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Holness calls for Caricom to reconvene on Barnett’s reappointment
(TRINIDAD GUARDIAN) Prime Minister of Jamaica, Dr. Andrew Holness, has called for a meeting of regional leaders to address concerns surrounding the reappointment of Secretary General, Dr. Carla Barnett, saying discussions are already taking place behind the scenes.
CARICOM Secretary-General, Dr. Carla Barnett
Holness said the matter requires direct engagement among Heads of Government within CARICOM, as public commentary continues to generate unease across the region. “I think the solution really lies in assembling another heads meeting to have the matter addressed,” Holness said. “That’s something that I have been pushing for quietly behind the scenes. I think it is distressing for a lot of persons within the region regarding what is being said in the public domain, but I know that all the heads are working behind the scenes to have this matter resolved,” said Holness after being honoured by the American Foundation for The University of the West Indies (AFUWI) in New York.
Holness indicated that further diplomatic engagement is imminent, adding that he intends to contact Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar as part of ongoing consultations.
The issue of Barnett’s reappointment has drawn attention within CARICOM, with differing views emerging among member states. Holness maintained that a unified approach is necessary to resolve the matter and preserve regional cooperation. The Jamaican leader’s comments come as attention also turns to financial concerns involving Caribbean Airlines and its operations linked to the former Air Jamaica.
Guardian Media has reported exclusively that since Caribbean Airlines acquired Air Jamaica in 2011, the airline has recorded losses exceeding TT$1.7 billion, equivalent to approximately US$255 million, in managing the Jamaica-based operations. Documents obtained by Guardian Media’s Investigations Desk showed that unaudited accounts for the period 2012 to 2025 reflect cumulative losses of US$254,709,575.
Holness rejected suggestions that the country has not met its obligations. The question, I suppose, is Jamaica not paying its share. Jamaica makes contributions, as it can, and I’m not certain that the positioning of not paying its share is correct,” he said. “There is a request for Jamaica to make contributions to the airline. We value the airline. It’s very important. And there may be other ways in which Jamaica can support Caribbean Airlines, and we will be examining those. So there is a request for support, and we will be considering that.” Holness said Jamaica recognises the importance of the airline to regional connectivity and economic activity, noting that discussions are ongoing regarding how best to support its sustainability.
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The Prime Minister of Jamaica is correct in light of the dubious way the CARICOM Secretary was reappointed without full consensus from ‘member states’!!