This is some amazing research, you can teach Jamaican history as a Jamaican who born and grow there didn’t know some of those info, love and respect from Edmonton Alberta Canada 🇨🇦.
Thanks Irie. As a history teacher, really appreciate this excellent and extensive research about Jamaica's journey as a nation ,since independence . Knowing our history, is very important to our self identity.
From the bottom of my heart I want to thank you Irina for giving more thought and care to my home country than most of its people and leaders! Well done!
I think your videos should be taught in schools in JA. I love dem because they all spot on! Your Jamaican journey started one year before mine. I can't get a job there so I stay close (Surina, Curacao, Anguila and now Saint-Maarten) Just to provide and waiting for my chance. Keep up the perfect work my G lol
They don't know because they are TOO DUNCE to pick up a book or use google. Everything she presents is from google. You people are just EMBARASSINGLY dunce.
Amazing job again Irina, however, you missed that we are currently having a housing crisis. Scammers and overseas investors have greatly invested in real estate development in the past 5 years. This was in response to Jamaica being a target for Immigrants, work-from-home internationals and Airbnb. Thus the prices for homes/ apartments have doubled, even tripled in the more sought after areas. In 2015 whilst I was searching to purchase a house, the houses in my desired areas was about 10-14 million, now they are 20-30 million, even with my good job, I can't afford that mortgage.
Great series and so informative. Series suggestion: it would be great to see the series finished off with first-hand experiences from a range of Jamaicans of how life has been over last 60 years. They could also relate personal experiences of the topics covered in the series. It could be a powerful testimony of how living in JA has changed since independence and what it is like now.Just a thought. Keep up the great work 🙏🏼👊🏼
Hi Irena, I leave Jamaica in 1961 just before it got its independence from the British. I grew up in St. Elizabeth and we did not have water or electricity in the house. Now my family there do. To my knowledge, I believe most people if all has running water and electricity. So in that aspect things has improved, things like the roads in some places are still in poor condition the last time I was there. Jamaica has come a long way since it’s independence but still has a long way to go. Thanks again for another great video. You are the best and can’t wait to see the next video.
You are talking truth, you wouldn't hear from long time Jamaicans. You are a unique citizen of this country. We owe you a lot. I hope you never migrate from our country.
Another excellent vlog..very informative, for those who still insist on saying "Jamaica as not improved since independence, it's gotten worse". They need to watch these vlogs and get educated. Keep up the good work 👏 👏blessings..one love 🇯🇲❤️
I appreciate this video so much. Too many tend to only focus on the negative aspects of Jamaica. Thank you for showing the positive and putting things in context. I had the privilege of traveling to other islands and other developing nations, and while Jamaica has a long way to go, we have come a long way.
If the negatives are not addressed then we will be able to fix them. We should overlook the high crime rate, the low literacy rate, etc, then how are we going to effect change.?
@@Jfwqs7212 agreed. I love my country and will quickly check anyone who unfairly puts it or it’s people down, BUT refusal to address its shortcomings, or using only the lowest examples around the word as a basis of comparison will not help the nation to progress.
People who have been unfairly bitten with crime n violence have a legitimate right 2 b negative. Jamaica is a violent n scary place n that's a fact. In spite of some progress there's a lingering omen stifling growth in many aspect of our society.
@@elethinds4855 it is said that a chain is only as strong as it’s weakest link, so yes, even when a society has made improvements and advancements, giving extra focus to its weakened links is a means of protecting ALL those who rely on having a strong and intact chain for their collective safety.
Good old days is something u have to experience to understand. It’s having but little resources but lots of joy and laughter. It’s being able to hang out anywhere until late without being concern for safety.
Another Excellent video Irina, and I am loving this Series (OK, I Love all your videos, so it goes without saying... :) :) ). I also love reading the comments. I am glad to see that the VAST MAJORITY get the point of your Videos and in the promotion of Jamaica in a Positive light. I just don't understand why some people think that, just because you show the Positive side, that you do not realize Negative exists (even when you point out the negatives, they act as if don't realize it exists...SMDH). Frankly, as a Jamaican living in the USA, I was getting TIRED of people thinking Jamaica was ONLY about Poverty, Crime and Violence, once you leave the Tourist Corridor. Just yesterday, one Lady commented to me about that, when she saw my Jamaican shirt, because of a video she had just watched on You Tube. So, I am VERY GLAD someone like you are doing the Videos you do. Yes, I realize there are other You Tubers doing Positive Videos about Jamaica...but many are mostly "self centered" or are focused on "Things To Do"...nothing wrong with any of those (I actually love them). But your videos are about Jamaica in general, and the many Positives about it. I am also glad that I get the opportunity to come back to Jamaica often, and I have seen the improvements over the years; heck, even in some of the areas that were downright "bad". This is one of the MANY Reasons I hope to MOVE BACK (as you personally know, I would probably have done so already, if I was single with no kids). Does Jamaica still have a Long Way to Go? ABSOLUTELY. Do some people NEVER see progress? ABSOLUTELY. Do some people live in abject poverty and have to deal with Crime and Violence daily? ABSOLUTELY. But in the BIGGER Picture, and when looking at Jamaica as a WHOLE, I for one has seen Massive Progress; and anyone who has travelled around Jamaica, on a regular basis over the past 40 years, can't deny that. Thank You and Keep up the Great Work. You will always have my support. One Love, Irie and Nuff Respect.
Irena again thanks so much for the history you bring to light these are the history lesson the children of Jamaica needs to know i am a grand and great grand and a lot of the information you report i did not know you are a blessing to the island coming from a cold country to a warm country like Jamaica and to dig for these subjects and issues takes time thanks for all you do. I am not on the island now but from where I am sitting i think life was way better in the 50 60 70 today the criminals make a very hard for the citizens and every aspect of life i don't know this Jamaica the country needs help to curb the crimes enough.
Thank you for the message! Very kind of you to comment here! Yes, the assumptions that the crime took over the country is a very common one. The crime is indeed higher than in the 50/60/70, but not much higher. The only difference between then and now is that now crime is reported in the media, while before there was no such media to focus on crime so much. I have a few videos on the channel, one is about crime rate: ua-cam.com/video/OF44HAGv7SM/v-deo.html Another one about the work of foreign media: ua-cam.com/video/VdAD4CfYFvg/v-deo.html and another one about the work of local media ua-cam.com/video/0zwiPBEbTls/v-deo.html
@@davidscott3726 TOJ was a company launched by C&W together with the Government of Jamaica, and C&W bought it out in the end. Please see the document here: 10:56 where it says "Implementation system". C&W company is from 1934 (see the telegrams in the video that have their brand name mentioned from 1930s). So, no mistake here, as I mentioned in the video - C&W keep changing the names of the brands that they use.Currently C&W was bought by Liberty Latin America, another telecom giant.
Excellent video contents again, thanks for bringing quality information that most Jamaican take for granted. Thanks Irina, looking forward to the video ❤❤
You are certainly educating the masses at home and the diaspora about progress made on the Island since independence, if the Journalists in Jamaica would do the same the diaspora would have more knowledge and would not be so negative in their outlook about the Island. Thank you for another brilliant vlog.
Gloria u cannot lie to the people who live here every day. I think you are trying to say dysphoria. Diaspora deals with the Jews living outside of Palestine. Read a book sometimes. You will find that economics and emotions (not facing facts or negativity as u call it) are not the same things
You are probably living in a state of dysphoria because you read too many books and don't understand what you are reading. The lady did her research and presented the facts that you and many others would prefer to be left unsaid so you can run around shooting off your mouths about how backward and unprogressive the little Island is, when in fact a lot has been achieved since independence. Your developed countries also have their problems, but the likes of you cannot see that because you are too busy trying to bring down that little country to your standard. DIASPORA not only pertains to Jews dispersion, any group of people living outside their natural habitat are referred to as such. Continue to read your many books, and still lacking knowledge of understanding. READ THE BIBLE AND LEARN WHO THE JEWS ARE.
Excellent research packed with facts! I'm aware that there will be a continuation of this series but I'd like to hasten you to research crime and violence especially murders! I remember when we walked at nights without street lights and our solo fear would be "duppy"!! Please also research the cost of living. The last time I was in Jamaica, I was at a bar/shop and I just couldn't resist asking the lady the price for the "5-cent-bun", the price is now $150.00 that's an inflation rate of 3,000%. I wish there was a way for you to compare how kind, considerate, civic minded, friendly and peaceful it was back then compared to now!
One big change affecting crime and violence is back then potential victims and criminals were equally armed back then, so not as easy for criminals…prior to criminals having the upper hand now.
George, she has individual videos on some of the things you are asking about. Check them out on this Channel. As for the "5-cent bun"? Well, you must NOT have been in Jamaica since the late 60's / early 70's relative to our last trip, but be asking for a 5-cent bun. Where in the WORLD do find any type of food for only 5-cent? I am 56 years old, and went to School in Jamaica up through 1981; I can't recall Bun ever being "5-cents". But aside from that, inflation is NOT UNIQUE to Jamaica. $150 JAM is just about $1 USD...so paying $1.00 for a Bun is actually CHEAP; well, for those of us who travel back to Jamaica regularly...I realize this might not be the same perspective for Local Jamaican. I pay $1.49 for a Muffin here in the USA, where the size is SMALLER than a Jamaican Round Bun (which I assume is what you are talking about)...and this was BEFORE the recent Global Inflation, which is caused by Supply and Demand....just saying...
@@trevorsteer7331 that $150 bun must have been pre covid because I’m not even sure you can get a mint ball for $150 these days. I have great respect for Irena’s channel and content, BUT there are limits to what research on available published crime stats can reveal, and I’m not sure how many Jamaicans are willing to disclose all they know about crime and criminality to anyone on camera.
@@faithm2535 I agree that prices in Jamaica are HIGH...especially for Jamaicans. Hope you didn't think I was trying to say they are NOT. My point is that INFLATION is a never ending factor of life, so trying to imply a "5-cent Bun" from the 60's would still be same price today is just ridiculous. The Gentleman should be comparing Inflation Cost increases a s whole. Plus, Inflation is NOT unique to Jamaica; and in fact, it does not even have the worse increases. But there are SOME Things that will be higher than others because we have no choice but to EXPORT those Products. People like to complain about the Cost of certain things, but also complain when they can't get it...because they don't have a full understanding of ECONOMICS. As for the Crime in Jamaica: Again, neither Irina or I are claiming there is NO CRIME in Jamaica. And YES, SOME People and SOME Areas DO have / experience an "excessive" amount of it. But this is NOT ALL of Jamaica, as some people make it out to be. And as a Jamaican, who have traveled all over (albeit, as someone who comes back to visit often), I STRONGLY BELIEVE that MOST of Jamaica is NOT CRIME Ridden. I will give you an example: I know a few people in Jamaica, who all they do, is complain to me about "all the Crime all the time". But they have NEVER personally experienced it, because they go by ONLY what they hear in the News. But them again, I remember when I used to think that way also, even though I had never personally been a Victim or witnessed any vicious crime, while living there or during any of my travels back home. Could it ever happen yo me? For sure...but that could happen to me anywhere I travel, or where I live now.. I totally agree rhat Crime shouldnt be ignored, because it does exist. But I am fortunate to have seen a LOT of my Country (was just there in March and was all over the Island, during the Day and Night) and I am NOT going to be QUIET when some people want to make it seem as if we are ALL about Crime. I have some Amazing Stories of just driving through Rural Areas and stopping at local bars...and how AMAZING Strangers (i.e., Jamaicans) are. This goes for the experiences I have had in Half Way Tree, New Kingston and Downtown Kingston, just walking about. I realize my experiences do NOT apply to everyone; and they are also due to PLACES I may venture when I am there...but I am pretty sure I am NOT unique regarding these experiences either. Just saying...
@@trevorsteer7331 I don’t DISAGREE with almost anything you have stated above. I happen to be very pro Jamaica and want to live there is peace and quiet one day. I’m not sure what you mean about some goods that HAVE to be EXPORTED. I get annoyed while I’m there and find it hard to get locally grown ground provisions and vegetables in a local restaurant, as easily as I can get offered low nutrition foods like cheap pasta, white rice, and various imported goods. The best time to complain about crime, is actually BEFORE it shows up on YOUR own door steps, so I can’t agree with your seeming to want to ‘normalize’ complaining about crime only IF and AFTER you have been a victim. Ideally we would all have a proactive approach towards crime. Ever heard the saying “prevention is better than cure”. I don’t care about only MY own safety. In a civilized and progressive society, the safety of ALL it’s law abiding people is relevant. I could have been one of the customers in the store of that Chinese national who was recently shot…I’m sure you have seen the vid by now. I don’t want to feel safe and secure, just when I’m in my grilled up house…I want to feel secure EVERY where. Ja is also a fairly small place…and crime and criminals have become increasingly mobile. THAT is big concern that is often woven in the comments of the middle and older generation who sometimes reminisce about the old days…they remember when hard crimes were something only you hear about happening in the ‘bad areas’ of kingston…but since no one took the initiative to nip THAT in the bud, it has spread to infect LOTS of other places. So no, I’m not of the mindset to WAIT until a large percent or MOST of the island is infected, BEFORE sounding the alarm. I realize its not ideal for tourist heavy and some other types of business, but I strongly believe that the needs of having good publicity has to be balanced with the needs of Jamaican residents and CHILDREN in particular to have a chance to grow up without mental scars and constant fear. And if you don’t think there is an ever present level of fear, show me ANY home in an average middle class area where iron grills and gates are purposely omitted from all openings.
I love watching and listening to Irie, I find her to be very interesting and informative. I'm from Jamaica, I have been residing in the US for 35 years now and her to be very interesting. Keep up the good work Irie.
I just love your thoroughness Irena, and also your deep and open interest in our beautiful country Jamaica. Wishing you all the best, and much strength when you think about your homeland these days. I am always ready to listen to your videos, they are some of the most insightful and relevant I have seen done by anyone who chose to highlight Jamaica. Keep them coming. Thank you.
Our production is amazing. Jamaica thank you on my behalf💥😎So important for great information. S&P and Fitch just rated the country B+🙌 Greatest info for the 💗💚Powerful Iris🙌🙏
Well, they simply used different names for the same things. TOJ was created as a combo of the Government and C&W, and then C&W bought it while doing the upgrade, there is a document in the video that shows how it happened, here: 10:58
Great stuff!! I’ve watched most of your videos but I was never moved by any, like I am by this one. A topic that no one dare to address in the way that you have. I cannot get enough of your perspective on the St Kitts etc, etc, dimension. You need to do lecturers on these topics in schools and universities but more importantly in town halls - any type of halls to the general public. Ordinary Jamaicans are busy trying to make a living, they do not have time to look deep into these things, they believe most of what they are told by politicians and the Gleaner. Take no notice of stupid comments, on the other hand, you need them to keep your work close to perfection. Well done, you’re more than a scholar. 👍🏾🙌🏽
I love this video as usual. Possible topics for the series, but a little bit of context about my experience. I am a 60s baby and left Jamaica in the late 80s due to lack of economic opportunities. I have been back to Jamaica a few times over the years, and I saw and appreciated the infrastructural improvements, but from my perspective, there is still not a lot of economic opportunities for the youths. Also, whenever I am there, I don't feel remotely safe as when I was growing up. I know that crime is everywhere, but it appears to me that it has increased there significantly since I was a kid in the 70s. Possible topics: 1. What is the government doing about creating economic opportunities for the youths of Jamaica? 2. What is the government doing to reduce crime to the levels there were before or immediately after independence? 3. Corruption such as bribery was present when I was growing up, but now it appears to be worst. Is corruption worse now than it was in the 60s and 70s? Thanks again your the videos.
I remember i had was to go to Jam Intel to make an overseas call to my family. Now i lay in my bed with my cell phone. Big up, Bless up Jamaica. God Bless 🇯🇲 Jamaica.
No matter what negative things some of us may say of you I can say that I am proud of you and your educational videos. I have learned much more about my people (Jamaicans) than I do in school.
This is fascinating and Jamaica international should watch this video. Interesting about the hurricane 🌀 period including Gilbert in the 80s that I remember as a tot. There are always opportunities to improve and I am chuffed that you compiled and presented your research in videos to educate and crush the myths about Jamaica . So grateful and thank you as always 🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿. One Love 🇯🇲
Yes, but there are places in Jamaica where the roads in the capitol of the parishes were built so narrow that they cannot even accommodate a sidewalk. They will have to create new capitols. I could not believe it when I was driving from Negril to Montego Bay two months ago.
Because you focus on the negatives. For over a year now I focus primarily on the positives. That change my perspective so much that I was so amazed at the amount of opportunity in Jamaica. Don't watch TVJ or CVM. They only give you news that allow them to make money, not really to uplift the country.
Excellent videos so far. I'm the son of Jamaican immigrants and your last comment about Jamaicans being negative privately about Jamaica really resonated with me. I have heard many negative comments from my older relatives. I guess every place has its bad element. From what I've seen from your videos I would say that their comments are unfair. I just can't understand why they keep saying them.
The history is there is we where to be interested in looking for it I am happy I have Irene to find and publish this about Jamaica you are a blessing keep up the good work
No more wattle and darb house block or glass house. To God be the Glory good things still going on in Jamaica we pass the worse storm. Amen. All we need to do is serve the one true Almighty God. And some of us are trying.
@@JAMAICAWITHIRIE Growing up (1960s and 70s) the pipes were present but the service was sporadic. During that time all homes in Mandeville were built with large water tanks. Houses had gutters that would fill the tanks. Also there was the occasional need to hire commercial trucks to fill these thanks. Today Waltham has a better water supply but the tanks are still used.
@@kelvinleigh Thank you for more info, appreciated! We also have these tanks all over St.James, but we mostly use them in case of water outage which happens during heavy rains (the water gets shut down on purpose to avoid overflowing, not sure yet how that works exactly, but getting messages from NWC about that when a storm is coming).
Standard of living increased. My old Rural Jamaica is in other ways better days. Less crime and sociopathic behaviour. Going country school barefoot, Old country busses, enamel basin and jug on a stand, kerosene "home sweet home" lanterns, bottle, bottle and tin can torches, peenie weenie insects. Back then, people lived on and had better lives on lower living standard. I miss those times. Even though my house hold had electricity and running water from elevated drums. You know those times back home. Because you know how to cook outa door and have bucket showers.
Thank you Irina, I'm late but I've made it. Very interesting video as usual. Thoroughly enjoyed this and the one before. Looking forward to the next one.
Thank you so much for this series, and the all the other works that you do. You provide both an insight and a context that is often not expressed in media, home or in schools. Often times this information os glossed over.
I was wondering what happened for some days wasn't seen any new videos or maybe its just me. Great to see you again "LADY IRIE" and the experience of meeting you in person was truly amazing and splendid you're a true Mogul.
1st things first, thanks for the work you do & for sharing valuable information & education to our fellow country man/woman. My question I would love to hear a response to from NWC runs along the lines of: Would NWC be willing to explore the idea of crowd funding the distribution of piped-drinking water to difficult to reach residential area/terrain? It’s not a full proof plan but I feel it’s possible & could be profitable for crowdfunding participant. If a conversation can begin then I feel the pros & con could be hammered out & a mutual agreement reach, then replicate the plan district by district, towns by town, parish by parish. Hopeful 🙏🏾 Blessed love
Thank you! with "consequences" (kon-suh-kwuhn-suhz) - checking google - I put the stress in a wrong way, should be first syllable, is this what you mean? The British and American pronunciation sounds a bit different as well. 🤔
What is the video about, language, grammar, pronunciation? Everyone watching with an ounce of sense and respect understands what is said. Stop trying to be language police and just enjoy the video and be thankful for the knowledge imparted.
@@JG-qv4uf don't worry, please, I asked in the previous video to let me know if I mispronounce words to help me get my English better, so I don't mind and grateful for corrections, otherwise I'll never get better. However, also thank you for the support 🙏
@@JG-qv4uf yeah, like Irina said she's asked us to correct her, wasn't judging her at all. I have nothing but Raspect for Irina as you'll see in the many comments left on her videos
This is some amazing research, you can teach Jamaican history as a Jamaican who born and grow there didn’t know some of those info, love and respect from Edmonton Alberta Canada 🇨🇦.
What's amazing about this? you don't have access to the internent? everything she is sharing is at your finger tips too. Quite this DUNCE behavior.
Thanks Irie. As a history teacher, really appreciate this excellent and extensive research about Jamaica's journey as a nation ,since independence . Knowing our history, is very important to our self identity.
Was dying for your new content we all love and adore you watching from Florida.
From the bottom of my heart I want to thank you Irina for giving more thought and care to my home country than most of its people and leaders! Well done!
I think your videos should be taught in schools in JA. I love dem because they all spot on! Your Jamaican journey started one year before mine. I can't get a job there so I stay close (Surina, Curacao, Anguila and now Saint-Maarten) Just to provide and waiting for my chance. Keep up the perfect work my G lol
Irie,you're a breath of fresh air.Nuff stuff/ info you present,most Jamaicans dont know.Respect and continue to enlighten the us.
They don't know because they are TOO DUNCE to pick up a book or use google. Everything she presents is from google. You people are just EMBARASSINGLY dunce.
Thank you for enlightening us all about the history of Jamaica..You are such an asset to us all..One Love!
❤️
You are a good journalist
Amazing job again Irina, however, you missed that we are currently having a housing crisis. Scammers and overseas investors have greatly invested in real estate development in the past 5 years. This was in response to Jamaica being a target for Immigrants, work-from-home internationals and Airbnb. Thus the prices for homes/ apartments have doubled, even tripled in the more sought after areas. In 2015 whilst I was searching to purchase a house, the houses in my desired areas was about 10-14 million, now they are 20-30 million, even with my good job, I can't afford that mortgage.
Great series and so informative.
Series suggestion: it would be great to see the series finished off with first-hand experiences from a range of Jamaicans of how life has been over last 60 years. They could also relate personal experiences of the topics covered in the series. It could be a powerful testimony of how living in JA has changed since independence and what it is like now.Just a thought.
Keep up the great work 🙏🏼👊🏼
Hi Irena, I leave Jamaica in 1961 just before it got its independence from the British. I grew up in St. Elizabeth and we did not have water or electricity in the house. Now my family there do. To my knowledge, I believe most people if all has running water and electricity. So in that aspect things has improved, things like the roads in some places are still in poor condition the last time I was there. Jamaica has come a long way since it’s independence but still has a long way to go. Thanks again for another great video. You are the best and can’t wait to see the next video.
This is an excellent production! Thank you, Irina!
Jamaica is climbing up my bucket list of countries to travel.
You are talking truth, you wouldn't hear from long time Jamaicans. You are a unique citizen of this country.
We owe you a lot.
I hope you never migrate from our country.
totally agreed..
We owe her nothing.
@@mansamusa3677 you know how many tourists she convince to visit yard? More than many other Jamaicans.
@@charlesjames1464 That's good 👍 👌
@@charlesjames1464 That's good 👍 👌
Another excellent vlog..very informative, for those who still insist on saying "Jamaica as not improved since independence, it's gotten worse". They need to watch these vlogs and get educated. Keep up the good work 👏 👏blessings..one love 🇯🇲❤️
I appreciate this video so much. Too many tend to only focus on the negative aspects of Jamaica. Thank you for showing the positive and putting things in context. I had the privilege of traveling to other islands and other developing nations, and while Jamaica has a long way to go, we have come a long way.
If the negatives are not addressed then we will be able to fix them. We should overlook the high crime rate, the low literacy rate, etc, then how are we going to effect change.?
@@Jfwqs7212 agreed. I love my country and will quickly check anyone who unfairly puts it or it’s people down, BUT refusal to address its shortcomings, or using only the lowest examples around the word as a basis of comparison will not help the nation to progress.
People who have been unfairly bitten with crime n violence have a legitimate right 2 b negative. Jamaica is a violent n scary place n that's a fact. In spite of some progress there's a lingering omen stifling growth in many aspect of our society.
@@elethinds4855 it is said that a chain is only as strong as it’s weakest link, so yes, even when a society has made improvements and advancements, giving extra focus to its weakened links is a means of protecting ALL those who rely on having a strong and intact chain for their collective safety.
@@elethinds4855 u think ja violent scary place , I think u need travel more.
Respect and Manners Irina, big up unuh self!
Good old days is something u have to experience to understand. It’s having but little resources but lots of joy and laughter. It’s being able to hang out anywhere until late without being concern for safety.
Another Excellent video Irina, and I am loving this Series (OK, I Love all your videos, so it goes without saying... :) :) ). I also love reading the comments. I am glad to see that the VAST MAJORITY get the point of your Videos and in the promotion of Jamaica in a Positive light. I just don't understand why some people think that, just because you show the Positive side, that you do not realize Negative exists (even when you point out the negatives, they act as if don't realize it exists...SMDH).
Frankly, as a Jamaican living in the USA, I was getting TIRED of people thinking Jamaica was ONLY about Poverty, Crime and Violence, once you leave the Tourist Corridor. Just yesterday, one Lady commented to me about that, when she saw my Jamaican shirt, because of a video she had just watched on You Tube. So, I am VERY GLAD someone like you are doing the Videos you do. Yes, I realize there are other You Tubers doing Positive Videos about Jamaica...but many are mostly "self centered" or are focused on "Things To Do"...nothing wrong with any of those (I actually love them). But your videos are about Jamaica in general, and the many Positives about it.
I am also glad that I get the opportunity to come back to Jamaica often, and I have seen the improvements over the years; heck, even in some of the areas that were downright "bad". This is one of the MANY Reasons I hope to MOVE BACK (as you personally know, I would probably have done so already, if I was single with no kids). Does Jamaica still have a Long Way to Go? ABSOLUTELY. Do some people NEVER see progress? ABSOLUTELY. Do some people live in abject poverty and have to deal with Crime and Violence daily? ABSOLUTELY. But in the BIGGER Picture, and when looking at Jamaica as a WHOLE, I for one has seen Massive Progress; and anyone who has travelled around Jamaica, on a regular basis over the past 40 years, can't deny that.
Thank You and Keep up the Great Work. You will always have my support. One Love, Irie and Nuff Respect.
Thank you Irina,, always a pleasure to watch your videos, nuff to learn of our beautiful history!
Thank you
Looking forward to the next one.
Irena again thanks so much for the history you bring to light these are the history lesson the children of Jamaica needs to know i am a grand and great grand and a lot of the information you report i did not know you are a blessing to the island coming from a cold country to a warm country like Jamaica and to dig for these subjects and issues takes time thanks for all you do. I am not on the island now but from where I am sitting i think life was way better in the 50 60 70 today the criminals make a very hard for the citizens and every aspect of life i don't know this Jamaica the country needs help to curb the crimes enough.
Thank you for the message! Very kind of you to comment here! Yes, the assumptions that the crime took over the country is a very common one. The crime is indeed higher than in the 50/60/70, but not much higher. The only difference between then and now is that now crime is reported in the media, while before there was no such media to focus on crime so much. I have a few videos on the channel, one is about crime rate:
ua-cam.com/video/OF44HAGv7SM/v-deo.html
Another one about the work of foreign media:
ua-cam.com/video/VdAD4CfYFvg/v-deo.html
and another one about the work of local media
ua-cam.com/video/0zwiPBEbTls/v-deo.html
@@JAMAICAWITHIRIE Big up Irena..I think you made i lil mistake though.I thing Telecommution of Jamaica (TOJ) was before Cable and wireless.👍
@@davidscott3726 TOJ was a company launched by C&W together with the Government of Jamaica, and C&W bought it out in the end. Please see the document here: 10:56 where it says "Implementation system".
C&W company is from 1934 (see the telegrams in the video that have their brand name mentioned from 1930s). So, no mistake here, as I mentioned in the video - C&W keep changing the names of the brands that they use.Currently C&W was bought by Liberty Latin America, another telecom giant.
@@JAMAICAWITHIRIE Stand corrected.👍
Excellent video contents again, thanks for bringing quality information that most Jamaican take for granted. Thanks Irina, looking forward to the video ❤❤
You are certainly educating the masses at home and the diaspora about progress made on the Island since independence, if the Journalists in Jamaica would do the same the diaspora would have more knowledge and would not be so negative in their outlook about the Island. Thank you for another brilliant vlog.
Gloria u cannot lie to the people who live here every day. I think you are trying to say dysphoria. Diaspora deals with the Jews living outside of Palestine. Read a book sometimes. You will find that economics and emotions (not facing facts or negativity as u call it) are not the same things
You are probably living in a state of dysphoria because you read too many books and don't understand what you are reading. The lady did her research and presented the facts that you and many others would prefer to be left unsaid so you can run around shooting off your mouths about how backward and unprogressive the little Island is, when in fact a lot has been achieved since independence. Your developed countries also have their problems, but the likes of you cannot see that because you are too busy trying to bring down that little country to your standard. DIASPORA not only pertains to Jews dispersion, any group of people living outside their natural habitat are referred to as such. Continue to read your many books, and still lacking knowledge of understanding. READ THE BIBLE AND LEARN WHO THE JEWS ARE.
Excellent research packed with facts! I'm aware that there will be a continuation of this series but I'd like to hasten you to research crime and violence especially murders! I remember when we walked at nights without street lights and our solo fear would be "duppy"!!
Please also research the cost of living. The last time I was in Jamaica, I was at a bar/shop and I just couldn't resist asking the lady the price for the "5-cent-bun", the price is now $150.00 that's an inflation rate of 3,000%.
I wish there was a way for you to compare how kind, considerate, civic minded, friendly and peaceful it was back then compared to now!
One big change affecting crime and violence is back then potential victims and criminals were equally armed back then, so not as easy for criminals…prior to criminals having the upper hand now.
George, she has individual videos on some of the things you are asking about. Check them out on this Channel. As for the "5-cent bun"? Well, you must NOT have been in Jamaica since the late 60's / early 70's relative to our last trip, but be asking for a 5-cent bun. Where in the WORLD do find any type of food for only 5-cent? I am 56 years old, and went to School in Jamaica up through 1981; I can't recall Bun ever being "5-cents".
But aside from that, inflation is NOT UNIQUE to Jamaica. $150 JAM is just about $1 USD...so paying $1.00 for a Bun is actually CHEAP; well, for those of us who travel back to Jamaica regularly...I realize this might not be the same perspective for Local Jamaican. I pay $1.49 for a Muffin here in the USA, where the size is SMALLER than a Jamaican Round Bun (which I assume is what you are talking about)...and this was BEFORE the recent Global Inflation, which is caused by Supply and Demand....just saying...
@@trevorsteer7331 that $150 bun must have been pre covid because I’m not even sure you can get a mint ball for $150 these days.
I have great respect for Irena’s channel and content, BUT there are limits to what research on available published crime stats can reveal, and I’m not sure how many Jamaicans are willing to disclose all they know about crime and criminality to anyone on camera.
@@faithm2535 I agree that prices in Jamaica are HIGH...especially for Jamaicans. Hope you didn't think I was trying to say they are NOT. My point is that INFLATION is a never ending factor of life, so trying to imply a "5-cent Bun" from the 60's would still be same price today is just ridiculous. The Gentleman should be comparing Inflation Cost increases a s whole. Plus, Inflation is NOT unique to Jamaica; and in fact, it does not even have the worse increases. But there are SOME Things that will be higher than others because we have no choice but to EXPORT those Products. People like to complain about the Cost of certain things, but also complain when they can't get it...because they don't have a full understanding of ECONOMICS.
As for the Crime in Jamaica: Again, neither Irina or I are claiming there is NO CRIME in Jamaica. And YES, SOME People and SOME Areas DO have / experience an "excessive" amount of it. But this is NOT ALL of Jamaica, as some people make it out to be. And as a Jamaican, who have traveled all over (albeit, as someone who comes back to visit often), I STRONGLY BELIEVE that MOST of Jamaica is NOT CRIME Ridden.
I will give you an example: I know a few people in Jamaica, who all they do, is complain to me about "all the Crime all the time". But they have NEVER personally experienced it, because they go by ONLY what they hear in the News. But them again, I remember when I used to think that way also, even though I had never personally been a Victim or witnessed any vicious crime, while living there or during any of my travels back home. Could it ever happen yo me? For sure...but that could happen to me anywhere I travel, or where I live now..
I totally agree rhat Crime shouldnt be ignored, because it does exist. But I am fortunate to have seen a LOT of my Country (was just there in March and was all over the Island, during the Day and Night) and I am NOT going to be QUIET when some people want to make it seem as if we are ALL about Crime. I have some Amazing Stories of just driving through Rural Areas and stopping at local bars...and how AMAZING Strangers (i.e., Jamaicans) are. This goes for the experiences I have had in Half Way Tree, New Kingston and Downtown Kingston, just walking about. I realize my experiences do NOT apply to everyone; and they are also due to PLACES I may venture when I am there...but I am pretty sure I am NOT unique regarding these experiences either. Just saying...
@@trevorsteer7331 I don’t DISAGREE with almost anything you have stated above. I happen to be very pro Jamaica and want to live there is peace and quiet one day. I’m not sure what you mean about some goods that HAVE to be EXPORTED. I get annoyed while I’m there and find it hard to get locally grown ground provisions and vegetables in a local restaurant, as easily as I can get offered low nutrition foods like cheap pasta, white rice, and various imported goods.
The best time to complain about crime, is actually BEFORE it shows up on YOUR own door steps, so I can’t agree with your seeming to want to ‘normalize’ complaining about crime only IF and AFTER you have been a victim. Ideally we would all have a proactive approach towards crime. Ever heard the saying “prevention is better than cure”. I don’t care about only MY own safety. In a civilized and progressive society, the safety of ALL it’s law abiding people is relevant. I could have been one of the customers in the store of that Chinese national who was recently shot…I’m sure you have seen the vid by now. I don’t want to feel safe and secure, just when I’m in my grilled up house…I want to feel secure EVERY where. Ja is also a fairly small place…and crime and criminals have become increasingly mobile. THAT is big concern that is often woven in the comments of the middle and older generation who sometimes reminisce about the old days…they remember when hard crimes were something only you hear about happening in the ‘bad areas’ of kingston…but since no one took the initiative to nip THAT in the bud, it has spread to infect LOTS of other places. So no, I’m not of the mindset to WAIT until a large percent or MOST of the island is infected, BEFORE sounding the alarm. I realize its not ideal for tourist heavy and some other types of business, but I strongly believe that the needs of having good publicity has to be balanced with the needs of Jamaican residents and CHILDREN in particular to have a chance to grow up without mental scars and constant fear. And if you don’t think there is an ever present level of fear, show me ANY home in an average middle class area where iron grills and gates are purposely omitted from all openings.
I love watching and listening to Irie, I find her to be very interesting and informative. I'm from Jamaica, I have been residing in the US for 35 years now and her to be very interesting. Keep up the good work Irie.
Thanks, this was very enlightening. Looking forward to the next video.
Wow! Amazing research! Thanks again for an amazing video 🇯🇲❤️
Very informative, keep up the great work Irie
I just love your thoroughness Irena, and also your deep and open interest in our beautiful country Jamaica. Wishing you all the best, and much strength when you think about your homeland these days. I am always ready to listen to your videos, they are some of the most insightful and relevant I have seen done by anyone who chose to highlight Jamaica. Keep them coming. Thank you.
Irena we learn so much about my country thank you we love you🥰🇨🇦
High quality research and report...keep up the good work.
Our production is amazing. Jamaica thank you on my behalf💥😎So important for great information. S&P and Fitch just rated the country B+🙌 Greatest info for the 💗💚Powerful Iris🙌🙏
I think you should be good speaker for the Jamaican Government...👌✌️
Good topic!!!! Looking forward to other episodes. ❤
I remember the Telecommunications of Jamaica (TOJ) back in the early 1990s. The telephone company that predates C&WJ. One more very informative video.
Well, they simply used different names for the same things. TOJ was created as a combo of the Government and C&W, and then C&W bought it while doing the upgrade, there is a document in the video that shows how it happened, here: 10:58
Thank you for educating us on Jamaican history ❤
You do your research very good.
Great stuff!! I’ve watched most of your videos but I was never moved by any, like I am by this one. A topic that no one dare to address in the way that you have. I cannot get enough of your perspective on the St Kitts etc, etc, dimension. You need to do lecturers on these topics in schools and universities but more importantly in town halls - any type of halls to the general public. Ordinary Jamaicans are busy trying to make a living, they do not have time to look deep into these things, they believe most of what they are told by politicians and the Gleaner. Take no notice of stupid comments, on the other hand, you need them to keep your work close to perfection. Well done, you’re more than a scholar. 👍🏾🙌🏽
Thank you so much for such feedback on my work. The support is very much appreciated. 🙏🙏🙏
I'm so glad I came across your channel. I left JA at 8. Now, I'm 45 and trying to learn about Jamaican history.
As always informative and enlightening. Respect!!
I love this video as usual. Possible topics for the series, but a little bit of context about my experience. I am a 60s baby and left Jamaica in the late 80s due to lack of economic opportunities. I have been back to Jamaica a few times over the years, and I saw and appreciated the infrastructural improvements, but from my perspective, there is still not a lot of economic opportunities for the youths. Also, whenever I am there, I don't feel remotely safe as when I was growing up. I know that crime is everywhere, but it appears to me that it has increased there significantly since I was a kid in the 70s.
Possible topics:
1. What is the government doing about creating economic opportunities for the youths of Jamaica?
2. What is the government doing to reduce crime to the levels there were before or immediately after independence?
3. Corruption such as bribery was present when I was growing up, but now it appears to be worst. Is corruption worse now than it was in the 60s and 70s?
Thanks again your the videos.
Thank you so much for this message and for the ideas you've shared! Much appreciated!
Thanks for all your hard work Irie. I really appreciate your podcast.
I remember i had was to go to Jam Intel to make an overseas call to my family. Now i lay in my bed with my cell phone. Big up, Bless up Jamaica. God Bless 🇯🇲 Jamaica.
QUESTION TO JPS : Any plans on JPS placing utility wires underground . Especially on the major road corridors & town centers .
Irie, Keep the knowledge, coming. Thank You......💚💚💛💛🖤🖤
1:05 Wow! Look at the corner of King Street and Harbour Street, Downtown. So clean and pristine. Look at the balconies!
Happy Jamiaca Heroes Day Irie. One day the honor will be bestowed upon you.
Thanks for your hard work.
Good work miss irina keep it up god going to bless you
No matter what negative things some of us may say of you I can say that I am proud of you and your educational videos. I have learned much more about my people (Jamaicans) than I do in school.
This is fascinating and Jamaica international should watch this video. Interesting about the hurricane 🌀 period including Gilbert in the 80s that I remember as a tot. There are always opportunities to improve and I am chuffed that you compiled and presented your research in videos to educate and crush the myths about Jamaica . So grateful and thank you as always 🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿. One Love 🇯🇲
Jamaica needs to be a walkable country, in regards to the narrow roads. As all major cities and societies developed before the automobile.
Yes, but there are places in Jamaica where the roads in the capitol of the parishes were built so narrow that they cannot even accommodate a sidewalk. They will have to create new capitols. I could not believe it when I was driving from Negril to Montego Bay two months ago.
St Ann’s Bay is a prime example.
@@gbb82 as is Lucea, Hanover, and Savanalamar, Westmoreland.
Wonderful journalism as always.
Thank so much Irie continue with lesson on Jamaica 🇯🇲 land we love❤
Thank you Iré. Every time I get return fright you drop a video that reassures me I should at least visit. Much respect
Because you focus on the negatives. For over a year now I focus primarily on the positives. That change my perspective so much that I was so amazed at the amount of opportunity in Jamaica. Don't watch TVJ or CVM. They only give you news that allow them to make money, not really to uplift the country.
hank you for your amazing work for bringing all this important info. amazing thank you from UK|
Beautiful well detail and well explained.
Thank you my lady for this information. Have a bless day.
You just gave this farmer a new business market, thanks Irie!
Wow love all these good information
With your understanding,and ability to distinguish the intricacies,you would do great ,working with some social development organization in Jamaica.👍
Very informative, thanks
Excellent videos so far. I'm the son of Jamaican immigrants and your last comment about Jamaicans being negative privately about Jamaica really resonated with me. I have heard many negative comments from my older relatives. I guess every place has its bad element. From what I've seen from your videos I would say that their comments are unfair. I just can't understand why they keep saying them.
The history is there is we where to be interested in looking for it I am happy I have Irene to find and publish this about Jamaica you are a blessing keep up the good work
No more wattle and darb house block or glass house. To God be the Glory good things still going on in Jamaica we pass the worse storm. Amen. All we need to do is serve the one true Almighty God. And some of us are trying.
Very nice! Informative as usual. Bless
Informative series . I learnt alot from both parts . Good work Irina
I grew up in a community in Manchester Parish that has never had a regular piped water supply. All houses in my neighborhood have large water tanks.
What is the name of the community?
@@JAMAICAWITHIRIE Waltham. The community neighbors the campus of Northern Caribbean University.
@@kelvinleigh Ok, thank you! Did you mean they don't have any piped water there now or did you mean they didn't have any when you were growing up?
@@JAMAICAWITHIRIE Growing up (1960s and 70s) the pipes were present but the service was sporadic. During that time all homes in Mandeville were built with large water tanks. Houses had gutters that would fill the tanks. Also there was the occasional need to hire commercial trucks to fill these thanks. Today Waltham has a better water supply but the tanks are still used.
@@kelvinleigh Thank you for more info, appreciated! We also have these tanks all over St.James, but we mostly use them in case of water outage which happens during heavy rains (the water gets shut down on purpose to avoid overflowing, not sure yet how that works exactly, but getting messages from NWC about that when a storm is coming).
Standard of living increased. My old Rural Jamaica is in other ways better days. Less crime and sociopathic behaviour. Going country school barefoot, Old country busses, enamel basin and jug on a stand, kerosene "home sweet home" lanterns, bottle, bottle and tin can torches, peenie weenie insects. Back then, people lived on and had better lives on lower living standard. I miss those times. Even though my house hold had electricity and running water from elevated drums. You know those times back home. Because you know how to cook outa door and have bucket showers.
Thank you Irina, I'm late but I've made it. Very interesting video as usual. Thoroughly enjoyed this and the one before. Looking forward to the next one.
As usual, very informative. Thank you!!!
Thx Irie
That was very knowledgeable
Make me want to pack up and go home
I live in the uk 🇬🇧
Love the professional delivery and research. Thanks Iriena. You are now officially Jamaican.
Thank you so much for this series, and the all the other works that you do. You provide both an insight and a context that is often not expressed in media, home or in schools. Often times this information os glossed over.
Once again ❤job well done. Your videos are amazingly professional and informative. One love 💕 🇯🇲
Context context context!!! Well done!
I was wondering what happened for some days wasn't seen any new videos or maybe its just me. Great to see you again "LADY IRIE" and the experience of meeting you in person was truly amazing and splendid you're a true Mogul.
Nice to see you back Hun although I butt heads with you and swaggy. Love you
Thanks for another great documentary
Nice video iRie
👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾 I can't wait the third series.
Irina you’re always taking us into the classroom, well researched and informative contents. Thank you! 👏🏼👍🏼
A masterful job as usual 👌🏿 ❤
Excellent research and presentation. Thank you Irina for this video. Stay Blessed and safe my adopted sister. We love you.
Due diligence noted!! 👍 Keep up the candor.
I learn so much from you.
All way love your show and your content very good 👍
wonderful information about this Beautiful island 🇯🇲 Thanks for posting! is was great 👌🗽
Very informative! Thanks!
1st things first, thanks for the work you do & for sharing valuable information & education to our fellow country man/woman. My question I would love to hear a response to from NWC runs along the lines of:
Would NWC be willing to explore the idea of crowd funding the distribution of piped-drinking water to difficult to reach residential area/terrain?
It’s not a full proof plan but I feel it’s possible & could be profitable for crowdfunding participant. If a conversation can begin then I feel the pros & con could be hammered out & a mutual agreement reach, then replicate the plan district by district, towns by town, parish by parish.
Hopeful 🙏🏾
Blessed love
Peace and love Irie 👌🏾great content, very informative and educational. I learn so much from you 😍
You are amazing as always Irina! thank you!!!
we need more industries more exports. Perhaps a revival of the banana, coffee industry, and the agricultural industry overall.
Luving this series!! (BTW: Consequences is pronounced Consa-kwen-siz) Stay Blessed, Irina! 🇯🇲
Thank you! with "consequences" (kon-suh-kwuhn-suhz) - checking google - I put the stress in a wrong way, should be first syllable, is this what you mean? The British and American pronunciation sounds a bit different as well. 🤔
What is the video about, language, grammar, pronunciation? Everyone watching with an ounce of sense and respect understands what is said. Stop trying to be language police and just enjoy the video and be thankful for the knowledge imparted.
@@JG-qv4uf don't worry, please, I asked in the previous video to let me know if I mispronounce words to help me get my English better, so I don't mind and grateful for corrections, otherwise I'll never get better. However, also thank you for the support 🙏
@@JG-qv4uf yeah, like Irina said she's asked us to correct her, wasn't judging her at all. I have nothing but Raspect for Irina as you'll see in the many comments left on her videos
@@JAMAICAWITHIRIE Yes, exactly! Stay Blessed, Irina! Hope to meet you someday soon! ~ Lena B
Very good vidio. Thank you for all that information. Doing a great job.
Great report and eye opening. Useful and very interesting.
Very very good content..Thanks
Great research. So refreshing. Love when u pronounce flow as FLAW.
These videos on your channel are extremely informative
Great work 👊
Great 👍 👌 👍 👌 job 👏