Parliament sectoral debate resumes as Morgan opens works ministry address

The House of Representatives reconvened on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, for another session of sectoral debate, with proceedings carried live on PBC Jamaica.

Members voted to suspend the regular agenda and proceed directly to public business so the debate could begin. The motion was approved in the chamber.

Minister without Portfolio with responsibility for works, Robert Morgan, led the day's presentations. The Clarendon North Central representative was scheduled as the first speaker. St. Ann South East Member of Parliament Dr. Russell was also down to present, with his family in the gallery for what would be his first address in the House.

Senior figures from the economic growth and infrastructure portfolio attended the sitting, including Permanent Secretary Arlene Williams, National Road Operating and Constructing Company Managing Director Stephen Edwards, National Works Agency representative Werdon Donahue, and NROCC Chief Technical Director Yannick Watson. Senator Rose Bennett Cooper and former government parliamentarian Sharon Hill Webster were also present.

Before speaking, Morgan sought and received the Speaker's permission to address the House from a seat outside his usual place. He also asked to use Jamaican language at points in his presentation; members agreed to suspend the relevant standing orders to allow it.

In his opening remarks, Morgan said he was thankful for the opportunity to serve Jamaica and noted that the works portfolio touches the daily lives of citizens across the country. He described the infrastructure challenge as considerable, while stressing that the Government's ambition to meet it is equally strong.

Leadership, he said, must navigate difficulties on the ground and in the political arena with patience and discipline. He told the House that potholes "come in many forms" — some on the roads and others in politics.

Morgan thanked Prime Minister Andrew Holness for continued confidence in his stewardship. He recalled being appointed in 2016 as the youngest director of communications in the Office of the Prime Minister, in about 2022 as the youngest minister without portfolio for information, and in 2024 as the youngest minister without portfolio for works.

He praised Permanent Secretary Williams and ministry staff for their support, including late-night work on his presentation, and acknowledged teams from the National Works Agency and NROCC. Morgan also thanked residents of Clarendon North Central for their confidence in him as their youngest-ever elected representative.