Andrew Holness sworn-in for second consecutive term as Prime Minister

 

Andrew Holness has been sworn-in for a second consecutive term as Prime Minister of Jamaica. 

 

The swearing-in took place at King's House at 3 o'clock. 

 

In keeping with COVID-19 protocols, there was not a large gathering as is customary for such a function. In addition, other measures such as physical distancing and the wearing of masks were observed. 

 

In his address following his oath, Mr. Holness said he was "humbled and honoured" that the people of Jamaica have seen it fit to give him and his government another stint to serve. 

 

He also addressed the coronavirus pandemic, noting that the government will implement the "necessary measures to bring the present spike under control and keep you safe" while not unduly impacting livelihoods.  

 

However, he urged the fight against the virus would require the responsible behaviour of each individual. 

 

"Jamaica does not have the reserve of resources to always be locking down our economy," he maintained, while insisting the government "cannot rely on fear, panic and stigma to get temporary compliance," but on a conscious effort by every Jamaica to follow the established protocols.  

 

He said a strict compliance to this strategy would help to gradually bring the number of infections down and ease the strain on the healthcare system.  

 

The pandemic while difficult, has provided an opportunity to reconfigure and modernise of economy and society, he asserted. 

 

Mr. Holness went on to reiterate the government's commitment for an accountable government that would be tough on corruption, warning that available resources would be used for the intended purpose to better the country but should never be found "being used to create an unfair advantage for others." He said his administration will move with alacrity to strengthen the anti-corruption framework, to include the Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA). He also pledged to have all persons appointed to posts within the government undergo anti-corruption sensitisation sessions. 

 

He vowed to lead a government of the "highest in integrity, dignity and efficiency." 

 

In addition, the Prime Minister promised improvements in a number of sectors, including business, customs operations and technology.  

 

Among his key talking points was a commitment to provide over 150,000 new jobs, which would come from areas such as film, animation and logistics; as well as grants to micro, small and medium sized businesses. 

 

Mr. Holness also spoke of the focus on a national broadband connectivity system and improved broadband services in schools, as part of a push to close the digital divide. 

 

Further, he reiterated the Jamaica Labour Party's manifesto promise to provide about 70,000 new housing solutions, including 10,000 that will be reserved for young people 18 to 25 years, and said the government was also "determined to solve (Jamaica's) water problem."