European Union Partnership Gives Jamaica Passing Grade

The European Union (EU), has been a steady partner on Jamaica’s path to development for more than 45 years, providing wide-ranging assistance in poverty reduction, infrastructural improvements along with interventions in public finances and justice reforms.

Speaking at a town hall meeting on Friday, July 16, the Head of the European Union Delegation to Jamaica says such a longstanding partnership is a signal of confidence of trust, and accountability.

Jamaica has received a passing grade from the European Union for fulfilling all the objectives set out in a multi-million dollar budgetary partnership to undertake policy reforms.

Justice Minister Delroy Chuck notes that it is important for the Government to give value for money, referring to some of the supported European Projects undertaken.

Minister Chuck says the improvements have led to a reduction in the backlog of cases, especially in the Parish Courts.

Chuck’s hope is for no case to be in the Supreme Court for longer than three (3) years and in the Parish Court longer than 18 months.

Meanwhile, Minister of Finance and Public Service Dr. Nigel Clarke, concedes that annual reports from public sector entities are not being developed as they should.

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