The COVID Allocation of Resources to Employees (CARE) Programme has been expanded to provide a Back-to-School component to children within the PATH and Poor Relief Programmes. It should be noted that the Government has over the last two years provided a Back-to-School grant to the PATH students and for this fiscal year that grant was programmed at $3,500 per student....

With the support of the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service, the Clarendon Alumina Production Limited (“CAP”), which is wholly owned by the Government of Jamaica (“GOJ”) and is a 45% shareholder in the unincorporated JAMALCO Joint Venture, has reached a commercial agreement with its Joint Venture partner, the Noble Group as follows: (i) CAP (through a loan from...

Mr. Speaker… On July 15, I announced the easing of restrictions to allow the gradual return of entertainment events, effective July 21. It was made very clear that all the public health protocols among other rules, had to be followed so that this breathing space could be expanded. Let me be frank Mr. Speaker. I am very disappointed that after...

Mr. Speaker, as we prepare for the new school year during this time of crisis, it is extremely important that all stakeholders work collaboratively with the best interest of our students in mind. The exorbitant fees being requested by some schools are untenable and school administrators are encouraged not to pursue any increase in these fees for the 2020/2021 academic...

My Fellow Jamaicans at home and in the Diaspora: Greetings! Today we celebrate the 58th anniversary of our independence and despite the difficult context and restrictions, we have much for which to be thankful. No matter where in the world we are, our hearts still swell with pride, and a deep sense of patriotism whenever we witness the hoisting of...

My Fellow Jamaicans, we celebrate the 58th anniversary of our nation’s Independence in the throes of a pandemic. Together, we have done well in managing the crisis, through the hard work of thousands of frontline workers and the support and cooperation of most Jamaicans. We cannot afford to become complacent now. We are still at risk. Therefore, we must continue...

My fellow Jamaicans, I greet you with love on this the 58th anniversary of our independence. Our celebrations are affected this year by Covid-19 which is causing severe hardships and pain for our people. Our heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost loved ones and to those who are ill, we wish you a speedy recovery. On behalf of...