Government Refutes Reports of Third Country Nationals Being Placed in St Mary

KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Ministry of National Security and Peace has pushed back against reports that third country nationals (TCNs) are set to be housed in St Mary, describing the allegations as false and misleading. Officials said no arrangement to accommodate TCNs in the parish has received approval from the Government of Jamaica.

The ministry issued the clarification in response to a claim aired during Television Jamaica's Prime Time News broadcast on June 25, which linked the parish to possible TCN accommodation. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security and Peace, Dr Horace Chang, said the administration has not authorised the relocation of any third country nationals to any part of the island.

"There is no Third Country National in Jamaica at this time and the government has no arrangements for housing TCNs in St Mary. Any housing arrangements for TCNs are the responsibility of the International Organization for Migration," Dr Chang said.

He further indicated that no transfers would proceed until the required operational procedures are completed. Chang also cautioned that a video circulating on social media misstates the government's position and could stir unwarranted public anxiety.

The ministry reiterated that Jamaica retains full control over all decisions connected to the programme. It called on members of the public to confirm details through official government channels instead of passing on unverified claims, and said it will issue further updates when needed.