Mr. Speaker, my contribution to this Sectoral Debate seeks to inform this Honourable House of the significant gains that have been made in the Public Sector during the 2013-2014 fiscal year, as well as the remaining challenges going forward into 2014-2015. My presentation will focus on the Government’s efforts to meet its commitments to modernise the public sector, which itself...

Address by Minister Hanna at UN Cross Regional Meeting for Advancing the Protection of Children from Violence Introduction At this moment, in every country, children are enduring the horrific impact of violence.  Children who live in upscale neighbourhoods in North American or European countries suffer just as much as those children who live in their inner-cities.  Equally, they suffer just...

Mr. Speaker this afternoon before I commence my contribution to this year’s sectoral debate I wish to give honour to God for His Grace in allowing us to meet in this Honourable House at this time.  Whenever we take our seats as members of Parliament we really are standing on the shoulders of the Jamaican people who elected us and...

Mr. Speaker, the portfolio of the Ministry of Water, Land, Environment and Climate Change is massive, and while in his presentation, the Honourable Minister spoke extensively of the achievements and projects of the Ministry, we still have much to account for. Today I will cover those areas that the Honourable Minister did not cover, notably the Environment, Planning and Development...

Mr. Speaker, I thank the great architect of the universe for divine guidance in serving our country. Let me thank the Most Honourable Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller for entrusting me with the responsibility of leading the Ministry that is closest to the people and critical in delivering opportunities for growth and development. I acknowledge my family who have been...

On Monday 2nd June, Cabinet approved certain changes to the law relating to ganja. These relate to the possession of small quantities of ganja for personal use, the smoking of ganja in private places and the use of ganja for medical/medicinal purposes. Approval has been given also to a proposal for the decriminalization of the use of ganja for religious...

Mr. Speaker, I am honored to make this, my third contribution to the Sectoral Debate. I thank the Honourable Prime Minister for her confidence in my ability to carry out the duties as State Minister for Tourism and Entertainment. I accept this responsibility with humility and a resolve to do my utmost to help realize the awesome potential of these...

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to present my third Sectoral contribution in this honourable House, since this administration regained its rightful place just over two years ago, at the helm of the Government of this country. Mr. Speaker, I can proudly say that I have served all the leaders of my party including the Rt. Excellent Norman Washington Manley, and...