PM vindicated in ‘unspent’ hurricane relief funds, says Montague

KINGSTON, Jamaica—Minister with responsibility for Land and Settlements, Robert Montague, says the Auditor General’s Report on unused donated funds for Hurricane Melissa relief has “vindicated the Prime Minister’s wise decision”.

Montague addressed the issue last week during his contribution to the Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives.

The Government faced widespread criticism after a real-time audit by the auditor general that was tabled in the Parliament on May 12 found that after receiving $1.44 billion in donations by February 23, 2026 to assist Jamaicans devastated by Hurricane Melissa, the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management had spent just $26.2 million, or 1.8 per cent of the funds, by that date.

Montague offered his take on the matter on June 9 during his sectoral presentation.

“As you go through the report, it has not said any funds are missing or misappropriated. The spend has been slow, that’s true because we are following other processes and navigating unchartered waters. But the hard-earned donations of Jamaicans, foreigners, agencies, companies, and partners are all accounted for. All of Jamaica should take a bow!” said Montague.

“This is a proud moment in our journey as a young nation. Having been hit by the most devastating weather event, thousands of people were displaced, many government systems and people affected, prolonged period with some basic services and food shortages. In some areas, farms were destroyed, but nevertheless, we have held our collective head high because people’s hard-earned money that was donated is all accounted for, no thought, suggestion, or conclusion of irregularities,” he added.

“Prime Minister, congratulations, once again, you have demonstrated the type of leadership that continues to make Jamaicans proud. Big up yourself mi boss,” Montague continued.

According to him, the audit was not only about how much was unspent or spent, it showed some gaps and showed up weaknesses. “The country can be assured that our Prime Minister has already moved to implement the recommendations, strengthen the weaknesses and close the gaps. The report is good for Jamaica,” Montague insisted.

“It shows that the government can account for donated money. It helped our organisations, charities and institutions who also received funds, lighting the way to accountability”.

“Maybe some of these bodies should at least say how much was donated, how much was spent and how much is left. And of course, what you are going to use it for. Accountability requirements are not just for the government, but for all Jamaicans,” said the minister.

-Lynford Simpson