Government Senator Defends Hurricane Relief Spending as Audit Looms

The administration has pushed back on worries about how money from the hurricane relief fund is being used, maintaining that the framework for spending is operating as intended.

Government Senator Marlon Morgan told the Senate that officials have taken a disciplined line on donor contributions and recovery work since hurricanes Beryl and Melissa. He said, "There is some $67 billion that the Government has earmarked in relation to support to certain critical sectors – not least, the Ministry of Health, and the Agriculture Ministry to support our farmers."

Morgan also backed state support for the Jamaica Public Service (JPS). He said, "Quickly restoring electricity was critical for communities and businesses." He noted that in some parts of the island the economy can slow sharply when the grid is down, because electricity drives infrastructure that several sectors depend on.

On money that has not yet been drawn down, Morgan said every sum is accounted for and that the Government is working to tighten transparency and shore up public trust.

"It is not that the money was not reported to the Ministry of Finance… It is sitting in the coffers of ODPEM. It is the case where an appropriately requisite committee, that is to direct the audit of the Disaster Relief Fund, be undertaken. It is important for the donor community to be assured that whatever they pour into Jamaica, to support their Jamaican brothers and sisters, are utilised for purposes as intended," he said.