P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
FORWARD WITH PROGRESS MESSAGE FROM THE MOST HON. PORTIA SIMPSON MILLER ON, MP THE PARTY LEADER AND PRIME MINISTER
For 77 years, the People’s National Party (PNP) has provided leadership that has led the way in transforming Jamaica from an underdeveloped British colony into an Independent country that is a proud and respected member of the global family of nations. Our Party has been at the forefront of every progressive advance made by the people and nation of Jamaica. Every area of national and community life in Jamaica has been positively impacted by the work of the PNP in Government. Over the years, we have built strong, stable foundations for economic growth; production expansion; land and home ownership; agricultural development; export growth; employment; small, medium and large business ownership; education; health care; the security of our people; the transformation of our physical infrastructure and many other aspects of national development. I am thankful to the Jamaican people who have expressed their confidence in the PNP and have worked with us to create a better Jamaica. We have not accomplished all our objectives to fully satisfy the needs of the Jamaican people. However, we have made tremendous progress. At this point in our country’s history, we encourage our people to continue to make the critical decisions that will move Jamaica forward and increase the rate of progress.
n Simpso Portia Jamaica’s Miller is le Prime a first fem and has r e t Minis ion for champ been a r. the poo 2
As we recall the many milestones along the road of progress and development, I take this opportunity to invite all Jamaicans at home and abroad to join the officers, members and supporters of the PNP in a salute to the leaders of our Party over the years, whose vision, unstinting efforts and great achievements have brought us thus far.
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
THE RIGHT EXCELLENT NORMAN WASHINGTON MANLEY PARTY PRESIDENT 1938-1969 CHIEF MINISTER 1955-1959; PREMIER 1959-1962 At the birth of the People’s National Party in 1938, the founding President, Norman Washington Manley declared: “The People’s National Party is called the ‘People’s Party’ because it will unswervingly aim at all those measures which serve the masses of the country. It is called ‘National’ because it is pledged to the development of the national spirit.” Under the leadership of all four Party Presidents, the PNP has carried out policies and programmes consistent with this commitment.
ley and the Norman Man e architects PNP were th stitution Con of the 1944 t Universal h g u ro b that ge, giving Adult Suffra in Jamaica every adult vote. the right to
1. Norman Manley and the PNP were the architects of the 1944 Constitution that brought Universal Adult Suffrage to Jamaica, giving every adult the right to vote. 2. In 1949, the PNP launched the ‘Plan for Progress’ which became the blueprint for Jamaica’s economic development, making us one of the leading developing nations in the world. 3. Norman Manley and the PNP in 1953 introduced the Ministerial system of Government in Jamaica which led the way for constitutional advancement. 4. It was the advocacy of the PNP in 1959 which led to Jamaica achieving internal self-government. 5. Norman Manley and the PNP demanded and negotiated Jamaica’s Independence. 6. For seven and a half years (1955 – 1962), Norman Manley and the PNP shepherded an unprecedented expansion of the Jamaican economy. The annual average growth rate during that administration was some 6%; and in the fiscal year 1956/57, the economy grew by 14.1%, establishing a record
that is not matched or surpassed by any Administration since then. 7. In 1955, the establishment of the Central Planning Unit (now Planning Institute of Jamaica) marked the beginning of planned economic and social development in Jamaica. 8. The 1957 PNP Administration introduced Jamaica’s first Ten-Year Development Plan. 9. The Beach Control Law of 1955 gave all Jamaicans right of access to our beaches. 10. The Norman Manley Administration introduced the Watershed Protection Act to preserve the environment and protect our water resources. 11. The Scientific Research Council (SRC) was established. 12. The 1956 Industrial Incentives Law facilitated growth of the manufacturing sector. 3
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
FORWARD WITH PROGRESS MESSAGE FROM THE MOST HON. PORTIA SIMPSON MILLER ON, MP THE PARTY LEADER AND PRIME MINISTER
For 77 years, the People’s National Party (PNP) has provided leadership that has led the way in transforming Jamaica from an underdeveloped British colony into an Independent country that is a proud and respected member of the global family of nations. Our Party has been at the forefront of every progressive advance made by the people and nation of Jamaica. Every area of national and community life in Jamaica has been positively impacted by the work of the PNP in Government. Over the years, we have built strong, stable foundations for economic growth; production expansion; land and home ownership; agricultural development; export growth; employment; small, medium and large business ownership; education; health care; the security of our people; the transformation of our physical infrastructure and many other aspects of national development. I am thankful to the Jamaican people who have expressed their confidence in the PNP and have worked with us to create a better Jamaica. We have not accomplished all our objectives to fully satisfy the needs of the Jamaican people. However, we have made tremendous progress. At this point in our country’s history, we encourage our people to continue to make the critical decisions that will move Jamaica forward and increase the rate of progress.
n Simpso Portia Jamaica’s Miller is le Prime a first fem and has r e t Minis ion for champ been a r. the poo 2
As we recall the many milestones along the road of progress and development, I take this opportunity to invite all Jamaicans at home and abroad to join the officers, members and supporters of the PNP in a salute to the leaders of our Party over the years, whose vision, unstinting efforts and great achievements have brought us thus far.
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
THE RIGHT EXCELLENT NORMAN WASHINGTON MANLEY PARTY PRESIDENT 1938-1969 CHIEF MINISTER 1955-1959; PREMIER 1959-1962 At the birth of the People’s National Party in 1938, the founding President, Norman Washington Manley declared: “The People’s National Party is called the ‘People’s Party’ because it will unswervingly aim at all those measures which serve the masses of the country. It is called ‘National’ because it is pledged to the development of the national spirit.” Under the leadership of all four Party Presidents, the PNP has carried out policies and programmes consistent with this commitment.
ley and the Norman Man e architects PNP were th stitution Con of the 1944 t Universal h g u ro b that ge, giving Adult Suffra in Jamaica every adult vote. the right to
1. Norman Manley and the PNP were the architects of the 1944 Constitution that brought Universal Adult Suffrage to Jamaica, giving every adult the right to vote. 2. In 1949, the PNP launched the ‘Plan for Progress’ which became the blueprint for Jamaica’s economic development, making us one of the leading developing nations in the world. 3. Norman Manley and the PNP in 1953 introduced the Ministerial system of Government in Jamaica which led the way for constitutional advancement. 4. It was the advocacy of the PNP in 1959 which led to Jamaica achieving internal self-government. 5. Norman Manley and the PNP demanded and negotiated Jamaica’s Independence. 6. For seven and a half years (1955 – 1962), Norman Manley and the PNP shepherded an unprecedented expansion of the Jamaican economy. The annual average growth rate during that administration was some 6%; and in the fiscal year 1956/57, the economy grew by 14.1%, establishing a record
that is not matched or surpassed by any Administration since then. 7. In 1955, the establishment of the Central Planning Unit (now Planning Institute of Jamaica) marked the beginning of planned economic and social development in Jamaica. 8. The 1957 PNP Administration introduced Jamaica’s first Ten-Year Development Plan. 9. The Beach Control Law of 1955 gave all Jamaicans right of access to our beaches. 10. The Norman Manley Administration introduced the Watershed Protection Act to preserve the environment and protect our water resources. 11. The Scientific Research Council (SRC) was established. 12. The 1956 Industrial Incentives Law facilitated growth of the manufacturing sector. 3
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
paid by government.” Initially, 2,000 students annually were given fully paid access to high schools, increasing enrolment from 11,600 in 1957, to 19,236 in 1962. National Stadium
13. A Small Business Loan Board was established to promote small business development. 14. The Bank of Jamaica Act was passed in 1960 and the bank began operation in 1961. 15. The Export Industries [Encouragement] Law 1956 provided additional incentives for exports. 16. The Facilities for Titles Law introduced in 1955 made it possible for thousands of small farmers to obtain land titles without going through the traditional expensive and laborious application process. 17. The Land Bonds Law 1955 allowed the start of land reform in Jamaica by granting the government access to idle lands in exchange for bonds. 18. During the Norman Manley Administration, tourism experienced its first “Golden age” with the establishment of The Jamaica Tourist Board, the expansion of both major airports and the opening and development of Negril as a tourist resort town. 19. A new agreement negotiated with the bauxite companies increased the royalties they paid Jamaica by 400 per cent thereby boosting the country’s revenue. 20. The Norman Manley Administration introduced the Common Entrance Examination in 1957 because of their deep concern that “a large number of children of poor parents, who were unable to pay fees, should be afforded the opportunity of a good grammar school education, with the fees being 4
21. The 1957 educational reforms also included the establishment of the College of Arts, Science and Technology (CAST), now the University of Technology (UTECH). 22. Kingston Technical School and the practical training centres at Dinthill and Holmwood were converted to Technical High Schools to feed into CAST. 23. The Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC) was established in 1959. 24. Establishment of Government Broadcasting Service which created a Government Information Service, now the Jamaica Information Service (JIS), as well as a Schools’ Broadcasting Service which broadcast the school curriculum via radio. 25. Work on the National Stadium started in 1955 and was completed for the Independence celebrations in August, 1962. 26. In 1959 when the PNP celebrated its 21st anniversary, Norman Manley could justifiably claim: “It is our party that built the national movement; that took Jamaica out of the colonial matrix; that redeemed the soul of our people from the dead hand of our bondage; that liberated the energy and the will and the spirit that has swept us forward and onward and upward for the last twenty years.” 27. Under the Norman Manley-led PNP administration, Jamaica and India became the first two countries in the British Empire to cut trade links with the racist Apartheid regime in South Africa. In summary, the Norman Manley Administration created institutions on which modern Jamaica has been built, and in the process, made Jamaica a leader in the developing world.
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
THE MOST HONOURABLE. MICHAEL NORMAN MANLEY, ON PARTY PRESIDENT 1969-1992, PRIME MINISTER 1972-1980; 1989-1992 Comrade Michael Manley will always be remembered as Jamaica’s most passionate and unrelenting campaigner for social justice. The Jamaican workers will always remember Michael Manley and the PNP for the body of legislation and programmes which expanded workers’ rights and raised the workers’ standard of living, including the minimum wage and the compulsory recognition of trade unions.
28. The abolition of the Master and Servant Law to establish and protect the rights of workers. 29. The Status of Children Act replaced the archaic Bastardy Act, giving legal rights to children born to unmarried parents. 30. The Maternity Leave Law which granted paid leave to new mothers. 31. Employment (Equal Pay for Men and Women) Act became effective 1975 32. Free Education - the abolition of tuition fees in secondary schools. 33. Establishment of the Jamaica Movement for Adult Literacy (JAMAL), now Jamaica Foundation for Lifelong Learning. 34. The G.C. Foster College of Physical Education was built to train sports professionals. 35. Creation of the Cultural Training Centre (now Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts). 36. Elim Agricultural School started (now re-named the Sydney Pagon Agricultural School). 37. Access to education was significantly expanded by increasing the number of institution as follows; • Built 93 infant schools. • Built 67 primary schools. • Built 44 new secondary schools. • Four community colleges
established (Montego Bay, Brown’s Town, Knox and Excelsior) 38. The establishment of the National Housing Trust (NHT). 39. The establishment of the Sites and Services Housing Project to accelerate the construction of low income housing. 40. Significantly expanded the Land Reform Programme to provide increase access to land and boost agricultural production. 41. The Rural Electrification Programme (REP) was created with the wiring of some 30,000 homes benefiting 270,000 Jamaicans. 42. The Special Employment Programme was created to provide employment (11,500 jobs) for the large pool of unskilled workers. 43. An additional 7,000 jobs were created under the Youth Employment Programme. 44. The Employee Share Ownership Programme
Michael M an always be ley will remembe red as Jamaic a’s most passiona te and unrelenti ng for social campaigner justice.
5
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
paid by government.” Initially, 2,000 students annually were given fully paid access to high schools, increasing enrolment from 11,600 in 1957, to 19,236 in 1962. National Stadium
13. A Small Business Loan Board was established to promote small business development. 14. The Bank of Jamaica Act was passed in 1960 and the bank began operation in 1961. 15. The Export Industries [Encouragement] Law 1956 provided additional incentives for exports. 16. The Facilities for Titles Law introduced in 1955 made it possible for thousands of small farmers to obtain land titles without going through the traditional expensive and laborious application process. 17. The Land Bonds Law 1955 allowed the start of land reform in Jamaica by granting the government access to idle lands in exchange for bonds. 18. During the Norman Manley Administration, tourism experienced its first “Golden age” with the establishment of The Jamaica Tourist Board, the expansion of both major airports and the opening and development of Negril as a tourist resort town. 19. A new agreement negotiated with the bauxite companies increased the royalties they paid Jamaica by 400 per cent thereby boosting the country’s revenue. 20. The Norman Manley Administration introduced the Common Entrance Examination in 1957 because of their deep concern that “a large number of children of poor parents, who were unable to pay fees, should be afforded the opportunity of a good grammar school education, with the fees being 4
21. The 1957 educational reforms also included the establishment of the College of Arts, Science and Technology (CAST), now the University of Technology (UTECH). 22. Kingston Technical School and the practical training centres at Dinthill and Holmwood were converted to Technical High Schools to feed into CAST. 23. The Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation (JBC) was established in 1959. 24. Establishment of Government Broadcasting Service which created a Government Information Service, now the Jamaica Information Service (JIS), as well as a Schools’ Broadcasting Service which broadcast the school curriculum via radio. 25. Work on the National Stadium started in 1955 and was completed for the Independence celebrations in August, 1962. 26. In 1959 when the PNP celebrated its 21st anniversary, Norman Manley could justifiably claim: “It is our party that built the national movement; that took Jamaica out of the colonial matrix; that redeemed the soul of our people from the dead hand of our bondage; that liberated the energy and the will and the spirit that has swept us forward and onward and upward for the last twenty years.” 27. Under the Norman Manley-led PNP administration, Jamaica and India became the first two countries in the British Empire to cut trade links with the racist Apartheid regime in South Africa. In summary, the Norman Manley Administration created institutions on which modern Jamaica has been built, and in the process, made Jamaica a leader in the developing world.
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
THE MOST HONOURABLE. MICHAEL NORMAN MANLEY, ON PARTY PRESIDENT 1969-1992, PRIME MINISTER 1972-1980; 1989-1992 Comrade Michael Manley will always be remembered as Jamaica’s most passionate and unrelenting campaigner for social justice. The Jamaican workers will always remember Michael Manley and the PNP for the body of legislation and programmes which expanded workers’ rights and raised the workers’ standard of living, including the minimum wage and the compulsory recognition of trade unions.
28. The abolition of the Master and Servant Law to establish and protect the rights of workers. 29. The Status of Children Act replaced the archaic Bastardy Act, giving legal rights to children born to unmarried parents. 30. The Maternity Leave Law which granted paid leave to new mothers. 31. Employment (Equal Pay for Men and Women) Act became effective 1975 32. Free Education - the abolition of tuition fees in secondary schools. 33. Establishment of the Jamaica Movement for Adult Literacy (JAMAL), now Jamaica Foundation for Lifelong Learning. 34. The G.C. Foster College of Physical Education was built to train sports professionals. 35. Creation of the Cultural Training Centre (now Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts). 36. Elim Agricultural School started (now re-named the Sydney Pagon Agricultural School). 37. Access to education was significantly expanded by increasing the number of institution as follows; • Built 93 infant schools. • Built 67 primary schools. • Built 44 new secondary schools. • Four community colleges
established (Montego Bay, Brown’s Town, Knox and Excelsior) 38. The establishment of the National Housing Trust (NHT). 39. The establishment of the Sites and Services Housing Project to accelerate the construction of low income housing. 40. Significantly expanded the Land Reform Programme to provide increase access to land and boost agricultural production. 41. The Rural Electrification Programme (REP) was created with the wiring of some 30,000 homes benefiting 270,000 Jamaicans. 42. The Special Employment Programme was created to provide employment (11,500 jobs) for the large pool of unskilled workers. 43. An additional 7,000 jobs were created under the Youth Employment Programme. 44. The Employee Share Ownership Programme
Michael M an always be ley will remembe red as Jamaic a’s most passiona te and unrelenti ng for social campaigner justice.
5
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
(ESOP) gave workers a greater stake through ownership in businesses. 45. Opportunities were created for small and medium size businesses to expand through programmes such as the Micro Investment Development Agency (MIDA).
61. The Jamaica Maritime Institute was established. 62. Over 100 Community Enterprise organisations were created to mobilize entrepreneurship at the community level.
46. The Rent Restriction Act was passed, reducing the power of landlords to arbitrarily raise rent for tenants.
63. National Youth Service (NYS) was formed to create a cadre of patriotic young Jamaicans for national development .
47. The establishment of the National Commercial Bank (NCB), formerly Barclay’s Bank.
64. More than 1,000 Community Health Aides were recruited and deployed across Jamaica.
48. Airports Authority of Jamaica created.
65. Many community health centres were built to facilitate primary healthcare delivery.
49. The establishment of the Port Authority of Jamaica. 50. The establishment of the Bauxite and Alumina Trading Company of Jamaica (BATCO) to ensure that Jamaica got maximum gains from the bauxite mining and sale.
66. Maternity Centres built to provide prenatal care to expectant and lactating mothers at • Spanish Town, St. Catherine • Lucea, Hanover
51. The establishment of Alcoa Minerals of Jamaica (JAMALCO).
• Black River, St. Elizabeth
52. The establishment of the Jamaica Bauxite Institute (JBI).
• Fair Prospect, Portland
• Port Morant, St. Thomas
53. The Bauxite Levy was introduced to finance national development.
• Dias, Hanover
54. Creation of the Office of Disaster Preparedness now the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM).
• Expansion of Victoria Jubilee Hospital.
55. The creation of the Integrity Commission in 1973. 56. The establishment of the Kingston Export Free Zone. 57. The establishment of the Petroleum Corporation of Jamaica (PCJ). 58. The establishment of The Jamaica Merchant Marine Ltd. 59. The Bureau of Women’s Affairs was created to address issues critical to women. 60. Women’s Centre Foundation of Jamaica established to help teenage mothers. 6
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
• Chester Castle, Hanover
67. Intensive Care Units built at Kingston Public Hospital, Bustamante Children’s Hospital, and University Hospital. 68. New Nurses Training Centre built at Cornwall Regional Hospital.
THE MOST HONOURABLE PERCIVAL JAMES PATTERSON, ON PARTY PRESIDENT 1992-2006, PRIME MINISTER 1992-2006 PJ Patterson, the architect of the modernisation of Jamaica’s physical and economic infrastructure is the only Jamaican Prime Minister to have led his party to victory in three consecutive General Elections. Under P.J. Patterson’s leadership, more Jamaicans owned land, had access to decent shelter, access to water, electricity and telephone service than ever before. His non-confrontational style was a major contributing factor to the decline in partisan political violence. By the time he retired in 2006, PJ Patterson earned the distinction of being the longest-serving Prime Minister of Jamaica.
78. Jamaica visited by a record 3 million stopover and cruise tourists in 2006.
73. The modernisation and expansion of the infrastructure of the island’s airports, seaports and territorial waters to enhance the environment for investment.
83. Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo) formed.
74. The construction of a modern highway system beginning with Highway 2000.
79. Falmouth Cruise Ship Pier built. 80. Port Maria Marina built. 81. Montego Bay Convention Centre built. 82. Tourism Enhancement Fund Created
P. J. Patt ers was relen on tl empower ess in ing Jama icans, improvin gJ infrastru amaica’s cture and diffusing political tension.
84. South Coast Tourism expanded.
75. Construction of North Coast Highway from Negril to Port Antonio.
85. Significant expansion of bauxite and alumina production .
76. Preparation and rollout of the Tourism Master Plan for sustainable tourism development
86. Jamaica Deposit Insurance Corporation (JDIC) was created to protect depositors in the banking system.
• Major tourism expansion: • Grand Palladium Hotel
87. Created the Financial Services Commission (FSC) to regulate the non-banking financial institutions.
• Grand Bahia Principe Hotel
88. Foreign exchange market liberalised.
71. Creation of the National Gallery of Jamaica.
• Iberostar Hotel
89. Fair Trading Commission created.
• Sandals Whitehouse Hotel
72. Michael Manley awarded the United Nations Medal for the fight against Apartheid.
• Secrets Resorts
90. Personal income tax rate reduced from 33 1/3% to 25% to provide more disposable income to taxpayers.
69. Electoral Advisory Committee created in 1979. 70. The Ombudsman Act passed in Parliament.
• New Ritz Carlton Hotel
• Riu 1, 2, 3 & 4 Hotels; among others. 77. Approximately 30,000 jobs created in the tourism sector.
91. Expansion of the mandate of the HEART Trust by establishing the National Training Agency (NTA) to serve the workforce. 7
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
(ESOP) gave workers a greater stake through ownership in businesses. 45. Opportunities were created for small and medium size businesses to expand through programmes such as the Micro Investment Development Agency (MIDA).
61. The Jamaica Maritime Institute was established. 62. Over 100 Community Enterprise organisations were created to mobilize entrepreneurship at the community level.
46. The Rent Restriction Act was passed, reducing the power of landlords to arbitrarily raise rent for tenants.
63. National Youth Service (NYS) was formed to create a cadre of patriotic young Jamaicans for national development .
47. The establishment of the National Commercial Bank (NCB), formerly Barclay’s Bank.
64. More than 1,000 Community Health Aides were recruited and deployed across Jamaica.
48. Airports Authority of Jamaica created.
65. Many community health centres were built to facilitate primary healthcare delivery.
49. The establishment of the Port Authority of Jamaica. 50. The establishment of the Bauxite and Alumina Trading Company of Jamaica (BATCO) to ensure that Jamaica got maximum gains from the bauxite mining and sale.
66. Maternity Centres built to provide prenatal care to expectant and lactating mothers at • Spanish Town, St. Catherine • Lucea, Hanover
51. The establishment of Alcoa Minerals of Jamaica (JAMALCO).
• Black River, St. Elizabeth
52. The establishment of the Jamaica Bauxite Institute (JBI).
• Fair Prospect, Portland
• Port Morant, St. Thomas
53. The Bauxite Levy was introduced to finance national development.
• Dias, Hanover
54. Creation of the Office of Disaster Preparedness now the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM).
• Expansion of Victoria Jubilee Hospital.
55. The creation of the Integrity Commission in 1973. 56. The establishment of the Kingston Export Free Zone. 57. The establishment of the Petroleum Corporation of Jamaica (PCJ). 58. The establishment of The Jamaica Merchant Marine Ltd. 59. The Bureau of Women’s Affairs was created to address issues critical to women. 60. Women’s Centre Foundation of Jamaica established to help teenage mothers. 6
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
• Chester Castle, Hanover
67. Intensive Care Units built at Kingston Public Hospital, Bustamante Children’s Hospital, and University Hospital. 68. New Nurses Training Centre built at Cornwall Regional Hospital.
THE MOST HONOURABLE PERCIVAL JAMES PATTERSON, ON PARTY PRESIDENT 1992-2006, PRIME MINISTER 1992-2006 PJ Patterson, the architect of the modernisation of Jamaica’s physical and economic infrastructure is the only Jamaican Prime Minister to have led his party to victory in three consecutive General Elections. Under P.J. Patterson’s leadership, more Jamaicans owned land, had access to decent shelter, access to water, electricity and telephone service than ever before. His non-confrontational style was a major contributing factor to the decline in partisan political violence. By the time he retired in 2006, PJ Patterson earned the distinction of being the longest-serving Prime Minister of Jamaica.
78. Jamaica visited by a record 3 million stopover and cruise tourists in 2006.
73. The modernisation and expansion of the infrastructure of the island’s airports, seaports and territorial waters to enhance the environment for investment.
83. Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo) formed.
74. The construction of a modern highway system beginning with Highway 2000.
79. Falmouth Cruise Ship Pier built. 80. Port Maria Marina built. 81. Montego Bay Convention Centre built. 82. Tourism Enhancement Fund Created
P. J. Patt ers was relen on tl empower ess in ing Jama icans, improvin gJ infrastru amaica’s cture and diffusing political tension.
84. South Coast Tourism expanded.
75. Construction of North Coast Highway from Negril to Port Antonio.
85. Significant expansion of bauxite and alumina production .
76. Preparation and rollout of the Tourism Master Plan for sustainable tourism development
86. Jamaica Deposit Insurance Corporation (JDIC) was created to protect depositors in the banking system.
• Major tourism expansion: • Grand Palladium Hotel
87. Created the Financial Services Commission (FSC) to regulate the non-banking financial institutions.
• Grand Bahia Principe Hotel
88. Foreign exchange market liberalised.
71. Creation of the National Gallery of Jamaica.
• Iberostar Hotel
89. Fair Trading Commission created.
• Sandals Whitehouse Hotel
72. Michael Manley awarded the United Nations Medal for the fight against Apartheid.
• Secrets Resorts
90. Personal income tax rate reduced from 33 1/3% to 25% to provide more disposable income to taxpayers.
69. Electoral Advisory Committee created in 1979. 70. The Ombudsman Act passed in Parliament.
• New Ritz Carlton Hotel
• Riu 1, 2, 3 & 4 Hotels; among others. 77. Approximately 30,000 jobs created in the tourism sector.
91. Expansion of the mandate of the HEART Trust by establishing the National Training Agency (NTA) to serve the workforce. 7
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
92. Unemployment reduced substantially, reaching a record low of 9.6% in 2006.
119. Created the National Commission on Science and Technology in 1993 to accelerate national development.
93. Sixty four (64) schools built and refurbished, including 17 new basic, primary and high schools in western Jamaica.
120. The establishment of the Culture, Health, Arts, Sports and Education (CHASE) Fund.
94. National Youth Service reintroduced in 1994. 95. Provided free textbooks in schools at a cost of $3.3Bn dollars. 96. Early Childhood Commission established.
121. Major housing expansion resulted in some 150,000 houses being built in 18 years up to 2007, through Transport Centre & JUTC
97. The establishment of the National Council on Education.
108. Public Broadcasting Corporation of Jamaica (PBCJ) established.
98. Poverty Eradication Programme reduced poverty to 9% in 2006 from 30% in 1989.
109. During P.J. Patterson’s administration, Information Technology (IT) was promoted as a vital sector of the economy.
99. Introduced the Poverty Alleviation through Health and Education (PATH) Programme 100. Significant growth in the National Insurance Fund generated a larger pool of funds for the provision of social security benefits and assist in reducing poverty. 101. Under the National Insurance Scheme, the NI Gold Health Plan was established to provide health services to pensioners 102. The establishment of the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF).
110. Liberalisation of the telecommunication sector enabled the introduction of additional service providers, which resulted in hundreds of thousands of cellular phones being available to all Jamaicans. 111. Establishment of the Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR). 112. Liberalisation and expansion of the media market – More TV and radio stations and establishment of the cable industry. 113. Passed the Access to Information Act.
103. The establishment of the National Health Fund (NHF).
114. The establishment of the Central Information Technology Office (CITO).
104. Jamaica Drug for the Elderly Programme (JADEP) introduced.
115. Established the Universal Access Fund (Now the Universal Service Fund).
105. Some 50 new ambulances were commissioned into service for the health sector.
116. The establishment of the Sports Development Foundation (SDF).
106. Hospitals built and upgraded - May Pen, Mandeville, Annotto Bay, St. Ann’s Bay, Black River, KPH, Bellevue, Cornwall Regional, Falmouth.
117. Stadiums built in Falmouth, Trelawny; Sligoville, St. Catherine and Catherine Hall in Montego Bay; many multi-purpose courts and community playfields were also built and upgraded.
107. Regional Health Authorities established to improve management of our health care system.
118. The establishment of the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA).
8
• NHT, • Joint Ventures developers
with
private
• Relocation 2000, • Operation PRIDE, • Indigent Housing Programme, • Sugar Sector Housing, • Inner-city Housing. 122. The establishment of the National Housing Development Corporation Ltd. (NHDC). 123. Land ownership expanded through land titling, Operation PRIDE, Emancipation Lands Projects. 124. The establishment of the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA). 125. Through the liberalisation of the motor vehicle import policy, ordinary Jamaicans were now able to own a motor vehicle. 126. The establishment of the Jamaica Urban Transit Company Ltd (JUTC). 127. New transport centres built at HalfWay Tree and in Montego Bay. 128. The establishment of the National Works Agency (NWA).
130. National Contracts Commission was established. 131. Office of the Public Defender was created. 132. Office of Professional Responsibility, the Bureau of Special Investigations and the Police Public Complaints Authority was set up to monitor and investigate alleged Police excesses. 133. Established the Corruption Prevention Commission. 134. Implemented the Possibilities Programme with a Care Centre and a Skills Employment Centre for children and youth living and working on the streets. 135. Expanded gender equity and enhanced family life through legislation such as: - Domestic Violence Act 1996 - Property (Rights of Spouses) Act 2003 - Child Care and Protection Act 2004 - Legislation dealing with Early Childhood Education and Security of Day Care Centres (2005) 136. Created Emancipation Park for recreation and entrepreneurial activities, such as markets, physical activities for children, walking or jogging, cultural and art activities and community events. 137. Implemented the $2.5 Billion “Lift Up Jamaica” community improvement programme. HIGHWAY 2000
129. The establishment of the Postal Corporation of Jamaica Ltd.
9
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
92. Unemployment reduced substantially, reaching a record low of 9.6% in 2006.
119. Created the National Commission on Science and Technology in 1993 to accelerate national development.
93. Sixty four (64) schools built and refurbished, including 17 new basic, primary and high schools in western Jamaica.
120. The establishment of the Culture, Health, Arts, Sports and Education (CHASE) Fund.
94. National Youth Service reintroduced in 1994. 95. Provided free textbooks in schools at a cost of $3.3Bn dollars. 96. Early Childhood Commission established.
121. Major housing expansion resulted in some 150,000 houses being built in 18 years up to 2007, through Transport Centre & JUTC
97. The establishment of the National Council on Education.
108. Public Broadcasting Corporation of Jamaica (PBCJ) established.
98. Poverty Eradication Programme reduced poverty to 9% in 2006 from 30% in 1989.
109. During P.J. Patterson’s administration, Information Technology (IT) was promoted as a vital sector of the economy.
99. Introduced the Poverty Alleviation through Health and Education (PATH) Programme 100. Significant growth in the National Insurance Fund generated a larger pool of funds for the provision of social security benefits and assist in reducing poverty. 101. Under the National Insurance Scheme, the NI Gold Health Plan was established to provide health services to pensioners 102. The establishment of the Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF).
110. Liberalisation of the telecommunication sector enabled the introduction of additional service providers, which resulted in hundreds of thousands of cellular phones being available to all Jamaicans. 111. Establishment of the Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR). 112. Liberalisation and expansion of the media market – More TV and radio stations and establishment of the cable industry. 113. Passed the Access to Information Act.
103. The establishment of the National Health Fund (NHF).
114. The establishment of the Central Information Technology Office (CITO).
104. Jamaica Drug for the Elderly Programme (JADEP) introduced.
115. Established the Universal Access Fund (Now the Universal Service Fund).
105. Some 50 new ambulances were commissioned into service for the health sector.
116. The establishment of the Sports Development Foundation (SDF).
106. Hospitals built and upgraded - May Pen, Mandeville, Annotto Bay, St. Ann’s Bay, Black River, KPH, Bellevue, Cornwall Regional, Falmouth.
117. Stadiums built in Falmouth, Trelawny; Sligoville, St. Catherine and Catherine Hall in Montego Bay; many multi-purpose courts and community playfields were also built and upgraded.
107. Regional Health Authorities established to improve management of our health care system.
118. The establishment of the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA).
8
• NHT, • Joint Ventures developers
with
private
• Relocation 2000, • Operation PRIDE, • Indigent Housing Programme, • Sugar Sector Housing, • Inner-city Housing. 122. The establishment of the National Housing Development Corporation Ltd. (NHDC). 123. Land ownership expanded through land titling, Operation PRIDE, Emancipation Lands Projects. 124. The establishment of the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA). 125. Through the liberalisation of the motor vehicle import policy, ordinary Jamaicans were now able to own a motor vehicle. 126. The establishment of the Jamaica Urban Transit Company Ltd (JUTC). 127. New transport centres built at HalfWay Tree and in Montego Bay. 128. The establishment of the National Works Agency (NWA).
130. National Contracts Commission was established. 131. Office of the Public Defender was created. 132. Office of Professional Responsibility, the Bureau of Special Investigations and the Police Public Complaints Authority was set up to monitor and investigate alleged Police excesses. 133. Established the Corruption Prevention Commission. 134. Implemented the Possibilities Programme with a Care Centre and a Skills Employment Centre for children and youth living and working on the streets. 135. Expanded gender equity and enhanced family life through legislation such as: - Domestic Violence Act 1996 - Property (Rights of Spouses) Act 2003 - Child Care and Protection Act 2004 - Legislation dealing with Early Childhood Education and Security of Day Care Centres (2005) 136. Created Emancipation Park for recreation and entrepreneurial activities, such as markets, physical activities for children, walking or jogging, cultural and art activities and community events. 137. Implemented the $2.5 Billion “Lift Up Jamaica” community improvement programme. HIGHWAY 2000
129. The establishment of the Postal Corporation of Jamaica Ltd.
9
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
THE MOST HONOURABLE PORTIA SIMPSON MILLER ON, MP THE PARTY LEADER AND PRIME MINISTER
Prime Minister Portia Simpson-Miller is presiding over the greatest and most profound reform of the Jamaican economy, in what is acknowledged as the most challenging period in Jamaica’s modern history. Under her watch, Jamaica’s management of its national debt has improved; all major economic indicators are showing positive signs; while social programmes have been expanded to protect the most vulnerable groups in the society. When she took office, Jamaica was close to the brink of bankruptcy. Under the JLP Administration (2007 – 2011), there had been 11 consecutive quarters of negative growth, the country’s debt ballooned from $945 Billion to $1.7 trillion. The debt to GDP ratio had also climbed to 145 per cent. This
translated to each Jamaican man, woman and child owing some $600,000.00. The JLP administration had signed a 27-month Stand-By Agreement with the IMF in 2010 and did not fulfill the commitments they made on behalf of the country. With Jamaica unilaterally aborting the Stand-By Agreement with the IMF, the country lost the trust and respect of the international financial community. Since taking office in 2012, the Portia Simpson-Miller Administration has begun to restore economic stability and Jamaica’s international credibility. This has been achieved with the support and partnership between the Government and of the people of Jamaica.
OVERVIEW 138. Jamaica quickly regained the confidence of the international community and signed an Extended Fund Facility with the IMF in 2013. 139. Jamaica has since passed ten consecutive quarterly reviews by the International Monetary Fund. 140. By passing the IMF quarterly reviews, Jamaica has been able to re-enter global capital markets and secure the lowest interest rates ever. 141. The economy has returned to growth with projections for increased growth over the next fiscal year. 142. Jamaica has also become increasingly attractive to both local and foreign investors. 143. Business confidence is high.
10
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
144. The business climate continues to improve as measured every year by the World Bank’s Global Report on the Ease of Doing Business.
CARICOM USA Summit
145. The debt to GDP ratio has been reduced from 145% to 126%, with a planned further reduction to 120% by the end of the current fiscal year. 146. Our Net International Reserves (NIR) have increased to US $2.4 billion in 2015. 147. Inflation has been significantly reduced from 9.5% in 2013 to 4%, the lowest rate in 48 years. 148. Jamaica is ranked 64 out of 146 nations in the 2014 Forbes Best Countries for Business Report. 149. Forbes Magazine ranks Jamaica as the best country in the Caribbean in which to do business. 150. Administration’s continued promotion of Brand Jamaica is a major contributing factor to the growth of Jamaica’s tourism product. 151. Even in the challenging economic environment, the Administration has always fought to protect the poor and the most vulnerable by increased public spending on critical social services. 152. Payments to PATH beneficiaries have been increased. 153. This level of investment in social programmes is unique in the history of IMF Programmes. 154. We have implemented the Jamaica Emergency Employment Programme (JEEP), which today, has provided direct income for more than 60,000 Jamaicans and created vital infrastructure at an approximate cost of $9 billion. 155. Increased investments in education and training are laying the foundation for a more highly-trained and better educated labour force.
156. Major housing programmes have been undertaken, including Inner-city Housing and Sugar Workers Housing programmes 157. The visits of major world leaders, including the President of the United States of America, Barack Obama; Prime Minister of Britain, David Cameron and the Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe in 2015 alone are major indicators of the strengthening of Jamaica’s relationship with the international community. 158. Jamaica’s hosting of the PetroCaribe Energy and Cooperation Agreement Summit meeting in 2015 is an indication of the esteem in which Jamaica is held by members of the Caribbean and Latin American community. 159. Our athletes, performing artistes, writers and scientists continue to excel on the international stage. 160. Life expectancy (73.1 yrs) in Jamaica is at the same level as most developed countries. 161. Jamaica continues to enjoy the reputation of being one of the world’s stable democracies.
11
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
THE MOST HONOURABLE PORTIA SIMPSON MILLER ON, MP THE PARTY LEADER AND PRIME MINISTER
Prime Minister Portia Simpson-Miller is presiding over the greatest and most profound reform of the Jamaican economy, in what is acknowledged as the most challenging period in Jamaica’s modern history. Under her watch, Jamaica’s management of its national debt has improved; all major economic indicators are showing positive signs; while social programmes have been expanded to protect the most vulnerable groups in the society. When she took office, Jamaica was close to the brink of bankruptcy. Under the JLP Administration (2007 – 2011), there had been 11 consecutive quarters of negative growth, the country’s debt ballooned from $945 Billion to $1.7 trillion. The debt to GDP ratio had also climbed to 145 per cent. This
translated to each Jamaican man, woman and child owing some $600,000.00. The JLP administration had signed a 27-month Stand-By Agreement with the IMF in 2010 and did not fulfill the commitments they made on behalf of the country. With Jamaica unilaterally aborting the Stand-By Agreement with the IMF, the country lost the trust and respect of the international financial community. Since taking office in 2012, the Portia Simpson-Miller Administration has begun to restore economic stability and Jamaica’s international credibility. This has been achieved with the support and partnership between the Government and of the people of Jamaica.
OVERVIEW 138. Jamaica quickly regained the confidence of the international community and signed an Extended Fund Facility with the IMF in 2013. 139. Jamaica has since passed ten consecutive quarterly reviews by the International Monetary Fund. 140. By passing the IMF quarterly reviews, Jamaica has been able to re-enter global capital markets and secure the lowest interest rates ever. 141. The economy has returned to growth with projections for increased growth over the next fiscal year. 142. Jamaica has also become increasingly attractive to both local and foreign investors. 143. Business confidence is high.
10
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
144. The business climate continues to improve as measured every year by the World Bank’s Global Report on the Ease of Doing Business.
CARICOM USA Summit
145. The debt to GDP ratio has been reduced from 145% to 126%, with a planned further reduction to 120% by the end of the current fiscal year. 146. Our Net International Reserves (NIR) have increased to US $2.4 billion in 2015. 147. Inflation has been significantly reduced from 9.5% in 2013 to 4%, the lowest rate in 48 years. 148. Jamaica is ranked 64 out of 146 nations in the 2014 Forbes Best Countries for Business Report. 149. Forbes Magazine ranks Jamaica as the best country in the Caribbean in which to do business. 150. Administration’s continued promotion of Brand Jamaica is a major contributing factor to the growth of Jamaica’s tourism product. 151. Even in the challenging economic environment, the Administration has always fought to protect the poor and the most vulnerable by increased public spending on critical social services. 152. Payments to PATH beneficiaries have been increased. 153. This level of investment in social programmes is unique in the history of IMF Programmes. 154. We have implemented the Jamaica Emergency Employment Programme (JEEP), which today, has provided direct income for more than 60,000 Jamaicans and created vital infrastructure at an approximate cost of $9 billion. 155. Increased investments in education and training are laying the foundation for a more highly-trained and better educated labour force.
156. Major housing programmes have been undertaken, including Inner-city Housing and Sugar Workers Housing programmes 157. The visits of major world leaders, including the President of the United States of America, Barack Obama; Prime Minister of Britain, David Cameron and the Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe in 2015 alone are major indicators of the strengthening of Jamaica’s relationship with the international community. 158. Jamaica’s hosting of the PetroCaribe Energy and Cooperation Agreement Summit meeting in 2015 is an indication of the esteem in which Jamaica is held by members of the Caribbean and Latin American community. 159. Our athletes, performing artistes, writers and scientists continue to excel on the international stage. 160. Life expectancy (73.1 yrs) in Jamaica is at the same level as most developed countries. 161. Jamaica continues to enjoy the reputation of being one of the world’s stable democracies.
11
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
REFORMING THE ECONOMY–CREATING INVESTMENTS, GROWTH AND JOBS
The PNP with the support of the IMF launched Jamaica’s Economic Reform Programme (ERP) under which a new fiscal governance framework was developed to establish fiscal discipline and lay the foundation for growth. This new framework is facilitated by amendments to the Financial Administration and Audit (FAA) Act and the Public Bodies Management and Accountability (PBMA) Act and Regulations. 162. The PNP restored the respect and trust of the international financial community in Jamaica which had been destroyed under the JLP Administration. 163. The PNP re-opened the sources of financing that had virtually dried up under the JLP. 164. The PNP Administration established the Economic Programme Oversight Committee (EPOC) to fulfill our commitment to full transparency. 12
170. The PNP Government established a Collateral Registry which allows more items to be used as collateral for loans. This will further facilitate small business owners and expand the sector. 171. The administrative powers of Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) have been strengthened through new laws.
EPOC’s regular reports have kept Jamaicans abreast as to our progress.
172. An electronic platform for the payment of taxes has been introduced. (RAiS)
165. Jamaica’s national debt is being reduced.
173. We have improved the operations of Jamaica Customs by converting it into an Executive Agency.
• The most reliable measurement of the debt in any country is the debt to GDP ratio. This gives an indication of the capacity of the country to repay its debts. Economic Programme Supported by the IMF
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
• Jamaica’s debt ratio stood at 140.7 per cent at the end of 2013/14, is projected to be reduced to 125% per cent at the end of fiscal year 2015/16. 166. There have been dramatic improvements in Jamaica’s international credit rating. 167. The country’s balance of payments deficit on the current account continues to decline showing an improvement in the country’s transactions with the rest of the world.
174. The Amendment of the Customs Act will effectively reduce duties on commodities and eliminating duties on all productive inputs, including intermediate goods. 175. The World Bank’s Doing Business 2016 report, published in October 2015, showed a major improvement in Jamaica’s ranking. • Jamaica is now the best-rated country for doing business in the English-speaking Caribbean and
among the top ten most improved countries in the World for doing business. • The nation is now ranked 64th of 189 countries, up seven places from our revised 71st place in the 2015 Report. • The World Bank is reporting that Jamaica’s business climate has improved significantly in the areas of i. Starting a Business, ii. Dealing with Construction Permits, iii. Paying Taxes iv. Resolving Insolvency. • The World Bank reports that it now takes only three days to start a business in Jamaica, down from a previous average of 15 days. 176. Jamaica has moved up eight places on the Global Competitiveness Index from 94th in 2013/14 to 86 of 144 countries for 2014/15. 177. The 2014 Forbes Best Countries for
Growth of Industries
• At the beginning of the programme in 2011-2012, the current account deficit was 13.4 per cent of GDP. In October 2015 it stood at 5 per cent of GDP and continues to move downwards. 168. The Insolvency Act was enacted in 2015, ensuring that businesses could be reorganized in the face of bankruptcy with the protection of the Courts against their creditors. 169. A new Procurement Act was passed in 2015, giving MSME’s greater flexibility for doing business with the government.
13
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
REFORMING THE ECONOMY–CREATING INVESTMENTS, GROWTH AND JOBS
The PNP with the support of the IMF launched Jamaica’s Economic Reform Programme (ERP) under which a new fiscal governance framework was developed to establish fiscal discipline and lay the foundation for growth. This new framework is facilitated by amendments to the Financial Administration and Audit (FAA) Act and the Public Bodies Management and Accountability (PBMA) Act and Regulations. 162. The PNP restored the respect and trust of the international financial community in Jamaica which had been destroyed under the JLP Administration. 163. The PNP re-opened the sources of financing that had virtually dried up under the JLP. 164. The PNP Administration established the Economic Programme Oversight Committee (EPOC) to fulfill our commitment to full transparency. 12
170. The PNP Government established a Collateral Registry which allows more items to be used as collateral for loans. This will further facilitate small business owners and expand the sector. 171. The administrative powers of Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) have been strengthened through new laws.
EPOC’s regular reports have kept Jamaicans abreast as to our progress.
172. An electronic platform for the payment of taxes has been introduced. (RAiS)
165. Jamaica’s national debt is being reduced.
173. We have improved the operations of Jamaica Customs by converting it into an Executive Agency.
• The most reliable measurement of the debt in any country is the debt to GDP ratio. This gives an indication of the capacity of the country to repay its debts. Economic Programme Supported by the IMF
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
• Jamaica’s debt ratio stood at 140.7 per cent at the end of 2013/14, is projected to be reduced to 125% per cent at the end of fiscal year 2015/16. 166. There have been dramatic improvements in Jamaica’s international credit rating. 167. The country’s balance of payments deficit on the current account continues to decline showing an improvement in the country’s transactions with the rest of the world.
174. The Amendment of the Customs Act will effectively reduce duties on commodities and eliminating duties on all productive inputs, including intermediate goods. 175. The World Bank’s Doing Business 2016 report, published in October 2015, showed a major improvement in Jamaica’s ranking. • Jamaica is now the best-rated country for doing business in the English-speaking Caribbean and
among the top ten most improved countries in the World for doing business. • The nation is now ranked 64th of 189 countries, up seven places from our revised 71st place in the 2015 Report. • The World Bank is reporting that Jamaica’s business climate has improved significantly in the areas of i. Starting a Business, ii. Dealing with Construction Permits, iii. Paying Taxes iv. Resolving Insolvency. • The World Bank reports that it now takes only three days to start a business in Jamaica, down from a previous average of 15 days. 176. Jamaica has moved up eight places on the Global Competitiveness Index from 94th in 2013/14 to 86 of 144 countries for 2014/15. 177. The 2014 Forbes Best Countries for
Growth of Industries
• At the beginning of the programme in 2011-2012, the current account deficit was 13.4 per cent of GDP. In October 2015 it stood at 5 per cent of GDP and continues to move downwards. 168. The Insolvency Act was enacted in 2015, ensuring that businesses could be reorganized in the face of bankruptcy with the protection of the Courts against their creditors. 169. A new Procurement Act was passed in 2015, giving MSME’s greater flexibility for doing business with the government.
13
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
Signing another international deal
GOING FOR GROWTH Staying the Course
Business Report ranked Jamaica 64 out of 146 nations. This makes Jamaica the best country in the Caribbean region to do business and third in Latin America and the Caribbean. 178. Jamaica has jumped 54 places in the Logistics Performance Index moving from 124 in 2012 to 70 in 2014. 179. As a result of the new economic environment created under the Simpson-Miller Administration, Gulfray Americas Manufacturing is investing US$350 million to develop a car assembly plant at the Spanish Town Special Economic Zone and create 2,500 jobs. 180. As a part of its port infrastructure renewal programme, Kingston Wharves Limited is investing US$50 million or J$2.2 billion in the construction of a state-of-the-art Logistics Facility in Newport West creating more than 150 new jobs in the construction phase. 181. A new Fiscal Incentives Act introduced generous capital depreciation allowances, as well as employment tax
14
credits to compensate for any statutory deduction, further improving the business environment. 182. The Banking Services Act has been amended, strengthening the regulatory system for deposit-taking institutions. 183. Our Government has developed an Action Plan for the reform of the Public Sector. We are moving to a system of shared corporate services across ministries, departments and agencies to address system wide inefficiencies. 184. The Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) has been implemented allowing the Jamaica Custom Agency to perform more types of transactions online thereby modernising the system and making import transactions hassle free. 185. We have implemented the AMANDA system in all parish councils and in eight referral agencies such as NEPA which has significantly reduced the length of time for granting development approvals. 186. The Development Bank of Jamaica
(DBJ) has increased loan financing to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
193. The another leg of the North-South Highway will be opened in this financial year.
187. DBJ has implemented the Voucher for Technical Assistance (VTA) programme to assist businesses with securing available technical advice and knowledge necessary to develop viable business plans and to better equip themselves to operate in the global economy.
194. Jamaicans are benefiting from the lowest interest rates in decades.
188. DBJ has introduced the Jamaica Venture Capital Programme. 189. During the Fiscal Year 2014/15, the Micro Small Medium Enterprises and Entrepreneurship (MSME) Policy was adopted. 190. In 2015/16, some $1 billion in loan financing has been targeted for the MSME sector. 191. The Business Registration Super Form to enable the easy start-up of businesses was passed and implemented. 192. $3 Billion has been allocated for road infrastructure development.
195. Jamaican home buyers are getting the benefit of mortgage rates below 10%; with the rates trending even lower to make more housing available to the Jamaican people. 196. Tax rates have been reduced and made equitable for all. 197. The corporate tax rate has been reduced, from 33 1/3% to 25% except for regulated institutions. 198. Custom duties have been reduced for imported productive inputs. 199. Reduction in the Standard Rate of General Consumption Tax (GCT) from 17.5% to 16.5% in FY 2012/13. 200. By maintaining a competitive exchange rate, we have made our exports more competitive and created more opportunities for import substitution and business creation. 15
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
Signing another international deal
GOING FOR GROWTH Staying the Course
Business Report ranked Jamaica 64 out of 146 nations. This makes Jamaica the best country in the Caribbean region to do business and third in Latin America and the Caribbean. 178. Jamaica has jumped 54 places in the Logistics Performance Index moving from 124 in 2012 to 70 in 2014. 179. As a result of the new economic environment created under the Simpson-Miller Administration, Gulfray Americas Manufacturing is investing US$350 million to develop a car assembly plant at the Spanish Town Special Economic Zone and create 2,500 jobs. 180. As a part of its port infrastructure renewal programme, Kingston Wharves Limited is investing US$50 million or J$2.2 billion in the construction of a state-of-the-art Logistics Facility in Newport West creating more than 150 new jobs in the construction phase. 181. A new Fiscal Incentives Act introduced generous capital depreciation allowances, as well as employment tax
14
credits to compensate for any statutory deduction, further improving the business environment. 182. The Banking Services Act has been amended, strengthening the regulatory system for deposit-taking institutions. 183. Our Government has developed an Action Plan for the reform of the Public Sector. We are moving to a system of shared corporate services across ministries, departments and agencies to address system wide inefficiencies. 184. The Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) has been implemented allowing the Jamaica Custom Agency to perform more types of transactions online thereby modernising the system and making import transactions hassle free. 185. We have implemented the AMANDA system in all parish councils and in eight referral agencies such as NEPA which has significantly reduced the length of time for granting development approvals. 186. The Development Bank of Jamaica
(DBJ) has increased loan financing to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
193. The another leg of the North-South Highway will be opened in this financial year.
187. DBJ has implemented the Voucher for Technical Assistance (VTA) programme to assist businesses with securing available technical advice and knowledge necessary to develop viable business plans and to better equip themselves to operate in the global economy.
194. Jamaicans are benefiting from the lowest interest rates in decades.
188. DBJ has introduced the Jamaica Venture Capital Programme. 189. During the Fiscal Year 2014/15, the Micro Small Medium Enterprises and Entrepreneurship (MSME) Policy was adopted. 190. In 2015/16, some $1 billion in loan financing has been targeted for the MSME sector. 191. The Business Registration Super Form to enable the easy start-up of businesses was passed and implemented. 192. $3 Billion has been allocated for road infrastructure development.
195. Jamaican home buyers are getting the benefit of mortgage rates below 10%; with the rates trending even lower to make more housing available to the Jamaican people. 196. Tax rates have been reduced and made equitable for all. 197. The corporate tax rate has been reduced, from 33 1/3% to 25% except for regulated institutions. 198. Custom duties have been reduced for imported productive inputs. 199. Reduction in the Standard Rate of General Consumption Tax (GCT) from 17.5% to 16.5% in FY 2012/13. 200. By maintaining a competitive exchange rate, we have made our exports more competitive and created more opportunities for import substitution and business creation. 15
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
Jamaica was launched by the New York-based Paradise Express Ferry. This investment will create Paradise Ferry, which is scheduled to run a service connecting Ocho Rios, Montego Bay and Negril. This unique tourist attraction is expected to generate 170 jobs. • ARC Systems Limited has invested J$400 million in massive lumber treatment plant, the first of its kind in the Caribbean.
Workers Building Retaining Wall
201. For the Financial Year 2013/14, JAMPRO facilitated over $18 billion in capital investments, exceeding the projected target of $12.3 billion. • These investments, primarily in tourism, agriculture, mining and knowledge services created over 6,000 new permanent and temporary jobs. 202. In 2014, foreign direct investment was approximately US$700 million, which signaled an increase in investments 203. As a result of the new fiscal environment, investor confidence has increased, resulting in: • Karisma Hotel Groups is investing US$900 million over ten years to create nine hotels that will provide more than 4,000 new rooms and some 8,000 direct jobs. • Sandals has invested U S $ 1 5 0 million to expand their hotels in Jamaica. • Sagicor has invested US$250 million in tourism. • A US$30 million investment in
16
• ARC Systems is currently investing J$300 million to construct a new plant to manufacture roofing materials. 204. Tankweld has built its own port at Rio Bueno and has expanded its investment into a logistics centre, equipped with a 10-acre, fully automated warehouse, operating its own vessel along with a fleet of over 90 trucks. This is one of the single largest investments made by a Jamaican-owned company, in a non-tourism related project on Jamaica’s North Coast. Tankweld employs 300 people from the area in its logistics centre; and procures goods for distribution to the construction and hardware trade in Jamaica. 205. Both consumer and business confidence in Jamaica remains high according to the Don Anderson Poll. 206. The introduction of Integrated Resort Developments (IRDs) in Jamaica which will cater to “high net worth clients”.
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
an 11% increases in revenues for FY 2013/14 ($4.583 billion). 209. The merger between the Betting Gaming and Lotteries Commission (BGLC) and the Jamaica Racing Commission (JRC) is being pursued to improve profitability in the sector. 210. The Government continues to facilitate the expansion of the telecommunications sector signaled by • FLOW investing $8.7 billion to deploy a 4G mobile network. • Digicel Business has invested $6 billion over the past year in Jamaica’s 4G network. 211. We are creating the Jamaica Internet Exchange Point (IXP) to save the country more than US$2 million a year by rerouting Internet traffic which currently goes through the USA. 212. Isocon-JLB International Ltd, a Scottish-Jamaican partnership was founded in 2012 and has grown into a major player in the movement of bulk liquids in and out of Jamaica and the region and has established a shipping container cleaning and repair facility in Kingston.
213. With increasing demand for Information and Communications Technology (ICT)/ Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) space in the Montego Bay Free Zone, the Factories Corporation of Jamaica recently spearheaded the retrofitting of a 24-thousand square foot factory building, for use in the ICT/BPO Sector. This building is now leased to the Elephant Group, and has created employment for approximately 600 people. 214. 2,500 new jobs were generated by the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector last year. The BPO sector has grown by 20% over the past two years, and is the fastest generator of jobs in the country. We are well on track to double the over 18,000 jobs now in the sector in the next 3-5 years. 215. The Government is facilitating the development of new industries such as Industrial Hemp and medical marijuana. 216. The Government has started work to refurbish and rebrand the Garmex Free Zone. The facility is fully occupied.
BPO Call Centre Jobs on the Rise
• Celebration Jamaica Limited and Harmony Cove were both approved as IRDs and scheduled to commence operations in mid 2016. 207. The Casino Gaming Commission has been established to give full regulatory oversight to casino operations in Jamaica. 208. Jamaica’s Gaming Industry is experiencing significant growth, with
17
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
Jamaica was launched by the New York-based Paradise Express Ferry. This investment will create Paradise Ferry, which is scheduled to run a service connecting Ocho Rios, Montego Bay and Negril. This unique tourist attraction is expected to generate 170 jobs. • ARC Systems Limited has invested J$400 million in massive lumber treatment plant, the first of its kind in the Caribbean.
Workers Building Retaining Wall
201. For the Financial Year 2013/14, JAMPRO facilitated over $18 billion in capital investments, exceeding the projected target of $12.3 billion. • These investments, primarily in tourism, agriculture, mining and knowledge services created over 6,000 new permanent and temporary jobs. 202. In 2014, foreign direct investment was approximately US$700 million, which signaled an increase in investments 203. As a result of the new fiscal environment, investor confidence has increased, resulting in: • Karisma Hotel Groups is investing US$900 million over ten years to create nine hotels that will provide more than 4,000 new rooms and some 8,000 direct jobs. • Sandals has invested U S $ 1 5 0 million to expand their hotels in Jamaica. • Sagicor has invested US$250 million in tourism. • A US$30 million investment in
16
• ARC Systems is currently investing J$300 million to construct a new plant to manufacture roofing materials. 204. Tankweld has built its own port at Rio Bueno and has expanded its investment into a logistics centre, equipped with a 10-acre, fully automated warehouse, operating its own vessel along with a fleet of over 90 trucks. This is one of the single largest investments made by a Jamaican-owned company, in a non-tourism related project on Jamaica’s North Coast. Tankweld employs 300 people from the area in its logistics centre; and procures goods for distribution to the construction and hardware trade in Jamaica. 205. Both consumer and business confidence in Jamaica remains high according to the Don Anderson Poll. 206. The introduction of Integrated Resort Developments (IRDs) in Jamaica which will cater to “high net worth clients”.
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
an 11% increases in revenues for FY 2013/14 ($4.583 billion). 209. The merger between the Betting Gaming and Lotteries Commission (BGLC) and the Jamaica Racing Commission (JRC) is being pursued to improve profitability in the sector. 210. The Government continues to facilitate the expansion of the telecommunications sector signaled by • FLOW investing $8.7 billion to deploy a 4G mobile network. • Digicel Business has invested $6 billion over the past year in Jamaica’s 4G network. 211. We are creating the Jamaica Internet Exchange Point (IXP) to save the country more than US$2 million a year by rerouting Internet traffic which currently goes through the USA. 212. Isocon-JLB International Ltd, a Scottish-Jamaican partnership was founded in 2012 and has grown into a major player in the movement of bulk liquids in and out of Jamaica and the region and has established a shipping container cleaning and repair facility in Kingston.
213. With increasing demand for Information and Communications Technology (ICT)/ Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) space in the Montego Bay Free Zone, the Factories Corporation of Jamaica recently spearheaded the retrofitting of a 24-thousand square foot factory building, for use in the ICT/BPO Sector. This building is now leased to the Elephant Group, and has created employment for approximately 600 people. 214. 2,500 new jobs were generated by the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector last year. The BPO sector has grown by 20% over the past two years, and is the fastest generator of jobs in the country. We are well on track to double the over 18,000 jobs now in the sector in the next 3-5 years. 215. The Government is facilitating the development of new industries such as Industrial Hemp and medical marijuana. 216. The Government has started work to refurbish and rebrand the Garmex Free Zone. The facility is fully occupied.
BPO Call Centre Jobs on the Rise
• Celebration Jamaica Limited and Harmony Cove were both approved as IRDs and scheduled to commence operations in mid 2016. 207. The Casino Gaming Commission has been established to give full regulatory oversight to casino operations in Jamaica. 208. Jamaica’s Gaming Industry is experiencing significant growth, with
17
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
JOBS & WEALTH CREATION 217. More people are finding employment. The average unemployment rate dropped from 15.2 percent in 2013 to 13.1 per cent in 2015. 218. The flexi-work legislation was passed to help increase productivity and employment possibilities. 219. Investment in the Major Infrastructure Development Programme (MIDP) is providing thousands of jobs in the construction of: • Highways • Rehabilitation or reconstruction of critical bridges and roadways • Retaining walls which have been damaged or being undermined • Protective works such as construction of gabion walls and river training. 220. We have preserved the jobs of public sector workers. 221. The salaries and benefits of public sector workers have been improved. 222. The Government has established a new Labour Market Reform Commission.
The DBJ is Assisting Small Entrepreneurs
New Solar Plant for Clarendon
223. All commitments made to workers by the previous administration have been honoured, by this Administration. 224. Payments due under the health sector reclassification agreement have been made. 225. Public sector workers have received their 7% back-pay. • The teachers have also received the back-pay due to them. 226. Outstanding wage payments in relation to salary realignment for correctional officers and firemen have been made. 227. The Development Bank of Jamaica is committed to the development of the MSME sector which is the most critical sector for creation of new jobs and has already provided: • 8,957 loans valued at $911.3M for microenterprises • 88 loans valued at $3,347.14M for SMEs. 228. DBJ is well on its way to achieving the target of $3 billion of loans through strong client relationship management, marketing, promotion and new product development. 229. While expanding its lending through existing channels, DBJ continues to accredit new Approved Financial Institutions (AFIs) and recently authorized the eligibility of individual Credit Unions as (AFIs). This will give credit unions and their members full access to DBJ’s menu of products. 230. New jobs are being created in the tourism sector with the construction/ renovation and operation of new hotels and attractions. 231. Jamaica is now experiencing the most
18
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
rapid growth in the Bed and Breakfast initiative.
236. The opening of 9 new Agro Parks has created over 5,000 jobs.
• Jamaicans from all walks of life and in all parishes are now successfully offering food and accommodation from the most modest to the most luxurious, to very satisfied clients.
• The agro Parks are value chain enterprises which integrate production, processing and marketing of agricultural commodities.
• There are 2,000 rentals of between one and 6 bedrooms are now listed island-wide.
• The goal is to reduce imports and increase exports.
232. Investments in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and call centre operations sector particularly in Kingston and St. James is opening up new opportunities for our young people. • 18,000 jobs are currently in the sector, indicating an increase of over 100% since 2012. • Another, 18,000 new jobs are projected in this sector over the next 5 years. 233. The Overseas Employment Programme is expanding and employs approximately 14,000 persons. 234. A new regulatory framework was introduced for the Scrap Metal Trade which presently provides about 600 jobs directly and approximately 2,000 indirectly. 235. Resumption of mining operations at ALPART by US Rusal has already restored 300 jobs in this vital sector of the economy.
237. Through the implementation of the Jamaica Emergency Employment Programme (JEEP) more than 60,000 persons were employed to projects at a cost of some $9 billion. • JEEP provides earning opportunities for persons with special needs; those with low skill levels and those from underserved communities 238. The “Recycle Now” Bottle Recycling Project was launched on February 12, 2014 creating a minimum of 300 jobs while generating valuable foreign exchange. 239. Blue Mountain Renewables wind farm in St. Elizabeth will provide more than 250 jobs. 240. A new solar energy project which has started in Content, Clarendon will provide 400 jobs.
19
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
JOBS & WEALTH CREATION 217. More people are finding employment. The average unemployment rate dropped from 15.2 percent in 2013 to 13.1 per cent in 2015. 218. The flexi-work legislation was passed to help increase productivity and employment possibilities. 219. Investment in the Major Infrastructure Development Programme (MIDP) is providing thousands of jobs in the construction of: • Highways • Rehabilitation or reconstruction of critical bridges and roadways • Retaining walls which have been damaged or being undermined • Protective works such as construction of gabion walls and river training. 220. We have preserved the jobs of public sector workers. 221. The salaries and benefits of public sector workers have been improved. 222. The Government has established a new Labour Market Reform Commission.
The DBJ is Assisting Small Entrepreneurs
New Solar Plant for Clarendon
223. All commitments made to workers by the previous administration have been honoured, by this Administration. 224. Payments due under the health sector reclassification agreement have been made. 225. Public sector workers have received their 7% back-pay. • The teachers have also received the back-pay due to them. 226. Outstanding wage payments in relation to salary realignment for correctional officers and firemen have been made. 227. The Development Bank of Jamaica is committed to the development of the MSME sector which is the most critical sector for creation of new jobs and has already provided: • 8,957 loans valued at $911.3M for microenterprises • 88 loans valued at $3,347.14M for SMEs. 228. DBJ is well on its way to achieving the target of $3 billion of loans through strong client relationship management, marketing, promotion and new product development. 229. While expanding its lending through existing channels, DBJ continues to accredit new Approved Financial Institutions (AFIs) and recently authorized the eligibility of individual Credit Unions as (AFIs). This will give credit unions and their members full access to DBJ’s menu of products. 230. New jobs are being created in the tourism sector with the construction/ renovation and operation of new hotels and attractions. 231. Jamaica is now experiencing the most
18
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
rapid growth in the Bed and Breakfast initiative.
236. The opening of 9 new Agro Parks has created over 5,000 jobs.
• Jamaicans from all walks of life and in all parishes are now successfully offering food and accommodation from the most modest to the most luxurious, to very satisfied clients.
• The agro Parks are value chain enterprises which integrate production, processing and marketing of agricultural commodities.
• There are 2,000 rentals of between one and 6 bedrooms are now listed island-wide.
• The goal is to reduce imports and increase exports.
232. Investments in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and call centre operations sector particularly in Kingston and St. James is opening up new opportunities for our young people. • 18,000 jobs are currently in the sector, indicating an increase of over 100% since 2012. • Another, 18,000 new jobs are projected in this sector over the next 5 years. 233. The Overseas Employment Programme is expanding and employs approximately 14,000 persons. 234. A new regulatory framework was introduced for the Scrap Metal Trade which presently provides about 600 jobs directly and approximately 2,000 indirectly. 235. Resumption of mining operations at ALPART by US Rusal has already restored 300 jobs in this vital sector of the economy.
237. Through the implementation of the Jamaica Emergency Employment Programme (JEEP) more than 60,000 persons were employed to projects at a cost of some $9 billion. • JEEP provides earning opportunities for persons with special needs; those with low skill levels and those from underserved communities 238. The “Recycle Now” Bottle Recycling Project was launched on February 12, 2014 creating a minimum of 300 jobs while generating valuable foreign exchange. 239. Blue Mountain Renewables wind farm in St. Elizabeth will provide more than 250 jobs. 240. A new solar energy project which has started in Content, Clarendon will provide 400 jobs.
19
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
MAJOR ADVANCES IN AGRICULTURE & RURAL DEVELOPMENT Advances in agriculture
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
crops – sorghum, hay, onion, ginger, vegetables, fruits and tubers. These farms have created employment for 824 persons. 245. There has been a massive increase in the production of Irish Potato between up to 2014, moving 27% between 2012 and 2014 from 15,395 tonnes in 2012 to 19,577 tonnes in 2014. In 2010 Jamaica produced only 11,222 tonnes. Jamaica is on its way to self-sufficiency in the production of Irish potatoes removing the need for imports of the item. 246. In 2014, Ginger production tripled the amount produced in 2011 from 444 tonnes of ginger to 1,274 tonnes. 247. The production of condiments for food flavouring also increased. • Pimento, for example increased from 253,000 tonnes in 2012 to more than 418,875 tonnes in 2014. 248. We are now implementing the Tourism Linkage Programme which will integrate domestic agriculture with the tourism industry. 249. Since October 2013, local foods have
By encouraging consumers to “eat what we grow” and increasing investments in the agricultural sector, Jamaica has reduced its expenditure on the importation of food. It is in this regard that a number of policy initiatives have been pursued to increase the capacity of our agricultural sector. 241. Nine Agro parks have been established, and so far over $790 Million has been spent. • Ebony Park, Clarendon • Spring Plains, Clarendon • Plantain Garden River, St. Thomas • Yallahs, St. Thomas • Sweet River, Westmoreland • Meylersfield, Westmoreland 20
been an integral part of the School Feeding Programme. • Nutrition Products Limited is now using liquid eggs in their solid snacks as partial substitution for imported margarine and vegetable oil. 250. The assets of Wallenford Coffee Company Limited have been divested to increase private sector participation in the sector. 251. The Government has increased the allocation to the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) from $936-Million in 2013/2014 to just over $1B for 2014/15. 252. A Praedial Larceny Unit has been set up in the Ministry of Agriculture and is working with the Police in the campaign against praedial larceny. 253. Our farmers have been further protected with the implementation of the National Animal Identification and Traceability System. 254. We have established a first class abattoir in western Jamaica.
• Hill Run, St. Catherine • Amity Hall, St. Catherine • New Forrest/Duff House, Manchester
Getting Banana Ready for Export
242. Approximately 100 acres of land in our agro-parks has been reserved exclusively for young people with agricultural knowledge and expertise. The pilot project has been established in the Ebony Park Agro-Park. 243. The Government has supported private sector initiative by Red Stripe to use locally grown cassava in their beer formulation leading to a major expansion in cassava production. 244. The Government has also been able to expand agriculture to engage some 225 farmers producing a range of 21
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
MAJOR ADVANCES IN AGRICULTURE & RURAL DEVELOPMENT Advances in agriculture
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
crops – sorghum, hay, onion, ginger, vegetables, fruits and tubers. These farms have created employment for 824 persons. 245. There has been a massive increase in the production of Irish Potato between up to 2014, moving 27% between 2012 and 2014 from 15,395 tonnes in 2012 to 19,577 tonnes in 2014. In 2010 Jamaica produced only 11,222 tonnes. Jamaica is on its way to self-sufficiency in the production of Irish potatoes removing the need for imports of the item. 246. In 2014, Ginger production tripled the amount produced in 2011 from 444 tonnes of ginger to 1,274 tonnes. 247. The production of condiments for food flavouring also increased. • Pimento, for example increased from 253,000 tonnes in 2012 to more than 418,875 tonnes in 2014. 248. We are now implementing the Tourism Linkage Programme which will integrate domestic agriculture with the tourism industry. 249. Since October 2013, local foods have
By encouraging consumers to “eat what we grow” and increasing investments in the agricultural sector, Jamaica has reduced its expenditure on the importation of food. It is in this regard that a number of policy initiatives have been pursued to increase the capacity of our agricultural sector. 241. Nine Agro parks have been established, and so far over $790 Million has been spent. • Ebony Park, Clarendon • Spring Plains, Clarendon • Plantain Garden River, St. Thomas • Yallahs, St. Thomas • Sweet River, Westmoreland • Meylersfield, Westmoreland 20
been an integral part of the School Feeding Programme. • Nutrition Products Limited is now using liquid eggs in their solid snacks as partial substitution for imported margarine and vegetable oil. 250. The assets of Wallenford Coffee Company Limited have been divested to increase private sector participation in the sector. 251. The Government has increased the allocation to the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) from $936-Million in 2013/2014 to just over $1B for 2014/15. 252. A Praedial Larceny Unit has been set up in the Ministry of Agriculture and is working with the Police in the campaign against praedial larceny. 253. Our farmers have been further protected with the implementation of the National Animal Identification and Traceability System. 254. We have established a first class abattoir in western Jamaica.
• Hill Run, St. Catherine • Amity Hall, St. Catherine • New Forrest/Duff House, Manchester
Getting Banana Ready for Export
242. Approximately 100 acres of land in our agro-parks has been reserved exclusively for young people with agricultural knowledge and expertise. The pilot project has been established in the Ebony Park Agro-Park. 243. The Government has supported private sector initiative by Red Stripe to use locally grown cassava in their beer formulation leading to a major expansion in cassava production. 244. The Government has also been able to expand agriculture to engage some 225 farmers producing a range of 21
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
TOURISM – MORE INVESTMENTS Major development in the hotel industry
267. The first Marriott Courtyard property in New Kingston will be open opened by the end of 2015.
& VISITORS • 260,000 out of Canada – a 21.6% increase • 165,000 out of UK/Europe – up about 10% 260. Southwest Airlines, the largest domestic US carrier, with connections to most cities in America began operating flights into Sangster International Airport on July 1, 2014. It will expand in November 2015 adding Houston to Montego Bay. This will bring exciting new opportunities for penetrating the US market even further.
256. 2014 was a landmark year as Jamaica welcomed a record 2 million stopover visitors. • Room reservation rates in 2014 were up over 2013 and continue to trend upward. • Our largest tour operator to Jamaica has confirmed that our average daily rate is up by some 13% to 15%. 257. Jamaica is being transformed from a seasonal to a year-round tourism destination. This transformation will create increased job opportunities and greater job security for our workers. 258. For winter 2013, visitor arrivals averaged 178,000 per month while for the summer the average was 162,000 per month. 259. In 2014, we were very successful in increasing airlift to Jamaica. • During this period we have seen approximately 2 million seats out of our main markets. • 1.4 million out of the US – an increase of 11% 22
261. Increased demand for travel to Jamaica has resulted in a 70% increase in airlift from the UK over the 2013 and 2014 calendar years. 262. The traffic out of the Scandinavian gateways has grown significantly, since 2013. • There has been an the addition of three new gateways. • Helsinki, Copenhagen and Oslo will be added this winter. 263. Cruise passenger arrivals in Jamaica are projected to increase to a record 1.4 million passengers in 2015. 264. In early 2015, three cruise ships began home porting in Montego Bay. This will create more opportunities for local businesses as these ships will require produce as well as goods and services from local suppliers. 265. Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) has committed $200 million over the next five years to introduce new technology to improve Immigration operations at ports of entry. 266. The
has relaxed the visa requirements for nationals of some 30 countries, resulting in an increase in arrivals from several Latin American countries.
Simpson-Miller
Administration
268. Sagicor has become a major player in Jamaica’s tourism industry having invested in four hotels since 2012 –
the option of timeshare schemes has been passed.
vacation
277. A major upgrading of the resort town of Negril has been completed. This upgrading will include: • Resurfacing of the main road that links Sheffield to Negril from the South Coast;
• Jewel Runaway Bay in St. Ann
• Landscaping and sidewalk upgrading including the town centre;
• Paradise Cove Resort in St. Ann
• Construction of a craft market;
• Hilton Rosehall in Montego Bay
• Refurbishing of the Fishing village, the community centre, and the Norman Manley Beach Park.
• Jewel Dunns River in St. Ann 269. Royalton White Sands in Trelawny opened in 2013. 270. Due to the success of Azul Sensatori Negril which opened in December 2013, the operators are expanding the resort and they have announced plans for nine more hotels to be built in Jamaica over the next 10 years with a total investment of US$900 million. 271. Hyatt Ziva in Montego Bay opened in December 2014 . 272. Braco, operated by Melia Hotels & Resorts, will begin operations in 2015. 273. Entrepreneur Chris Blackwell’s Island Outpost is investing US$9 Million to expand the Goldeneye property increasing its capacity by over 140%. 274. The product offering in the industry has been expanding with the building of a pater park at Jewel in Runaway Bay.
278. The Tourism Enhancement Fund has signed MOUs with the Urban Development Corporation (UDC) and the Port Authority of Jamaica (PAJ) to undertake development work in Falmouth over three years. • The Falmouth project has two components, the Hampden Wharf Development and a Streetscape Improvement Project in Falmouth. • The Hampden Wharf Development will create an entirely open experience that will accommodate craft vendors and other business people from the town.
Sidewalk Improvement in the Resort Town of Negril
275. The recently passed Omnibus Incentive Legislation allows the entire accommodation sector including small properties to access more incentives. 276. A Timeshare Vacations Bill which formally introduces 23
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
TOURISM – MORE INVESTMENTS Major development in the hotel industry
267. The first Marriott Courtyard property in New Kingston will be open opened by the end of 2015.
& VISITORS • 260,000 out of Canada – a 21.6% increase • 165,000 out of UK/Europe – up about 10% 260. Southwest Airlines, the largest domestic US carrier, with connections to most cities in America began operating flights into Sangster International Airport on July 1, 2014. It will expand in November 2015 adding Houston to Montego Bay. This will bring exciting new opportunities for penetrating the US market even further.
256. 2014 was a landmark year as Jamaica welcomed a record 2 million stopover visitors. • Room reservation rates in 2014 were up over 2013 and continue to trend upward. • Our largest tour operator to Jamaica has confirmed that our average daily rate is up by some 13% to 15%. 257. Jamaica is being transformed from a seasonal to a year-round tourism destination. This transformation will create increased job opportunities and greater job security for our workers. 258. For winter 2013, visitor arrivals averaged 178,000 per month while for the summer the average was 162,000 per month. 259. In 2014, we were very successful in increasing airlift to Jamaica. • During this period we have seen approximately 2 million seats out of our main markets. • 1.4 million out of the US – an increase of 11% 22
261. Increased demand for travel to Jamaica has resulted in a 70% increase in airlift from the UK over the 2013 and 2014 calendar years. 262. The traffic out of the Scandinavian gateways has grown significantly, since 2013. • There has been an the addition of three new gateways. • Helsinki, Copenhagen and Oslo will be added this winter. 263. Cruise passenger arrivals in Jamaica are projected to increase to a record 1.4 million passengers in 2015. 264. In early 2015, three cruise ships began home porting in Montego Bay. This will create more opportunities for local businesses as these ships will require produce as well as goods and services from local suppliers. 265. Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) has committed $200 million over the next five years to introduce new technology to improve Immigration operations at ports of entry. 266. The
has relaxed the visa requirements for nationals of some 30 countries, resulting in an increase in arrivals from several Latin American countries.
Simpson-Miller
Administration
268. Sagicor has become a major player in Jamaica’s tourism industry having invested in four hotels since 2012 –
the option of timeshare schemes has been passed.
vacation
277. A major upgrading of the resort town of Negril has been completed. This upgrading will include: • Resurfacing of the main road that links Sheffield to Negril from the South Coast;
• Jewel Runaway Bay in St. Ann
• Landscaping and sidewalk upgrading including the town centre;
• Paradise Cove Resort in St. Ann
• Construction of a craft market;
• Hilton Rosehall in Montego Bay
• Refurbishing of the Fishing village, the community centre, and the Norman Manley Beach Park.
• Jewel Dunns River in St. Ann 269. Royalton White Sands in Trelawny opened in 2013. 270. Due to the success of Azul Sensatori Negril which opened in December 2013, the operators are expanding the resort and they have announced plans for nine more hotels to be built in Jamaica over the next 10 years with a total investment of US$900 million. 271. Hyatt Ziva in Montego Bay opened in December 2014 . 272. Braco, operated by Melia Hotels & Resorts, will begin operations in 2015. 273. Entrepreneur Chris Blackwell’s Island Outpost is investing US$9 Million to expand the Goldeneye property increasing its capacity by over 140%. 274. The product offering in the industry has been expanding with the building of a pater park at Jewel in Runaway Bay.
278. The Tourism Enhancement Fund has signed MOUs with the Urban Development Corporation (UDC) and the Port Authority of Jamaica (PAJ) to undertake development work in Falmouth over three years. • The Falmouth project has two components, the Hampden Wharf Development and a Streetscape Improvement Project in Falmouth. • The Hampden Wharf Development will create an entirely open experience that will accommodate craft vendors and other business people from the town.
Sidewalk Improvement in the Resort Town of Negril
275. The recently passed Omnibus Incentive Legislation allows the entire accommodation sector including small properties to access more incentives. 276. A Timeshare Vacations Bill which formally introduces 23
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
include: • The Montego Bay Civic Centre • Falmouth Post Office
ENERGY, MINING & TECHNOLOGY
• Montego Bay Craft Market • Neville Antonio Park, Port Antonio • Work at Roaring River • Lover’s Leap
New Falmouth Cruise Ship Pier
• Milk River Bath and Spa • Devon House • The Trench Town complex
• It will feature restaurants, an entertainment centre and shops in an inviting environment that harmonises with the development at the pier.
282. The Government is presently implementing a programme to transform at least one beach in every parish into a public recreational area available to residents and visitors alike.
• Improvements to heritage assets like the wharf building, the Dome and Foundry and the Tharpe House will be included in the development. The projected cost is $585 million.
• They will operate at the best international standards. • Work is actively underway on these sea parks and Burwood Beach in Trelawny is the most advanced. • Providence Beach Park in Montego Bay is at the tendering stage and design work is being completed on the Norman Manley Beach Park in Negril.
279. The Falmouth Streetscape Project which includes beautification and structural improvements to roads and lanes in the vicinity in Water Square as started. 280. Phase One of the Ocho Rios Enhancement Project has been completed with the transformation of the Turtle River Road into a promenade. • Work is underway on Phase Two, which will substantially improve the terminal building and cruise ship pier. • Phase Three will see the redevelopment of the seaside boardwalk/promenade that leads east to Main Street. Phase Four includes the rehabilitation of Main Street. 281. The Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) is involved in a number of projects across almost every parish. These 24
• Great Bay at Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth; Salem in St. Ann and Boston in Portland have been identified for similar upgrading.
285. An Electricity Sector Enterprise Team (ESET) has been established and is giving oversight to the Government’s energy programme. 286. The Government of Jamaica and the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) have signed off on an amendment to the JPSCo Licence. 287. A new electricity law has been passed which replaces the one hundred year old law and creates a modern framework for the electricity sector. 288. Jamaica is among the top countries in the region in terms of its use of renewables. 289. In addition to the 40 megawatts of wind that we now generate, plus approximately 20 megawatts of existing hydropower, 78 megawatts of renewable energy will be added to the national grid. This means that Jamaica will reduce its importation of oil by one million barrels and save millions of US dollars annually.
290. A further 290 licences with a combined capacity of over 2.6 MW of power have been signed. 291. US firm, Blue Mountain Renewables, has commenced work on its 34 megawatt plant in St. Elizabeth at a cost of approximately US$90 million. 292. Wray and Nephew Limited invested US$1 million in the expansion of their renewable energy plant to reduce its reliance on the grid and to run operations in its sugar factory orimarliy during peak production hours. 293. With the expansion of the Rural Electrification Programme, Jamaica has now achieved 97% electrification throughout rural Jamaica. 294. The conversion of the JPSCo Bogue power plant from heavy fuel oil to gas has lead to cheaper electricity. 295. The Caribbean Cement Company Limited (CCCL) and the Government of Venezuela have entered into an agreement under the PetroCaribe
Bauxite Mining
283. The Government is presently developing the Palisadoes area in Kingston as Jamaica’s first Entertainment Zone. 284.
We are experiencing dynamic expansion in the Bed and Breakfast initiative. • Major travel website Trip Advisor now offers 20,176 rentals in Jamaica of one to ten bedrooms island-wide. • Holiday Lettings UK now offers 233 properties for rent in Jamaica.
25
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
include: • The Montego Bay Civic Centre • Falmouth Post Office
ENERGY, MINING & TECHNOLOGY
• Montego Bay Craft Market • Neville Antonio Park, Port Antonio • Work at Roaring River • Lover’s Leap
New Falmouth Cruise Ship Pier
• Milk River Bath and Spa • Devon House • The Trench Town complex
• It will feature restaurants, an entertainment centre and shops in an inviting environment that harmonises with the development at the pier.
282. The Government is presently implementing a programme to transform at least one beach in every parish into a public recreational area available to residents and visitors alike.
• Improvements to heritage assets like the wharf building, the Dome and Foundry and the Tharpe House will be included in the development. The projected cost is $585 million.
• They will operate at the best international standards. • Work is actively underway on these sea parks and Burwood Beach in Trelawny is the most advanced. • Providence Beach Park in Montego Bay is at the tendering stage and design work is being completed on the Norman Manley Beach Park in Negril.
279. The Falmouth Streetscape Project which includes beautification and structural improvements to roads and lanes in the vicinity in Water Square as started. 280. Phase One of the Ocho Rios Enhancement Project has been completed with the transformation of the Turtle River Road into a promenade. • Work is underway on Phase Two, which will substantially improve the terminal building and cruise ship pier. • Phase Three will see the redevelopment of the seaside boardwalk/promenade that leads east to Main Street. Phase Four includes the rehabilitation of Main Street. 281. The Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) is involved in a number of projects across almost every parish. These 24
• Great Bay at Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth; Salem in St. Ann and Boston in Portland have been identified for similar upgrading.
285. An Electricity Sector Enterprise Team (ESET) has been established and is giving oversight to the Government’s energy programme. 286. The Government of Jamaica and the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) have signed off on an amendment to the JPSCo Licence. 287. A new electricity law has been passed which replaces the one hundred year old law and creates a modern framework for the electricity sector. 288. Jamaica is among the top countries in the region in terms of its use of renewables. 289. In addition to the 40 megawatts of wind that we now generate, plus approximately 20 megawatts of existing hydropower, 78 megawatts of renewable energy will be added to the national grid. This means that Jamaica will reduce its importation of oil by one million barrels and save millions of US dollars annually.
290. A further 290 licences with a combined capacity of over 2.6 MW of power have been signed. 291. US firm, Blue Mountain Renewables, has commenced work on its 34 megawatt plant in St. Elizabeth at a cost of approximately US$90 million. 292. Wray and Nephew Limited invested US$1 million in the expansion of their renewable energy plant to reduce its reliance on the grid and to run operations in its sugar factory orimarliy during peak production hours. 293. With the expansion of the Rural Electrification Programme, Jamaica has now achieved 97% electrification throughout rural Jamaica. 294. The conversion of the JPSCo Bogue power plant from heavy fuel oil to gas has lead to cheaper electricity. 295. The Caribbean Cement Company Limited (CCCL) and the Government of Venezuela have entered into an agreement under the PetroCaribe
Bauxite Mining
283. The Government is presently developing the Palisadoes area in Kingston as Jamaica’s first Entertainment Zone. 284.
We are experiencing dynamic expansion in the Bed and Breakfast initiative. • Major travel website Trip Advisor now offers 20,176 rentals in Jamaica of one to ten bedrooms island-wide. • Holiday Lettings UK now offers 233 properties for rent in Jamaica.
25
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
BUILDING ROADS & OTHER INFRASTRUCTURE FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT
Expansion in Wind Power Generation
300. Section 2 of the NORTHSOUTH LEG OF Highway 2000 was completed in July 2014 and opened to the public in August 2014.
Trade Compensation Mechanism to supply US$ 20million of clinker to Venezuela. 296. The Russian company UC RUSAL has resumed mining and processing of bauxite at the Alpart refinery at Nain in St Elizabeth. • The first shipment of bauxite from Alpart in seven years left Jamaica in September 2015. • Three hundred persons in southern St. Elizabeth and Manchester have been employed. 297. Contracts totaling some $800 million have been awarded to four service providers for the supply of Tablets in Schools to 24,000 students and 1,200 teachers. The first phase (a one-year pilot project) has been implemented in 38 educational institutions, distributed as follows: i. 6 Pre-primary schools, ii. 13 Primary schools, iii. 5 All age and junior high schools, iv. 12 High schools, v. 1 Teacher’s college,
26
vi. 1 Special education institution. 298. The Cybercrimes Act has been passed in the Lower House of Parliament. A Cyber Incident Response Team (CIRT) to assist in the protection of Jamaica’s Internet infrastructure has been established. 299. The design for the development of GovNet to interconnect Government entities to facilitate shared services has been completed. The new network will provide cost effective and efficient services to citizens.
Tablets in School Programme
Work Being Done on the North-South Highway
• Completion of this section (Linstead to Moneague) has eliminated the delays traversing Mount Rosser and reduced travel time to 15 minutes. 301. Work is progressing apace on Section 1 – Ferry to Linstead and Section 3 – Moneague to Ocho Rios just west of Dunn’s River Falls. • At October 2015, the work was more than 80% complete. • The target date of completion of these two sections is early 2016. 302. A Major Infrastructure Development Programme (MIDP) is being implemented through a second infrastructure loan financed through the China EXIM Bank. The cost of the programme is US$352 million • Under this programme, the areas identified for improvement include Nelson Mandela Highway, Hagley Park Road and Marcus Garvey Drive. 303. We have carried out major improvements on Bay Farm Road, in St. Andrew.
304. In the parish of Westmoreland, the Scott’s Cove to Belmont and Ferris Cross to Belmont roads have been rehabilitated. 305. In St. Catherine, the Red Hills to Santa Maria road has also benefited from major improvements. 306. The Bog Walk to Sligoville road has been transformed into a major alternate route not only for the residents of Sligoville but for motorists traveling from St. Catherine to the Corporate Area. 307. The PNP Administration completed Segment III of the North Coastal Highway Improvement Project. • This runs from Ocho Rios, St. Ann to Port Antonio, Portland. 308. Over twenty-five retaining walls were 27
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
BUILDING ROADS & OTHER INFRASTRUCTURE FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT
Expansion in Wind Power Generation
300. Section 2 of the NORTHSOUTH LEG OF Highway 2000 was completed in July 2014 and opened to the public in August 2014.
Trade Compensation Mechanism to supply US$ 20million of clinker to Venezuela. 296. The Russian company UC RUSAL has resumed mining and processing of bauxite at the Alpart refinery at Nain in St Elizabeth. • The first shipment of bauxite from Alpart in seven years left Jamaica in September 2015. • Three hundred persons in southern St. Elizabeth and Manchester have been employed. 297. Contracts totaling some $800 million have been awarded to four service providers for the supply of Tablets in Schools to 24,000 students and 1,200 teachers. The first phase (a one-year pilot project) has been implemented in 38 educational institutions, distributed as follows: i. 6 Pre-primary schools, ii. 13 Primary schools, iii. 5 All age and junior high schools, iv. 12 High schools, v. 1 Teacher’s college,
26
vi. 1 Special education institution. 298. The Cybercrimes Act has been passed in the Lower House of Parliament. A Cyber Incident Response Team (CIRT) to assist in the protection of Jamaica’s Internet infrastructure has been established. 299. The design for the development of GovNet to interconnect Government entities to facilitate shared services has been completed. The new network will provide cost effective and efficient services to citizens.
Tablets in School Programme
Work Being Done on the North-South Highway
• Completion of this section (Linstead to Moneague) has eliminated the delays traversing Mount Rosser and reduced travel time to 15 minutes. 301. Work is progressing apace on Section 1 – Ferry to Linstead and Section 3 – Moneague to Ocho Rios just west of Dunn’s River Falls. • At October 2015, the work was more than 80% complete. • The target date of completion of these two sections is early 2016. 302. A Major Infrastructure Development Programme (MIDP) is being implemented through a second infrastructure loan financed through the China EXIM Bank. The cost of the programme is US$352 million • Under this programme, the areas identified for improvement include Nelson Mandela Highway, Hagley Park Road and Marcus Garvey Drive. 303. We have carried out major improvements on Bay Farm Road, in St. Andrew.
304. In the parish of Westmoreland, the Scott’s Cove to Belmont and Ferris Cross to Belmont roads have been rehabilitated. 305. In St. Catherine, the Red Hills to Santa Maria road has also benefited from major improvements. 306. The Bog Walk to Sligoville road has been transformed into a major alternate route not only for the residents of Sligoville but for motorists traveling from St. Catherine to the Corporate Area. 307. The PNP Administration completed Segment III of the North Coastal Highway Improvement Project. • This runs from Ocho Rios, St. Ann to Port Antonio, Portland. 308. Over twenty-five retaining walls were 27
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
constructed across the island in the following communities: • Mount Ogle • Lawrence Tavern - Allman Hill • Oberlin and Cassava Piece in St. Andrew • Castleton, St. Mary • Buff Bay Valley - including Hollywell • Cascade and Regale • Aberdeen, Balaclava • Dalintoba in St. Elizabeth.
• Nightingale Grove, St. Catherine. 311. The PNP Administration has completed construction/rehabilitation of the following bridges: • The Rio Grande Bridge in Portland was opened last December; • The Westmoreland Bridge in St. Mary was opened in August; • Cassia Park Bridge in St. Andrew last year; • The Queensborough Bridge in St. Andrew was completed in December;
309. Flood mitigation activities were completed at a value of over $4 billion.
• Eleven Miles in St. Thomas;
310. A number of gullies have been built and others cleaned. These include:
• Eden River and Fontabelle in St. Mary;
• Port Maria;
• Sandy Gully in St. Andrew;
• Crooked River, Clarendon;
• Capital Heights in Gully Green Pond in St. James;
• Craig Mill in Portland, and
• Black River Seawall in St. Elizabeth; • Roselle and Yallahs in St. Thomas;
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
• Kintyre in St. Andrew. • The investment made to build these bridges is $7.56 billion dollars.
• Rio Cobre and Port Henderson Drive in St. Catherine;
IMPROVING WATER SUPPLY 312. Over the last 3 years, despite financial challenges and limited fiscal space, the NWC has spent more than $20 Billion on some 100 capital projects islandwide to improve water supply. 313. The 26 Water Supply Rehabilitation Project was launched to improve well sources, pumping stations and reservoirs in the Kingston and St. Andrew area at a cost of $2.5 Billion. 314. The Rio Cobre pipeline from Bogwalk to Ferry in St. Catherine was replaced at a combined cost of $4 Billion. 315. This Administration invested a combined $3 billion to refurbish the following Water Treatment Plants • Mona • Hope • Constant Spring • Seaview.
North-South Highway
316. The Artificial Ground Water Recharge Project in Innswood, St. Catherine is slated to be completed by the end of 2015 at a cost of $1.2 Billion. 317. The Kingston and St. Andrew NonRevenue Water Project to reduce water loss and theft at a cost of $4.9 Billion to be completed over the next 5 years. • As a result of these and other improvement projects, the NWC has been able to maintain some level of service to the majority of customers in the KMA despite the recent severe and prolonged drought. 318. We are re-establishing maximum yields from wells in South-East St. Catherine to provide additional supplies of more than five Million gallons per day.
28
Piped water for communities
319. Re-engaging the Rennock Lodge and Hampstead wells. • The NWC is Exploring Public/ Private Partnership arrangements to re-establish some or all of approximately 9 wells in Kingston and St. Andrew. 320. Work commenced in February 2013 for the construction of 2.7 kilometres of water transmission pipeline from the New Harbour Village Housing Development to the Old Harbour Bay Square, serving Terminal Road, at the intersection of Old Harbour Bay main road to the entrance of the Bourkesfield Housing Scheme. 321. A two kilometres of pipeline has been constructed connecting Christiana Town Centre to the Sedburgh Storage Tanks in North Eastern Manchester. 322. The completion of the Palisadoes Pipeline in East Kingston and Port Royal 29
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
constructed across the island in the following communities: • Mount Ogle • Lawrence Tavern - Allman Hill • Oberlin and Cassava Piece in St. Andrew • Castleton, St. Mary • Buff Bay Valley - including Hollywell • Cascade and Regale • Aberdeen, Balaclava • Dalintoba in St. Elizabeth.
• Nightingale Grove, St. Catherine. 311. The PNP Administration has completed construction/rehabilitation of the following bridges: • The Rio Grande Bridge in Portland was opened last December; • The Westmoreland Bridge in St. Mary was opened in August; • Cassia Park Bridge in St. Andrew last year; • The Queensborough Bridge in St. Andrew was completed in December;
309. Flood mitigation activities were completed at a value of over $4 billion.
• Eleven Miles in St. Thomas;
310. A number of gullies have been built and others cleaned. These include:
• Eden River and Fontabelle in St. Mary;
• Port Maria;
• Sandy Gully in St. Andrew;
• Crooked River, Clarendon;
• Capital Heights in Gully Green Pond in St. James;
• Craig Mill in Portland, and
• Black River Seawall in St. Elizabeth; • Roselle and Yallahs in St. Thomas;
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
• Kintyre in St. Andrew. • The investment made to build these bridges is $7.56 billion dollars.
• Rio Cobre and Port Henderson Drive in St. Catherine;
IMPROVING WATER SUPPLY 312. Over the last 3 years, despite financial challenges and limited fiscal space, the NWC has spent more than $20 Billion on some 100 capital projects islandwide to improve water supply. 313. The 26 Water Supply Rehabilitation Project was launched to improve well sources, pumping stations and reservoirs in the Kingston and St. Andrew area at a cost of $2.5 Billion. 314. The Rio Cobre pipeline from Bogwalk to Ferry in St. Catherine was replaced at a combined cost of $4 Billion. 315. This Administration invested a combined $3 billion to refurbish the following Water Treatment Plants • Mona • Hope • Constant Spring • Seaview.
North-South Highway
316. The Artificial Ground Water Recharge Project in Innswood, St. Catherine is slated to be completed by the end of 2015 at a cost of $1.2 Billion. 317. The Kingston and St. Andrew NonRevenue Water Project to reduce water loss and theft at a cost of $4.9 Billion to be completed over the next 5 years. • As a result of these and other improvement projects, the NWC has been able to maintain some level of service to the majority of customers in the KMA despite the recent severe and prolonged drought. 318. We are re-establishing maximum yields from wells in South-East St. Catherine to provide additional supplies of more than five Million gallons per day.
28
Piped water for communities
319. Re-engaging the Rennock Lodge and Hampstead wells. • The NWC is Exploring Public/ Private Partnership arrangements to re-establish some or all of approximately 9 wells in Kingston and St. Andrew. 320. Work commenced in February 2013 for the construction of 2.7 kilometres of water transmission pipeline from the New Harbour Village Housing Development to the Old Harbour Bay Square, serving Terminal Road, at the intersection of Old Harbour Bay main road to the entrance of the Bourkesfield Housing Scheme. 321. A two kilometres of pipeline has been constructed connecting Christiana Town Centre to the Sedburgh Storage Tanks in North Eastern Manchester. 322. The completion of the Palisadoes Pipeline in East Kingston and Port Royal 29
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
replaced 6 kilometres of pipes between Harbour Head and the Norman Manley International Airport round-a-bout. 323. Construction of 10 km of transmission pipelines from Caymanas Estates to Marley Hill to increase the supply capability and improve service
to communities in Portmore, Greater Portmore and Hellshire. 324. The Hounslow to Parottee Water Supply transmission pipeline was upgraded. 325. Over J$1 billion was spent to install water pipes from Old Harbour to Manchester.
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
million and is being refurbished as a hotel and business complex to reawaken Downtown Kingston. 328. Forum Hotel has been sold to Portmore Marina Development Limited, a private sector group for $350 million. 329. Mahogany Hotel was sold for US$2.4 million. The property is currently being refurbished. 330. Machado Complex has been divested to Heart Trust for $104 million to develop a Downtown Kingston education and skills training complex.
URBAN DEVELOPMENT
331. Jamintel Building was divested to the Ministry of Transport & Works for $150 million to house the Transport Authority’s headquarters. 332. Lot 21 Downtown Kingston was sold to Grace Kennedy for $75 million to develop a Commercial Centre and parking facility.
Simón Bolívar Cultural Centre in Downtown, Kingston
333. Victoria Pier has been leased to a private investor, and will be developed on the Waterfront as an attractive innovative entertainment and dining facility. 334. Lot 143 Johnson Hill, Hellshire was purchased by the National Housing Trust. 335. Downtown Kingston Transport Centre will be operated on terms negotiated between the UDC and the Transport Authority (TA).
326. Over the last four years, the Urban Development Corporation (UDC) has earned approximately $2.5 billion from an aggressive divestment strategy through sale and leases of several non-performing or underperforming assets. These
30
assets have been sold to investors who are in the process of developing and integrating them in the national economy.
Defence Force completed the Falmouth Police Station. 338. Kingston Craft Market reroofed and renovated.
has
been
339. The Harbour Street Craft Market in Montego Bay was upgraded. 340. Pearly Beach West in St. Ann was developed and handed over to St Ann Development Company for management. 341. Festival Market Place is being developed adjacent to the Kingston Craft market as a recreation and leisure facility. 342. Pechon Street Car Park in downtown Kingston was completed. 343. The Caledonia Car Park in the Cross Road area is being developed as a parking facility. 344. The perimeter fencing for the Jubilee Market has been completed. 345. The roof and first floor of Linstead Market have been repaired. 346. The contract for the Caymanas Pipeline project valued at J$624 million was signed. This will provide for the construction of 7.4 km of pipeline to the Soapberry sewerage plant. Construction Work at the New Festival Market Place, Downtown, Kingston
336. Development of Caymanas Estate is underway with the building of approximately 250 houses by New Era Homes. 337. The UDC and the Jamaica
327. The Oceana Building has been sold to a Jamaican-Canadian consortium of private sector interests for $385 31
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
replaced 6 kilometres of pipes between Harbour Head and the Norman Manley International Airport round-a-bout. 323. Construction of 10 km of transmission pipelines from Caymanas Estates to Marley Hill to increase the supply capability and improve service
to communities in Portmore, Greater Portmore and Hellshire. 324. The Hounslow to Parottee Water Supply transmission pipeline was upgraded. 325. Over J$1 billion was spent to install water pipes from Old Harbour to Manchester.
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
million and is being refurbished as a hotel and business complex to reawaken Downtown Kingston. 328. Forum Hotel has been sold to Portmore Marina Development Limited, a private sector group for $350 million. 329. Mahogany Hotel was sold for US$2.4 million. The property is currently being refurbished. 330. Machado Complex has been divested to Heart Trust for $104 million to develop a Downtown Kingston education and skills training complex.
URBAN DEVELOPMENT
331. Jamintel Building was divested to the Ministry of Transport & Works for $150 million to house the Transport Authority’s headquarters. 332. Lot 21 Downtown Kingston was sold to Grace Kennedy for $75 million to develop a Commercial Centre and parking facility.
Simón Bolívar Cultural Centre in Downtown, Kingston
333. Victoria Pier has been leased to a private investor, and will be developed on the Waterfront as an attractive innovative entertainment and dining facility. 334. Lot 143 Johnson Hill, Hellshire was purchased by the National Housing Trust. 335. Downtown Kingston Transport Centre will be operated on terms negotiated between the UDC and the Transport Authority (TA).
326. Over the last four years, the Urban Development Corporation (UDC) has earned approximately $2.5 billion from an aggressive divestment strategy through sale and leases of several non-performing or underperforming assets. These
30
assets have been sold to investors who are in the process of developing and integrating them in the national economy.
Defence Force completed the Falmouth Police Station. 338. Kingston Craft Market reroofed and renovated.
has
been
339. The Harbour Street Craft Market in Montego Bay was upgraded. 340. Pearly Beach West in St. Ann was developed and handed over to St Ann Development Company for management. 341. Festival Market Place is being developed adjacent to the Kingston Craft market as a recreation and leisure facility. 342. Pechon Street Car Park in downtown Kingston was completed. 343. The Caledonia Car Park in the Cross Road area is being developed as a parking facility. 344. The perimeter fencing for the Jubilee Market has been completed. 345. The roof and first floor of Linstead Market have been repaired. 346. The contract for the Caymanas Pipeline project valued at J$624 million was signed. This will provide for the construction of 7.4 km of pipeline to the Soapberry sewerage plant. Construction Work at the New Festival Market Place, Downtown, Kingston
336. Development of Caymanas Estate is underway with the building of approximately 250 houses by New Era Homes. 337. The UDC and the Jamaica
327. The Oceana Building has been sold to a Jamaican-Canadian consortium of private sector interests for $385 31
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
EXPANDING HOME AND LAND OWNERSHIP 347. The National Housing Trust (NHT) continues to be the largest investor in Jamaica’s housing sector. 348. The NHT’s expenditure on housing construction and mortgage financing amounted to some $22 billion during the last fiscal year. This investment provided over 7,500 mortgage loans. 349. The NHT allocated $1.6 billion last financial year to fund private developments under its Interim Finance Programme. These developments include the following: • Jacaranda and Heathfield in St. Catherine • Holland Estate and Stonybrook Vista in Trelawny; and • Kings Manor in St. Andrew. 350. The NHT will be disbursing over $22.4 billion for construction and mortgage
National Land Titling Programme
More Houses for the People
financing activities during the fiscal year 2015/16. 351. During the fiscal year 2015/16, the NHT plans to complete some 2,160 housing solutions. 352. During 2014/15 the NHT made refunds to over 150,000 contributors, totaling $3.8 billion dollars. 353. The NHT built 2,100 housing solutions during 2013/2014. 354. The NHT’s Joint Finance Mortgage Programme, provided over $3 billion in loans to contributors through our private sector partners. 355. The NHT contributed $32 million to the Youth Upliftment Through Employment programme (YUTE) training over 100 hundred inner city young people in construction related disciplines. 356. The Housing Agency of Jamaica Ltd
(HAJ) has delivered housing solutions in St. James and in St. Elizabeth. 357. Over 1,500 persons have received units or lots in the following communities: • Whitehall Phase 3, Westmoreland - 575 • Boscobel (Greenfield), St. Mary - 196 • Luana Gardens, St. Elizabeth - 200 • Belle Air Phase 3, St. Ann - 760 358. Fifty five houses were provided under the Infill Housing Programme & Urban Renewal Scheme. These housing solutions were built at Manningsville and Gazeland in St. Elizabeth. 359. The PNP Administration completed the construction of 48 units under Phases 1 and 2 of the Albion Mews Tenement Upgrading Project in St. James at a cost of $110 million. 360. The titles to 513 properties were placed in the hands of their occupants. Beneficiaries included residents from the following areas. Seaview Gardens and Arnett Gardens in St Andrew, and Ebony Park in Clarendon.
32
361. Under the Jubilee “50 for 50” Housing Initiative fifty mortgage clients had their mortgage balances written off and received their titles. 362. Some 1,340 titles were issued during the 2013/14 fiscal year to the following communities: • Town and Bulls Bay – Hanover • Mount Edgecombe Phase 4 and Mammee Bay - St. Ann • Norwood, Retirement and Barrett Hall - St. James • Bourkesfield, Braeton Meadows and Portmore Villas – St. Catherine 363. Titles were distributed to persons in the following communities: • Boscobel and Wentworth – St. Mary • Whitehouse, Galloway and Egypt – Westmoreland • Beverley Flats, Gravel Heights and Dunbeholden – St. Catherine • Flankers, Pitfour, Meadowsvale and Lilliput – St. James • Dumphries and Donaldson – St. Thomas 33
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
EXPANDING HOME AND LAND OWNERSHIP 347. The National Housing Trust (NHT) continues to be the largest investor in Jamaica’s housing sector. 348. The NHT’s expenditure on housing construction and mortgage financing amounted to some $22 billion during the last fiscal year. This investment provided over 7,500 mortgage loans. 349. The NHT allocated $1.6 billion last financial year to fund private developments under its Interim Finance Programme. These developments include the following: • Jacaranda and Heathfield in St. Catherine • Holland Estate and Stonybrook Vista in Trelawny; and • Kings Manor in St. Andrew. 350. The NHT will be disbursing over $22.4 billion for construction and mortgage
National Land Titling Programme
More Houses for the People
financing activities during the fiscal year 2015/16. 351. During the fiscal year 2015/16, the NHT plans to complete some 2,160 housing solutions. 352. During 2014/15 the NHT made refunds to over 150,000 contributors, totaling $3.8 billion dollars. 353. The NHT built 2,100 housing solutions during 2013/2014. 354. The NHT’s Joint Finance Mortgage Programme, provided over $3 billion in loans to contributors through our private sector partners. 355. The NHT contributed $32 million to the Youth Upliftment Through Employment programme (YUTE) training over 100 hundred inner city young people in construction related disciplines. 356. The Housing Agency of Jamaica Ltd
(HAJ) has delivered housing solutions in St. James and in St. Elizabeth. 357. Over 1,500 persons have received units or lots in the following communities: • Whitehall Phase 3, Westmoreland - 575 • Boscobel (Greenfield), St. Mary - 196 • Luana Gardens, St. Elizabeth - 200 • Belle Air Phase 3, St. Ann - 760 358. Fifty five houses were provided under the Infill Housing Programme & Urban Renewal Scheme. These housing solutions were built at Manningsville and Gazeland in St. Elizabeth. 359. The PNP Administration completed the construction of 48 units under Phases 1 and 2 of the Albion Mews Tenement Upgrading Project in St. James at a cost of $110 million. 360. The titles to 513 properties were placed in the hands of their occupants. Beneficiaries included residents from the following areas. Seaview Gardens and Arnett Gardens in St Andrew, and Ebony Park in Clarendon.
32
361. Under the Jubilee “50 for 50” Housing Initiative fifty mortgage clients had their mortgage balances written off and received their titles. 362. Some 1,340 titles were issued during the 2013/14 fiscal year to the following communities: • Town and Bulls Bay – Hanover • Mount Edgecombe Phase 4 and Mammee Bay - St. Ann • Norwood, Retirement and Barrett Hall - St. James • Bourkesfield, Braeton Meadows and Portmore Villas – St. Catherine 363. Titles were distributed to persons in the following communities: • Boscobel and Wentworth – St. Mary • Whitehouse, Galloway and Egypt – Westmoreland • Beverley Flats, Gravel Heights and Dunbeholden – St. Catherine • Flankers, Pitfour, Meadowsvale and Lilliput – St. James • Dumphries and Donaldson – St. Thomas 33
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
Receiving Land Title
PROTECTING THE POOR AND VULNERABLE
Health Care Under the PATH Programme
In spite of our economic challenges we have consistently increased the allocation in the budget to protect the poor and the most vulnerable. 371. We have Implemented many social programmes including JEEP to provide earning opportunities for Jamaicans. • Fonthill and Lower Works - St Elizabeth • Oakglades, Windward Court, Mandela Terrace, Bedward Gardens, St. Benedicts Heights – St Andrew 364. The Mortgage Insurance Act has been amended allowing for an increase in the percentage of the appraised value of the property on which mortgage indemnity insurance can be granted, from 90% to 97%. 365. Under the LAMP project 4,590 new Titles have been produced and 2,746 existing Certificates of Title regularized. 366. The LAMP Phase 2 public-private partnership has been extended for a further period of 10 years and the number of parishes expanded to eight (8), namely Clarendon, Manchester, St. Elizabeth, St. Ann, Westmoreland, Hanover, Trelawny and St. James. 367. The Development Bank of Jamaica has provided a grant to LAMP for Payment Assistance of J$90 million to needy applicants. This provides 34
funding to help beneficiaries who have applied to LAMP and have made some payments but are unable to make the remainder of their payments to complete the process. 368. As a result of this grant, approximately 2,000 titles have been delivered to LAMP beneficiaries up to April 2015. 369. During 2013/14, the National Land Agency issued a total of 12,926 certificates of title. This amount includes 4,550 titles issued to Government agencies. 370. With funding by the European Union and the Government of Jamaica and implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries through the Sugar Transformation Unit, the Sugar Barracks Relocation Housing Programme is providing 397 houses free of cost to 876 sugar workers and their families in Westmoreland, Trelawny, Clarendon and St. Thomas. Already 181 persons have benefitted from 84 housing solutions in Trelawny and Westmoreland.
372. JEEP has generated income for more than 60,000 persons, from projects at a cost of $9 billion. 373. lmportant community building programmes have been implemented through Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF). 374. The Government introduced a transport allowance subsidy under the PATH Programme in order to ensure that all our children attend school. 375. Since 2012, we have increased payments to PATH beneficiaries by 30%.
380. We have ensured that government pensioners receive an annual increase in their pension benefit. 381. Between September 2012 and January 2014 the National Minimum Wage was increased twice.
376. The elderly on PATH have received a 67% increase.
382. We have also increased the Minimum Wage for Industrial Security Guards twice in the same period.
377. The Welfare to Work Programme is being implemented offering training, job matching and business development skills to PATH beneficiaries.
383. The National Disabilities Act was passed in Parliament in 2014. It makes provisions to safeguard and improve the wellbeing of persons with disabilities.
378. The Rehabilitation Grant Programme has been redesigned and given more funding to increase its impact on the unemployed.
384. Funding approved for the Abilities Foundation to improve its operations.
379. Sugar workers and their families have been relocated from barracks into new houses with modern amenities. 35
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
Receiving Land Title
PROTECTING THE POOR AND VULNERABLE
Health Care Under the PATH Programme
In spite of our economic challenges we have consistently increased the allocation in the budget to protect the poor and the most vulnerable. 371. We have Implemented many social programmes including JEEP to provide earning opportunities for Jamaicans. • Fonthill and Lower Works - St Elizabeth • Oakglades, Windward Court, Mandela Terrace, Bedward Gardens, St. Benedicts Heights – St Andrew 364. The Mortgage Insurance Act has been amended allowing for an increase in the percentage of the appraised value of the property on which mortgage indemnity insurance can be granted, from 90% to 97%. 365. Under the LAMP project 4,590 new Titles have been produced and 2,746 existing Certificates of Title regularized. 366. The LAMP Phase 2 public-private partnership has been extended for a further period of 10 years and the number of parishes expanded to eight (8), namely Clarendon, Manchester, St. Elizabeth, St. Ann, Westmoreland, Hanover, Trelawny and St. James. 367. The Development Bank of Jamaica has provided a grant to LAMP for Payment Assistance of J$90 million to needy applicants. This provides 34
funding to help beneficiaries who have applied to LAMP and have made some payments but are unable to make the remainder of their payments to complete the process. 368. As a result of this grant, approximately 2,000 titles have been delivered to LAMP beneficiaries up to April 2015. 369. During 2013/14, the National Land Agency issued a total of 12,926 certificates of title. This amount includes 4,550 titles issued to Government agencies. 370. With funding by the European Union and the Government of Jamaica and implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries through the Sugar Transformation Unit, the Sugar Barracks Relocation Housing Programme is providing 397 houses free of cost to 876 sugar workers and their families in Westmoreland, Trelawny, Clarendon and St. Thomas. Already 181 persons have benefitted from 84 housing solutions in Trelawny and Westmoreland.
372. JEEP has generated income for more than 60,000 persons, from projects at a cost of $9 billion. 373. lmportant community building programmes have been implemented through Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF). 374. The Government introduced a transport allowance subsidy under the PATH Programme in order to ensure that all our children attend school. 375. Since 2012, we have increased payments to PATH beneficiaries by 30%.
380. We have ensured that government pensioners receive an annual increase in their pension benefit. 381. Between September 2012 and January 2014 the National Minimum Wage was increased twice.
376. The elderly on PATH have received a 67% increase.
382. We have also increased the Minimum Wage for Industrial Security Guards twice in the same period.
377. The Welfare to Work Programme is being implemented offering training, job matching and business development skills to PATH beneficiaries.
383. The National Disabilities Act was passed in Parliament in 2014. It makes provisions to safeguard and improve the wellbeing of persons with disabilities.
378. The Rehabilitation Grant Programme has been redesigned and given more funding to increase its impact on the unemployed.
384. Funding approved for the Abilities Foundation to improve its operations.
379. Sugar workers and their families have been relocated from barracks into new houses with modern amenities. 35
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
EDUCATION – INVESTING IN OUR FUTURE WE ARE INVESTING MORE IN EDUCATION Educated Children Are Our Future
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
result in a sharing of cost with partners such as the Church and other NonGovernment Organisations. 394. The Ministry of Education now provides a subsidy to supplement the wages of practitioners employed to private or non-government early childhood institutions. As of this year the ministry’s monthly subsidy will be increased by fifteen percent (15%). 395. Jamaica’s has achieved the target of 85% of the educable cohort mastering Literacy at the primary level.
385. Jamaica is among the top countries in the Caribbean and Latin America in terms of the percentage of the national budget devoted to education.
389. The CHASE Fund will be spending $87 Million for repairs and retrofitting of ten Early Childhood Institutions in this financial year.
386. The Ministry of Education is investing some $14.1 Billion this fiscal year on Early Childhood institutions.
390. In 2014/15 the Ministry of Education built or improved over 100 Basic Schools and created 68 infant departments in our primary schools.
387. The Government has expanded the School Feeding Programme by providing free breakfast for 70% of Early Childhood aged students or 138,000 children, including PATH beneficiaries. PATH beneficiaries will continue to receive a free lunch three days per week. 388. The Ministry of Education is presently integrating some 200 Early Childhood Institutions into infant departments of primary schools. The construction of stand-alone infant schools will provide accommodation for others. 36
391. Food for the Poor has, as at the end of February 2015, built or expanded 29 basic schools. Thirteen (13) more basic schools are at various stages of construction. 392. The Ministry of Education will assist PATH beneficiaries with an additional $2,000 each towards their auxiliary fees. 393. This year the Government will implement a new model of grantaided assistance. This new model will
deductions for more students. 405. The Parent Plus Loan facility, which is now called Pay As You Study (PAYS) has been rebranded. • This new loan option targets p a re n t s / g u a rd i a n s / w o r k i n g students or relatives who can afford the monthly deductions from their salary while they study. • The benefits of PAYS loan include lowest interest rate for a tuition loan, longer repayment time and smaller monthly payments.
396. The CXC results show a marked increase in the number of students passing Mathematics.
406. Children of Public Sector Workers now have increased access to Student Loan.
397. This year the Ministry of Education has allocated an additional $390 million to further expand the mathematics programme in schools.
• Effective 2015/2016 academic year further reductions will become applicable for the children of public sector workers.
398. This year we will expand classroom places in 40 schools at a cost of $1.35 billion.
• The processing fees for applications for student loans for the children of public sector workers will be reduced by 35%.
399. 20 schools are projected to come off the shift system. The process has already started. 400. Eight additional schools have been taken off the shift system and two new high schools have been opened. 401. A billion dollars is to be spent to replace pit latrines with flush systems in 158 schools. 402. 2,300 additional school places will be provided through the expansion or the construction of new schools. The schools at which additional space will be constructed, include, Belair High, Holy Trinity High and Cedar Grove High 403. The Government will be spending over $615 million to upgrade facilities at a number of schools across the country. 404. We have increased loan restructuring to enable students to benefit from more affordable monthly payments under the Students Loan Bureau (SLB). We have also facilitated payments by salary
407. Interest rates on student loans to children of Public Sector workers to be charged at 1% lower than the interest rates normally charged to SLB applicants. • In addition, public sector workers applying for student loans will be allowed to access the loan with one (1) guarantor based on satisfactory assessment. 408. The Ministry of Education will expand its programme to bring an end to the use of pit latrines in schools. 94 flush toilet units will be installed during 2014-2015. 409. The following five occupational skills were introduced into 54 secondary schools, Call Centre Operations, Digital Animation, Crop Production, Food and Beverage and Motor Vehicle Repair (Air Conditioning) 410. The Ministry of Education in 37
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
EDUCATION – INVESTING IN OUR FUTURE WE ARE INVESTING MORE IN EDUCATION Educated Children Are Our Future
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
result in a sharing of cost with partners such as the Church and other NonGovernment Organisations. 394. The Ministry of Education now provides a subsidy to supplement the wages of practitioners employed to private or non-government early childhood institutions. As of this year the ministry’s monthly subsidy will be increased by fifteen percent (15%). 395. Jamaica’s has achieved the target of 85% of the educable cohort mastering Literacy at the primary level.
385. Jamaica is among the top countries in the Caribbean and Latin America in terms of the percentage of the national budget devoted to education.
389. The CHASE Fund will be spending $87 Million for repairs and retrofitting of ten Early Childhood Institutions in this financial year.
386. The Ministry of Education is investing some $14.1 Billion this fiscal year on Early Childhood institutions.
390. In 2014/15 the Ministry of Education built or improved over 100 Basic Schools and created 68 infant departments in our primary schools.
387. The Government has expanded the School Feeding Programme by providing free breakfast for 70% of Early Childhood aged students or 138,000 children, including PATH beneficiaries. PATH beneficiaries will continue to receive a free lunch three days per week. 388. The Ministry of Education is presently integrating some 200 Early Childhood Institutions into infant departments of primary schools. The construction of stand-alone infant schools will provide accommodation for others. 36
391. Food for the Poor has, as at the end of February 2015, built or expanded 29 basic schools. Thirteen (13) more basic schools are at various stages of construction. 392. The Ministry of Education will assist PATH beneficiaries with an additional $2,000 each towards their auxiliary fees. 393. This year the Government will implement a new model of grantaided assistance. This new model will
deductions for more students. 405. The Parent Plus Loan facility, which is now called Pay As You Study (PAYS) has been rebranded. • This new loan option targets p a re n t s / g u a rd i a n s / w o r k i n g students or relatives who can afford the monthly deductions from their salary while they study. • The benefits of PAYS loan include lowest interest rate for a tuition loan, longer repayment time and smaller monthly payments.
396. The CXC results show a marked increase in the number of students passing Mathematics.
406. Children of Public Sector Workers now have increased access to Student Loan.
397. This year the Ministry of Education has allocated an additional $390 million to further expand the mathematics programme in schools.
• Effective 2015/2016 academic year further reductions will become applicable for the children of public sector workers.
398. This year we will expand classroom places in 40 schools at a cost of $1.35 billion.
• The processing fees for applications for student loans for the children of public sector workers will be reduced by 35%.
399. 20 schools are projected to come off the shift system. The process has already started. 400. Eight additional schools have been taken off the shift system and two new high schools have been opened. 401. A billion dollars is to be spent to replace pit latrines with flush systems in 158 schools. 402. 2,300 additional school places will be provided through the expansion or the construction of new schools. The schools at which additional space will be constructed, include, Belair High, Holy Trinity High and Cedar Grove High 403. The Government will be spending over $615 million to upgrade facilities at a number of schools across the country. 404. We have increased loan restructuring to enable students to benefit from more affordable monthly payments under the Students Loan Bureau (SLB). We have also facilitated payments by salary
407. Interest rates on student loans to children of Public Sector workers to be charged at 1% lower than the interest rates normally charged to SLB applicants. • In addition, public sector workers applying for student loans will be allowed to access the loan with one (1) guarantor based on satisfactory assessment. 408. The Ministry of Education will expand its programme to bring an end to the use of pit latrines in schools. 94 flush toilet units will be installed during 2014-2015. 409. The following five occupational skills were introduced into 54 secondary schools, Call Centre Operations, Digital Animation, Crop Production, Food and Beverage and Motor Vehicle Repair (Air Conditioning) 410. The Ministry of Education in 37
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
414. HEART/NTA is also involved in establishing the Sedburgh Automotive Skills Training Centre in Christiana, which commenced in January 2015. 415. HEART Trust NTA/Ebony Park Academy and St. John Bosco Boys’ Home in Manchester are jointly offering programmes, since September 2014, in the skills areas of piggery and butchery.
New School
collaboration with HEART Trust/NTA will this year double the training for more than 250 teachers. • These teachers will guide new students to Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) and National Vocational Qualification of Jamaica (NVQJ) examinations. 411. HEART Trust/NTA is collaborating with the Caribbean Maritime Institute (CMI) to expand its capacity to offer training for Logistics operations. 412. HEART Trust/NTA will expand its role in the development of the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry. • HEART will collaborate with the Business Processing Industry Association of Jamaica (BPIAJ) in building capacity and fostering growth in the sector. • Over 400 individuals are enrolled for training. 413. HEART and Sutherland Global will establish a partnership to provide approximately two hundred (200) incubation work stations at the Gordon Town Road facility.
38
416. The HEART Trust/NTA will spearhead an initiative to facilitate on-the-job training and certification. This initiative will encompass skills and job readiness training for approximately 20,000 individuals. 417. The Ministry of Education is working towards the full integration of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
HEALTH - GREATER INVESTMENTS TO DEAL WITH THE CHALLENGES The PNP Government led by Portia Simpson-Miller, since assuming office in 2012, has undertaken numerous initiatives and implemented many projects in the health sector. This has significantly improved the facilities and service delivery to all Jamaicans. 422. The Government in the 2015/2016 financial year added $8 Billion to the health budget to correct the major challenges in the sector.
• Three Diagnostic Centres will be established at the College of Agriculture Science and Education (CASE) as well as the Sam Sharpe and Church Teachers’ Colleges.
423. The EU is funding the Programme for the Reduction of Maternal and Child Mortality (PROMAC) project under a grant of €22.1 million or about J$2.6 billion.
418. In 2014, the Ministry of Education began educational broadcasting, through the Education Broadcasting Network (EBN), as an aid and supplement to classroom instruction.
• The objective of this agreement is to reduce maternal and child deaths in keeping with Jamaica’s commitment under the Millennium Development Goals.
419. The Ministry of Education is broadening the Civics Programme to include the life and work of our National Heroes as an integral part of the curriculum. 420. In 2015, the Advanced College of Automotive Technology in conjunction with Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) will be established at the JUTC’s Lyndhurst Road Depot. 421. Courses in a range of competencies, all aligned with the Caribbean Maritime Institute (CMI), to meet the needs of the maritime sector and the logistics hub are now being offered at the Machado Complex.
New Ambulances
424. Four Primary Health Care Centres of Excellence have been developed and opened at a cost of $100 million. • Claremont (St. Ann) • Isaac Barrant (St. Thomas) • Darliston (Westmoreland) • Santa Cruz (St. Elizabeth). 425. Comprehensive dental care is now available in the Centres of Excellence. More than 30,000 persons have benefited. 426. Thirty one (31) health centres were refurbished across the island. Some of which were: • Exchange (St. Ann) at a cost of $57 million • Junction (St. Elizabeth) at a cost of $10 million
• Golden Spring (St. Andrew) at a cost of $41.4 million • James Hill (Clarendon) at a cost of $47 million • Nannyville (St. Andrew) at a cost of $51.5 million • Santa Cruz (St. Elizabeth) at a cost of $88 million (Phase 2) • Claremont (St. Ann) at a cost of $64.3 million (Phase 2) 427. The Government is currently implementing a $389 million Sewage Treatment Project at health facilities. The first phase of this project involves the construction of seven sewage treatment plants at: • The Fellowship health centre in Portland; • The Savanna-la-mar hospital in Westmoreland; • The Noel Holmes hospital; • The Lucea Health Department in Hanover; • The Ulster Spring health centre in Southern Trelawny; • The Princess Margaret hospital in St. Thomas; and 39
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
414. HEART/NTA is also involved in establishing the Sedburgh Automotive Skills Training Centre in Christiana, which commenced in January 2015. 415. HEART Trust NTA/Ebony Park Academy and St. John Bosco Boys’ Home in Manchester are jointly offering programmes, since September 2014, in the skills areas of piggery and butchery.
New School
collaboration with HEART Trust/NTA will this year double the training for more than 250 teachers. • These teachers will guide new students to Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) and National Vocational Qualification of Jamaica (NVQJ) examinations. 411. HEART Trust/NTA is collaborating with the Caribbean Maritime Institute (CMI) to expand its capacity to offer training for Logistics operations. 412. HEART Trust/NTA will expand its role in the development of the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry. • HEART will collaborate with the Business Processing Industry Association of Jamaica (BPIAJ) in building capacity and fostering growth in the sector. • Over 400 individuals are enrolled for training. 413. HEART and Sutherland Global will establish a partnership to provide approximately two hundred (200) incubation work stations at the Gordon Town Road facility.
38
416. The HEART Trust/NTA will spearhead an initiative to facilitate on-the-job training and certification. This initiative will encompass skills and job readiness training for approximately 20,000 individuals. 417. The Ministry of Education is working towards the full integration of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
HEALTH - GREATER INVESTMENTS TO DEAL WITH THE CHALLENGES The PNP Government led by Portia Simpson-Miller, since assuming office in 2012, has undertaken numerous initiatives and implemented many projects in the health sector. This has significantly improved the facilities and service delivery to all Jamaicans. 422. The Government in the 2015/2016 financial year added $8 Billion to the health budget to correct the major challenges in the sector.
• Three Diagnostic Centres will be established at the College of Agriculture Science and Education (CASE) as well as the Sam Sharpe and Church Teachers’ Colleges.
423. The EU is funding the Programme for the Reduction of Maternal and Child Mortality (PROMAC) project under a grant of €22.1 million or about J$2.6 billion.
418. In 2014, the Ministry of Education began educational broadcasting, through the Education Broadcasting Network (EBN), as an aid and supplement to classroom instruction.
• The objective of this agreement is to reduce maternal and child deaths in keeping with Jamaica’s commitment under the Millennium Development Goals.
419. The Ministry of Education is broadening the Civics Programme to include the life and work of our National Heroes as an integral part of the curriculum. 420. In 2015, the Advanced College of Automotive Technology in conjunction with Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) will be established at the JUTC’s Lyndhurst Road Depot. 421. Courses in a range of competencies, all aligned with the Caribbean Maritime Institute (CMI), to meet the needs of the maritime sector and the logistics hub are now being offered at the Machado Complex.
New Ambulances
424. Four Primary Health Care Centres of Excellence have been developed and opened at a cost of $100 million. • Claremont (St. Ann) • Isaac Barrant (St. Thomas) • Darliston (Westmoreland) • Santa Cruz (St. Elizabeth). 425. Comprehensive dental care is now available in the Centres of Excellence. More than 30,000 persons have benefited. 426. Thirty one (31) health centres were refurbished across the island. Some of which were: • Exchange (St. Ann) at a cost of $57 million • Junction (St. Elizabeth) at a cost of $10 million
• Golden Spring (St. Andrew) at a cost of $41.4 million • James Hill (Clarendon) at a cost of $47 million • Nannyville (St. Andrew) at a cost of $51.5 million • Santa Cruz (St. Elizabeth) at a cost of $88 million (Phase 2) • Claremont (St. Ann) at a cost of $64.3 million (Phase 2) 427. The Government is currently implementing a $389 million Sewage Treatment Project at health facilities. The first phase of this project involves the construction of seven sewage treatment plants at: • The Fellowship health centre in Portland; • The Savanna-la-mar hospital in Westmoreland; • The Noel Holmes hospital; • The Lucea Health Department in Hanover; • The Ulster Spring health centre in Southern Trelawny; • The Princess Margaret hospital in St. Thomas; and 39
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
435. The Ministry of Health is acquiring two Linear Accelerator (LINAC) machines. • The introduction of the LINAC machines will remove the cost of radiation treatment.
New Hospital Equipment
• The Percy Junor Hospital in Manchester. 428. The National Health Fund has taken over the delivery of pharmacy services in the Public health sector commencing with the Bustamante Hospital for Children, Port Maria and Percy Junor hospitals. 429. Pharmacies at the Kingston Public, Victoria Jubilee and Cornwall Regional Hospitals have been refurbished. 430. Since the launch of the Government of Jamaica Health Card in January 2014, we have distributed close to 100,000 cards. In addition, there are over 400,000 National Health Fund cardholders. These cards entitle all holders to discounts on prescription drugs. 431. Nineteen (19) new ambulances have been added to the existing fleet. Another Eighteen (18) new ambulances are to be added. 432. The Ministry spent some $300 million acquiring new equipment. These include three state of the art X-ray machines installed at Princess Margaret, Linstead and Cornwall Regional Hospitals. 433. The National Public Health Lab has been strengthened to improve the turn-around time for results. 434. Five microscopes have been purchased and commissioned to enhance cytology and histopathology services.
436. Under the Technical Cooperation Agreement with Cuba, thirty six (36) additional Cuban health professionals have so far been deployed throughout the health sector. • The group includes specialists in the areas of neonatology, nephrology, pathology and dentistry. 437. Steps have been taken to establish a National Alcohol Policy. 438. Public Health (Tobacco Control) Regulations were passed in 2013.
SPORTS 442. The Government introduced the National Sport Policy in 2013 for the coordinated development of sport through the promotion of a structured programme that supports athletes’ development, well-being and progression to high performance.
439. A national cancer registry has been established.
443. The Sports Development Foundation (SDF) provides a monthly subvention to all National Sport Associations and Federations.
440. The Ambulatory Chemotherapy Suite was established at the Kingston Public Hospital.
444. Athletes Welfare Fund, administered by the SDF increased from $670,000 to $9 million in 2013.
• This suite will enable the treatment of more than 200 patients each month and has freed up 15 beds. 441. In Fiscal Year 2015/16, upgrading work has started on 16 hospitals at a cost of $1.28 billion including: • St. Ann’s Regional - $170 million • Port Antonio - $58.9 million • Mandeville Regional - $166.6 million • Percy Junor - $18.4 million • May Pen - $67.7 million • Black River - $13.4 million • Kingston Public & Victoria Jubilee - $221.2 million • Bustamante Children - $119.8 million • Bellevue - $53 million • Princess Margaret - $60 million • Linstead - $55.7 million • Cornwall Regional - $51.5 million • Falmouth $75 million • Noel Holmes - $45.6 million
40
DEVELOPING
445. The Government has made a provision of approximately $2 billion to sports programmes through Ministries, Departments and Agencies 2013-2015. 446. $250 million is being invested in the upgrading of sport physical infrastructure in 24 schools over a two year period under the High School Sports Infrastructure Improvement Project. 447. The Charitable Organizations (Tax Harmonization) Act 2013 ensures that all amateur sports benefit from tax relief. 448. The Government has approved the development of a National Sport Museum.
452. The National Stadium is being upgraded at a cost of $270 million. Phase 1 of the upgrade has begun on the bleachers. There will be the construction of concession stands, additional restrooms and the installation of skyboxes in the south and north bleachers. Fourteen external lights have been retrofitted with LED bulbs in order to improve energy efficiency. 453. New filters for the National Stadium swimming pool were replaced and commissioned. 454. The Leila Robinson netball courts have been upgraded. 455. A Multi-Purpose Court was installed at the National Stadium primarily for the use of the Special Olympians. 456. A new running track was installed at the GC Foster College of Physical Education and Sport. 457. The Mona hockey turf in St. Andrew was replaced. This enabled the Jamaica Hockey Federation to successfully host the International Hockey Federation’s Hockey World League Round One between September 30 and October 5, 2014.
449. An insurance scheme for Jamaica’s athletes is being put in place. 450. Floodlights were installed at the Sabina Park Cricket Ground. This will enhance the economic potential of the facility. 451. The Trelawny Stadium is being developed as the premier sports facility of Western Jamaica. 41
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
435. The Ministry of Health is acquiring two Linear Accelerator (LINAC) machines. • The introduction of the LINAC machines will remove the cost of radiation treatment.
New Hospital Equipment
• The Percy Junor Hospital in Manchester. 428. The National Health Fund has taken over the delivery of pharmacy services in the Public health sector commencing with the Bustamante Hospital for Children, Port Maria and Percy Junor hospitals. 429. Pharmacies at the Kingston Public, Victoria Jubilee and Cornwall Regional Hospitals have been refurbished. 430. Since the launch of the Government of Jamaica Health Card in January 2014, we have distributed close to 100,000 cards. In addition, there are over 400,000 National Health Fund cardholders. These cards entitle all holders to discounts on prescription drugs. 431. Nineteen (19) new ambulances have been added to the existing fleet. Another Eighteen (18) new ambulances are to be added. 432. The Ministry spent some $300 million acquiring new equipment. These include three state of the art X-ray machines installed at Princess Margaret, Linstead and Cornwall Regional Hospitals. 433. The National Public Health Lab has been strengthened to improve the turn-around time for results. 434. Five microscopes have been purchased and commissioned to enhance cytology and histopathology services.
436. Under the Technical Cooperation Agreement with Cuba, thirty six (36) additional Cuban health professionals have so far been deployed throughout the health sector. • The group includes specialists in the areas of neonatology, nephrology, pathology and dentistry. 437. Steps have been taken to establish a National Alcohol Policy. 438. Public Health (Tobacco Control) Regulations were passed in 2013.
SPORTS 442. The Government introduced the National Sport Policy in 2013 for the coordinated development of sport through the promotion of a structured programme that supports athletes’ development, well-being and progression to high performance.
439. A national cancer registry has been established.
443. The Sports Development Foundation (SDF) provides a monthly subvention to all National Sport Associations and Federations.
440. The Ambulatory Chemotherapy Suite was established at the Kingston Public Hospital.
444. Athletes Welfare Fund, administered by the SDF increased from $670,000 to $9 million in 2013.
• This suite will enable the treatment of more than 200 patients each month and has freed up 15 beds. 441. In Fiscal Year 2015/16, upgrading work has started on 16 hospitals at a cost of $1.28 billion including: • St. Ann’s Regional - $170 million • Port Antonio - $58.9 million • Mandeville Regional - $166.6 million • Percy Junor - $18.4 million • May Pen - $67.7 million • Black River - $13.4 million • Kingston Public & Victoria Jubilee - $221.2 million • Bustamante Children - $119.8 million • Bellevue - $53 million • Princess Margaret - $60 million • Linstead - $55.7 million • Cornwall Regional - $51.5 million • Falmouth $75 million • Noel Holmes - $45.6 million
40
DEVELOPING
445. The Government has made a provision of approximately $2 billion to sports programmes through Ministries, Departments and Agencies 2013-2015. 446. $250 million is being invested in the upgrading of sport physical infrastructure in 24 schools over a two year period under the High School Sports Infrastructure Improvement Project. 447. The Charitable Organizations (Tax Harmonization) Act 2013 ensures that all amateur sports benefit from tax relief. 448. The Government has approved the development of a National Sport Museum.
452. The National Stadium is being upgraded at a cost of $270 million. Phase 1 of the upgrade has begun on the bleachers. There will be the construction of concession stands, additional restrooms and the installation of skyboxes in the south and north bleachers. Fourteen external lights have been retrofitted with LED bulbs in order to improve energy efficiency. 453. New filters for the National Stadium swimming pool were replaced and commissioned. 454. The Leila Robinson netball courts have been upgraded. 455. A Multi-Purpose Court was installed at the National Stadium primarily for the use of the Special Olympians. 456. A new running track was installed at the GC Foster College of Physical Education and Sport. 457. The Mona hockey turf in St. Andrew was replaced. This enabled the Jamaica Hockey Federation to successfully host the International Hockey Federation’s Hockey World League Round One between September 30 and October 5, 2014.
449. An insurance scheme for Jamaica’s athletes is being put in place. 450. Floodlights were installed at the Sabina Park Cricket Ground. This will enhance the economic potential of the facility. 451. The Trelawny Stadium is being developed as the premier sports facility of Western Jamaica. 41
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
GIVING PRIORITY ATTENTION TO YOUTH & CULTURE
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
466. The PNP Administration opened Youth Information Centres (YIC) in Clarendon, St. Catherine and Hanover. 467. The Graduate Work Experience Programme (GWEP) which provides valuable work experience to tertiary graduates up to 24 years old was introduced. 468. The National Secondary Student’s Council (NSSC) and the National Youth Council (NYCJ) have been revitalized. 469. The Blue and John Crow Mountain was designated as a World Heritage site. The first mixed (cultural and natural) site in Jamaica and the region.
Culture on Show at the National Gallery
458. The opening of branches of the Office of Children’s Registry in Manchester, St. Ann and Westmoreland makes it easier for child abuse cases to be reported. 459. There have been increased public education programmes and awareness, sensitisation sessions in schools and communities, and the appointment of Child Ambassadors to engage in and support public awareness activities in relation to child abuse. 460. We have expanded the platforms for broadcast of missing and recovered children using digital screens island wide. 461. Established the Rapid Response
42
470. The first report of the National Reparations Commission (NRC) was submitted in November 2013.
471. Opened two major museums: National Museum West and the National Gallery West in partnership with the redeveloped Montego Bay Cultural Centre. We also opened three new museums- Seville, Roxborough and the People’s Museum. 472. The National Library of Jamaica (NLJ) launched the service of digitised Jamaican books online and other resources. 473. Appointment of the first Poet Laureate by the Government of Jamaica and launched the Poet Laureate Programme with a series of readings across the island. 474. Built and opened the Simón Bolívar Cultural Centre in Kingston. 475. Declared and designated national Heritage Sites.
15
System island-wide to provide support where children suffered or were otherwise affected by traumatic events. 462. Completed separate Children’s Holding Areas at the Bridgeport Police Station, Barrett Town Police Station and Moneague Police Station. 463. We have increased access to mental therapy for children in the care of the state 464. Increased the number of children in state care qualifying for tertiary education from 1 in 2012 to 46 in 2014. 465. Cleared the child adoption backlog of 900 cases.
Promoting the Cultural Legacy of Trench Town
43
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
GIVING PRIORITY ATTENTION TO YOUTH & CULTURE
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
466. The PNP Administration opened Youth Information Centres (YIC) in Clarendon, St. Catherine and Hanover. 467. The Graduate Work Experience Programme (GWEP) which provides valuable work experience to tertiary graduates up to 24 years old was introduced. 468. The National Secondary Student’s Council (NSSC) and the National Youth Council (NYCJ) have been revitalized. 469. The Blue and John Crow Mountain was designated as a World Heritage site. The first mixed (cultural and natural) site in Jamaica and the region.
Culture on Show at the National Gallery
458. The opening of branches of the Office of Children’s Registry in Manchester, St. Ann and Westmoreland makes it easier for child abuse cases to be reported. 459. There have been increased public education programmes and awareness, sensitisation sessions in schools and communities, and the appointment of Child Ambassadors to engage in and support public awareness activities in relation to child abuse. 460. We have expanded the platforms for broadcast of missing and recovered children using digital screens island wide. 461. Established the Rapid Response
42
470. The first report of the National Reparations Commission (NRC) was submitted in November 2013.
471. Opened two major museums: National Museum West and the National Gallery West in partnership with the redeveloped Montego Bay Cultural Centre. We also opened three new museums- Seville, Roxborough and the People’s Museum. 472. The National Library of Jamaica (NLJ) launched the service of digitised Jamaican books online and other resources. 473. Appointment of the first Poet Laureate by the Government of Jamaica and launched the Poet Laureate Programme with a series of readings across the island. 474. Built and opened the Simón Bolívar Cultural Centre in Kingston. 475. Declared and designated national Heritage Sites.
15
System island-wide to provide support where children suffered or were otherwise affected by traumatic events. 462. Completed separate Children’s Holding Areas at the Bridgeport Police Station, Barrett Town Police Station and Moneague Police Station. 463. We have increased access to mental therapy for children in the care of the state 464. Increased the number of children in state care qualifying for tertiary education from 1 in 2012 to 46 in 2014. 465. Cleared the child adoption backlog of 900 cases.
Promoting the Cultural Legacy of Trench Town
43
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
Benefits for the Police: Legal Fund, medical assistance, ambulance for injured officers. 493. Merged Institute of Forensic Science and Legal Medicine: Operating more efficiently and independently, no longer reports to the JCF.
IMPROVING SECURITY
494. Eliminated backlog at Forensic Institute and Firearm Licensing Authority.
More Vehicles For Community Safety
495. Improved Police mobility and training: Increased the capacity to respond to threats and advanced the promotion of qualified police officers
476. The Criminal Justice (Suppression of Criminal Organisations) 2014 Act (Anti-Gang) passed. 477. Enacted the Law Reform (Fraudulent Transactions) (Special Provisions) Act 2013 (Anti-Lottery Scam) 478. DNA Evidence Act, 2015 tabled. 479. Made amendment to Proceeds of Crime (Asset Forfeiture & Cash Transaction Limit) Act. 480. Maritime Drug Trafficking (Suppression) Act 2015 passed. 481. Evidence Special introduced.
Measures
Act
482. Amendment to Trafficking in Persons Act made. 483. Merged the JCF and ISCF there-by reducing operational and administrative costs and increasing efficiency. 484. Created Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) to target both criminals and their facilitators. 485. Focused emphasis on promoting crime prevention and behaviour change as key platforms of change.
44
486. Launched Unite For Change: A programme to improve parenting, lawfulness, volunteerism & crime reduction. 487. Lowered non-murder crime statistics: 2014 recorded lowest crime figure in 11 years. 488. Community Security and Justice CSJP/JDF Employment programme: Created to provide on the Job training for at-risk youth. 489. Trained and deployed fifty (50) Violence Interrupters in violence prone communities in St James and Clarendon. 490. Formed partnerships with Faithbased entities: Worked closely with churches and church groups as agents of violence prevention: Umbrella Group of Churches, Ministers’ fraternal, Street Pastors, 10,000 men and Their Families, and the NCU Behavioural Science Department of the Union of Seventh day Adventists.
496. Improved services at the St. Catherine Adult Correctional Centre: • The inmate-managed agricultural programme has been expanded with cash crops and livestock. • The health clinic has been expanded and a barber shop constructed with inmate labour. • A juice packaging plant has been established, and the old bakery now producing bread for inmates. • Violence at the institution has declined from an average
of 15 incidents weekly to approximately 1 per month. • Inmate time now restructured, allowing for 13 hours for production and recreation. 497. Revised Lockup Administration Policy: Protecting persons deprived of their liberty. 498. Increased usage of technology with the implementation of the Stay Alert App, Police traffic ticketing app, CCTVs and electronic station diaries. 499. Modernized the Police Telecommunications System: 119 & police mobile radio- reducing costs and improving service quality. 500. Upgraded Automated Palm and Fingerprinting System improving police effectiveness. 501. Improved immigration process through the implementation of Automated Kiosks and more efficient systems. Launched a new Immigration/Customs Landing Card; reducing fields from 27 to 15. 502. Deployed 4 self-sufficient Portable Police Posts into at-risk communities during periods of unrest.
New Police Station
491. Strengthened Relationship between Community and Police: Advanced concept of Community policing. 492. Implemented
new
Classes
of
45
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
Benefits for the Police: Legal Fund, medical assistance, ambulance for injured officers. 493. Merged Institute of Forensic Science and Legal Medicine: Operating more efficiently and independently, no longer reports to the JCF.
IMPROVING SECURITY
494. Eliminated backlog at Forensic Institute and Firearm Licensing Authority.
More Vehicles For Community Safety
495. Improved Police mobility and training: Increased the capacity to respond to threats and advanced the promotion of qualified police officers
476. The Criminal Justice (Suppression of Criminal Organisations) 2014 Act (Anti-Gang) passed. 477. Enacted the Law Reform (Fraudulent Transactions) (Special Provisions) Act 2013 (Anti-Lottery Scam) 478. DNA Evidence Act, 2015 tabled. 479. Made amendment to Proceeds of Crime (Asset Forfeiture & Cash Transaction Limit) Act. 480. Maritime Drug Trafficking (Suppression) Act 2015 passed. 481. Evidence Special introduced.
Measures
Act
482. Amendment to Trafficking in Persons Act made. 483. Merged the JCF and ISCF there-by reducing operational and administrative costs and increasing efficiency. 484. Created Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA) to target both criminals and their facilitators. 485. Focused emphasis on promoting crime prevention and behaviour change as key platforms of change.
44
486. Launched Unite For Change: A programme to improve parenting, lawfulness, volunteerism & crime reduction. 487. Lowered non-murder crime statistics: 2014 recorded lowest crime figure in 11 years. 488. Community Security and Justice CSJP/JDF Employment programme: Created to provide on the Job training for at-risk youth. 489. Trained and deployed fifty (50) Violence Interrupters in violence prone communities in St James and Clarendon. 490. Formed partnerships with Faithbased entities: Worked closely with churches and church groups as agents of violence prevention: Umbrella Group of Churches, Ministers’ fraternal, Street Pastors, 10,000 men and Their Families, and the NCU Behavioural Science Department of the Union of Seventh day Adventists.
496. Improved services at the St. Catherine Adult Correctional Centre: • The inmate-managed agricultural programme has been expanded with cash crops and livestock. • The health clinic has been expanded and a barber shop constructed with inmate labour. • A juice packaging plant has been established, and the old bakery now producing bread for inmates. • Violence at the institution has declined from an average
of 15 incidents weekly to approximately 1 per month. • Inmate time now restructured, allowing for 13 hours for production and recreation. 497. Revised Lockup Administration Policy: Protecting persons deprived of their liberty. 498. Increased usage of technology with the implementation of the Stay Alert App, Police traffic ticketing app, CCTVs and electronic station diaries. 499. Modernized the Police Telecommunications System: 119 & police mobile radio- reducing costs and improving service quality. 500. Upgraded Automated Palm and Fingerprinting System improving police effectiveness. 501. Improved immigration process through the implementation of Automated Kiosks and more efficient systems. Launched a new Immigration/Customs Landing Card; reducing fields from 27 to 15. 502. Deployed 4 self-sufficient Portable Police Posts into at-risk communities during periods of unrest.
New Police Station
491. Strengthened Relationship between Community and Police: Advanced concept of Community policing. 492. Implemented
new
Classes
of
45
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
JUSTICE FOR ALL
Opening of New Court Session
503. The Restorative Justice (RJ) programme has been implemented in ten communities and will be expanded in order to bring eligible cases to resolution in other targeted communities. RJ Programmes were introduced in Trench Town – Kingston; August Town – St. Andrew and Russia in Westmoreland. 504. Under The PNP Administration, the civil jurisdiction covered by the RM Courts increased from $250,000 to $1,000,000. This enables more citizens to enforce their legal claims up to the maximum in parish courts and avoid the inconvenience and expense of having to take them to the Supreme Court in Kingston. 505. A Western Civil Registry for the Supreme Court was established in St. James and new facilities for the Montego Bay Legal Aid Clinic provided. The facility includes a Branch of the Administrator-General’s Department. 506. The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) launched its Disclosure Protocol. • This will serve to enhance transparency and accountability in 46
the justice system. • The protocol was developed through the Justice Undertaking for Social Transformation (JUST) Programme, a joint project of the Governments of Jamaica and Canada. 507. A National Council on Justice has been established to ensure the reform and modernisation of the justice system. 508. Criminal Records (Rehabilitation of Offenders) (Amendment) Act to provide for a more efficient system of expunging criminal records, and automatic expunging for past convictions for possession of small quantities or smoking ganja is in force. 509. An Administrator-General’s (Amendment) Act to reform the law in order to improve efficiency in the processing of applications for the grant of probate and to make provision for the administration of multigenerational estates was in force. 510. Dangerous Drugs (Amendment) Act to implement law reform for the modification of penalties for the possession of small quantities of ganja and to establish a regime for the use
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
New Restorative Justice Centre
of ganja for medical, therapeutic or scientific purposes is in force.
518. Amendments to the Justice Protection Act.
511. Insolvency Act to modernise insolvency and bankruptcy procedures and bring them in line with global trends was passed in October 2014.
519. Physical Infrastructure Development to provide more spacious facilities to deal with the increased workload in the Supreme and Resident Magistrates’ Courts.
512. Administrator-General’s (Fee) (Amendment) Regulations were gazetted on December 23, 2014. 513. Jury (Jurors’ Expenses in Criminal Cases) Regulations were gazetted on June 18, 2015. 514. Jury (Jurors’ Expenses in Civil Cases) Regulations were gazetted on June 18, 2015. 515. Criminal Justice (Administration) (Amendment) Bill to remove the disincentive to pleading guilty to offences which carry mandatory minimum sentences and to enable the Court to grant specified discounts on years of imprisonment in the case of guilty pleas, for certain offences which now attract a mandatory minimum sentence. 516. Jury (Amendment) Bill to provide for further reform of the Jury system. 517. Development of Regulations and Rules of Court for the Evidence Special Measures (Video Recorded Evidence) (Criminal Proceeding) Act.
520. The capacity of the Supreme Court Public Building North (former NCB Bank) was augmented by the addition of seven courtrooms, seven Judge’s Chambers and Registries were added. • Internal and external finishes for the 2nd and 3rd floors of this building were completed. 521. Rehabilitative/expansion work has been done in seven RM Courts across the island; • Lucea Family Court • Corporate Area Criminal Court • RM Courts in Mandeville • Port Antonio • Gordon Town • Buff Bay • Lucea 522. Preliminary works have commenced with respect to the relocation of the Traffic and Coroner’s Court as well as the Ministry of Justice to the Hagley Park Road complex. 47
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
JUSTICE FOR ALL
Opening of New Court Session
503. The Restorative Justice (RJ) programme has been implemented in ten communities and will be expanded in order to bring eligible cases to resolution in other targeted communities. RJ Programmes were introduced in Trench Town – Kingston; August Town – St. Andrew and Russia in Westmoreland. 504. Under The PNP Administration, the civil jurisdiction covered by the RM Courts increased from $250,000 to $1,000,000. This enables more citizens to enforce their legal claims up to the maximum in parish courts and avoid the inconvenience and expense of having to take them to the Supreme Court in Kingston. 505. A Western Civil Registry for the Supreme Court was established in St. James and new facilities for the Montego Bay Legal Aid Clinic provided. The facility includes a Branch of the Administrator-General’s Department. 506. The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) launched its Disclosure Protocol. • This will serve to enhance transparency and accountability in 46
the justice system. • The protocol was developed through the Justice Undertaking for Social Transformation (JUST) Programme, a joint project of the Governments of Jamaica and Canada. 507. A National Council on Justice has been established to ensure the reform and modernisation of the justice system. 508. Criminal Records (Rehabilitation of Offenders) (Amendment) Act to provide for a more efficient system of expunging criminal records, and automatic expunging for past convictions for possession of small quantities or smoking ganja is in force. 509. An Administrator-General’s (Amendment) Act to reform the law in order to improve efficiency in the processing of applications for the grant of probate and to make provision for the administration of multigenerational estates was in force. 510. Dangerous Drugs (Amendment) Act to implement law reform for the modification of penalties for the possession of small quantities of ganja and to establish a regime for the use
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
New Restorative Justice Centre
of ganja for medical, therapeutic or scientific purposes is in force.
518. Amendments to the Justice Protection Act.
511. Insolvency Act to modernise insolvency and bankruptcy procedures and bring them in line with global trends was passed in October 2014.
519. Physical Infrastructure Development to provide more spacious facilities to deal with the increased workload in the Supreme and Resident Magistrates’ Courts.
512. Administrator-General’s (Fee) (Amendment) Regulations were gazetted on December 23, 2014. 513. Jury (Jurors’ Expenses in Criminal Cases) Regulations were gazetted on June 18, 2015. 514. Jury (Jurors’ Expenses in Civil Cases) Regulations were gazetted on June 18, 2015. 515. Criminal Justice (Administration) (Amendment) Bill to remove the disincentive to pleading guilty to offences which carry mandatory minimum sentences and to enable the Court to grant specified discounts on years of imprisonment in the case of guilty pleas, for certain offences which now attract a mandatory minimum sentence. 516. Jury (Amendment) Bill to provide for further reform of the Jury system. 517. Development of Regulations and Rules of Court for the Evidence Special Measures (Video Recorded Evidence) (Criminal Proceeding) Act.
520. The capacity of the Supreme Court Public Building North (former NCB Bank) was augmented by the addition of seven courtrooms, seven Judge’s Chambers and Registries were added. • Internal and external finishes for the 2nd and 3rd floors of this building were completed. 521. Rehabilitative/expansion work has been done in seven RM Courts across the island; • Lucea Family Court • Corporate Area Criminal Court • RM Courts in Mandeville • Port Antonio • Gordon Town • Buff Bay • Lucea 522. Preliminary works have commenced with respect to the relocation of the Traffic and Coroner’s Court as well as the Ministry of Justice to the Hagley Park Road complex. 47
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
LOCAL GOVERNANCE &
GENDER AND COMMUNICATION
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
DEVELOPMENT
523. The PNP Administration has implemented a 90-day approval process for developments that do not require environmental assessment. 524. 5,248 applications with an estimated investment value of $41.8 billion were made for building permits in 2013/2014. Over 4,543 of these applications, with an estimated investment value of $31 billion were approved, and of this 3,667 were approved within 90 days.
• Black River Market Phase 1 in St. Elizabeth • Linstead Market Phase 1 in St. Catherine; and • Rocky Point Market in Clarendon.
Improving Our Towns and Cities
525. The Application Management and Data Automation (AMANDA) system has been installed to improve the Development Approval Process.
528. Jamaica voted by the Internal Labour Organisation as the country with the most women managers.
530. The Sexual Harassment law has been drafted and is with the Chief Parliamentary Counsel.
529. Jamaica ranked 9th place in the world for press freedom. Its highest ranking ever. The country has consistently been ranked as the country with the highest level of press freedom in the Western Hemisphere.
531. The National Strategic Action Plan to eliminate Gender Based Violence has been finalised. 532. The Government Communications policy has been completed.
Securing Women
526. $90 million Dollars have been approved to start the construction of new Council Buildings in St. Thomas, Westmoreland and Portmore. 527. Since June 2012, five markets have been rehabilitated: • Fish Market in Lucea, Hanover • Charles Garden Market in St. James
Improved Fire Services for our Communities
48
49
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
LOCAL GOVERNANCE &
GENDER AND COMMUNICATION
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
DEVELOPMENT
523. The PNP Administration has implemented a 90-day approval process for developments that do not require environmental assessment. 524. 5,248 applications with an estimated investment value of $41.8 billion were made for building permits in 2013/2014. Over 4,543 of these applications, with an estimated investment value of $31 billion were approved, and of this 3,667 were approved within 90 days.
• Black River Market Phase 1 in St. Elizabeth • Linstead Market Phase 1 in St. Catherine; and • Rocky Point Market in Clarendon.
Improving Our Towns and Cities
525. The Application Management and Data Automation (AMANDA) system has been installed to improve the Development Approval Process.
528. Jamaica voted by the Internal Labour Organisation as the country with the most women managers.
530. The Sexual Harassment law has been drafted and is with the Chief Parliamentary Counsel.
529. Jamaica ranked 9th place in the world for press freedom. Its highest ranking ever. The country has consistently been ranked as the country with the highest level of press freedom in the Western Hemisphere.
531. The National Strategic Action Plan to eliminate Gender Based Violence has been finalised. 532. The Government Communications policy has been completed.
Securing Women
526. $90 million Dollars have been approved to start the construction of new Council Buildings in St. Thomas, Westmoreland and Portmore. 527. Since June 2012, five markets have been rehabilitated: • Fish Market in Lucea, Hanover • Charles Garden Market in St. James
Improved Fire Services for our Communities
48
49
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
Welcoming the President of Haiti
546. Jamaica signed Tax Information Exchange Agreements with Macau (SAR) China, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Faroe Islands, Greenland, Iceland, Finland and Brazil.
IMPROVING JAMAICA’S STANDING IN THE WORLD
547. Jamaica assumed the chairmanship of the Caribbean Development Cooperation Committee (CDCC) for a two period commencing April 2014.
Hosting US President Barack Obama
Treaty that seeks to regulate the legal global trade in conventional weapons to prevent their diversion from the legal market to the illicit trade. 539. Jamaica ratified the Arms Trade Treaty in June 2014. 540. Jamaica participated in the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Colombo, Sri Lanka in November 2013, held under the theme “Growth with Equity: Inclusive Development”. 541. Jamaica was re-elected to serve on the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) in 2011 for a two-year term.
533. Jamaica hosted the visit of the United States President Barack Obama and both countries signed Bilateral Agreements to strengthen the relations and support Jamaica’s economic reform programme. 534. Prime Minister Simpson Miller hosted the Japanese Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, and signed mutually beneficial bilateral agreements. 535. Prime Minister Simpson Miller hosted the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Rt. Hon. David Cameron. 536. Jamaica’s profile in the international fora was enhanced by membership of, and active participation in, the following bodies:
50
Committee on the Elimination of
Discrimination against Women; • United Nations World Tourism Organization. Jamaica was elected to the position of Vice Chair in August 2013; • World Heritage Council (November 2013); and • Executive Council of the International Maritime Organisation (November 2013). 537. Jamaica led the initiative for the construction of a Permanent Memorial to commemorate the victims of the Transatlantic Slave Trade at United Nations Headquarters in New York. 538. Jamaica signed the historic Arms Trade
542. Since November 2013, Jamaica has been elected to serve on an OpenEnded Ministerial Group established to advance the priority developmental concerns of Commonwealth Small States. 543. Jamaica deployed two police officers to serve as UN peacekeepers in the United Nations Stabilisation Mission in Haiti effective May 2014.
548. The Enactment of Terrorism Prevention (Amendment) Act 2013 allowed Jamaica to meet important obligations to the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) with regard to money laundering and terrorism financing; 549. The Enactment of United Nations Security Council Resolutions Implementation Act 2013 allowed Jamaica to implement all nonterrorism United Nations Security Council resolutions in order to reduce the risk of the country being exposed to sanctions. 550. The Diaspora Mapping Project was launched in Jamaica, Birmingham, Toronto and New York in 2014. 551. Jamaica hosted The Sixth Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference in June 2015, under the theme “Jamaica and the Diaspora: Linking for Growth and Prosperity”. Jamaican and Venezuelan Leaders Salute Simón Bolívar
544. Jamaica signed air services agreements with the following countries; Singapore, United Arab Emirates, Switzerland and Brazil. This will assist the growth of Jamaica’s trade and tourism. 545. Jamaica signed a Bilateral Investment Treaty with Kuwait in April 2013. 51
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
Welcoming the President of Haiti
546. Jamaica signed Tax Information Exchange Agreements with Macau (SAR) China, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Faroe Islands, Greenland, Iceland, Finland and Brazil.
IMPROVING JAMAICA’S STANDING IN THE WORLD
547. Jamaica assumed the chairmanship of the Caribbean Development Cooperation Committee (CDCC) for a two period commencing April 2014.
Hosting US President Barack Obama
Treaty that seeks to regulate the legal global trade in conventional weapons to prevent their diversion from the legal market to the illicit trade. 539. Jamaica ratified the Arms Trade Treaty in June 2014. 540. Jamaica participated in the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Colombo, Sri Lanka in November 2013, held under the theme “Growth with Equity: Inclusive Development”. 541. Jamaica was re-elected to serve on the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) in 2011 for a two-year term.
533. Jamaica hosted the visit of the United States President Barack Obama and both countries signed Bilateral Agreements to strengthen the relations and support Jamaica’s economic reform programme. 534. Prime Minister Simpson Miller hosted the Japanese Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, and signed mutually beneficial bilateral agreements. 535. Prime Minister Simpson Miller hosted the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Rt. Hon. David Cameron. 536. Jamaica’s profile in the international fora was enhanced by membership of, and active participation in, the following bodies:
50
Committee on the Elimination of
Discrimination against Women; • United Nations World Tourism Organization. Jamaica was elected to the position of Vice Chair in August 2013; • World Heritage Council (November 2013); and • Executive Council of the International Maritime Organisation (November 2013). 537. Jamaica led the initiative for the construction of a Permanent Memorial to commemorate the victims of the Transatlantic Slave Trade at United Nations Headquarters in New York. 538. Jamaica signed the historic Arms Trade
542. Since November 2013, Jamaica has been elected to serve on an OpenEnded Ministerial Group established to advance the priority developmental concerns of Commonwealth Small States. 543. Jamaica deployed two police officers to serve as UN peacekeepers in the United Nations Stabilisation Mission in Haiti effective May 2014.
548. The Enactment of Terrorism Prevention (Amendment) Act 2013 allowed Jamaica to meet important obligations to the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) with regard to money laundering and terrorism financing; 549. The Enactment of United Nations Security Council Resolutions Implementation Act 2013 allowed Jamaica to implement all nonterrorism United Nations Security Council resolutions in order to reduce the risk of the country being exposed to sanctions. 550. The Diaspora Mapping Project was launched in Jamaica, Birmingham, Toronto and New York in 2014. 551. Jamaica hosted The Sixth Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference in June 2015, under the theme “Jamaica and the Diaspora: Linking for Growth and Prosperity”. Jamaican and Venezuelan Leaders Salute Simón Bolívar
544. Jamaica signed air services agreements with the following countries; Singapore, United Arab Emirates, Switzerland and Brazil. This will assist the growth of Jamaica’s trade and tourism. 545. Jamaica signed a Bilateral Investment Treaty with Kuwait in April 2013. 51
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
the industry in the region was finalized. €3.5 million was allocated for the Project. 561. Parliament approved the amendment of the Customs Act to fully implement the CARICOM/Dominican Republic, CARICOM/Costa Rica and CARICOM/ Cuba trade agreements.
Prime Minister with World Leaders
552. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade in partnership with the Ministry of Education, the Jamaican Diaspora Education Taskforce, and the Jamaica Teachers Association, convened an Education Summit under the theme: “Advancing Education Initiative: A Strategic Alliance with the Diaspora”. The Task Force utilised the Education Summit as a fact-finding mission to enable the Diaspora to develop a 6-Year Plan of support for the transformation of the Jamaican education sector. 553. The Ministry, in association with public and private sector entities, hosted the Fifth Biennial Jamaican Diaspora Conference at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in June 2013. JAMPRO facilitated 240 business meetings, including 14 investors and 30 local projects. 554. The Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade and Education have placed Liaison Officers at the ports of entry to assist in the clearance of educational materials sent by the Jamaican Diaspora.
52
555. An Advisory Body on Diaspora Affairs has been established in the Ministry of Health to streamline medical missions from overseas. 556. Hospital liaisons have been appointed to work with Diaspora Health Sectors in the UK, USA and Canada. 557. The Ministry has revised the Returning Residents Information Booklet to better inform Returning Residents of their entitlements as well as the procedures to be followed in obtaining the duty free concessions on personal and household effects, and tools of trade. 558. Jamaica in collaboration with the WTO conducted its Trade Facilitation Needs Assessment Exercise to determine how the country will proceed under the Trade Facilitation Agreement.
562. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade continues its work on CARICOM Single Market and Economy implementation, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders through the CARICOM Trade and Competitiveness Project. 563. Jamaica continues to negotiate for continued CARICOM/Canada Trade and Development Agreement. 564. Jamaica has secured Venezuela’s continued support for the PetroCaribe Agreement. 565. Jamaica hosted a summit of leaders of the PetroCaribe signatory countries in 2015. 566. Jamaica signed a Cooperation Agreement with the OAS for “Promoting Firearms Marking in Latin America and the Caribbean”. 567. During the period, Prime Minister, Portia Simpson Miller held discussions
with the Presidents of Argentina, Brazil, Mexico and Panama on areas of mutual cooperation including, transnational organized crime and drug trafficking, trade and investment, education and training and air services. 568. The Prime Minister led Jamaica’s delegation to the First Summit of the Community of Latin America and Caribbean States (CELAC), and made an official visit to Cuba where she held discussions with President Raul Castro on bilateral relations and paid a courtesy call on former President Fidel Castro. 569. Jamaica opened Embassies in Kuwait in 2012 and in Brazil in 2013. 570. The Prime Minister opened the Chinese Garden Project, at the Hope Royal Botanic Gardens in 2015. 571. The Government of China is carrying out a feasibility study for a Children’s Hospital in western Jamaica. 572. The Russian Federation, has offered scholarships for Jamaicans to pursue, post-graduate and special degree programmes in the areas of architecture, nursing care, jurisprudence, political science and region studying, visual and applied arts. Prime Minister at an international Conference
559. Jamaica continues to benefit under the 11th European Development Fund (EDF). €46.5 million was approved for the 2014-2020 National Indicative Programme (NIP). 560. The implementation of the Caribbean component of the Intra-ACP Coconut Project which is aimed at revitalizing 53
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
the industry in the region was finalized. €3.5 million was allocated for the Project. 561. Parliament approved the amendment of the Customs Act to fully implement the CARICOM/Dominican Republic, CARICOM/Costa Rica and CARICOM/ Cuba trade agreements.
Prime Minister with World Leaders
552. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade in partnership with the Ministry of Education, the Jamaican Diaspora Education Taskforce, and the Jamaica Teachers Association, convened an Education Summit under the theme: “Advancing Education Initiative: A Strategic Alliance with the Diaspora”. The Task Force utilised the Education Summit as a fact-finding mission to enable the Diaspora to develop a 6-Year Plan of support for the transformation of the Jamaican education sector. 553. The Ministry, in association with public and private sector entities, hosted the Fifth Biennial Jamaican Diaspora Conference at the Montego Bay Convention Centre in June 2013. JAMPRO facilitated 240 business meetings, including 14 investors and 30 local projects. 554. The Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade and Education have placed Liaison Officers at the ports of entry to assist in the clearance of educational materials sent by the Jamaican Diaspora.
52
555. An Advisory Body on Diaspora Affairs has been established in the Ministry of Health to streamline medical missions from overseas. 556. Hospital liaisons have been appointed to work with Diaspora Health Sectors in the UK, USA and Canada. 557. The Ministry has revised the Returning Residents Information Booklet to better inform Returning Residents of their entitlements as well as the procedures to be followed in obtaining the duty free concessions on personal and household effects, and tools of trade. 558. Jamaica in collaboration with the WTO conducted its Trade Facilitation Needs Assessment Exercise to determine how the country will proceed under the Trade Facilitation Agreement.
562. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade continues its work on CARICOM Single Market and Economy implementation, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders through the CARICOM Trade and Competitiveness Project. 563. Jamaica continues to negotiate for continued CARICOM/Canada Trade and Development Agreement. 564. Jamaica has secured Venezuela’s continued support for the PetroCaribe Agreement. 565. Jamaica hosted a summit of leaders of the PetroCaribe signatory countries in 2015. 566. Jamaica signed a Cooperation Agreement with the OAS for “Promoting Firearms Marking in Latin America and the Caribbean”. 567. During the period, Prime Minister, Portia Simpson Miller held discussions
with the Presidents of Argentina, Brazil, Mexico and Panama on areas of mutual cooperation including, transnational organized crime and drug trafficking, trade and investment, education and training and air services. 568. The Prime Minister led Jamaica’s delegation to the First Summit of the Community of Latin America and Caribbean States (CELAC), and made an official visit to Cuba where she held discussions with President Raul Castro on bilateral relations and paid a courtesy call on former President Fidel Castro. 569. Jamaica opened Embassies in Kuwait in 2012 and in Brazil in 2013. 570. The Prime Minister opened the Chinese Garden Project, at the Hope Royal Botanic Gardens in 2015. 571. The Government of China is carrying out a feasibility study for a Children’s Hospital in western Jamaica. 572. The Russian Federation, has offered scholarships for Jamaicans to pursue, post-graduate and special degree programmes in the areas of architecture, nursing care, jurisprudence, political science and region studying, visual and applied arts. Prime Minister at an international Conference
559. Jamaica continues to benefit under the 11th European Development Fund (EDF). €46.5 million was approved for the 2014-2020 National Indicative Programme (NIP). 560. The implementation of the Caribbean component of the Intra-ACP Coconut Project which is aimed at revitalizing 53
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
THE MISSION AND THE WORK CONTINUE
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
“It is us, the members of the People’s National Party who must tell our story and carry the achievements of this noble party across the country. If we do not do
“I pledge that my Party will from now and henceforth reorganise to face the challenge of our time, struggle unceasingly to change those things both in our economic
it, no one else is going to do it.” The Party’s Legacy Portia Simpson Miller
and in our social life which deny to the masses of our people their proper place in the brotherhood of man”
Norman Washington Manley
54
55
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
THE MISSION AND THE WORK CONTINUE
P E O P L E ’ S N AT I O N A L PA R T Y - H U N D R E D S O F R E A S O N S
“It is us, the members of the People’s National Party who must tell our story and carry the achievements of this noble party across the country. If we do not do
“I pledge that my Party will from now and henceforth reorganise to face the challenge of our time, struggle unceasingly to change those things both in our economic
it, no one else is going to do it.” The Party’s Legacy Portia Simpson Miller
and in our social life which deny to the masses of our people their proper place in the brotherhood of man”
Norman Washington Manley
54
55