𝙈𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙃𝙤𝙣. 𝘽𝙧𝙤𝙜𝙖𝙙 🇯🇲

We cannot afford to allow false narratives about the Government’s handling of hurricane relief funds to go unchallenged, particularly when these claims are made on international platforms. Such statements have consequences beyond our politics. They can damage Jamaica’s reputation, undermine confidence in our institutions and jeopardise the international support we may need when the next disaster strikes. The world has changed, and international assistance increasingly depends on confidence in the strength, integrity and accountability of our systems. I also recognise that these narratives are rooted in a long-standing perception that “nothing is going on” and that government cannot deliver. For too long, this thinking has shaped how Jamaicans engage with government, creating a culture of distrust and short-term expectations that makes it difficult to pursue the long-term policies necessary for meaningful national transformation. Through programmes such as the New Social Housing Programme, we are working to change that perception by demonstrating that government can deliver meaningful, lasting improvements in people’s lives. But we must also acknowledge that delivery takes too long, and we have a responsibility to improve efficiency, strengthen accountability and consistently show Jamaicans the progress being made. We must change the way we think about government, what we expect of it and what it can achieve. That requires transparency, results and a willingness to challenge deeply entrenched beliefs. The only way we are going to change is if we change our thinking and change our outlook.

During my visit to Maldon, St. James, I spoke about the importance of understanding what keeps communities peaceful and applying those lessons across Jamaica. While we continue to strengthen the Jamaica Constabulary Force to tackle crime and gangs, we must also address the conflicts between individuals that too often lead to violence and loss of life. Every disagreement does not have to end in violence. We must teach our children and young people how to resolve conflicts peacefully and build a culture of respect and understanding. Every Jamaican deserves to feel safe in their community and live without fear.

I will host a Special Press Briefing on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in the Banquet Hall at Jamaica House. Tune in live on @WatchJIS and PBCJamaica, and follow @JISVoice on Facebook and Instagram for updates.

#PressRelease: Gov’t to raise minimum gun sentence to 20 years, create new offence for criminals using children to carry guns.

The Chess in the City School Tour rolled into Denham Town High School, bringing the excitement of the upcoming tournament directly to the students. We spoke with them about the opportunities to compete, represent their school and be part of an event bringing young people from across Jamaica together through chess. Our title sponsors, Juici Patties and the Social Development Commission (SDC), continue to support the journey as we spread the word and build anticipation for Chess in the City this Saturday, October 3, 2026. Smart Moves. Stronger Jamaica. 🇯🇲♟️ #ChessInTheCity2026 #DenhamTownHighSchool #SchoolTour #SmartMovesStrongerJamaica

Yesterday, I joined the Spatial ArcGIS User Conference Experience Jamaica, where we looked at how maps and data are helping Jamaica make better decisions. When Hurricane Melissa hit, GIS helped us understand where the damage was, what was affected, who needed help and where resources were needed most. That kind of information can make a real difference during a crisis. But GIS is not only about responding to disasters. It is also about planning Jamaica’s development, knowing where our roads, homes, businesses, farms and other important infrastructure are, and using that information to make smarter decisions. We also saw new tools and initiatives, including the Government’s drone imagery capabilities and new mapping solutions, along with how GIS is being used across different sectors. And importantly, we are introducing the next generation to this technology through GIS education in our schools and universities.

This afternoon, we broke ground for Luana Gardens Phase 4 in St. Elizabeth, a new housing development that will provide 337 housing solutions, 140 two-bedroom houses and 197 serviced residential lots. The development will also include the essential infrastructure needed to support a well-planned community and create more opportunities for families to own property. We want more Jamaican families to have the opportunity to own a home, establish themselves and build a secure future. Luana Gardens Phase 4 will help create those opportunities for families in St. Elizabeth.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development, Arlene Williams, said the Government is focused on supporting families affected by the relocation exercise at Cooper’s Pen. She explained that the property is privately owned, but the Government is helping families who have to relocate, including the 19 families who were living under tents. Relocation and resettlement grants are being provided, while agencies including NIRA, NHT, the JDF and JCF are on the ground assisting residents. Some families are having challenges accessing the grants because they do not have the required ID or TRN. Teams are working with them to address these issues. The Government is also looking at options for families who are required to relocate by November 30.

In parliaments across the world, the Speaker holds one of the most important offices in a democratic system. The Speaker presides over sittings, interprets and applies the Standing Orders, determines the conduct of debate, maintains order and ensures that both Government and Opposition members are able to participate in the work of Parliament. These responsibilities matter because parliamentary rules are the safeguards of the democratic process. They ensure that differences are debated within an established framework, that decisions are taken properly and that the authority and dignity of Parliament are preserved. The Speaker is therefore required to administer those rules fairly, consistently and with sound judgment. The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association brings together more than 180 parliaments and legislatures across the Commonwealth. It promotes parliamentary democracy by strengthening institutions, building the capacity of parliamentarians and creating opportunities for legislatures to exchange knowledge and effective practices. It is within this context that the election of the Speaker of Jamaica’s House of Representatives, the Most Honourable Juliet Holness, as Vice Chairperson of the Association assumes particular significance. She is the first Jamaican elected to the position in 33 years. Her election gives Jamaica an important place in the leadership of a body that helps to shape parliamentary practice across the Commonwealth. It also reflects the standing of Jamaica’s Parliament and the value of our country’s contribution to the wider Commonwealth parliamentary community. I congratulate the Speaker and I know she will effectively discharge her duties as she assumes this most important responsibility.

Today, I paid tribute to our dear brother George G. Soutar CD, KC, as we gathered to celebrate his life and bid him farewell. George was a gentleman, a man of principle and someone who gave many years of his life to Jamaica. Until his passing George was the only surviving member of an earlier leadership corps of the Jamaica Labour Party, he carried with him a wealth of history, experience and memories of our Party and our country. His contribution also extended through his distinguished legal career and his service as Chairman of the Public Broadcasting Corporation of Jamaica. As I reflected on his life today, I was reminded of the quiet ways in which good men leave their mark, through their work, their relationships and the example they set. My deepest condolences remain with George’s family, friends and colleagues. May the memories of his life and service bring them comfort in this time of loss. May his soul rest in peace.