Gov’t Employing Structured, Transparent Approach to the Post-Hurricane Relief Process

Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, says a structured, transparent and accountable approach will be employed to the distribution of public resources in the post-Hurricane Beryl relief process.

“There will be no free for all,” Mr. Holness declared, while touring sections of St. Elizabeth on Thursday (July 4) to assess the powerful weather system’s impact on the parish.

He explained that there would be a formal process for the distribution of any benefit, requiring recipients to provide valid identification or have someone vouch for their identity.

Additionally, Mr. Holness said every benefit, regardless of its size, would be meticulously documented to ensure it reaches the intended recipients and not end up in the wrong hands.

The Prime Minister pointed out that while these measures might take time, they are essential for the stability and strengthening of Jamaica’s “democracy and accountability.”

Mr. Holness noted that previous emergency relief efforts have been criticised for their lack of structure and transparency, with accusations of political bias in the distribution of aid.

Consequently, he said it is crucial to avoid such criticisms in the current situation, particularly in light of the Government’s successful track record during the COVID-19 pandemic, where they distributed the largest care packages in Jamaica’s history.

“I understand that we are in an emergency. But an emergency does not suspend the need for accountability and transparency. So there will be a [structured] process. I am saying this [for] the benefit of the Members of Parliament, technical officers in the Ministries and the beneficiaries themselves, who will be eagerly awaiting the benefits,” he emphasised.