Dear Editor,
The AN continues to ask for the accountability measures promised by Prime Minister (PM) Andrew Holness in response to public outcry against the unconscionable salary increase for the political directorate in May 2023.
Speaking at a floral tribute ceremony to mark the 100th anniversary of the late former Prime Minister, Hugh Lawson Shearer’s birth, on May 18, 2024, PM Holness justified the salary increase:
“You are going to see, as a result of this increase, an improvement in the level of entrants coming into the political field. You’re also going to see an improvement in the existing occupants of the posts, because they have to now step up their game.”
In a statement on Friday, May 19, 2023, PM Holness informed the public that he “will announce shortly, a series of accountability measures” for ministers and members of parliament (MPs).” Where are these measures?
PM Holness also promised that parliamentarians will now be subjected to job descriptions, a code of ethics, and must undergo training in parliamentary procedures. Where are these measures?
We renew our call in light of the recent survey conducted by the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) which revealed that some of its parliamentary representatives are underperforming according to PM Holness:
“Some of the MPs (members of parliament) and caretakers that we have seen are falling short, we have called them in. We have started to have conversations with them about improving their service.”
Recent revelation suggests that the over 200% increase in salary was a WASTE OF TAXPAYERS MONEY in the absence of the promised accountability measures.
I am,
The Advocates Network (AN)