Madam Speaker, today I am making my fifth presentation to the Sectoral Debates as Minister of National Security. I assumed portfolio responsibility for this Ministry four years ago, with a newly appointed Commissioner of Police and the Government’s strategic decision to prioritize citizen security. Madam Speaker, this meant prioritizing budgetary support and institutional reorganization, in order to combat the persistent...

Madam Speaker, it is a privilege and an honour to once again stand before this Honourable House to report on the performance of, and present the upcoming plans for my new portfolio responsibility, the Ministry of Transport and Mining. Indeed it is also a blessing to be here today, given the challenging period from which Jamaica, and indeed the world,...

Madam Speaker… I am feeling a great energy as I stand to address this House today. It is an energy driven by the desire to do more in service for my fellow citizens. It is also an energy unleashed by the decision by the Government, following two years of careful management of COVID-19, to withdraw the pandemic restrictions. I have...

Madam Speaker, As I rise today to speak, I give thanks to God for being here. I am particularly privileged to stand before this Honourable House to make my first presentation in the Sectoral Debate to report on the achievements of the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, Jamaica’s business ministry, for the 2021/2022 Financial Year, and to outline some...

Madam Speaker, colleague Parliamentarians, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security continues to lead the Government’s charge to provide economic opportunities, foster a climate of social and industrial stability and deliver social protection to the people of Jamaica. Our Mandate includes promotion of productivity for growth, ensuring the safety and health of workers, maintenance of an effective and efficient Labour...

Madam Speaker, I rise this afternoon to close the Budget Debate on the Appropriation Bill for the 2022/23 fiscal year. This is the 60th budget debate in Jamaica’s independent history. We honor and salute all of the leaders who came before us, who fought for our freedom, who established these noble institutions, and who helped build our country while steadfastly...

Madam Speaker, I believe we can all agree that these last two years have been extremely trying times for Jamaica, and the world. We give God thanks for sparing our lives and keeping us safe to gather here to discuss plans for the nation. Madam Speaker, it is not an easy task to manage any Parliament. The objective is to...

1.1 Salutations & Expressions of Gratitude Mr. Speaker, I would like to begin by thanking Almighty God for his kindness, as well as his many blessings, and mercy. To God be the Glory, great things He hath done. Today, March 8, is International Women’s Day, a global day, which celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women and...