Prime Minister Andrew Holness, speaking in Parliament on Thursday
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Prime Minister Andrew Holness
By Halshane Burke/Warren Bertram
Prime Minister Andrew Holness has defended the government's stewardship of the country's affairs.
During his contribution to the 2023/2024 budget debate in the House of Representatives Thursday afternoon, Mr. Holness said the government has steered the country through the uncertainties and fallout caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
He said Jamaica has defied expectations and delivered an economic recovery that has captured the world's attention, evidenced by ratings agency Fitch revising its outlook for the country to positive.
Mr. Holness asserted that the sound policies and bold action taken by the government has resulted in historic gains, including seven consecutive quarters of economic growth, surpassing pre pandemic levels in real output.
He added that more than 150,000 jobs have been created and restored, the unemployment rate has dropped to historic lows and net international reserves have climbed to US$3.93 billion - up by 26 per cent from pre COVID-19 levels.
The Prime Minister touted the fact that the country endured the "worst global health and economic crisis in a century without triggering a debt, a balance of payment or a currency crisis".
Wage review
Mr. Holness also addressed the ongoing public sector compensation review exercise, declaring that the government is committed to reaching a satisfactory and equitable conclusion for all involved parties.
He said when the process is complete, it will result in increased efficiency in the public sector.
But he warned that "there are dangers to all parties if the process results in instability and agreements are not concluded in a reasonable time".
Mr. Holness used the opportunity to thank groups that have already signed the wage deal.
While he maintained that the government will "continue to be reasonable" and "patient", he urged all outstanding unions and associations to return to the negotiating table so the issues can be settled as quickly as possible.
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