Information Minister Says Permanent Secretary Well Fitted for New Ministry

Permanent Secretary, Darlene Morrison, is well fitted for the newly established Ministry of Mining and Geology, given her experience, and the strategic importance of the portfolio, says Minister of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, Senator Dr. the Hon. Dana Morris Dixon.

Responding to questions from media representatives at Wednesday’s (November 4) Post-Cabinet Press Briefing at Jamaica House in St. Andrew, Dr. Morris Dixon said the Constitution provides for the movement of Permanent Secretaries through the appropriate consultation and public service procedures, involving the Office of the Services Commission, and the Governor-General.

She described Mrs. Morrison as an esteemed public servant whose experience at the Ministry of Finance would be valuable in leading the new Ministry, particularly given the responsibilities associated with Clarendon Alumina Production Limited (CAP).

Dr. Morris Dixon, who previously served on CAP’s Board, said the entity represents a significant burden on the Jamaican people and requires strong leadership and expertise to manage its operations and responsibilities.

She noted that CAP has been transferred from the Ministry of Finance to the Ministry of Mining and Geology, making the experience gained by Mrs. Morrison at the Finance Ministry particularly relevant to her new assignment.

The Minister said the reassignment reflects the practice of moving Permanent Secretaries across government entities to ensure that their expertise and experience are appropriately deployed in support of national priorities.

She further pointed to prospecting activities for gold and copper in Jamaica, describing mining and geology as an important opportunity for economic development, underscoring the need to place capable public servants at the helm of the new Ministry.