Jamaica PM promises full review of infrastructure programme

(Jamaica Gleaner) Prime Minister Andrew Holness has given the assurance that the independent review of the Jamaica Development Infrastructure Programme (JDIP) that is now being undertaken will be thorough.

Holness, who took over ministerial responsibility for the controversial US$400-million programme on Saturday, after a damning report by the Auditor General’s Department, said the review would include a detailed inspection of all completed projects.

In a statement released by the Office of the Prime Minister yesterday after a meeting with senior members of the Cabinet, Holness said his administration wants to be satisfied “on the people’s behalf” whether the country got quality and value for money. He promised that the review and evaluation would be completed “in the shortest possible time.”

JDIP breaches
Auditor General Pamela Monroe-Ellis, in her report identified several breaches under the JDIP.

Since the findings were made public, Transport and Works Minister Mike Henry has been relieved of responsibility for the programme and NWA boss Patrick Wong was asked to resign.

Yesterday’s statement from the Office of the Prime Minister said based on decisions taken at the meeting with senior Cabinet ministers “recommendations about the operating leadership of both the JDIP and the National Works Agency are to be communicated to the Public Service Commission.”