JLP to host 79th annual conference today

Thousands of Jamaica Labour Party supporters are expected to descend on the National Arena today at the public session of the party's 79th annual conference.

JLP Leader and Prime Minister Andrew Holness is expected to use the conference to outline to the country the government's economic plans going forward following the COVID-19 pandemic.

The administration is now grappling with high inflation following the pandemic and the ongoing Russia/Ukraine conflict.

 Mr Holness is expected to again highlight the measures put in place by his administration to tackle the crisis.

The Prime Minister is also expected to outline a crime plan to combat the surge in crime and violence.

 Mr Holness is also expected to use the conference to put his supporters on alert and prepare for local government elections scheduled for early next year.

 The administration received a major boost going into the conference when most trade unions agreed last week to accept the government's new wage package under the restructured compensation review programme. 

 Finance Minister Dr Nigel Clarke declared that government-paid employees will see a significant jump in their salaries as a result of the new deal.

And Political Commentator Shalmon Scott says the JLP Leader must use the opportunity to convince the wider society that the government's policies will improve their livelihood and economic status.