News from the OPM

“Jamaica has never had an economy in the last 50 years that can deliver like what this economy can deliver.” - Prime Minister Holness ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has highlighted that his administration is building a strong and resilient economy. Dr. Holness says investments in public services, crime reduction, and disaster resilience are clear signals of the country's economic progress over the past eight years. Speaking at the launch of Infiniti Co-operative Credit Union Jamaica Ltd on Tuesday (February 25, 2025) Prime Minister Holness credited the Government’s prudent fiscal management for the nation’s improved economic standing. “Jamaica is in a different place today because we have an economy that can fulfill the needs and wants of the Jamaican people. Jamaica has never had an economy in the last 50 years that can deliver like what this economy can deliver,” emphasized Dr. Holness. Highlighting the county’s continued economic growth and stability, Prime Minister Holness noted that:  Jamaica’s economic fundamentals continue to strengthen  Debt servicing has dropped from 33% in 2014-2015 to 18%, and debt-to-GDP is set to decline to 68%, the lowest since the 1970s.   Inflation fell from 10.3% in 2022 to 4.3% in 2024  The Net…

"We must recognize that we cannot borrow our way to development, and neither can we tax our way to development. We have to build a strong economy, as the engine to deliver essential needs like roads, water supply, and housing.” —Prime Minister Holness -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has reaffirmed that Jamaica’s economic stability and growth are the foundation for national progress, emphasizing that a strong and resilient economy is the key to delivering critical infrastructure and essential services to the people. Speaking on Friday (February 21) at a Diaspora Town Hall Meeting at the UWI Cave Hill Campus in Barbados, Prime Minister Holness highlighted the inextricable link between a strong economy and the ability of the government to meet the needs of its citizens. “Jamaica must stand on its own two feet. Nobody is coming to rescue us; nobody is coming to give us any favours. We must do what is necessary to rescue ourselves. It is within our abilities to do it,” Prime Minister Holness said. Dr. Holness stressed that sustainable development cannot be achieved through excessive borrowing or increased taxation, but rather through building a robust economy that enables investment in national infrastructure and public services.…

The Government has outlined an ambitious infrastructural development agenda for the 2025/2026 fiscal year, aimed at fostering economic growth, enhancing public services, and ensuring climate resilience. The announcements were made on Friday (February 14, 2025) in the Throne Speech delivered by the Honourable Steadman Fuller, CD, JP, deputizing for the Governor-General. The throne speech signals Jamaica’s next Chapter: Aspiring to Greater which will highlight a transformative phase in Jamaica’s development. With macroeconomic stability now established, the Government is leveraging economic gains to implement critical projects across key sectors. The upcoming infrastructural developments include significant investments in roadworks, water supply, healthcare, housing, transportation, and energy security, reinforcing Jamaica’s vision for inclusive and sustainable progress. Major Infrastructural Developments: Public Transportation: A J$3-billion investment will add 100 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, including 10 buses for persons with disabilities, supporting clean energy and accessibility. Port security will be reinforced with expanded Ports Security Corps recruitment. The Portmore Resilience Park, a landmark initiative under the Urban Spaces Programme, is set for completion by 2025/2026 to promote wellness and climate adaptability. The New Social Housing Programme has successfully delivered 280 units across 57 constituencies, benefiting 968 individuals. More projects are in the pipeline to expand housing access…

The Minister of Finance & The Public Service is clarifying misleading statements in the media today that suggest that the budget for the upcoming FY 2025/26 signals “contraction.” Minister Williams said that “There are indeed spending cuts that are specifically related to Jamaica’s debt servicing (amortisation and interest payments). As a point of information, these declined significantly for FY 2025/26 versus FY 2024/25 by J$159.4 Billion Dollars. This is a good thing for Jamaica’s economic health especially because in the past, our national budget would reflect major payments towards interest payments. This is no longer the case.” Interest expenses as a % of tax revenues FY 2014/15 33.6% FY 2025/26 18.7% The Minister further explained that the reduction in debt-related payments has allowed the Government to prioritize increased investment in key sectors, including education, and healthcare. “Our fiscal strategy remains focused on growth and resilience. When, as a country, we have lower debt obligations, we can allocate more resources toward initiatives that directly improve the quality of life for Jamaicans and drive sustainable development.” She emphasized that the overall expenditure for FY 25/26 reflects the Government’s commitment to sound fiscal management that has been a hallmark of this administration while ensuring…

Consequent to the resignation of Senators Matthew Samuda, Delroy Williams and Ransford Braham, Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Honourable Andrew Holness has written to His Excellency the Most Honourable Sir Patrick Allen, Governor-General of Jamaica, recommending the appointment of Dr. Elon Thompson, Mr. Marlon Morgan and Mr. Delano Seiveright to the Senate. Dr. Elon Thompson is a medical doctor by profession with specialization in the field of Urology. Dr. Thompson is employed to the South East Regional Authority (SERHA) and leads the recently started Urology service at the Spanish Town Hospital and also practices privately in Kingston, Portmore and Mandeville. Dr. Thompson served as president of the Jamaica Medical Doctors Association from 2016 to 2020. He is a member of the Jamaica Urological Society, Caribbean Urological Association, American Urological Association and Association of Surgeons in Jamaica. Mr. Marlon Morgan is a Communications Specialist with over 15 years of experience at the senior executive level in shaping public policy. He is also a professionally accredited director with considerable expertise in corporate governance, public procurement and public bodies management and accountability. Over the years, Mr. Morgan has served as a Director/Council member on the Board of the following organizations: The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC), HEART/NSTA…

The Government of Jamaica is pleased to announce the official publication of the National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Task Force Report. The National AI Task Force Report will be made available to the public via the Office of the Prime Minister’s website. The report is the culmination of extensive research, stakeholder engagement, and rigorous analysis conducted by the Task Force, whose members represented academia, industry, government, and civil society. Their recommendations provide a strategic framework for leveraging AI to drive national development, enhance public services, and foster economic growth. Senator Dr the Honourable Dana Morris Dixon expressed deep gratitude to the members of the Task Force for their dedication and expertise. “We commend the members of the Task Force for their extraordinary commitment and insightful contributions to this critical national initiative. Their work ensures Jamaica strategically prepares global AI revolution, ready to seize economic and social opportunities of this new technology while mitigating associated risks.” – Senator Dr the Honourable Dana Morris Dixon. The Cabinet has already begun reviewing the Task Force’s recommendations to explore pathways for implementation. The Government reaffirms its commitment to leveraging artificial intelligence as a tool for innovation, economic empowerment, and improving the quality of life for…

Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has welcomed the latest crime statistics, which reveal a notable decline in serious crimes for the period January 1 to February 1, 2025. The total number of reported serious crimes fell from 374 in 2024 to 294 in 2025, marking a significant reduction of 80 cases or 21.4%. This downward trend signals a positive shift in crime prevention and control, reinforcing efforts by law enforcement authorities and community stakeholders. Prime Minister Dr. Holness, has credited this achievement to enhanced policing strategies, improved community engagement, and the government's commitment to strengthening national security. “The continued decline in crime, particularly violent offenses, is a testament to the effectiveness of our security measures and the tireless efforts of the Jamaica Constabulary Force. Our investments in modern policing, intelligence gathering, and community partnerships are yielding results. While we acknowledge this progress, we remain resolute in our mission to further reduce crime and ensure that every Jamaican feels safe in their community,” said Prime Minister Holness. The data from the latest Serious Crimes Report highlights significant reductions in major categories of crime: Murder cases declined from 84 in 2024 to 73 in 2025, a reduction of 11 cases (13.1%). Shooting…

“Jamaica today is different from Jamaica a decade ago. Whether it is how we recovered from COVID-19, supply chain shocks, or unseasonal weather, Jamaica has done very well in withstanding and absorbing shocks and recovering.” - Prime Minister Holness Prime Minister Andrew Holness says Jamaica’s economy is strong, resilient, and fiscally fit, highlighting the country’s ability to withstand and recover from shocks while maintaining economic stability. In a video statement, Prime Minister Holness reflected on Jamaica’s remarkable progress in job creation, debt reduction, foreign exchange stability, and sustained economic growth, all of which he said are key indicators of a robust and well-managed economy. Dr. Holness stated that one of the most telling signs of a strong economy is its ability to generate jobs, and Jamaica has made significant strides in this area. The Prime Minister noted that Jamaica currently enjoys historically low unemployment, with near full employment. Another critical indicator of Jamaica’s fiscal fitness, the Prime Minister said, is the government’s ability to manage its finances without increasing the tax burden on Jamaicans. For nine consecutive budgets, the government has not introduced any new taxes. Prime Minister Holness attributed this to sound fiscal management that ensures economic stability while protecting citizens' earnings.…

“Your government is dedicated to upholding religious freedom, ensuring everyone can worship, or not, as they choose. This is both a legal and moral duty, affirming individual dignity and fostering a society where all can thrive.” -Prime Minister Holness   Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness says the Government of Jamaica remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding religious freedom, ensuring that every citizen can practice their faith without fear of discrimination or disadvantage. Prime Minister Holness made a declaration at the Seventh-day Adventist Religious Liberty Summit, held on Thursday (January 30) at the Jamaica Conference Centre in Kingston. Acknowledging the challenges faced by some religious groups, including Seventh-day Adventists who observe the Sabbath on Saturdays, the Prime Minister emphasized that safeguarding religious liberty is a continuous effort requiring vigilance, commitment, and collaboration. “Your government is dedicated to upholding religious freedom, ensuring everyone can worship, or not, as they choose. This is both a legal and moral duty, affirming individual dignity and fostering a society where all can thrive. Yet safeguarding this liberty is an ongoing effort requiring eternal vigilance, commitment, and collaboration”, Prime Minister Holness stated. The Prime Minister continued, “We are after all out of many one people. We…