CARICOM ties remain

Edmond Campbell, Senior Staff Reporter

Prime Minister, Portia Simpson Miller says Jamaica has no intention of severing ties with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

Speaking at a post Budget Debate press conference at Jamaica House earlier today, Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller said her administration has no plans to leave the regional bloc.

According to Simpson Miller, to walk away from CARICOM would be to disrespect the vision of Norman Manley and the late Eric Williams of Trinidad and Tobago who were instrumental in the formation of the regional group.

During his presentation to the Budget Debate, Opposition spokesman on transport and works Karl Samuda who was the former minister of industry and commerce said Jamaica should review its relationship with CARICOM at this time.

Samuda commented on the massive trade imbalance between Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago in favour of the twin island state.

He questioned whether the country was benefitting from the current trade arrangements under CARICOM.

edmond.campbell@gleanerjm.com