Jamaica’s Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr. Christopher Tufton, says he welcomes the findings of the Integrity Commission’s (IC) investigation into contracts awarded to Market Me Consulting Limited, noting relief that the long-standing controversy has been clarified.
“This matter has remained in the public domain for several years and, at times, has cast unfair doubt not only on my own integrity but also on the reputations of others involved, including members of the Ministry and legitimate contractors,” Tufton said in a statement following the report’s release on Tuesday.
“I regret any hurt or reputational damage that may have resulted from the prolonged public scrutiny. I am, however, pleased that the IC has reported no illegality by any party involved, and I am relieved that the report brings clarity to the facts,” he added.
The report, tabled in Parliament this week, followed a three-year probe into allegations of procurement irregularities and conflicts of interest surrounding contracts totaling nearly $80 million awarded to Market Me by the Ministry of Health and the National Family Planning Board.
The IC found no wrongdoing on the part of Dr. Tufton or Market Me’s co-managing director, Lyndsey McDonnough, but criticized both for failing to disclose their friendship — a relationship the Commission said could have created the appearance of a conflict of interest.
“Neither Dr Tufton nor McDonnough made formal declarations of conflict as required under the rules governing conflict of interest and broader governance best practice. Whilst others may have known of the connection between the parties, they both had a responsibility to have made formal declarations of conflict at the appropriate times and recuse themselves from any involvement which could be deemed or perceived to be a conflict of interest,” said Stephenson.
According to the report, Market Me received 15 contracts — 14 from the Health Ministry and one from the National Family Planning Board. The probe was triggered by a $15.8 million contract awarded to the company to execute the Jamaica Moves campaign, a national fitness and wellness initiative promoting healthy lifestyles and the prevention of non-communicable diseases.
The Commission stated that while Tufton was not directly involved in the award of contracts, his introduction of the company and its principals to ministry officials “gave rise to, at its lowest, a perceived conflict of interest and thereby contravened the principles of transparency and good governance.”
Tufton said he respected the process and remained committed to his duties. “The Commission’s findings have helped to clarify the facts and put to rest years of speculation, allowing the public to have a clear and accurate understanding of the matter. I shall remain committed to serving with integrity, accountability, and an unwavering focus on national development.”
In a brief statement, Market Me said, “The report confirms what we have always known — that our work stands on integrity, professionalism, purpose, and excellent value for money.”
