Opposition concerned about possible conflict of interest as Audrey Marks reacquires Paymaster

 

 

The parliamentary opposition says the recent reacquisition of a controlling ownership interest in Paymaster by Minister Audrey Marks raises legitimate questions regarding the management of potential conflicts of interest and the safeguards required to maintain public confidence in government decision-making. 

 

In speaking to The Gleaner on the matter this week, Ambassador Marks stressed that she will not be involved in the day-to-day operation of Paymaster given her current role as a Cabinet Minister and Member of Parliament, which she said leaves her very little personal time as well as to avoid the potential for conflict of interest.

 

But in a statement Wednesday, the opposition said Ambassador Marks holds Cabinet responsibility for Efficiency, Innovation and Digital Transformation, a portfolio that directly shapes policy affecting Jamaica's digital services, payments systems, and wider fintech ecosystem. 

 

It says Paymaster operates within that same space, providing payment and digital transaction services across the economy.

 

In addition, Paymaster's operations intersect with a broader digital and telecommunications environment in which service providers interact with government policy and regulatory frameworks.

 

Opposition Spokesperson on Science, Technology & Digital Transformation, Christopher Brown, said this further underscores the need for clarity and transparency regarding how any potential conflicts are being managed.

 

"It is in this context, therefore, that the public is entitled to clarity on the following. Firstly, whether the minister has made application to and received approval or exemption through the parliamentary Ethics Committee in relation to her ownership interest in Paymaster, while serving in the Cabinet; whether the required exclusions have been submitted and considered in accordance with established parliamentary procedures governing members with business interests."

 

He also sought clarification on what formal proposal as well as conflict management arrangements have been established to ensure that the minister takes no part in Cabinet or policy decisions that could directly or indirectly affect Paymaster or its competitive environment.

 

Additionally, Mr. Brown questioned the safeguards that exist to ensure that government policy on digital transformation, digital payments, fintech, and related services is insulated from any actual or perceived private interest.