this country that may not be filled (for now),” the Governor-General said.
Prime Minister Holness hailed Mr. Boyne as a man with incredible knowledge who had the ability to eloquently articulate a wide range of topics and issues and, in the process, distinguish himself as fair, balanced and factual.
“Simply put, Ian Boyne was really first class. He approached every subject matter, personal interview and written piece with the same fervour and balance, regardless of potential controversy and public opinion. He was beyond compromise and possibly the greatest example of a man who ‘did it for the love and not for the likes’,” he said.
Mr. Holness described Mr. Boyne as the consummate communicator and scholar, who worked with several Administrations and approached his work, to this end, with sharp analytical and intellectual fervour.
“Ian rose to a (high) level of esteem and regard…clearly he was in a class by himself. The ‘Union of (current and former) Prime Ministers would also agree that Ian was the only civil servant (who) we know (who) could criticise the Government and get away with it. But that (indicated his) speaking the truth, and when you do it with respect, honour, and dignity, no one can question the truth,” he said.
Ms. Grange said Mr. Boyne loved and cared about his family and all Jamaicans. “His love for his country could be demonstrated in no better way than the (manner in which) he put his heart and soul in the profession of journalism,” she said.
Dr. Peter Phillips described him as an outstanding individual who touched the consciousness of Jamaicans worldwide.
In her tribute, Mrs. Simpson Miller said Mr. Boyne was more than a journalist, noting that he was a lifelong scholar and a man on a mission to unearth, expose and celebrate the passions, aspirations and achievements of the Jamaican people.
“He will undoubtedly go down in history as one of Jamaica’s most talented, celebrated and accomplished journalists. This remarkable Jamaican has left us a proud legacy of discipline, professional excellence, hard work, determination, wholesome values and healthy attitudes,” she said.
In an emotional tribute, the JIS’ Chief Executive Officer, Donna-Marie Rowe said her late Deputy wore many hats and “meant so much to all of us”. “He was always by my side (and was) a reliable sounding board…the balanced ‘Mister’ on the other hand. I will miss our spontaneous checking in with each other, our wordsmithing and consulting, the ribbing which only he could endure and the hilarity which punctuated our meetings.
“Ours was an enviable working relationship, characterised by grace and wit. The camaraderie, debate and eventual consensus was all in a day’s work with Mr. B.,” she said, adding that his legacy will be maintained.
Mrs. Rowe’s tribute was capped off by a voice recorded message from Mr, Boyne to JIS staff that was played, during which he encouraged persons to cherish each other.
“We do not know when it might be the last opportunity we are together…so let us, from now, move on. Whatever good we have to say to one another, say it. Don’t wait until when you hear that a person is sick or has died, you say ‘I wish I had said that’. Let us treat each other with great love,” he implored.
Widow, Margaret Boyne, in a tribute read by lecturer, Fae Ellington, said Mr. Boyne’s faith meant everything to him, adding that he tried to be the best husband.
“He was incredibly forgiving, he was hilarious (and) people would often wonder what would keep us laughing as if we were newlyweds,” she said.
In her tribute, daughter, Kelly-Ann, described her father as the consummate statesman who spent a lot of time reading publications on philosophy and theology, “not only because he was a devout Christian, but because he, in very practical terms, understood the importance of the undefeatable mind and was often times heard to say ‘likeability is more important than intellect’”.
“He was always concerned about the social deficit rather than the economic deficit as he understood the importance of the effect of purpose on profit. He was a holistic B-eing,” she said.
“Dad, you said I was the star of your TV show…but you were the star of my universe. My humble request of you (wider Jamaica) is that you continue to honour my father by B-eing. Live your B-est life…love in your B-est way…and laugh from your B-elly like dad did and I do,” she added.
There were also tributes from other family members, representatives of the clergy, media, and close friends.
The legacy of Ian Boyne’s work as a journalist, communication specialist, Minister of Religion, author and broadcaster has been immortalised in an impressive body of work that serves to inspire the nation and resonates globally. He was a highly respected media practitioner, who was driven and passionate about his work, and endeavoured to maintain a hallmark of excellence following his entry entering the profession in 1975. He had a long career with the JIS which he joined as a features writer and television broadcaster in 1976 when it was known as the Agency for Public Information.
In 1983 he was appointed Press Secretary/Speech Writer for the then Minister of Industry and Commerce, Douglas Vaz. From then to 2002, he worked with every Minister of Industry appointed under successive administrations as Speech Writer/Public Relations Consultant, before re-joining the JIS several years later. As Deputy CEO, Mr. Boyne provided oversight for the JIS’ Research, Print and Production (Editorial and Photo) Division.
Additionally, he hosted the Agency’s flagship current affairs interview programme, ‘Issues and Answers’, through which he furthered the JIS’ public education thrust via his incisive range of riveting questions. These served to elucidate the Government’s response to national issues of the day. Mr. Boyne also served as Chief State Liaison to the Office of the Prime Minister, Office of the Governor-General and Office of the Leader of the Opposition. He was best known as host of the 30-year-old TVJ programme – ‘Profile’. He also hosted ‘Religious Hardtalk’ and was a columnist for the Sunday Gleaner.
Mr. Boyne authored the books – ‘Ideas Matter: Journey into the Mind of a Veteran Journalist’ and ‘Profile of Excellence’. He wrote extensively for many magazines, including ‘Skywritings’ and ‘The Jamaican’. In 2009, the Government of Jamaica recognized his outstanding contribution to journalism with the Commander of the Order of Distinction (CD).
Mr. Boyne was the recipient of several journalism awards for distinguished work in print and television broadcasting. These include: the Jamaica Broilers Fairplay Award for Profile in 2005; and the Morris Cargill Award for Opinion Journalism in 2006.
Mr. Boyne is also survived by son, André, and daughter, Brianna.
By: Chris Patterson (JIS0
Flow Cayman recognised for six decades of National Development and Digital Leadership
Miami, FLORIDA (January 27, 2026) — Leading connectivity provider Flow Cayman has been honoured with a National Recognition Award for its role as a ‘Builder of Cayman’.
The award, which was presented by the Government of the Cayman Islands during a ceremony to mark National Heroes Day on January 26,
acknowledges Flow’s 60-year partnership in building the communications infrastructure and digital capabilities that underpin national development. Since the introduction of the islands’ earliest telephone services, Flow has continuously invested in both physical and human infrastructure that enable modern life and commerce. Those investments, which range from expansive fibre networks and resilient core infrastructure to the rapid deployment of 5G across the islands, have helped the Cayman Islands compete globally while strengthening services and opportunities at home.
In a historic moment in June 2024, the Cayman Islands became the first territory in the Caribbean to experience 5G connections after Flow officially switched on the first of its 5G-enabled cell towers – a move that ushered in the fifth generation of mobile technology across the islands.
“This national recognition reflects a relationship built on trust, service and purpose,” said Bruno Delhaise, Country Manager, Flow Cayman.
“Our work connects students to education, entrepreneurs to opportunities, clinicians to patients, and governments to their citizens. Being named a ‘Builder of Cayman’ is a profound honour and a reminder of the responsibility we carry to invest in resilient networks, nurture local
talent, and create opportunities that uplift our communities.” Flow’s contribution to national development extends beyond connectivity. Through partnerships with government, private sector organisations and community groups, Flow has focused on creating digital pathways for Caymanians including vocational training and apprenticeships that build local careers in technology and engineering, to programmes that help small and medium enterprises trade and scale online, and initiatives that expand household access to the digital economy.
“In our evolution from a traditional telco to a technology-first company, our objective is to turn network capability into tangible outcomes for Caymanians,” said Susanna O’Sullivan, VP, North Caribbean, Liberty Caribbean, the operators of Flow and Liberty Business.
“That means faster, more reliable services but also better healthcare access, more resilient public services, safer and more efficient
businesses, and expanded economic opportunity for people across the islands. We will honour this recognition by continuing to invest in people, partnerships and programmes that deliver measurable social and economic value.” O’Sullivan also paid tribute to Flow’s local team in the Cayman Islands. “Thank you to everyone at Flow Cayman and beyond for the role you play in making moments like this possible. We take great pride in this recognition, and it inspires us to keep building and connecting the communities we serve.”
A week of wind, water, and heartbreak
From Haiti’s hillsides to Bermuda’s reefs, seven Caribbean nations have been battered, bruised, and forever marked by Hurricane Melissa — a storm that tested not only the region’s infrastructure but its unshakable spirit of unity.
Saturday–Sunday, October 25–26 – The First Strike: Hispaniola
Before the storm even earned its name, torrential rain and flash floods swept across Haiti and the Dominican Republic, claiming lives and
tearing through rural communities.
In southern Haiti, rivers burst their banks, swallowing roads and homes; 23 people were confirmed dead by Sunday evening. Across the border, one death was reported in the Dominican Republic as swollen rivers cut off villages in Barahona and Pedernales.
By nightfall, the tropical system had strengthened — and the Caribbean knew it was facing something historic.
Monday, October 27 – Evacuations and Airlifts
In The Bahamas, Prime Minister Philip Davis issued a mandatory evacuation for the MICAL Islands — Mayaguana, Inagua, Crooked Island, Acklins, Long Cay, and Ragged Island.
Bahamasair added extra flights as the nation braced for what forecasters warned could become the strongest storm in nearly two decades.
Meanwhile, Jamaica, Turks & Caicos, and Cuba activated their national emergency operations centers.
Tuesday, October 28 – Jamaica and Haiti Hit Hard
By afternoon, Hurricane Melissa made landfall near St Elizabeth, Jamaica, as a Category 5 hurricane — winds of 185 mph, central pressure 892 mb, the lowest ever recorded so close to the island.
Roads collapsed, bridges washed away, and Black River Hospital lost its roof. Power failed for 72 percent of the island.
BOJ TV footage shows split asphalt, sparking lines, and flooded communities abandoned for safety.
Initially four were reported dead, that grew to seven deaths and heavy damage in 170 communities; Andrew Holness, Jamaican Prime Minister calling it “a national test of resilience.”
Haiti, still recovering from the weekend’s flooding, was hit again as outer bands dumped more rain on Les Cayes and Jacmel, deepening the humanitarian crisis.
Wednesday, October 29 – Crossing to Cuba
Weakened slightly to Category 4 (145 mph), Melissa tracked north-northeast at 8 mph, hammering eastern Cuba with hurricane-force winds
and mudslides. Over 15 000 people were evacuated from Santiago de Cuba and Holguín.
In Turks & Caicos, the Regiment deployed to Grand Turk, Salt Cay, South, North and Middle Caicos, preparing shelters and securing public buildings.
Thursday, October 30 – The Bahamas and the All Clear
Melissa’s speed increased, sparing the northern Caribbean its worst.
The Bahamas Airport Authority closed 13 airports from Mayaguana to Exuma International; none reported casualties, though infrastructure suffered.
In Turks & Caicos, the all-clear came early Thursday after minimal impact. Premier Washington Misick expressed gratitude and pledged support for neighbors:
“We must act — not only with words, but with compassion and deeds.”
Friday, October 31 – Counting the Cost
By Friday, Melissa had weakened to Category 3 (120 mph) north of Cuba.
The Bahamas Department of Meteorology issued its final alert, lifting warnings for the southern islands.
Regional toll:
- Haiti: 23 dead, thousands displaced.
- Jamaica: 7 dead, 170 communities damaged; 72% without electricity
- Cuba: 2 dead, 15, 000 evacuated.
- Dominican Republic: 1 dead, flooding in southwest.
- Bahamas: 0 dead, minor infrastructure damage and flooding in southeast.
- Turks & Caicos: minimal to no impact.
Relief and Reconnection
The Cayman Islands became the first government to touch down in Jamaica post-storm. Premier Juliana O’Connor-Connolly led a contingent bringing a plane-load of essentials and pledged US $1.2 million in aid.
Reggae icon Shaggy arrived on a private jet with friends, delivering food, medical kits, and hygiene supplies.
Meanwhile, Starlink and FLOW Jamaica activated emergency satellite internet across Jamaica providing free connectivity through November.
From overseas, U.S. President Donald Trump, speaking during his Asia tour, announced that American search-and-rescue teams and disaster aid will support the region.
“They can depend on U.S. assistance as they recover from this historic storm,” he said.
Faith, Funds, and False Websites
The Government of Jamaica and the Sandals Foundation have both launched verified donation portals for recovery. Officials are warning against fake crowdfunding pages posing as relief sites and urging donors to use only official channels.
A Seventh Nation in the Crosshairs – Bermuda
As Hurricane Melissa left the Caribbean basin, Bermuda found itself next in line.
Forecasts indicated the storm would pass just west of the island late Thursday into Friday, likely as a Category 1 to 2 hurricane with sustained winds near 105 mph.
Though far weaker than when it ravaged Jamaica, officials issued a hurricane warning, urging residents to secure property and expect tropical-storm conditions.
By all appearances Bermuda is heeding the warnings
The Human Response
Across the Caribbean, solidarity surged.
The Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) in Miami began airlifting relief supplies, while churches, civic groups, and businesses in The Bahamas and Turks & Caicos organized drives for displaced families.
“Your dedication gave our islands the strength to face the storm,” Premier Misick said. “Together, as one Caribbean family, we will rise stronger.”
Resilience in the Wake
Melissa’s winds may have faded, but her impact endures. Engineers are inspecting bridges, hillsides, and water systems; volunteers are clearing debris and distributing aid in communities still cut off.
From Haiti’s ravaged river valleys to Jamaica’s sugar towns, from Cuba’s eastern hills to The Bahamas’ salt ponds and Bermuda’s reefs, the region once again stands at the crossroads of ruin and renewal — and leans, as always, toward hope and a faithful God
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