Chang Rejects St Mary TCN Housing Claims, Urges Calm in Grants Town

Hon. Dr. Horace Chang, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security and Peace, has pushed back against claims that the first batch of Third Country Nationals (TCNs) is already staying at a site in Grants Town, St. Mary.

During a Ministerial Interview with Jamaica Information Service (JIS) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Giovanni Dennis at Jamaica House on Monday (June 29), Dr. Chang said no agreement of that kind exists at this time.

He disclosed that he has directed the police to keep a close watch on the community, offer reassurance to residents, and encourage everyone to uphold peace and order.

"I'm very concerned because the reports have, in fact, raised the anger of the population in Grants Town, St. Mary, and we'd like to ask them to remain calm, not to do anything rash, because there is no truth to the reports," he said.

Speaking to JIS News, Dr. Chang said the circulating stories are placing a retired public servant's home at risk. The property operates as an Airbnb.

He said the owner fears for her personal safety, that of her staff, the premises, and any guests. She is considering cancelling existing reservations, a move that could force her to pursue legal remedies. Beyond the strain caused by the allegations and pressure from the community, she may have to shut down the venture altogether.

"Please refrain from putting her property and staff at risk," he urged.

On where TCNs will stay once they reach Jamaica, Dr. Chang said accommodation arrangements tied to the Memorandum of Understanding with the United States (US) are still being worked out.

"The activities now depend on the technical professionals, and we have a good team between the Ministry of National Security and Peace, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs [and Foreign Trade] and the International Organization of Migration (IMO), which will look at the conditions we have [and] if everything is ready to receive them. The public will be made aware of that," he said.