Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, has announced plans to formally introduce job descriptions for Members of Parliament (MPs) as part of a broader push to strengthen accountability, productivity, and public trust in Jamaica’s democratic institutions.
Speaking at the opening of the new Parliament and the swearing-in of members of the Senate and the House of Representatives at Gordon House on September 18, Dr. Holness said the move will clearly define the roles and responsibilities of elected officials.
“If this House is to be part of the engine of growth, then its members must operate with the highest standards of efficiency and productivity and integrity and accountability. That is why during this term, we will advance the process to formally institute job descriptions,” the Prime Minister stated.
He explained that the descriptions will outline what the public rightly expects of their representatives, including regular attendance and active participation in sittings and committees, diligent oversight of ministries and agencies, transparent use of public resources, and consistent engagement with constituents.
The framework will also introduce performance measurement mechanisms aimed at improving accountability. “This is not about restricting members; it is about elevating the standard of service,” Dr. Holness said. “It is about ensuring that every seat in this House is not just occupied but actively contributing to Jamaica’s progress and prosperity.”
Vision for Jamaica’s Future
Dr. Holness emphasized that his administration’s third consecutive term is focused on shaping the country’s future rather than building a political legacy.
“It is not about what I leave behind, but what Jamaica must achieve, and what Jamaica must achieve is nothing less than greatness,” he declared. “Jamaica needs to end absolute poverty in the land and we can do it. We can build a Jamaica where every family has access to housing and secure title to their property.”
He also pledged continued investments in infrastructure, economic growth, and public safety, noting the need for a first-class bureaucracy that supports enterprise and fosters peace and order.
Call for Unity
The Prime Minister used the occasion to extend an olive branch to the Opposition, urging bipartisan cooperation on key national priorities.
“We can build a Jamaica that takes its rightful place among the leading nations of the world. This is not a task for one party or one side of the House,” he said. “Let us work together to reduce violence, strengthen our economy, raise the standard of living for all Jamaicans, and deliver real results for the people.”
The announcement signals a significant shift in how Parliamentarians will be held to account, marking a new phase in efforts to modernize Jamaica’s governance and deepen public confidence in the political process.
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