PM Holness, Four Ministers Sworn Into Office

Prime Minister Andrew Holness and four of his Ministers were sworn in to office on 7 September following the Jamaica Labour Party’s victory at the polls on 3 September.

The Governor-General of Jamaica, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, presided over the swearing-in ceremony that was held at King’s House.

The Jamaica Information Service (JIS) said that in his address, the newly appointed Prime Minister thanked the people of Jamaica, who, from 2016, have “entrusted your hopes and dreams to us”.

“With industry, enterprise and partnership, we set about fulfilling your dreams and keeping your hope alive,” he said, adding that there was still much more work to be done.

Mr. Holness said he was “humbled and honoured that the people of Jamaica have seen it fit to give me an opportunity to once more be the chief steward of their affairs”.

“Thank you for your vote and support, and I commit once again to use every fibre of my being and all the energy of my spirit for the advancement, fulfilment and prosperity of the people of Jamaica,” he said.

The four Ministers sworn in on were Minister of National Security, and Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Dr. Horace Chang; Minister of Finance and the Public Service, Dr. the Hon. Nigel Clarke; Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufton; and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator the Hon. Kamina Johnson Smith. Mrs. Johnson Smith also took the Oath of Office as a member of the Senate.

The Prime Minister said that in putting together the Government, he moved very quickly to ensure that the four critical posts were filled. He said that the Ministers were reappointed based on their work ethic.

“I have had the opportunity to serve with the four Ministers who have been appointed today and like the others who will be appointed shortly, I know that every day they give of themselves and I am satisfied. I am, indeed, honoured and privileged to have served with them and I make the recommendation to you Your Excellency for their reappointment without hesitation,” he said.

Read more at: Jamaica Information Service

Source: CARICOM TODAY